The Ok-pop trade is closely targeted on one single per launch. Whether or not it’s an EP, LP, deluxe model, biggest hits or something in between, Ok-pop artists are inclined to outline releases by one central music. However because of how listeners now curate their very own playlists and soundtrack stellar social-media moments with music, the only is just not essentially the one music on a launch to get consideration.
Along with Ok-pop having extra worldwide eyes than ever, right now’s listening habits demand extra materials from artists and extra high quality materials on par with the singles already getting costly investments and heavy promotional pushes.
Fortunately, these 25 artists beneath not solely delivered on their title tracks and singles however created our bodies of labor that deserve additional exploration past the shiny music movies. From TVXQ!‘s Max Changmin, BTS‘ J-Hope, and Crimson Velvet‘s Seulgi letting listeners into new elements of their minds with their solo efforts, to AKMU’s Lee Chahyuk adopting a complete new character along with his idea album Error, plus RM making a musical museum to honor his twenties on Indigo, there was rather a lot to dig into this 12 months. In the meantime, sudden viral sensations got here from B-sides by (G)I-DLE, TREASURE and ENHYPEN, proving that these artists packed their information with songs and messages to attach even additional with followers.
From satisfyingly quick EPs to the extra in-depth full-length albums, every of those releases stood out because of the artists reaching for one thing past a fast hit single. Learn on for Billboard‘s workers picks for the perfect Ok-pop albums of the 12 months.