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Week of May 2008
1. (+9) Epik High (feat. Ji Sun) - One *** 1 WEEK NO. 1 *** Score: 885 Genre: Hip-hop
Music: Tablo / Lyrics: Tablo, Mithra Jin Album: Epik High Vol. 5 Track 4 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: In just 3 weeks, the title song from Epik High's 5th album "Pieces Part I" moved up to the top spot. It further cements Epik High's status as one of the top groups in Korea. "One" features the vocal of ex-Loveholic lead singer Ji Sun. It is a pun on the word “Savior” (said as Gu-won in Korean). The song is about wanting to help save people and how anyone can be a savior to another.
2. (+13) MC Mong - 서커스 (Circus) Score: 866 Genre: Hip-hop
Music: Kim Gun Woo, MC Mong / Lyrics: MC Mong Album: MC Mong Vol. 4 Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Title song from MC Mong's 4th album "Circus" moves up 13 big spots to No. 2 this week. This song is No. 1 on M!Countdown, Music Bank K-Chart and various internet charts. As with all his other albums, MC Mong's first single is a fun-filled track with an interesting song title. In the next few weeks, we can expect this song and Epik High's "One" to duel for the top spot.
3. (-2) Nell - 기억을 걷는 시간 (Time Of Collecting My Memories) Score: 838 Genre: Rock Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Jong Wan Album: Nell Vol. 4 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Nell's 4th album, "Separation Anxiety." A gentle and modern rock ballad with a simple sound and keyboard at its center, it showcases vocalist Kim Jong-wan's sob-resembling vocal style and sensual melody. Together they give off a surreal vibe. The poignant lyrics are about missing an ex. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
4. (-2) Lee Seung Ki - 다줄거야 (I'll Give You All) Score: 716 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music + Lyircs: Cho Gyu Man Album: Lee Seung Ki 2nd remake album Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Lee Seung-ki's remake album, "When a Man Loves a Woman Vol.2." A remake of Jo Kyu-man's "I'll Give You Everything," this ballad showcases Lee Seung-ki's uniquely innocent and natural sensibilities. A moving melody is accompanied by lyrics that resolve to forget a past, difficult love and love anew. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
5. (-2) Gummy (feat. TOP) - 미안해요 (I am sorry) Score: 777 Genre: R&B Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Byung Hoon Album: Gummy Vol. 4 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment:This is the representative track for Gummy's 4th official album, "Comfort." Gummy's more relaxed vocals and a repetitive refrain that goes "I'm sorry" shine in this impressive electronica/Euro-dance song. BIGBANG's TOP, who is featured in the track, and Sandara Park star and share a kiss in the music video. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
6. (-1) Monday Kiz (feat. Rhymer) - 가슴으로 외쳐 (Shout to the heart) Score: 623 Genre: Mid-tempo R&B
Music: Kim Do Hoon + Hwang Sung Jin / Lyrics:
Kim Do Hoon Album: Monday Kiz Vol. 3 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Title track from R&B duo Monday Kiz' 3rd album "Inside Story". Last week, member Kim Min Soo died from a motorcycle accident. The whole k-pop world is still mourning for the loss of this young talent. It is especially sad because Monday Kiz have just started their 3rd album promotional activities and they are enjoying their most successful album and single.
7. (+24) SG Wannabe - 라라라 (LaLaLa) *** BIGGEST MOVER OF THE WEEK *** Score: 622 Genre: R&B/Country Style Ballad
Music: Cho Young Soo / Lyrics: Ahn Young Min Album: SG Wannabe Vol. 5 Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Title song from SG Wannabe's 5th album "My Friend". The popular group has undergone a change of members as Chae Dong Ha left to pursue a solo career and has been replaced by Lee Suk Hoon. Cho Young Soo is again the mastermind behind this hit. The melody is a familiar SG Wannabe-style song. What makes this song special is the arrangement sounds like American country style music, which is very refreshing. We've not heard of this kind of arrangement in k-pop before.
8. (-2) Davichi - 슬픈다짐 (Sad Promise) Score: 610 Genre: Pop / Dance
Music: Park Hae Woon / Lyrics: Lee Sung Ho Album: Davichi Vol. 1 Track 4 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live performance Comment: Featured in Davich's 1st album, "Amaranth," this track has a lively rhythm and a chorus that leaves an impression. Made as a sequel to the song "Don't Like You But Love You," Lee Mi-yeon and Lee Hyo-lee travel the country pursuing wanted criminals and eventually arrest them. They grow closer during the process. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
9. (-5) Mighty Mouth (feat. Yoon Eun Hye) - 사랑해 (I Love You) Score: 608 Genre: Hip-Hop
Music + Lyrics: Lee Hyun Do Album: Mighty Mouth digital single "I Love You" Watch: MV Live performance (feat. JJ) Comment: This is the title track of Mighty Mouth's single album, 'I Love You.' The debut song of new hip-hop duo Mighty Mouth, it has attracted extra attention for the fact that Joosuc, Lee Hyun-do and Yoon Eun-hye participated in it. Witty rapping by the youthful rappers 237 and Shorry J combines well with Yoon Eun-hye's vocals for a positively spring-like song. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
10. (+13) ISU - 삐에로 (Pierrot) Score: 547 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music: Kim Do Hoon, PJ / Lyrics: Choi Kap Won Album: ISU Vol. 1 Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: ISU (Lee Soo), lead vocalist of MC The Max, releases his first solo album with the title song "Pierrot". Like all MC The Max title songs, it has become a top-10 hit. Unlike ballad songs from MC The Max which is more rock in style, this song is a purely pop ballad with a beautiful piano arrangement. Lee Soo worked with the hit-making team of Kim Do Hoon, PJ, and Choi Kap Won for the first time.
