Which K-pop groups and releases become the most memorable this 2020?
On Dec. 23, Kim Do Heon, the editor of Seoul-based pop-culture webzine "IZM" released an article through "Brunch Korea," containing 14 memorable releases of various K-pop idols and groups this year.
Among numerous songs and albums that give an exciting atmosphere and feelings to every fan, editor Kim Do Heon selected the year-end list which gained massive attention from the media and considered the selections of K-pop/music enthusiasts and fans around the world as well.
BTS, IU, Aespa: Top 3 "Memorable K-Pop in 2020"
In the list, BTS's "Dynamite" reigned in the first place, which contributed a truly significant role for K-pop to completely break into the US market. Through the song, BTS made another history of becoming the first Korean artist to topped Billboard's "Hot 100," and also create an opportunity for a Korean musician to be nominated for GRAMMY.
Next, IU was ranked in second place with her track, "Eight" featuring BTS Suga. Editor Kim highlighted that the release featured both "challenge and comfort."
Kim also acknowledges the three personas of IU's she showed throughout her career, such as becoming the "Nation's Little Sister," to becoming the role model of others, and lastly, transforming into an idol who support the growth of young musicians.
Meanwhile, the newly debuted group Aespa surprisingly rose into the third spot, with its debut song, "Black Mamba." Their concept introduced the use of Artificial Intelligence or AI, which is a strong move in the non-contact era.
13 Memorable in K-Pop 2020: Who's on the list?
Aside from Aespa, two rookie girl groups also made it into the list, including NiziU and WEEEKLY.
NiziU "Make You Happy" ranked No. 4, the Japanese girl group launched by JYP Entertainment. WEEEKLY's "Zig Zag" also entered at No. 13. Editor Kim noted them as "Rookie of the Year," and the editor also explained that they chose the song due to its melody that brings you back to your youth days.
Moving on, K-pop soloists Taemin of SHINee and Chung Ha, who are both notable for their all-rounder aspects, ranked 6th place and 8th places, respectively.
Taemin who dropped his track, "2 Kids," was then praised for the comfort and warmth that it delivered, while Chung Ha ended the year with her track, "Dream of You."
Furthermore, Red Velvet's "Pyscho," (10th) gained compliments from the editor for letting the group's cruel, wacky and strange atmosphere be compressed in this song.
Day6 "Zombie" was also recognized for its clean and clear melody structure, along with the story of the song, that only the band can slay.
Full List:
- BTS "Dynamite"
- IU "Eight"
- Aespa "Black Mamba"
- NiziU "Make You Happy"
- YooA " Bon Voyage"
- Taemin "2 Kids"
- NCT 127 "Kick it"
- Chung Ha "Dream of You"
- Fromis_9 "Feel Good"
- Red Velvet "Psycho"
- Stray Kids "Back Door"
- Day6 "Zombie"
- WEEEKLY "Zig Zag"
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Written by Eunice Dawson
