The Best K-pop Albums and Songs of 2018: A Deep Dive into Popular and Underrated Anthems
Introduction
2018 was a year filled with a multitude of K-pop hits and albums, presenting both overplayed and overhyped songs alongside underappreciated gems. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the K-pop scene, this article will guide you through a selection of standout K-pop albums and songs from 2018. Let's explore the favorites that resonated with fans and critics alike.
Favorite K-pop Albums and Songs from 2018
Ruby by Woozi
Woozi’s Ruby is not just a song, but a steady flow in your blood. Its relatable lyrics and catchy melody make it a constant companion for many K-pop fans.
Love Theory by Taeyong and Wonstein
Combining the talents of Taeyong and Wonstein, Love Theory is a love letter to the complexities of relationships, delivered with precision and emotion.
JikJin by Treasure
With its intricate production and heartfelt lyrics, JikJin by Treasure stands out as a standout album that captures the essence of K-pop's emotional depth.
Fearless by Le Serrafim
Le Serrafim’s debut album, Fearless, offered a mix of electric energy and sultry vocals, cementing their status as one of 2018’s most exciting K-pop groups.
Love Dive by IVE (Twice!) and HOT by Seventeen
Love Dive by IVE and HOT by Seventeen are two tracks that perfectly capture the essence of K-pop—emotional and impactful.
The Whole of TXT’s Album "Thursday’s Child"
Dive into the entire Thursday’s Child album by TXT, a cohesive body of work that showcases the group's growth and youthful energy.
Deep by Hyo, Nanana by GOT7, BeatBox by NCT DREAM, Hot by Seventeen, and Don Quixote by Seventeen
Other standout tracks include Deep by Hyo, Nanana by GOT7, BeatBox by NCT DREAM, Hot and Don Quixote by Seventeen. These tracks each bring a unique flair to the K-pop genre, blending genres and styles to create something truly unique.
Villain by Drippin, Heart Burn by SUMN?, and Darling by Seventeen
Tracks such as Villain from Drippin, Heart Burn by SUMN?, and the emotionally charged Darling by Seventeen illustrate the diversity and depth in K-pop music.
Maniac by Stray Kids and Future Perfect by Enhypen
Maniac by Stray Kids and Future Perfect by Enhypen are two tracks that stand out for their infectious energy and innovative production. These songs highlight the forward-thinking nature of K-pop.
Paradoxx Invasion by Enhypen, Girl by AESPA, and Pop by Nayeon
Enhypen's Paradoxx Invasion and AESPA's Girl bring a fresh perspective to K-pop, while Pop by Nayeon stands as a catchy, pop-infused hit.
Forever Only by Jaehyun, Run2U by StayC, and Illusion by Aespa
Forever Only by Jaehyun, Run2U by StayC, and Illusion by Aespa are tracks that blend emotional depth and catchy hooks, making them must-listen favorites for fans.
Concluding Thoughts
The year 2018 was rife with incredible K-pop releases. From the anthemic and chart-topping hits to the lesser-known but equally impactful tracks, there’s plenty to explore. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering new artists, there’s no shortage of K-pop magic to be found in the year 2018.
Additional Recommendations
For those looking to dive deeper into K-pop, here are a few more standout releases:
Pink Venom by Blackpink, Sneakers by ITZY, and Bad Decisions by BTS x Benny Blanco x Snoop Dogg
Blackpink’s Pink Venom, ITZY’s Sneakers, and BTS’s x Benny Blanco x Snoop Dogg’s Bad Decisions represent some of the most innovative and engaging releases in 2018. Each track brings a unique contribution to the K-pop landscape, making them essential listens.
Final Thoughts
As we look back at 2018, it’s clear that the K-pop landscape is a vibrant and ever-evolving space. The songs and albums highlighted in this article are just the tip of the iceberg, showcasing the immense talent and creativity that defines K-pop. Embrace the excitement, the emotion, and the joy that comes with exploring this genre further.