R.I.P. K-Pop’s UNIVERSE App (2021-2023)
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R.I.P. K-Pop’s UNIVERSE App (2021-2023)

Upon the announcement of its official closure, I joked about owing K-pop’s Universe app a proper obituary. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that I really do need to document the demise of this longstanding frenemy. During its brief existence, Universe promised creepy AI-generated idol interactions (or so I’m told). … Continue reading

Song Review: Ha Sungwoon – Focus
Review

Song Review: Ha Sungwoon – Focus

Following a mini album of mostly OST ballads, Strange World marks Ha Sungwoon’s first promoted comeback under a new agency. But for those worried about his sound shifting too much, new single Focus should be a comfort. He’s right in his wheelhouse, delivering a bass-driven, Taemin-esque dance track. This tends to a pretty satisfying K-pop … Continue reading

Battle of the B-Sides:  Ha Sungwoon, Kim Hyung Jun, Nine Muses, Agust D, TVXQ
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Battle of the B-Sides: Ha Sungwoon, Kim Hyung Jun, Nine Muses, Agust D, TVXQ

K-pop’s title tracks might gain most of listeners’ attention, but many album tracks are worth equal spotlight. I call these “buried treasures.” Beyond this, K-pop’s albums deliver thousands of additional tracks that settle for a more limited audience. It’s these songs that will become a part of my “battle of the b-sides” feature. In this … Continue reading

Battle of the B-Sides:  Ha Sungwoon, Nu’est, Lee Jinhyuk, GOT7, Suzy
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Battle of the B-Sides: Ha Sungwoon, Nu’est, Lee Jinhyuk, GOT7, Suzy

K-pop’s title tracks might gain most of listeners’ attention, but many album tracks are worth equal spotlight. I call these “buried treasures.” Beyond this, K-pop’s albums deliver thousands of additional tracks that settle for a more limited audience. It’s these songs that will become a part of my “battle of the b-sides” feature. In this … Continue reading

Song Review: Ha Sungwoon – Sneakers
Review

Song Review: Ha Sungwoon – Sneakers

Despite selling well, Ha Sungwoon’s comebacks never seem to garner all that much attention or discussion. But he’s been remarkably consistent, releasing a string of very strong singles. New track Sneakers (스니커즈) follows suit, harnessing a bright, optimistic melody perfectly suited for summer while managing to filter many of his influences into one consistent song. … Continue reading

Top K-Pop Albums of 2020 (So Far)
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Top K-Pop Albums of 2020 (So Far)

After looking at the year’s best singles (so far), it’s time to turn attention to 2020’s albums. I’ll reiterate what I said yesterday: relative to previous years, it’s been slim pickings. Consistently good mini albums have been particularly hard to find this year, at least in my opinion. But even though the overall picture may … Continue reading