2024 is almost over, and it’s been a great year for K-pop! We’ve had a ton of memorable releases this year from both boy groups and girl groups, but it’s time to highlight an underrated category—solo acts! Whether full-fledged soloists or members of groups that have taken off with their solo careers, here are some of the solo releases that still haven’t left our 2024 playlist.
IU – “Love wins all”
Not only is this song incredibly moving—the music video for “Love wins all” is an entire movie in five minutes! Featuring BTS’s V, the music video tells a tragic love story that feels right in line with IU’s light but strong vocals. She’s the idol of idols for a good reason!
EXO’s D.O. – “Mars”
If you prefer more of a relaxed, laid-back vibe to your music, then “Mars” is the perfect song for you! With D.O.’s smooth, pleasant vocals and a melody that you can jam to without it getting too distracting, this song is great for work, study, or just chilling.
Lee Young Ji feat. D.O. – “Small girl”
Is this cheating since it’s technically a collab? I’m including it anyway—speaking of D.O., this collab between him and Lee Young Ji is absolute perfection! With a head-bopping beat but a laid-back melody, this song is a total vibe. Plus, their voices sound great together!
TXT’s Yeonjun – “GGUM”
In his solo debut, Yeonjun of TXT brings a strong electronic sound and a punk-rock attitude that hasn’t been shown yet as a part of the group. It’s got his own special sound and color and a beat that you can’t help but jam to! With rap, singing, and a choreo that doesn’t play, Yeonjun proved he’s a true all-rounder.
Jeon Somi – “Ice Cream”
With a funky jazz trumpet and a backing track that doesn’t overwhelm, Jeon Somi’s “Ice Cream” is totally a summer song. It brings that good warm-weather energy no matter the season, and it feels like a bit of a departure from the standard K-pop track. Plus, the MV has a cameo from an ultra-famous actor you just might recognize!
Zico feat. BLACKPINK’s Jennie – “SPOT!”
Another collab that has totally ruled the year, Zico and Jennie came together to make a song that is so catchy it’s almost dangerous. You can’t help but dance the second this beat comes on, and of course Zico’s rap rides the rhythm like it’s easy. Jennie’s vocals make the track total perfection!
TWICE’s Nayeon – “ABCD”
In a total turnaround from Nayeon’s solo debut “POP!” the TWICE member brings a sultry and smooth R&B beat mixed with that peppy K-pop energy for a song that immediately energizes. Nayeon nailed the vocal style and varied tones needed to pull off this old-school track perfectly!
BTS’s Jin – “I’ll Be There”
With all the feel-good vibes of “Super Tuna” and a touch more seriousness, “I’ll Be There” is the perfect pre-release track for Jin’s recent solo release. The eldest member of BTS performs this indie-pop style track with strong vocals and even stronger energy. It’s impossible to be sad while listening to this song!
BLACKPINK’s Rosé feat. Bruno Mars – “APT.”
Now for the song that everybody’s talking about and nobody can stop listening to—”APT.” by BLACKPINK’s Rosé and Bruno Mars! A match made in collab heaven, the resulting track is jam-packed with fun and a chorus that doesn’t quit. It really set the perfect stage for Rosé’s upcoming solo album!
What have been your favorite solo releases of the year? Tell us in the comments below!