After some light research (thank you, Reddit), I learned that XG which is short for Xtraordinary Genes—are a Japanese vocal group based in South Korea, positioned as a global act. They lean heavily into the K-pop playbook aesthetically, but set themselves apart by performing entirely in English.
Their debut full-length album, The Core – 核, arrived on January 23, 2026 via XGALX and AVEX.
Even if the ongoing K-pop takeover of the mainstream still feels a bit baffling, there’s no denying how effective this formula can be.
The Core delivers bright, high-energy pop that’s designed to be catchy first and subtle never.
Highlights include “Gala” and “Hypnotize,” the album’s most immediately memorable and addictive tracks.
The Core gets: 📷📷📷📷📷📷📷/10.
XG – The Core [Streaming]
