디시인사이드

In 2010, the phrase "perfect all-kill" was coined to describe a song that topped multiple iCharts simultaneously after IU's "Nagging" achieved the feat. This year, "Love Wins All" marked IU's first single as a lead artist in three years, marking another perfect all-kill for the Korean singer-songwriter.

"Love Wins All" is a soft piano and strings ballad with increasing vocal intensity over the course of four minutes and thirty seconds.

It's not over the top, but it's a tearjerker, especially when you consider the post-apocalyptic lovers music video that BTS' V co-starred in. – JL

IU has done something rather unique with her (impeccable) discography: she has released an album filled with positivity. While the queen of K-pop has released some of the most devastatingly beautiful and brilliantly melancholic songs in K-pop, The Winning explores IU’s inner growth and personal fulfillment.

Centered around the touching ballad lead single "Love Wins All" (one of the best K-pop songs of the year), this anthemic track offers a realistic sense of hope. From the grooved percussion of "Holssi," in which IU confidently declares, "Fly high and blossom/... I'll win," to the ambitious synth-pop of "Shopper," and the seamless blending of musical generations and styles on "Shh..", which features narration from NewJeans member Hyein, rocker Jo Won-sun, and 86-year-old Korean music legend Patty Kim, the project is emblematic of IU's ability to innovate while maintaining her timeless essence.

As 2024 draws to a close, IU’s latest project is especially aptly titled The Winning. The star sold out her first U.S. tour this year, hitting six arenas across the country to promote the EP. — JB

https://www.billboard.com/lists/best-kpop-songs-2024/

https://www.billboard.com/lists/best-kpop-albums-2024/