This week’s K-pop releases mainly center on rookie groups — those who have recently debuted and are trying to find their footing and niche in the industry. From NAZE’s nu-disco Japanese debut to S2IT’s sweet hyper-pop dichotomy and ASC2NT’s second-gen rock/pop callbacks, these are the tracks that deserve more attention. The only two outliers and veterans on the list are “Digital Queen” IU with a melancholic number, and trot singer YOUNGTAK with an unexpected, exciting entry that demonstrates his versatility.

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IU - “Unknown Planet”

IU comebacks always feel like events, given her impact, talent, and legacy as a Korean soloist. This time feels no different, as the singer releases her latest digital single, “Unknown Planet,” a synthwave and dream-pop track driven by a dramatic, synth-powered instrumental and theatrical melodies. Centering themes of parting, emotional closure, and moving forward, IU allows her vocals to soar across this robust, cosmic synth-heavy arrangement, adding another layer of depth and wistfulness to the message of letting go of a relationship. The Korean title, “이 별로부터,” literally translates to “From This Star” or “From Parting,” highlighting the heartbreak of emotional distance after a breakup. Sonically, it’s theatrical and all-consuming, but emotionally, it’s a song worth sitting with and dissecting every melodic and vocal moment.

YOUNGTAK - “GOGO”

After three years, Korean soloist YOUNGTAK has released his third studio album, GOGO, with the title track of the same name. Although he debuted as a ballad singer and later became known as a trot singer, YOUNGTAK has proven there’s much more to his talents than meets the eye. Opening with a soft acoustic guitar melody and the singer’s smooth vocals, “GOGO” toys with listeners’ expectations — what seems like the start of a traditional trot song at first, suddenly turns into an electronic-dance banger as the heavy bass kicks in. From there, the track continues to pulse as the energy builds with sharp synths injected into its addictive rhythm. If you’re already familiar with YOUNGTAK, you’d know this isn’t his first time incorporating modern genres into his discography. But if you’re new here, buckle up because “GOGO” is full of exciting twists and turns.

NAZE - “I LIKE IT”

After making their debut earlier this year, boy group NAZE takes a more unexpected route with their second project. Rather than following up their debut with a Korean comeback, the seven-member group is diving straight into their Japanese debut with “I LIKE IT.” Described as a nu-disco-flavored dance-pop track, “I LIKE IT” is built on a confident premise that the things you like, however small they look to anyone else, are what add up to who you are. With its vintage guitar, groovy bass, and youthful whistling motif, the song captures the lighthearted, carefree feeling of embracing yourself and everything that brings you joy, regardless of whether it’s “cool” or not. Just like its message, “I LIKE IT” is the type of easygoing number that knows exactly what it wants to be and doesn’t take itself too seriously.

S2IT - “Blue Crush”

Debuting earlier this year under K-pop entertainment agency Monster Brain, five-member girl group S2IT is back with their third digital single, “Blue Crush.” Set in a dreamy blue-toned space with a doll-like aesthetic, “Blue Crush” strikes a perfect balance between delicate and powerful. Described as a hyper-pop track, the song combines music box bell sounds to create a lush atmosphere before ramping up the energy with an infectious Jersey club rhythm. According to Monster Brain, the song leaves a strong impression with its unpredictable progression as the members seamlessly transition between softness and intensity. Although this is only their third single, S2IT is already showing a promising sound for what’s to come.

ASC2NT - “If I Die Tomorrow”

Two months after releasing their last digital single, boy group ASC2NT has returned with their second EP, Still With You, and its title track, “If I Die Tomorrow.” Defined by its anthemic, cinematic soundscape, the song is rock-infused pop that leans heavily into the grand, dramatic theme of wanting to stay with someone even if the world is falling apart. Its chorus is driven by the members’ layered vocals and a swelling melody line reminiscent of second-gen boy groups. When looking at the song credits, however, that should come as no surprise, considering Korean producer Kang Jiwon is the sole producer and songwriter of “If I Die Tomorrow,” and the same woman who’s worked with veteran groups like B.A.P., BEAST, and SECRET. Given her past work, the 2010s influence shines through in a new way — not necessarily a carbon copy, but an updated version of what was. Between the members’ sweeping vocals and modern rap style, ASCENT’s latest entry is the perfect middle ground between old and new.