If J-pop thrives on precision, K-pop has built its empire on perfection, smooth, sharp, and so meticulously engineered it can feel only surgically obtainable.

And oftentimes, that’s what it is – surgical. 

But then KickFlip (킥플립) wheels in and has zero interest in following that blueprint, they want to do their own thing. Named after the skateboarding trick that flips convention on its axis, the group channels that same restless, rebellious energy into the identity of their music. Their sound and concept lean into youth, movement, and blend self-produced elements with playful, almost mischievous charm that reflects their age and ambition.  The result is a group that feels like they are in motion at all times – constantly shifting and changing themselves to keep one step ahead of an industry that is always looking for the next big thing.

Their latest (fourth) mini-album My First Kick, released on April 6, 2026, served as my introduction to the group. The pre-release track ｢Eye-Poppin｣ quite literally stopped me in my tracks as I was leaving Tower Records Shibuya after picking up SixTONES’ latest anan cover, blasting across the jumbo screen outside. It was so instantly addictive that I made my friend wait with me until it looped back around, just so I could figure out who they were and immediately go buy the album.

Picking up the My First Trip version, the album delivers seven tracks of pure joy. Beyond ｢Eye-Poppin｣, it’s packed with bangers, with personal standouts ｢Stup!d｣ and ｢Roar｣ showcasing the group’s punchy energy and playful edge. Best of all, KickFlip only have four mini-albums so far, which makes diving into their catalog much easier than when I discovered some of my J-pop obsessions.

There will be more KickFlip soon so… 

Stay Tuned!