11. (+7) Kim Jong Wook - 그대만이 (My Only) Score: 542 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music:
Cho Young Soo / Lyrics: Ahn Young Min Album: Kim Jong Wook Vol. 1 CD 2 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Surprisingly one of the most popular songs in Korea these days. This is another featured on the popular TV show "We Got Married" and became well known. The first song was Kim Dong Ryul's "Like A Child". Korea's top songwriting team, Cho Young Soo and Ahn Young Min again wrote this song for Kim Jong Wook. The melody reminds us of songs from KCM. Former SG Wannabe member Chae Dong Ha stars in this song's MV, and different actresses perform as a bride on stage for Kim Jong Wook's live performances on gayo shows. This week it's Lee Young Eun.
12. (-5) Jewelry - One More Time Score: 443 Genre: Pop / Dance
Original Song: Ingrid's "One More Time" / Lyrics: M Album: Jewelry Vol. 5 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track of Jewelry's 5th album, "Kitchi Island." The group has reorganized itself to include Park Jung-ah, Seo In-young, Kim Eun-jung and rapper Ha Joo-yeon. The song is a remake of a dance track with an electronica sound. Shinhwa's Lee Min-woo wrote the lyrics while hitmaker Park Geun-tae wrote the music. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
13. (+3) Maya - 그 흔한 반지도 (Even The Common Ring) Score: 389 Genre: Rock Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Pyo Gun Soo Album: Maya Vol. 4 Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: Live Performance Comment: Title song from Maya's 4th album "Maya4". The female rocker comes back with a soft modern rock song. The lyrics are about never losing hope. Fans are able to see a softer side of Maya this time. Maya is also due to return to acting this summer. Her last TV series was "Bodyguard".
14. (+5) Flower Go Yoo Jin - 너 하나만 (My Only) Score: 382 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music: Park Keun Tae / Lyrics: Kang Eun Kyung Album: Flower Go Yoo Jin digital single "My Only" Watch: MV Comment:
Go Yoo Jin, ex-lead singer of the rock ballad group Flower, returns to the top 20 with this tender ballad "My Only". It's been 4 years since Go Yoo Jin's last top-20 hit, "Slow Walking Child" from his solo debut album. Hit-makers Park Geun Tae and Kang Eun Kyung wrote this song for Go Yoo Jin. The MV of this song features footage from the movie "U-Turn". It is the kind of song that grows on you the more you listen.
15. (-3) Kim Dong Ryul - 출발 (Departure) Score: 380 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Dong Ryul Album: Kim Dong Ryul Vol. 5 Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Comment:
Featured in Kim Dong-ryul's 5th album "Monologue," this is a sweet ballad song that has Kim's smooth vocals laced with modern acoustic sounds. The music video shows Kim Dong-ryul on his unforgettable trekking experience in the high mountains of Tibet. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in eoul)
16. (-7) SNSD - Baby Baby Score: 278 Genre: Pop Dance
Music + Lyrics: Hwang Sung Je Album: SNSD Vol. 1 repackaged version Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Featured in Girls' Generations' 1st album, Girls' Generation, this dance track has a cheerful rhythm and expresses the feelings of a girl in love. The melody boasts a fresh and lively girlish style. The music video shows visuals of the girls being active with their 1st album. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
17. (+12) Wax - Lucky Score: 275 Genre: Pop / Dance
Lyircs: Hong Ji Yoo Album: Wax Digital Single "Lucky" Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: It's been a long time since we heard Wax promoting an upbeat song as she was focusing on ballads the last few years. Long time k-pop fans should remember that Wax started her career singing dance beat songs. Like her earlier hits "Money" and "Oppa", this song is also a remake. Originally it was sung by Swedish dance pop duo Lucky Twice, but Wax has put her own mark to it. While this song is not as up-tempo as her previous dance hits, the tune is very catchy.
18. (-5) Jang Nara - 흉터 (Scar) Score: 273 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music: Hwang Sung Je / Lyrics: Jang Nara Album: Jang Nara Vol. 6 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Jang Nara's 6th album, which is an integrated Asia work, titled "Dream of Asia." The ballad showcases Jang Nara's trademark emotional voice and a sad melody. The lyrics are about struggling to recover from the scars left by a former love. Jang Nara's introspective performance, through which she expressed the sadness of love, was praised. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
19. (+19) Paran - Don't Cry Score: 272 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Sung Woo Suk Album: Paran Vol. 3 Track 4 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Paran may not be the most well-known k-pop boy bands in Korea, but they have had more success overseas, especially in Thailand. The 5-member group are back for their 3rd album. This time, they have chosen a ballad instead of a dance hit as their title song, showing their maturity in vocal. "Don’t Cry" is about how one can’t call a loved one love. This pop ballad has great organization and melody so that listeners would not get bored. Rhythmical guitar instrumentals liven up the song and Paran’s vocals.
