What makes Break Down by Kim Hyun-joong notable?

Break Down debuted at number one on the Gaon Album Chart and solidified Kim Hyun-joong's status as a successful solo artist in the K-pop industry. The lead single 'Break Down' received significant airplay and contributed to the growing global interest in K-pop during this era. Released on January 1, 2011, Break Down marks Kim Hyun-joong's debut solo EP following his success as a member of the boy band SS501. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from group popularity to establishing himself as a solo artist, showcasing his versatility and appeal beyond the idol framework.

How many songs are on Break Down?

Break Down has 6 tracks, running approximately 19 minutes.

Break Down

Kim Hyun-joong · 2011

19 min · 6 tracks · K-pop

Energetic K-pop beats blend with smooth vocals, creating an infectious pop sound that defines Kim Hyun-joong's musical identity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Break Down — The title track encapsulates the energetic spirit of the EP, blending powerful choreography with an addictive chorus that showcases Kim’s vocal range.
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Kiss Kiss — This track highlights a more playful side of Kim Hyun-joong, with a catchy melody and flirtatious lyrics that appeal to his fanbase.
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Yes I Will — 'Yes I Will' combines heartfelt lyrics with a strong emotional delivery, marking a significant moment of vulnerability within the otherwise upbeat album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases solid pop compositions and energetic production, marking a successful solo debut.

What we noticed

The EP opens with a brief intro that sets a dramatic tone before transitioning into the energetic lead single 'Break Down'.
Each track features a consistent use of layered vocal harmonies and upbeat electronic production, maintaining a high energy level throughout.
The last track is an instrumental version of '제발 (Please)', which provides a contrast to the vocal-heavy preceding tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.