Billboard’s critics released their ‘10 Best K-pop Albums of 2016’ list on Dec. 22.

Starting with the acknowledgement it is “difficult to enjoy full albums in the singles-focused K-pop scene,” the critics introduced 10 albums released in 2016 that prove the format is still alive and kicking.

BTS earned the top spot with their sophomore album “Wings,” which was released in October. “Co-writing and producing on nearly every track, the K-pop phenoms proved how they can compete with top pop acts,” the critics wrote. Meanwhile, the lead track off the album, “Blood Sweat & Tears,” also ranked fifth on Billboard’s “20 Best K-pop Songs of 2016: Critic’s pick.”

(Read also: ‘South Korean TV shows part of North Korean life’)

Big Bang’s “Made,” the complete album overdue by a year and a half since its first single of the series, “M,” released in May 2015, made it on the list at No. 6, though it had been only about a week since it was released on Dec. 13. While “Loser” from “M” ranked No. 1 on “20 Best K-pop Songs of 2015” last year, none of the songs were on this year’s list for singles. However, critics still praised the album as “a testament to the versatility K-pop acts can show in the music.”

Rounding out the list were DAY6’s “Daydream” (2), EXID’s “Street” (3), Akdong Musician’s “Spring” (4), Dean’s “130 Mood: TRBL” (5), Tiffany’s “I Just Wanna Dance” (7), Seventeen’s “Going Seventeen” (8), Mamamoo’s “Melting” (9) and GOT7’s “Flight Log: Fly” (10).

(Read also: Ricky Martin, Red Velvet’s Wendy team up)

Popular

Indonesia may offer dual citizenship to attract overseas workers, minister says

Ministry unveils new funding initiative for climate-resilient health system

Sri Mulyani vows to improve customs services