20. (-6) See Ya - 바보 (Fool) Score: 270 Genre: Pop
Music: Cho Young Soo / Lyrics: Ahn Young Min Album: Cho Young Soo All Star Vol. 2 Track 5 / See Ya digital single "Fool" Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Featured in Cho Young-su's project album, "All Star 2nd Album," this house dance track was sung by See Ya, composer Cho Young-su's representative trainees. The memorable lyrics are about the foolishness of a woman who sees a guy who resembles her ex and wishes he would return. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
21. (-10) Evan (feat. Sol Flower) - 울어도 괜찮아 (It's okay if you cry) : 267 22. (-1) Moon Hee Jun - Obsession : 255 23. (+20) Cho Shin Sung - Super Star : 244 24. (+6) Park Myung Soo - 바보에게...바보가 (To fool…from fool) : 240 25. (-5) Shinhwa - Run : 236 26. (-18) Hwa Yobi - 남자는 모른다 (Men don't know) : 229 27. (-2) Tae Yeon - 만약에 (If: KBS Drama "Hong Gil Dong" OST) : 205 28. (-2) Brown Eyed Girls - L.O.V.E : 197 29. (-2) Choi Jin Yi - 눈부신 날 (One Shiny Day) : 192 30. (+11) Yoo Seung Chan - 그대를 사랑합니다 (I Love You: KBS Drama "Mom Has Grown Horns" OST) : 184 31. (-7) Namolla Family (feat. Tae In) - 너만 볼래 (Only want to see you) : 181 32. (-15) SS501 - 데자뷰 (déjà vu) : 171 33. (New) Andy - 프로포즈 (Propose) : 170 *** HOT SHOT DEBUT *** 34. (New) Fly To The Sky (feat. AND) - 취중진담 (Saying the truth when drunk) : 168 35. (-13) Choo Sung Hoon - 하나의 사랑 (One love) : 167 36. (--) Ibadi - 끝나지 않은 이야기 (Endless Story) : 165 37. (New) Baek Ji Young - 집시의 눈물 (Gypsy Tears) : 140 38. (New) Lee Seung Hwan - 슈퍼히어로 (Super Hero) : 138 39. (-4) F.T Island - 한가지 말 (One word: SBS Drama "On Air" OST) : 121 40. (New) Tony An - 지갑 (Wallet) : 120 41. (-1) Moon Ji Eun - 여우가 (The fox) : 115 42. (-8) Lexy - Ma People : 109 43. (-10) Sweet Sorrow - 멀어져 (Farther Away) : 103 44. (Re) Yurisangja - 허니문 (Honeymoon) : 96 45. (-1) Wheesung (feat. Humming Urban Strero) : Love Seat : 88 46. (New) Yang Pa & Miho - 비밀은 어디에 있나요 (Where's the secret) : 79 47. (-2) Park Hyun Bin - 샤방 샤방 (Happy Happy) : 70 48. (New) Jun Jin (feat. Joo Hee) - Wa : 60 49. (-21) Park Hye Kyung - 사랑과 우정사이 (Between Love and Friendship) : 49 50. (-4) The Nuts - 쩜쩜쩜 (Dot Dot Dot) : 46
Blue: Songs to watch out Green: Editor's recommendations
BONUS TRACK:
Mario - Goodbye Genre: R&B ballad
 Album: Mario 1st digital single track 1 Watch: MV Comment:
If you like Americanized R&B k-pop songs, this is a song for you. Mario's voice and image is already very R&B/hip-hop. This mid-tempo tune is half singing, half rapping, but it has a very catchy tune. This Mario is not the one singing on the soundtrack of the drama "My Girl". He has already had a few performances on gayo shows. Hopefully that will carry this song into the chart. "Goodbye" is written by Lee Sang Ho, who has written hit songs in the past for See Ya and M to M.
Sources of the chart
ChartKorea - 15% Air Monitor Chart - 15% MNet M!Countdown + Voting + Cable Airplay - 15% Various Internet charts (Melon, Jukeon, Dosirak, MNet, Muz, Bugs, Ohdio, Soribada) - 15% Hanteo and KMDIA Weekly Album Sales (2 weeks lag) - 10% SBS - Inky Gayo Take 7 + Internet Chart + MP3 Download Chart + Music Video Chart - 10% Hanteo Gayo Chart - 10% (1 week lag) KBS Music Bank K-Chart - 5% Gasoo appearance on gayo shows (SBS Inky Gayo, KBS Music Bank, KBS Yoon Do Hyun Love Letter, SBS Kim Jung Eun's Chocolate, Pops In Seoul) - 5%
3rd Week of May 2008
1. (+1) MC Mong - 서커스 (Circus) *** 1 WEEK NO. 1 *** Score: 962 Genre: Hip-hop
Music: Kim Gun Woo, MC Mong / Lyrics: MC Mong Album: MC Mong Vol. 4 Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: MC Mong scores another No. 1 song with the title song from his 4th album "Circus". This song is also No. 1 on M!Countdown, Music Bank K-Chart and various internet charts, and his album has also risen to No. 1 on the sales chart. As with all his other albums, MC Mong's first single is a fun-filled track with an interesting song title. This song, along with Epik High's "One" and SG Wannabe's "LaLaLa" are neck to neck in all charts.
2. (-1) Epik High (feat. Ji Sun) - One Score: 953 Genre: Hip-hop
Music: Tablo / Lyrics: Tablo, Mithra Jin Album: Epik High Vol. 5 Track 4 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Despite scoring nearly 70 points more than last week, Epik High's "One" falls back one spot to No. 2 due to strong competition. This is the title song from Epik High's 5th album "Pieces Part I". "One" features the vocal of ex-Loveholic lead singer Ji Sun. It is a pun on the word “Savior” (said as Gu-won in Korean). The song is about wanting to help save people and how anyone can be a savior to another. This song still has a chance to go back to No. 1 again.
3. (+4) SG Wannabe - 라라라 (LaLaLa) Score: 894 Genre: R&B/Country Style Ballad
Music: Cho Young Soo / Lyrics: Ahn Young Min Album: SG Wannabe Vol. 5 Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Rounding out the strong top 3 is the title song from SG Wannabe's 5th album, "My Friend". The popular group has undergone a change of members as Chae Dong Ha left to pursue a solo career and has been replaced by Lee Suk Hoon. Cho Young Soo is again the mastermind behind this hit. The melody is a familiar SG Wannabe-style song. What makes this song special is the arrangement sounds like American country-style music, which is very refreshing. We've not heard of this kind of arrangement in k-pop before.
