Analyzing The Light & Shadow Of Park JiHoon's "Blank Or Black" | K-Pop Explained

The reigning powerhouse of K-Pop, representative of passion, dedication, and power - Park JiHoon has officially made his comeback! On April 12, 2023, Park JiHoon released his 7th mini album, "Blank Or Black", showcasing a whole new side to his visionary artistry, not just in terms of the music but also the music video, the fashion, the concept, and the storytelling of it all. The most intricate details, alongside the grandest innovations, bring this album to life, giving us yet another masterpiece to celebrate. This is Kpopmap's "K-Pop Explained" - a monthly series where we dive into and analyze the best K-Pop releases, and this month's star is Park JiHoon!

Staying true to Park JiHoon's brand of striking versatility, "Blank Or Black" is an ode to emotions - or the lack thereof. The album contains six songs - namely, 'Gemini', 'Blank Effect' (the title song), 'Black Hour', 'Matador', 'Gambit' ft. Bang YongGuk and 'Crashing For' - each of which contributes to a coherent narrative while also holding their own. At the same time, Park JiHoon's experimental streak shines through in the genres employed throughout the album, as he reinvents them in his own style. Putting this album into the perspective of Park JiHoon's filmography, it almost feels like each song on it could very well be the OST for his works.

Album Review

Maroo Entertainment

"Blank Or Black" starts off on a wonderfully personal note with the song called 'Gemini'. For those who might not know, Park JiHoon's zodiac sign is Gemini, and he renders this into an analogy of light and shadow being eternally inseparable.