K-pop New Releases [February 2025]

1,2,3,4,5Coogie

쿠기 (Coogie) – ‘1,2,3,4,5’ (Official Visual)

“1,2,3,4,5” is a track released in January 2025 by South Korean rapper Coogie.

Built on a trap beat and infused with his signature singing-rap style, the song really shines.

The hook, which counts off the numbers, is memorable and seems to reflect his career growth.

The confident lyrics convey his passion for music and his determination to succeed.

Since his debut in 2018, Coogie has steadily increased his presence in the scene, and this track showcases his unique worldview to the fullest.

It’s a perfect pick for party vibes or a drive playlist.

farewellD.K.

[MV] DK(December(디셈버)) – farewell(안녕을 바라는 마음)

A new Korean release that gently gives you a push forward, carrying warm feelings on a wistful ballad melody.

Sung by DK, this track was unveiled as part of the Cliché Project.

Here, his delicate vocals and consummate vocal work—arguably the culmination of his career—resonate throughout.

The structure, evolving from a calm piano line into a grand orchestration, is also superb.

Centered on the themes of parting and new beginnings, this song is recommended for anyone who has experienced a farewell with someone dear, offering comfort and closeness.

UP N DOWNEUNHYUK

EUNHYUK ‘UP N DOWN’ MV

Blending 90s nostalgia with modern flair, “UP N DOWN” is the title track from Eunhyuk’s first solo mini-album, EXPLORER.

Known as a skilled artist and member of SUPER JUNIOR, Eunhyuk delivers a rhythm and groove reminiscent of New Jack Swing, calling to mind artists like Bobby Brown.

The lyrics carry a positive message—“forget the stress of everyday life and let the music take you”—inviting listeners into a world of freedom.

Released on January 27, 2025, this work stands as a culmination of Eunhyuk’s two-decade career.

Members of SUPER JUNIOR also took part in the production, highlighting the group’s strong bond.

HOT MESSEVNNE

EVNNE (이븐) ‘HOT MESS’ Official MV

EVNNE is drawing attention as a boy group poised to lead the next generation of Korean pop.

Formed in 2023 as a spinoff from BOYS PLANET, they’ve made their mark with a sound that blends K-pop with hip-hop and R&B.

From their fourth mini album, HOT MESS, released in February 2025, comes a track brimming with an irresistibly captivating appeal.

Capturing the turmoil of uncontrollable romantic feelings, the song portrays the earnest struggle between reason and emotion.

The strength and fragility of youth—seeking joy even amid confusion—are brought to life through energetic beats and catchy melodies.

With a sensorial world that feels like reality and unreality are colliding, it’s a song that will resonate with listeners who long for those moments when emotions overflow.

Why is love so hard for meGyeongseoYeji(경서예지)

[MV] GyeongseoYeji(경서예지) _ Why is love so hard for me(나는 사랑이 왜 이렇게 힘든가요)

A female duo gaining attention in Korea, Kyungseo-Ezi released this piano ballad in February 2025.

It delicately conveys the emotions of a woman troubled by love—its sweetness alongside the accompanying ache, confusion, and shifting feelings—through gentle, expressive vocals.

The transparent, beautiful melody and warm harmonies make a strong impression.

Why not immerse yourself in its world while reflecting on your own love troubles or recalling a scene from a drama?

WonderlandI:MOND

I:MOND (아이몬드) – Wonderland (원더랜드) M/V

A work by the up-and-coming girl group I:MOND, where ethereal melodies intertwine with a heartrending message.

The four-member group that debuted in June 2024 boldly presents their unique worldview with their first mini-album, “Under My,” released in February 2025.

Helmed by leader Lee Sol as the overall director, the project skillfully fuses the nostalgia of the second generation with the refined sensibilities of the fifth.

Inspired by a purple fairy tale, the songs portray emotions wavering between ideals and reality, resonating deeply with addictive melody lines.

Having gone independent in July 2024 to establish their own agency, this ambitious release is recommended for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in a fantastical world.

Almond ChocolateILLIT

ILLIT (아일릿) ‘Almond Chocolate’ Special Film

An original Japanese song by the popular girl group ILLIT that portrays a bittersweet love, woven from sweetness and bitterness.

Written as the theme song for the film “I Won’t Fall in Love Just for a Pretty Face,” the track is produced by SEKAI NO OWARI’s Nakajin and Pdogg, known for his work with BTS.

It skillfully captures single-minded devotion to one’s idol, along with the joy and inner conflict their presence brings, and—paired with a light, pop melody—expresses a sweet yet bittersweet youth.

Released in February 2025, this gem of a love song likens the multifaceted charm of one’s bias and the sweet-and-bitter nature of romance to almond chocolate.

Perfect for the Valentine’s season, it’s a down-to-earth depiction of a girl’s feelings in love and a recommended track for anyone who relates to “oshi-katsu.”

WingsIRISÉ

IRISÉ – 날개 (Wings) Official MV

This work, which sings of taking flight toward a dazzling future, is the debut song of the Korean virtual artist IRISÉ.

Upon its release in February 2025, it immediately captivated listeners with its melodious electropop sound and powerful vocals.

Within a soundscape woven from driving beats and emotional melodies, it portrays the courage to believe in oneself and take a new step forward.

The performance, brimming with youth and hope, will gently encourage those who are pursuing their dreams.

ZENJENNIE

JENNIE – ZEN (Official Video)

Jennie’s solo track is included on the album Ruby and will be released in March 2025.

The Cleopatra-inspired visual aesthetics, sharp choreography, and rich, low-register vocals leave a strong impression.

She sings about profound themes such as self-actualization and transcending material values.

The lyrics, which convey resilience and individuality, reflect Jennie’s inner growth.

This song marks a step forward in her musical evolution.

The music video drew significant attention, surpassing 7 million views within a day of its release.

It’s a recommended track for anyone determined to stay true to themselves.

Love HangoverJENNIE & Dominic Fike

JENNIE & Dominic Fike – Love Hangover (Official Video)

A song that skillfully captures both the sweetness and bitterness of love has been born from a collaboration between BLACKPINK’s Jennie and American singer-songwriter Dominic Fike.

Set to a mid-tempo pop tune, it portrays the wavering emotions within a bond that can’t be severed.

Released in January 2025 as the lead single from Jennie’s debut album, Ruby, the track is accompanied by a music video filmed in Mexico City.

The MV features a unique direction that reflects the song’s worldview, where an unlucky incident happens on every date.

It’s a captivating track with a bittersweet mood that anyone with experience in love can relate to.