4. (+7) Kim Jong Wook - 그대만이 (My Only) Score: 701 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music:
Cho Young Soo / Lyrics: Ahn Young Min Album: Kim Jong Wook Vol. 1 CD 2 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is a new singer's dream as one of the songs from his debut album was used on a popular TV show. Many more people know Kim Jong Wook now as his song "Only You" was featured on the popular MBC TV show "We Got Married". It also helps to have Korea's top songwriting team, Cho Young Soo and Ahn Young Min, writing this song. This week "Only You" jumps 7 more spots to No. 4. Former SG Wannabe member Chae Dong Ha stars in this song's MV.
5. (+1) Monday Kiz (feat. Rhymer) - 가슴으로 외쳐 (Shout to the heart) Score: 697 Genre: Mid-tempo R&B
Music: Kim Do Hoon + Hwang Sung Jin / Lyrics:
Kim Do Hoon Album: Monday Kiz Vol. 3 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Monday Kiz's 3rd album, "Inside Story." Rhymer made and performed the rap for this up-tempo R&B song, which is seasoned with some hip-hop touches. A simple melody melds with a full chorus to add to the depth of the song. The music video tells of a love story between Seo Young-hee and Jin Gu, who play a doctor and cancer patient. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
6. (-3) Nell - 기억을 걷는 시간 (Time Of Collecting My Memories) Score: 682 Genre: Rock Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Jong Wan Album: Nell Vol. 4 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Nell's 4th album, "Separation Anxiety." A gentle and modern rock ballad with a simple sound and keyboard at its center, it showcases vocalist Kim Jong-wan's sob-resembling vocal style and sensual melody. Together they give off a surreal vibe. The poignant lyrics are about missing an ex. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
7. (+3) ISU - 삐에로 (Pierrot) Score: 579 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music: Kim Do Hoon, PJ / Lyrics: Choi Kap Won Album: ISU Vol. 1 Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the title track of Lee Su's 1st solo album, "I am." Tasteful piano accompaniment and Lee Su's emotional voice shine through in this ballad as he sings about the duality of love and pain, which is compared to a clown's sad smile. The exquisite images produced by high-speed filming and Lee Su's own performance in this music video leave a lasting impression. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
8. (-3) Gummy (feat. TOP) - 미안해요 (I am sorry) Score: 560 Genre: R&B Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Byung Hoon Album: Gummy Vol. 4 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment:This is the representative track for Gummy's 4th official album, "Comfort." Gummy's more relaxed vocals and a repetitive refrain that goes "I'm sorry" shine in this impressive electronica/Euro-dance song. BIGBANG's TOP, who is featured in the track, and Sandara Park star and share a kiss in the music video. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
9. (-1) Davichi - 슬픈다짐 (Sad Promise) Score: 548 Genre: Pop / Dance
Music: Park Hae Woon / Lyrics: Lee Sung Ho Album: Davichi Vol. 1 Track 4 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live performance Comment: Featured in Davichi's 1st album, "Amaranth," this track has a lively rhythm and a chorus that leaves an impression. Made as a sequel to the song "Don't Like You But Love You," Lee Mi-yeon and Lee Hyo-lee travel the country pursuing wanted criminals and eventually arrest them. They grow closer during the process. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
10. (+24) Fly To The Sky (feat. AND) - 취중진담 (Saying The Truth When Drunk) *** BIGGEST MOVER OF THE WEEK *** Score: 463 Genre: R&B Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Dong Ryul Album: Fly To The Sky Remake Album "Recollection" Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Fly To The Sky are the third singers to release a remake album this year (first is Park Hye Kyung, second is Lee Seung Ki). Brian and Hwanhee chose hit songs from the 90s and remade them to their own style. "Saying The Truth When Drunk" was originally a hit for Kim Dong Ryul (who also happens to have a song in our top 20 this week). FTTS' version is an accapella track featuring R&B singer AND. With the accompaniment of the guitar and drums in the middle of the track, fans will definitely fall for their voices.
11. (-2) Mighty Mouth (feat. Yoon Eun Hye) - 사랑해 (I Love You) Score: 406 Genre: Hip-Hop
Music + Lyrics: Lee Hyun Do Album: Mighty Mouth digital single "I Love You" Watch: MV Live performance (feat. JJ) Comment: This is the title track of Mighty Mouth's single album, 'I Love You.' The debut song of new hip-hop duo Mighty Mouth, it has attracted extra attention for the fact that Joosuc, Lee Hyun-do and Yoon Eun-hye participated in it. Witty rapping by the youthful rappers 237 and Shorry J combines well with Yoon Eun-hye's vocals for a positively spring-like song. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
12. (--) Jewelry - One More Time Score: 398 Genre: Pop / Dance
Original Song: Ingrid's "One More Time" / Lyrics: M Album: Jewelry Vol. 5 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track of Jewelry's 5th album, "Kitchi Island." The group has reorganized itself to include Park Jung-ah, Seo In-young, Kim Eun-jung and rapper Ha Joo-yeon. The song is a remake of a dance track with an electronica sound. Shinhwa's Lee Min-woo wrote the lyrics while hitmaker Park Geun-tae wrote the music. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
13. (--) Maya - 그 흔한 반지도 (Even The Common Ring) Score: 393 Genre: Rock Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Pyo Gun Soo Album: Maya Vol. 4 Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: Live Performance Comment: Being the title track of Maya's 4th album "MAYA Four," this modern rock number spills out words of wisdom challenging listeners to focus on hope for tomorrow in a much more subdued tone than before. The black-and-white music video is made up of footage from Maya's live concerts.
