ANN/THE KOREA HERALD – British music magazine NME has released its mid-year roundup titled “The Best Albums of 2025… So Far!”, featuring standout records from two prominent K-pop artists — G-Dragon and Jennie — among its critically acclaimed selections.

G-Dragon’s latest release, Ubermensch, marks a long-awaited return to solo music after an eight-year hiatus. Described by NME as a “commanding, compelling comeback,” the publication praised the album for being “on par with his best work” and a testament to the artist’s enduring influence and creativity.

The album is G-Dragon’s third solo LP and has been widely recognised as a reaffirmation of his legendary status in the K-pop world.

Also making waves on the list is Ruby, the debut solo album by Jennie of Blackpink. NME commended the project as “a showcase of bold creative vision,” noting that Jennie steps beyond her group’s image to carve out a distinctive artistic identity.

At the time of its release, the magazine wrote that Jennie “flips the lens back onto herself and seizes control of her own mythos with staggering clarity,” highlighting the album’s introspective tone and self-assured execution.

Both albums demonstrate the global impact and artistic depth of K-pop’s biggest names, cementing their place not just in pop culture but in critical acclaim as well.

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin