In his first U.S. tour as a soloist, ONEW chose to meet fans with a surprisingly intimate, stripped back concert.

In a new interview, the group reflects on what sets them apart from others and how they’re preparing for a massive North American tour.

NIEL never had time to think about what kind of artist he wanted to be. Now as a CEO of his own company, the singer has the freedom to find out.

the rookies

In-depth profiles about leading independent Asian musicians.

Minh Is Just Beginning to Find His Potential

For the past four months, Minh’s music has made gains on streaming services. In his first interview, he reflects on his new EP’s momentum and why he became a self-made musician.

On “Mediocre At Best”, Pluto Koi Is Packing Up His Insecurities

Pluto Koi used to be known as a hopeless romantic. Now he wants you a more complex version of himself.

Yel Is Turning Her Best Memories Into Works of Art

The California-based singer-songwriter makes dreamy, romantic music that is becoming a smash hit on streaming services.

THE MAD SCIENTIST

Hikaru Utada’s Science Fiction retrospective, reviewed

Bouncing back after a challenging year, keshi gave a ferocious performance that jolted life back into his second album Requiem.

critically speaking

Essays from the frontlines of K-Pop and beyond.

From Rain to Kai, San and from20: How Male Sexuality Has Evolved in K-Pop

A new generation of male idols are embracing a fluid view of sexuality. It’s a major course correction from years’ past.

NewJeans Was the Future of K-Pop. Can KATSEYE Revolutionize That Vision?

A year ago, HYBE’s flagship girl group NewJeans declared war on the company. Now, a new girl group is looking to conceptualize HYBE’s vision for K-Pop without the “K”.

BoA in Japan: Soft Powers and Teenage Dreams

In 2001, BoA was the first of her kind: a K-Pop star landing number one’s in Japan. Her success transformed K-Pop into a global super power.

Essential reading from the API music scene

infinite scroll