14. (+1) Kim Dong Ryul - 출발 (Departure) Score: 385 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Dong Ryul Album: Kim Dong Ryul Vol. 5 Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Comment:
Featured in Kim Dong-ryul's 5th album "Monologue," this is a sweet ballad that has Kim's smooth vocals laced with modern acoustic sounds. The music video shows Kim Dong-ryul on his unforgettable trekking experience in the high mountains of Tibet. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
15. (-11) Lee Seung Ki - 다줄거야 (I'll Give You All) Score: 372 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music + Lyircs: Cho Gyu Man Album: Lee Seung Ki 2nd remake album Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Lee Seung-ki's remake album, "When a Man Loves a Woman Vol.2." A remake of Jo Kyu-man's "I'll Give You Everything," this ballad showcases Lee Seung-ki's uniquely innocent and natural sensibilities. A moving melody is accompanied by lyrics that resolve to forget a past, difficult love and love anew. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
16. (+1) Wax - Lucky Score: 345 Genre: Pop / Dance
Lyircs: Hong Ji Yoo Album: Wax Digital Single "Lucky" Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: It's been a long time since we heard Wax promoting an upbeat song as she was focusing on ballads the last few years. Long time k-pop fans should remember that Wax started her career singing dance beat songs. Like her earlier hits "Money" and "Oppa", this song is also a remake. Originally it was sung by Swedish dance pop duo Lucky Twice, but Wax has put her own mark to it. While this song is not as up-tempo as her previous dance hits, the tune is very catchy.
17. (+21) Lee Seung Hwan (feat. Super Kidd) - 슈퍼히어로 (Superhero) Score: 324 Genre: Rock
 Album: Lee Seung Hwan Mini Album "Dim" Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Lee Seung Hwan (Chae Rim's ex-husband) is generally known for his ballads, but most people forget that he also has many good rock songs. "Superhero" is the title song from the veteran singer's latest mini album. For the first time in many years, he is promoting an upbeat song. Rock band Super Kidd is featured in this song, making it even more "super". The MV includes a variety of different superheroes.
18. (+22) Tony An - 지갑 (Wallet) Score: 285 Genre: Pop Ballad
 Album: Tony An Special Album "Look Blank" Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Comment:
Ex-H.O.T members are having a good year so far, as we have seen hits from Kang Ta and Moon Hee Jun on the top 20 previously. Now Tony An comes in with this song from his special album, "Look Blank". Unlike last year's dance hit "Melody", this song is a moving ballad. Melodious piano arrangement and Tony’s sad vocals define the song well.
19. (+2) Evan (feat. Sol Flower) - 울어도 괜찮아 (It's okay if you cry) Score: 274 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music: Nicols Brinck / Lyrics: Park Chun Hyo Album: Evan Vol. 2 Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Evan's 2nd album, "Pain Reliever." A poetic guitar accompaniment and Evan's calm and collected voice shine through in this ballad, which features Sol Flower. The lyrics and music video, which are about consoling a friend struggling after a breakup, leave a lasting impression. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
20. (-1) Paran - Don't Cry Score: 262 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Sung Woo Suk Album: Paran Vol. 3 Track 4 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Paran may not be the most well-known k-pop boy bands in Korea, but they have had more success overseas, especially in Thailand. The 5-member group are back for their 3rd album. This time, they have chosen a ballad instead of a dance hit as their title song, showing their maturity in vocal. "Don’t Cry" is about how one can’t call a loved one love. This pop ballad has great organization and melody so that listeners would not get bored. Rhythmical guitar instrumentals liven up the song and Paran’s vocals.
21. (+5) Hwa Yobi - 남자는 모른다 (Men don't know) : 260 22. (+7) Choi Jin Yi - 눈부신 날 (One Shiny Day) : 251 23. (--) Cho Shin Sung - Super Star : 246 24. (+7) Namolla Family (feat. Tae In) - 너만 볼래 (Only want to see you) : 242 25. (-7) Jang Nara - 흉터 (Scar) : 225 26. (-2) Park Myung Soo - 바보에게...바보가 (To fool…from fool) : 224 27. (New) SS501 - 널 부르는 노래 (A song calling for you) : 209 *** HOT SHOT DEBUT *** 28. (New) Sung Shi Kyung - 사랑하는 일 (Loving what you do) : 199 29. (-15) Flower Go Yoo Jin - 너 하나만 (My only) : 195 30. (New) Son Dam Bi - Bad Boy : 194 31. (+4) Choo Sung Hoon - 하나의 사랑 (One love) : 188 32. (+1) Andy - 프로포즈 (Propose) : 180 33. (+6) F.T Island - 한가지 말 (One word: SBS Drama "On Air" OST) : 176 34. (-4) Yoo Seung Chan - 그대를 사랑합니다 (I Love You: KBS Drama "Mom Has Grown Horns" OST) : 174 35. (+6) Moon Ji Eun (feat. Eun Ji Won) - 여우가 (The fox) : 158 36. (-9) Tae Yeon - 만약에 (If: KBS Drama "Hong Gil Dong" OST) : 150 37. (New) Ran (feat. Cindy) - I Love You : 149 38. (-13) Shinhwa - Run : 148 39. (New) SNSD (Jessica, Tiffany, Seo Hyun) - 오빠 나빠 (Bad Oppa) : 140 40. (-4) Ibadi - 끝나지 않은 이야기 (Endless Story) : 139 41. (+7) Jun Jin (feat. Joo Hee) - Wa : 138 42. (New) Buga Kingz - 싸이렌 (Siren) : 131 43. (-21) Moon Hee Jun - Obsession : 122 44. (-7) Baek Ji Young - 집시의 눈물 (Gypsy Tears) : 108 45. (New) Kim Jang Hoon - 소나기 (Shower) : 106 46. (New) Sweet Sorrow - 사랑해 (I Love You) : 100 47. (--) Park Hyun Bin - 샤방 샤방 (Happy Happy) : 79 48. (New) Jadu - 커피 한 잔 (A cup of coffee) : 73 49. (New) Lisa (feat. Eun Ji Won) - 내가 만날 사람 (The person I'm going to meet) : 72 50. (-5) Wheesung (feat. Humming Urban Stereo) - Love Seat : 66
Blue: Songs to watch out under top 20 Green: Editor's recommendations under top 20
BONUS TRACK:
Rubystar - 다시올까봐 (Might She Come Back) Genre: Modern Rock
Album: Rubystar 1st single Watch: MV Comment:
The title track of Rubystar's first single, "Might She Come Back." This is the debut song of a new band called Rubystar consisting vocalist and songwriter Jeong-won, guitarist Park Jin-chul, bassist Boat and drummer Kim In-su. This modern rock ballad carries a beautiful melody that accentuates Jeong-won's powerful vocals. The lyrics are about the hopeless despair of past love. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
Sources of the chart
ChartKorea - 15% Air Monitor Chart - 15% MNet M!Countdown - 15% Various Internet charts (Melon, Jukeon, Dosirak, MNet, Muz, Bugs, Ohdio, Soribada) - 15% Hanteo and KMDIA Weekly Album Sales (2 weeks lag) - 10% SBS - Inky Gayo Take 7 + Internet Chart + MP3 Download Chart + Music Video Chart - 10% Hanteo Gayo Chart - 10% (1 week lag) KBS Music Bank K-Chart - 5% Gasoo appearance on gayo shows (MBC Show! Music Core, SBS Inky Gayo, KBS Music Bank, KBS Yoon Do Hyun Love Letter, SBS Kim Jung Eun Chocolate, MNet M!Countdown, MTV Top Choice, Pops In Seoul) - 5%
4th Week of May 2008
1. (+1) Epik High (feat. Ji Sun) - One *** 2 WEEKS NO. 1 *** Score: 974 Genre: Hip-hop
Music: Tablo / Lyrics: Tablo, Mithra Jin Album: Epik High Vol. 5 Track 4 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Epik High recapture the top spot from MC Mong again with their song "One". As mentioned before, Epik High, MC Mong, and SG Wannabe have all been battling for No. 1 for the last few weeks. Epik High's win this week is mainly due to their active appearances on gayo shows last week, while MC Mong and SG Wannabe made no appearances. Epik High are winning by more than 60 points this week, but the three songs will remain close again next week.
2. (-1) MC Mong - 서커스 (Circus) Score: 909 Genre: Hip-hop
Music: Kim Gun Woo, MC Mong / Lyrics: MC Mong Album: MC Mong Vol. 4 Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: After spending last week at the top, MC Mong's "Circus" falls back to No. 2. MC Mong did not appear on any gayo shows last week and that hurt the score of his song. However, this song should have a better score next week again since MC Mong will appear on Inky Gayo this week (and probably win the Mutizen award). His album has also risen to the top of the sales chart.
3. (--) SG Wannabe - 라라라 (LaLaLa) Score: 903 Genre: R&B/Country Style Ballad
Music: Cho Young Soo / Lyrics: Ahn Young Min Album: SG Wannabe Vol. 5 Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Despite continuing to score points, SG Wannabe remain at No. 3 with "LaLaLa". Epik High and MC Mong are currently too strong to overtake, so the trio will wait for their chance. This country western style ballad song is very refreshing in k-pop and it should continue to do well in the chart for the next few weeks.
4. (--) Kim Jong Wook - 그대만이 (My Only) Score: 790 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music:
Cho Young Soo / Lyrics: Ahn Young Min Album: Kim Jong Wook Vol. 1 CD 2 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Many more people know Kim Jong Wook now as this song "Only You" was featured on the popular MBC TV show "We Got Married". It also helps to have Korea's top songwriting team, Cho Young Soo and Ahn Young Min, writing this song. Former SG Wannabe member Chae Dong Ha stars in this song's MV.
5. (+1) Nell - 기억을 걷는 시간 (Time Of Collecting My Memories) Score: 720 Genre: Rock Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Jong Wan Album: Nell Vol. 4 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Nell's 4th album, "Separation Anxiety." A gentle and modern rock ballad with a simple sound and keyboard at its center, it showcases vocalist Kim Jong-wan's sob-resembling vocal style and sensual melody. Together they give off a surreal vibe. The poignant lyrics are about missing an ex. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
6. (New) Jewelry - 모두 다 쉿! (Everybody Shhh!) *** HOT SHOT DEBUT *** Score: 670 Genre: Pop / Dance
Music: Chae Gyu, Shin Sha Dong Ho Raeng/ Lyrics: Choi Kap Won Album: Jewelry Vol. 5 Track 7 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Follow-up song from Jewelry's 5th albm "Kitchi Island". Title song "One More Time" spent 3 weeks at the top spot. This song is even more upbeat and energatic, and unlike "One More Time" where Park Jung Ah and Seo In Young sing most of the song, this song's vocal is more evenly divided between 4 members. This song got off to a great start debuting at No. 6 this week, the highest debut by a song on this chart in 2008.
7. (-2) Monday Kiz (feat. Rhymer) - 가슴으로 외쳐 (Shout to the heart) Score: 649 Genre: Mid-tempo R&B
Music: Kim Do Hoon + Hwang Sung Jin / Lyrics:
Kim Do Hoon Album: Monday Kiz Vol. 3 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Monday Kiz's 3rd album, "Inside Story." Rhymer made and performed the rap for this up-tempo R&B song, which is seasoned with some hip-hop touches. A simple melody melds with a full chorus to add to the depth of the song. The music video tells of a love story between Seo Young-hee and Jin Gu, who play a doctor and cancer patient. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
8. (-1) ISU - 삐에로 (Pierrot) Score: 514 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music: Kim Do Hoon, PJ / Lyrics: Choi Kap Won Album: ISU Vol. 1 Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the title track of Lee Su's 1st solo album, "I am." Tasteful piano accompaniment and Lee Su's emotional voice shine through in this ballad as he sings about the duality of love and pain, which is compared to a clown's sad smile. The exquisite images produced by high-speed filming and Lee Su's own performance in this music video leave a lasting impression. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
9. (+1) Fly To The Sky (feat. AND) - 취중진담 (Saying The Truth When Drunk) Score: 455 Genre: R&B Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Dong Ryul Album: Fly To The Sky Remake Album "Recollection" Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Fly To The Sky are the third singers to release a remake album this year (first is Park Hye Kyung, second is Lee Seung Ki). Brian and Hwanhee chose hit songs from the 90s and remade them to their own style. "Saying The Truth When Drunk" was originally a hit by Kim Dong Ryul (who also happens to have a song in our top 20 this week). FTTS' version is an accapella track featuring R&B singer AND. With the accompaniment of the guitar and drums in the middle of the track, fans will definitely fall for their voices.
10. (-2) Gummy (feat. TOP) - 미안해요 (I am sorry) Score: 410 Genre: R&B Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Byung Hoon Album: Gummy Vol. 4 Track 3 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment:This is the representative track for Gummy's 4th official album, "Comfort." Gummy's more relaxed vocals and a repetitive refrain that goes "I'm sorry" shine in this impressive electronica/Euro-dance song. BIGBANG's TOP, who is featured in the track, and Sandara Park star and share a kiss in the music video. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
11. (+3) Kim Dong Ryul - 출발 (Departure) Score: 376 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music + Lyrics: Kim Dong Ryul Album: Kim Dong Ryul Vol. 5 Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Comment:
Featured in Kim Dong-ryul's 5th album "Monologue," this is a sweet ballad that has Kim's smooth vocals laced with modern acoustic sounds. The music video shows Kim Dong-ryul on his unforgettable trekking experience in the high mountains of Tibet. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
12. (+3) Lee Seung Ki - 다줄거야 (I'll Give You All) Score: 371 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music + Lyircs: Cho Gyu Man Album: Lee Seung Ki 2nd remake album Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track for Lee Seung-ki's remake album, "When a Man Loves a Woman Vol. 2." A remake of Jo Kyu-man's "I'll Give You Everything," this ballad showcases Lee Seung-ki's uniquely innocent and natural sensibilities. A moving melody is accompanied by lyrics that resolve to forget a past, difficult love and love anew. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
13. (+9) Choi Jin Yi - 눈부신 날 (One Shiny Day) Score: 368 Genre: Pop Ballad
Music: Han Sang Won / Lyrics: Choi Jin Yi Album: Choi Jin Yi mini album Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Recently there are many singers from rock/modern rock groups having their solo debut. Choi Jin Yi, lead singer of the modern rock group Rumble Fish, is one of them. On her solo effort, Choi adopts a more elegant image and ballad style of music. "One Shiny Day" has an attractive pre-arrangement that resembles the start of a day. The song is written by Han Sang Won, who already has many hit songs this year. Choi Jin Yi wrote the lyrics herself.
14. (-3) Mighty Mouth (feat. Yoon Eun Hye) - 사랑해 (I Love You) Score: 356 Genre: Hip-Hop
Music + Lyrics: Lee Hyun Do Album: Mighty Mouth digital single "I Love You" Watch: MV Live performance (feat. JJ) Comment: This is the title track of Mighty Mouth's single album, 'I Love You.' The debut song of new hip-hop duo Mighty Mouth, it has attracted extra attention for the fact that Joosuc, Lee Hyun-do and Yoon Eun-hye participated in it. Witty rapping by the youthful rappers 237 and Shorry J combines well with Yoon Eun-hye's vocals for a positively spring-like song. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
15. (+17) Andy - 프로포즈 (Propose) *** BIGGEST MOVER OF THE WEEK *** Score: 353 Genre: Pop Ballad
Album: Andy Vol. 1 repackaged version Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance feat. Solbi (with English sub) Comment: Yet another song featured on the popular TV show "We Got Married". This is Andy and Solbi's (Typhoon) theme song on the show where they starred as a couple. It is also the title song from Andy's first album repackaged version. "Propose" is a sweet and happy love song that Andy and Shinhwa fans will love.
16. (+11) SS501 - 널 부르는 노래 (A Song Calling For You) Score: 347 Genre: Pop / Dance
Music + Lyrics: Han Sang Won Album: SS501 3rd single album Track 2 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: Follow-up song from SS501's 3rd single album "Deja Vu". The title song "Deja Vu" reached the top 10. This song has great rhythm and it showcases SS501’s cute choreography. It is another hit song written by rising songwriter Han Sang Won, who also has Choi Jin Yi's "One Shiny Day" in the top 20 this week.
17. (-8) Davichi - 슬픈다짐 (Sad Promise) Score: 338 Genre: Pop / Dance
Music: Park Hae Woon / Lyrics: Lee Sung Ho Album: Davichi Vol. 1 Track 4 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live performance Comment: Featured in Davichi's 1st album, "Amaranth," this track has a lively rhythm and a chorus that leaves an impression. Made as a sequel to the song "Don't Like You But Love You," Lee Mi-yeon and Lee Hyo-lee travel the country pursuing wanted criminals and eventually arrest them. They grow closer during the process. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
18. (-1) Lee Seung Hwan (feat. Super Kidd) - 슈퍼히어로 (Superhero) Score: 333 Genre: Rock
 Album: Lee Seung Hwan Mini Album "Dim" Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This is the representative track of Lee Seung-hwan's repackaged album "Obscurity." Showcasing lively, bouncy tunes, this song contains a hopeful message that everyone can be a hero. Members of the indie band Super Kidd, Huh-check and Pajama Jingo are featured in the song and the music video and show us what a world full of super heroes would be like. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
19. (-3) Wax - Lucky Score: 325 Genre: Pop / Dance
Lyircs: Hong Ji Yoo Album: Wax Digital Single "Lucky" Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This lively, upbeat Euro-dance style song is the title track of Wax's digital single, 'Lucky." It is a remake of Swedish pop duo Lucky Twice's song. The artiste herself stars in the music video showing off a funny antenna dance with her hair exaggeratedly blown-up. (credits to Arirang TV - Pops in Seoul)
20. (+3) Cho Shin Sung - Super Star Score: 322 Genre: Pop / Dance
Music: Kim Do Hoon, PJ / Lyrics:
Choi Kap Won, Mario Album: 2008 Love Song Compilation Album CD3 Track 1 Purchase this album Watch: MV Live Performance Comment: This song is one of the only new songs featured on the compliation album "Love Song 2008". This series of albums has been very successful in the past. The first set in 2001 sold over 2 million copies. While most songs on "Love Song 2008" are ballads, this song is an upbeat dance song by Cho Shin Sung. It is also released as a digital single and the group is currently promoting the song.
21. (+8) Flower Go Yoo Jin - 너 하나만 (My only) : 312 22. (New) Kim Dong Wan - 비밀 (Secret) : 268 23. (-10) Maya - 그 흔한 반지도 (Even the common ring) : 266 24. (+11) Moon Ji Eun (feat. Eun Ji Won) - 여우가 (The fox) : 252 25. (+12) Ran (feat. Cindy) - I Love You : 251 26. (-6) Paran - Don't Cry : 244 27. (-1) Park Myung Soo - 바보에게...바보가 (To fool…from fool) : 234 28. (New) Alex - 화분 (Flower Pot) : 216 29. (-1) Sung Shi Kyung - 사랑하는 일 (Loving what you do) : 213 30. (-12) Tony An - 지갑 (Wallet) : 207 31. (-10) Hwa Yobi - 남자는 모른다 (Men don't know) : 205 32. (-2) Son Dam Bi - Bad Boy : 195 33. (+12) Kim Jang Hoon - 소나기 (Shower) : 183 34. (+7) Jun Jin (feat. Joo Hee) - Wa : 179 35. (+3) Shinhwa - Run : 178 36. (New) OneTwo (feat. Seo In Young) - 뭇된 여자 (Bad Woman) : 170 37. (-18) Evan (feat. Sol Flower) - 울어도 괜찮아 (It's okay if you cry) : 164 38. (-14) Namolla Family (feat. Tae In) - 너만 볼래 (Only want to see you) : 163 39. (-5) Yoo Seung Chan - 그대를 사랑합니다 (I Love You: KBS Drama "Mom Has Grown Horns" OST) : 159 40. (-15) Jang Nara - 흉터 (Scar) : 158 41. (-1) Ibadi - 끝나지 않은 이야기 (Endless Story) : 149 42. (-11) Choo Sung Hoon - 하나의 사랑 (One love) : 134 43. (+7) Wheesung (feat. Humming Urban Stereo) - Love Seat : 133 44. (-1) Moon Hee Jun - Obsession : 126 45. (Re) Navi - I Love You : 125 46. (-10) Tae Yeon - 만약에 (If: KBS Drama "Hong Gil Dong" OST) : 105 47. (-5) Buga Kingz - 싸이렌 (Siren) : 103 48. (-1) Park Hyun Bin - 샤방 샤방 (Happy Happy) : 102 49. (New) V.O.S - Beautiful Life : 100 50. (New) Park Hye Kyung - Lemon Tree : 87
Blue: Songs to watch out under top 20 Green: Editor's recommendations under top 20
BONUS TRACK:
Sunday Brunch - 200km/h Genre: Modern Rock
 Album: Sunday Brunch digital single 200km/h Watch: MV Comment:
This week we continue our tour of new modern rock acts. There are not too many female solo rock singers in Korea. You'll find most of them being lead singers of modern rock bands. Last year, we had Orange Lala, and this year a new young talent with the stage name "Sunday Brunch" debuted. Her first digital single "200km/h" is more hard core rock than Orange Lala's "Darling". That should be delightful to K-rock fans. Let's see if this song can cross over to the pop scene.
Sources of the chart
ChartKorea - 15% Air Monitor Chart - 15% MNet M!Countdown + Fan Voting + Cable Airplay - 15% Various Internet charts (Melon, Jukeon, Dosirak, MNet, Muz, Bugs, Ohdio, Soribada) - 15% Hanteo and KMDIA Weekly Album Sales (2 weeks lag) - 10% SBS - Inky Gayo Take 7 + Internet Chart + MP3 Download Chart + Music Video Chart - 10% Hanteo Gayo Chart - 10% (1 week lag) KBS Music Bank K-Chart - 5% Gasoo appearance on gayo shows (MBC Show! Music Core, SBS Inky Gayo, KBS Music Bank, KBS Yoon Do Hyun Love Letter, SBS Kim Jung Eun Chocolate, MTV Top Choice, Pops In Seoul) - 5%
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