Although released later in the year, Kep1er’s “Shooting Star” stands out as a breathtaking revelation. Following their explosive debut with “WA DA DA,” this synth-pop journey through the cosmos features celestial falsettos and a mesmerizing Vocoder reminiscent of Imogen Heap. The song serves as a poignant reminder that even fleeting moments can leave behind an enduring beauty. — Abby Webster

Dreamcatcher’s unwavering commitment to rock music has maintained their excitement even after celebrating their seventh anniversary. The thunderous and progressive nature of their single “JUSTICE” is a testament to their ability to innovate and evolve within the K-pop landscape. — Jeff Benjamin

Combining forces, Korean hip-hop superstar ZICO and BLACKPINK’s JENNIE deliver the bold single “SPOT!”, which dominated Billboard’s South Korea Songs chart. With a New Jack Swing rhythm, ZICO exudes confidence while JENNIE commands attention with her unshakeable presence, urging the party to move “up and down and round and round.” Their electric collaboration showcases the best of both artists. — Joe Lynch

As 2024 comes to a bittersweet close with Loossemble parting ways with CDENM, the five talented former LOONA members have left us with one of the year’s catchiest tracks, “TTYL.” This song beautifully merges experimental pop with addictive melodies, ensuring that Loossemble cements their legacy while establishing themselves as a powerful force in the global K-pop scene. — J.B.

Composed of seven talented individuals who rose to fame through the popular Boys Planet singing competition, EVNNE emerged as the “bad boys” counterpart to the winning group, ZEROBASEONE, until their summer single “Badder Love” debuted. This track explores the complexities of relationships, blending musical melancholy with heartfelt declarations. EVNNE may have started with bold singles like “Trouble” and “Ugly,” but they reveal their softer side in this exceptional piece. — J.B.

Known for her viral TV appearances and engaging celebrity interviews on her YouTube series, Lee Young Ji made a significant mark in the K-pop world this year with her first-ever music project, five years after her breakout on the High School Rapper competition. The lead single “Small Girl,” featuring D.O. from EXO, achieved remarkable success, breaking into the top 40 of the Billboard Global 200 while delivering an uplifting anthem for anyone who has ever felt like an underdog. Her witty perspective and fusion of pop, R&B, and hip-hop sensibilities shine through in this collaboration. — J.B.

AKMU’s June single “Hero” radiates a joyful celebration of the brother-sister duo’s distinctive folk-pop sound. Crafted by elder sibling Lee Chanhyuk, the track layers intricate harmonies with playful echoes that invite listeners into their enchanting musical world. Just when the warm acoustic strums settle, the infectious “Shubi doobi love to you” hook bursts forth, infusing the song with a carefree energy perfect for summer enjoyment, effortlessly blending nostalgia with modernity in a uniquely AKMU way. — J.B.

With a punchy bass line, revving engine sounds, and pulsating synths, (G)I-DLE showcases their fierce energy in “Super Lady.” This track incorporates their hip-hop influences and dabbles in dubstep, creating a high-octane experience. Starting in the fast lane, the quintet maintains the momentum with powerful verses and commanding performances, while the leather-and-diamond-laden music video highlights their captivating stage presence. – J.L.

While 2024 may have been quieter for Lim Young Woong in terms of new music, the Mr. Trot superstar focused on delivering high-quality tracks. Co-writing both “Home” and “Warmth” for his double single release in May, Lim’s personal touch is evident in the emotive performance. “Warmth” begins as a simple yet poignant piano ballad, gradually building with additional instrumentation before culminating in a breathtaking choral finale that leaves listeners with goosebumps.

Even as just one of two songs released this year, “Warmth” encapsulates the essence of Lim Young Woong’s growth as an artist. – J.B.

Despite facing challenges in 2024, NewJeans’ “How Sweet” exemplifies their resilience and musical allure. This breezy breakup anthem perfectly encapsulates the quintet’s ability to create summer hits, radiating warmth and freedom. The light instrumentation complements their ethereal harmonies, ensuring that the song becomes sweeter with each listen.

Although “How Sweet” did not make it to the Billboard Hot 100 — marking their first absence since their debut in 2022 — its peak at No. 12 on the Bubbling Under Hot 100 reaffirms their enduring popularity. Few K-pop groups achieve chart success in the Bubbling Under category, illustrating the sustained interest in NewJeans’ music even during a quieter year marked by industry challenges, including internal conflicts at ADOR under HYBE. This serves as a reminder that NewJeans remains both fresh and timeless. — J.B.

Though it may not be the BIGBANG reunion fans have been longing for, G-Dragon’s collaboration with his bandmates Taeyang and Daesung on “Home Sweet Home” represents a triumphant moment in K-pop this year. The track showcases the high-energy, experimental production that initially established BIGBANG as a pioneering force in the global rise of K-pop, reminding listeners of the trio’s undeniable chemistry. G-Dragon’s razor-sharp verses, Taeyang’s soulful vocals, and Daesung’s emotive delivery intertwine seamlessly, weaving lyrics steeped in nostalgia and cleverly referencing their classic hits like “Fantastic Baby” and “Still Life,” as well as their iconic albums Alive and MADE.

The song title rings true; it’s evident that the trio has found their “home” in this sweet yet bold anthem, reaffirming their bond and BIGBANG’s enduring legacy in music. — J.B.