[Edaily Starin Reporter YUN GI BACK ] The group MONSTA X is drawing attention overseas with “The Phase,” their new album released in their 12th year since debut, which showcases a musical transformation. This is significant because they did not remain confined to the group’s established identity but instead experimented with new genres and arrangements.

On the 4th, the U.S. business magazine Forbes featured MONSTA X’s “The Phase” in a special report. The article noted that MONSTA X, having presented diverse music and concepts for over a decade, has expanded the scope of their music into new territories while maintaining their established identity through this album.
In particular, the ever-changing structure of the title track “MAGIC” drew attention. Building on the hip-hop sound—long considered one of MONSTA X’s strengths—the track seamlessly weaves in elements of ballad and pop dance, allowing listeners to experience multiple moods within a single song. In essence, the song embodies the album’s title, “The Phases,” by incorporating a gradual, phased evolution of the music.
The members’ high level of involvement is another defining feature of this album. Jooheon contributed to a total of four tracks, including the title track “MAGIC.” Hyungwon is credited with writing the lyrics and composing the track “Sweet Night, Sweet Morning.”
The album’s overall genre is not confined to any single style. By incorporating a variety of genres—from R&B to dance synth, funk, and acoustic—Monsta X has broadened the musical spectrum they can currently showcase.
The album also made waves on international charts. Following its release, *The Phase* reached No. 6 on the Worldwide iTunes Album Chart. It topped the iTunes Album Charts in five countries, including Finland, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
It entered the Top 5 in 10 countries, including Singapore, Türkiye, and Thailand. On K-pop album charts, it reached No. 1 in six countries—including the U.S., the U.K., France, and Brazil—demonstrating the strength of their international fanbase.
The significance of this album lies in the fact that MONSTA X chose to embrace change rather than simply repeat a proven formula in their 12th year. While maintaining the group’s core strengths of intense performances and energy, they incorporated new experiments in musical genre and composition. As the title “The Phase” suggests, this album marks the group’s transition to a new phase.
MONSTA X is currently continuing its global activities through the “2026 MONSTA X WORLD TOUR [THE X: NEXUS]” and various festivals both domestically and internationally. The group plans to promote their comeback by appearing on music shows and in various content featuring their new song “Magic.”