Yesterday, I struck a disappointed note when rounding up this year’s strongest singles, and this albums list is going to be quite similar. 2022 has delivered some decent albums so far, but nothing close to a My Name/City Of ONF, Don’t Call Me/Atlantis, YES, Summer Queen, Gatcha or The Chaos Chapter: Freeze. In fact, I’m a little ashamed to admit that I haven’t listened to any 2022 K-pop album more than three times (!) all the way through.

Another 2022 quirk: there’s not a single boy group album in my mid-year list. That’s pretty shocking, coming from me!

*As usual, albums must have at least four full songs to be eligible for this list (otherwise, DRIPPIN’s most recent single album would be included)

What are your thoughts, readers? Leave your own picks in the comments!

Dreamcatcher – Apocalypse: Save Us

Dreamcatcher often find a place on my albums lists. Despite broadening their sonic spectrum on Apocalypse, the album still feels distinct to them.

Best album tracks: Starlight, Cherry, Beauty Full

Oh My Girl – Real Love

Real Love is a frustrating example of an album where the b-sides are far more interesting than the title track. It plays to the group’s strengths, while simultaneously pushing them in new directions.

Best album tracks: Blink, Drip, Replay, Parachute

PSY – PSY 9th

K-pop royalty returns as strong as ever. PSY brought a ton of friends along for this album, and those guest features make it feel like the coolest party ever.

Best album tracks: Now, Dear Me, Everyday, Ganji

Brave Girls – Thank You

This is all killer, no filler — a rarity in the song-camp reality of today’s K-pop market. It feels like four singles, back to back.

Best album tracks: Can I Love You, Love Is Gone

Changmin – Devil

Though it loses some steam at the end, Devil opens with a triple punch that reminds listeners what a dynamic force Changmin can be.

Best album tracks: Fever

Jinjin & Rocky – Restore

Restore is a grab-bag of funky, retro influences. Its title track is fun, but the b-sides back this energy up with personality and flair.

Best album tracks: Lock Down, CPR

LE SSERAFIM – Fearless

The strongest debut of the year (so far), giving LE SSERAFIM their own sound that echoes elements from K-pop’s storied past. Heads up to producers Score & Megatone, which give the album a consistency that’s vital to its success.

Best album tracks: The Great Mermaid, Blue Flame

Woodz – Colorful Trauma

It may lack to high highs of his last album, but Woodz delivers a convincing punk-rock alternative on the bold Colorful Trauma.

Best album tracks: Better And Better, Hijack

Yena – Smiley

Smiley fulfills the promise of its title. Stuffed with bright, punchy pop music, the album will certainly raise your spirits.

Best album tracks: Pretty Boys, Lxxk 2 U