From BIGBANG’s G-Dragon and BLACKPINK members to the rookie group BABYMONSTER, they’ve all made successful comebacks, lighting up the K-pop industry.
BIGBANG’s G-Dragon returned with a powerful impact. On October 31, he released the single “POWER.” This solo comeback, G-Dragon’s first since his 2017 mini-album Kwon Ji Yong, has been highly anticipated.
The lyrics, “2nd-generation limited edition, the masterpiece of the century” and “I got the power, the power, power, 88 fly high,” reveal his pride as an icon of K-pop.
“POWER” topped major domestic music charts such as Melon, Genie, Bugs, and VIBE, and its music video surpassed 10 million views on YouTube within a day of release. On Melon, cumulative listens exceeded 820,000 as of November 1.
In addition, he made a rare variety show appearance on tvN’s You Quiz on the Block on October 30, his first in 12 years, and he will perform at the 2024 MAMA Awards on November 23.
BLACKPINK’s Jennie and Rosé continue to dominate music charts with their respective releases. Jennie’s recent solo track, “Mantra,” has her in a competition with Rosé’s “APT.”
Jennie first set a record for a K-pop female soloist by reaching 37th on the UK Official Singles Chart with “Mantra,” and she entered the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 at 98 on October 26.
Later, Rosé’s duet with pop star Bruno Mars, “APT,” climbed to 4th and then 2nd on the UK Official Singles Chart, surpassing Jennie’s record.
With its addictive, repetitive chorus, “APT” has reached 2nd on the UK Official Singles Chart and 8th on the Billboard Hot 100, both major international charts. Domestically, it swept real-time and daily charts on major music platforms like Melon, Genie, and Bugs upon release.
Jennie and Rosé are showcasing their powerful brand not only as BLACKPINK members but also in their solo activities, reinforcing YG’s stronghold in the girl group scene.
With G-Dragon’s backing, BABYMONSTER recently returned with their debut full album, Drip, featuring tracks like “Drip” and “Click Clack.” BABYMONSTER’s stage presence is drawing attention, positioning them as a promising new act embodying YG’s identity.
BABYMONSTER’s “Click Clack” music video surpassed 10 million views within about 21 hours.Through “Drip,” they also solidified their “YG DNA” identity. The “Drip” MV recorded 18 million views within a day.
Billboard noted that “BABYMONSTER splendidly marked the year with their debut album packed with captivating songs, highlighting their music as a driving force for the global reach of K-pop.”
Source: daum
