Someday I’ll write an essay with that title — there is so much that goes into the production of Kpop, and it deserves to be highlighted. In the meantime, come enjoy beautiful MVs and artistic songs — and vice versa. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. 

Day6 – “You Make Me”

The latest album from Day6, Negentropy, took a while to grow on me, but like most of Day6’s works, it did, and now it lives rent-free in my head. The story accompanying this video is bittersweet and beautiful, like most of Day6’s best works. 

NU’EST – “Inside Out”

NU’EST is one of those groups that I don’t necessarily follow, but every once in a while they’ll come out with something that stuns me. “Inside Out” grabbed my ears and wouldn’t let go. But I will also argue that mullets and furry pool tables are things that shouldn’t exist. Watch the MV. You’ll see what I mean.

IZ – “Missing U”

IZ deserves more attention for their artistic quality alone. It’s what keeps me listening! Their vocals are no joke, and the lovely filter on the MV keeps the focus where it should be — on the gorgeous song.

Enhypen – “Drunk-Dazed”

Was there any doubt that Enhypen would turn out anything but stellar music? Of course not! “Drunk-Dazed” was captivating and fun. I love the party setup for the video — to me, it harks back to SHINee’s “Married to the Music”, but with an entirely different take on the event. I’m loving their sound!

eAeon – “Don’t” feat. RM

I hope eAeon earned a lot of new fans from this single, because it would be well deserved. This is a fantastic collaboration. The MV is another bittersweet love story, told through a nostalgic lens that’s gorgeously filmed and just so dang cute…until it’s not.

BONUS TRACK: Highlight – “Not the End”

One of the biggest questions in kpop is “Can a group make it after their military service?” SHINee is loading up a huge helping of “YES WE CAN.” Highlight is doing the same, despite losing a member to the Burning Sun scandal. “Not the End” is a poignant anthem to the fact that they are dedicated to doing what they love.

What’s been grabbing YOUR ears lately, music fans? Drop down in the comments and let me know!

Until the next MV debuts (“BUTTER” IS COMING!!!), I remain —

Karie the Maknae

Dramas with a Side of Kimchi