Released in April, Mark’s debut solo album The Firstfruit ranked No. 1 on Billboard’s “The 25 Best K-pop Albums of 2025: Staff Picks,” announced on December 18 (local time) via the outlet’s official website. The achievement once again highlights Mark’s strong global influence as a solo artist.

Billboard praised the album, stating, “The Firstfruit is an impressive body of work that immediately cements Mark’s presence. It candidly captures his personal experiences, from time spent traveling on airplanes to homesickness and longing for his mother. The album unfolds as a journey seen through Mark’s own perspective from start to finish, drawing listeners deep into his inner world.”

In addition, the track “+82 Pressin’ (Feat. Haechan)” from the album was selected for Teen Vogue’s “15 Best K-pop Music Videos of 2025.” Teen Vogue commented, “The combination of Mark and Haechan alone is more than enough to command attention, but the music video itself stands out as an artistic piece that delivers an intense sense of immersion,” adding, “Rather than lengthy explanations, this is a work best experienced through its refined and striking visuals, which invite rich interpretation.”

The Firstfruit consists of 13 tracks, including the title song “1999,” and tells an honest story shaped by four cities that form the foundation of Mark’s life and artistry: his hometown Toronto, his first place of relocation New York, Vancouver where he spent his school years, and Seoul, where he realized his dreams as an artist. Upon release, the album achieved half-million-seller status and enjoyed strong performances across domestic and international charts, earning widespread acclaim.

Meanwhile, Mark’s group NCT DREAM is set to appear on the “2025 SBS Gayo Daejeon,” airing on December 25.


Written by Kim Su Jin
Translated by Lee So Yun