This week’s K-pop releases are taking a stab at nostalgic beats with an ode to popular styles of the ‘90s via B1A4 and NCT Dream, 2000s from the likes of CLOSE YOUR EYES, and even the early 2010s bling aesthetic from VVS. On the complete opposite side of the spectrum, newly debuted girl group UNCHILD is bringing a fresh, plucky take on the fifth-gen trends of late.

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B1A4 - “Rock Paper Scissors”

Celebrating their 15th anniversary, veteran group B1A4 have returned with their ninth mini album, STEP, and its retro-inspired title track, “Rock Paper Scissors.” Described as a dance-pop song featuring a rhythmic bass, cheerful synthesizer, and groovy drums, the song takes many ‘90s influences and combines them with modern sensibilities. This is just one of many of the album’s tracks produced by member CNU, who has continuously carried B1A4’s sound over the years and ensured the second-gen group evolves with the times.

CLOSE YOUR EYES - “POSE”

In just a year since debuting, rookie boy group CLOSE YOUR EYES has already garnered massive attention through their hazy vocals and slick 2000s-inspired production. In their first comeback of 2026, the group has returned with another mid-aughts groove in “POSE,” a track that mixes 2000s hip-hop and R&B with the more modern Brazilian Baile funk genre. The result is a hypnotic bounce that ends up sounding both new and familiar all at once.

JUNCHILD - “UNCHILD”

Debuting as High Up Entertainment’s second girl group since STAYC in 2020, rookie girl group UNCHILD makes a big statement in their first single, “UNCHILD.” The track is rooted in electro-pop charm with edgy garage-style and psychedelic elements, instantly setting the group apart from many of the current girl group trends. However, the song isn’t just rambunctious for the sake of being loud — it also has something to say, with lyrics of overcoming fear and stepping into new experiences with confidence and spunk.

NCT WISH - “Ode to Love”

Following the group’s divisive pre-release track, “Sticky,” NCT Wish return to their bubblegum pop form in “Ode to Love.” Sonically, the title track samples the 1994 hit, “Ode to My Family,” by Irish alt-rock band The Cranberries. Aside from rock, however, The Cranberries were known to dabble into other genres, such as jangle pop (a subgenre of ‘60s-inspired pop-rock and indie rock) and dream pop — the latter of which fits perfectly in NCT Wish’s soundscape. With a playful and uplifting tone, “Ode to Love” is the type of track that exudes sugar, spice, and everything nice.

VVS - “$TAY THE NIGHT”

In 2025, girl group VVS became the first K-pop group to be formed and debut under MZMC Inc., aka the producers behind many staple K-pop songs from 2016 - 2019. With VVS, however, the company hones in on the hip-hop and R&B aspect of K-pop, with variations of pop sprinkled in. The group’s latest single, “$TAY THE NIGHT,” hinges on the trap influence of the early 2010s, offering a slinky vocal hook in between the members’ trendy rap verses. Tying in the diamond reference of the group’s name, the track foregoes romantic connections in favor of girl-bossing their way to the top.