5 New Korean Releases You Need To Have On Your Radar

“Love Me Harder,” WOODZ

Cho Seungyoun finally made a comeback as WOODZ for his first solo release since the disbanding of K-pop group X1 last year. The R&B producer and songwriter first drew global attention with his singles “Different” and “Pool” in 2018 before joining reality show Produce X which ultimately led him to become a member of the ill-fated X1. “Love Me Harder,” a playful and funky pop track, is the lead single off his debut EP Equal sees him foray into various genres beyond the chilled out R&B we’ve previously seen.

“Yessir,” 3YE

This trio stick to their theme of ‘go big or go home’ on the badass new single “Yessir.” The track is almost military-esque with its marching band-meets-trap instrumentals and testament to 3YE’s determination to stand out from the pop-heavy sphere most girl groups are pulled into.

“Pporappippam,” Sunmi

Pop queen Sunmi made a vibrant comeback with her new single titled “Pporappippam,” a fun Eighties-synth heavy pop track that falls neatly into the singer-songwriter’s signature style that blends nostalgia with modern pop culture to a strangely haunting effect.

“Darling,” Sik-K feat. Crush

Last month rapper Sik-K delivered Headliner, one of his most raw and intricate LPs yet. The release came right before his mandatory military enlistment last week, making it a more emotional event for the artist and his fans. Leading the record is a bittersweet rock-tinged rap single titled “Darling,” about seeking someone to love and come home to.

“Lucid Dream,” Golden Child

On “Lucid Dream” Golden Child supply one of the most catchy pre-choruses of the year, an instant earworm thanks to soaring vocals paired with a minimalistic, bass-led backing track. “Lucid Dream” as a whole has some of the most serene and unusual production we’ve seen in K-pop in 2020, making Golden Child a group worth paying attention to.