K-Pop New Releases Surge as JUST B Hyperpop Track, Jennie’s Solo Album, and NEWBEAT Make Debut

K-pop artists are releasing new songs and albums at a rapid pace. JUST B, a K-pop boy group featuring Korean producer Kimj—known as a key figure in the hyperpop genre—released its hyperpop track “CHEST” along with the corresponding music video on March 28. This track combines Kimj’s distinctive and heavy sound with JUST B’s youthful energy to create a unique atmosphere. As the first hyperpop track by a K-pop boy group, “CHEST” has received enthusiastic responses from international fans shortly after its release. With Charli XCX’s BRAT album topping the Billboard charts recently, hyperpop has rapidly emerged as a global trend. Hyperpop offers a free and indulgent sound that goes beyond traditional musical formats, allowing listeners to escape the monotony of daily life and feel completely liberated just by listening. There is an interesting story behind JUST B’s decision to explore hyperpop. The group’s members take full control over every aspect of the team’s production and marketing. Member GEONU is primarily responsible for A&R work and choreography creation, and through meetings with O.Kwon, the head of ARTRA—the label that produced and managed artist Lil Cherry—“CHEST” was born. The process of creating “CHEST” was complex. Based on O.Kwon’s planning and direction, producer Kimj collaborated with Danish artist Tonser to finish the first demo. After that, member GEONU and producer Lee Ye-jun rearranged the demo version to fit JUST B’s style, and finally, member DY added rap verses. The current version of “CHEST” was completed through the delicate balance of intense sound, youthful charm, and the members’ vocals. JUST B debuted in 2021 and is undergoing a rebranding this year. By moving forward with a clear vision without setting musical limits, they are opening up new possibilities for K-pop boy groups and raising expectations for their future. Meanwhile, Jennie Kim released her first album under her label Odd Atelier, titled “Ruby,” on March 7. Comprising 15 tracks in total, this album features collaborations with global artists such as Childish Gambino, Doechii, Dua Lipa, and Dominic Fike. The first single, “Mantra,” proved that Jennie is not just a “woman’s rival” but a confident and distinctive artist. “Zen” demonstrated her creative excellence, showing that she exerts influence not only in music but also in fashion. The third single, “Love Hangover,” expressed the desire to return to a loved one through its cool vibe, addictive rap, and witty music video. New group NEWBEAT also made a bold debut. The group officially debuted on March 24 with its full album “RAW AND RAD.” Composed of seven members, they built a solid foundation before their debut by opening for the senior group A.C.E on tours and performing in various busking activities. Member Kim Ri-woo said, “Through busking experiences, we learned how to resolve conflicts, which ultimately strengthened our bond and teamwork.” Member Jeon Yeo-yeo-jeong added, “We collaborated with local dance crews in the cities we visited, and it was truly amazing. Performing on stage gave us confidence and sparked a desire to meet more fans.” Unlike most new groups that release their debut albums after years of experience, NEWBEAT’s full album “RAW AND RAD” is quite extensive, featuring 10 tracks. Member Park Min-seok explained, “As the title suggests, ‘RAW AND RAD’ captures our honest and genuine selves, representing our confidence. If I were to describe this album in a few words, it would be challenge, determination, passion, and youth.” The album includes various styles such as hip-hop, R&B, and EDM, starting with pre-release tracks “JeLLo” and “HICCUPS” music videos before debuting with the official title track “Flip the Coin.” Their extensive musical experience and thorough preparation are positioning NEWBEAT as a notable newcomer in the K-pop scene.