Review: KiiiKiii makes refreshing debut with first album, Uncut Gem

Starship Entertainment’s new girl group KiiiKiii has officially entered the K-pop industry with their debut album, Uncut Gem (2025). 

Unlike your typical K-pop group, KiiiKiii has introduced a distinctly different and authentic concept. This debut album truly showcases their unpredictable creative direction and ability to push beyond boundaries. 

Read more: Hallyu Spotlight: Meet KiiiKiii, Starship Entertainment’s new girl group

Uncut Gem (2025) features a total of 6 tracks, including previously released I Do Me (2025) and Debut Song (2025). 

Debut Song 

What better way to introduce this album than to open with a debut song, literally?

Debut Song (2025) features an electro-pop celebratory rhythm with a remix of an old familiar tune — “Happy Birthday”. As the lyrics go: “Congrats on your debut”, this track serves as a celebration song for their debut. 

Also, with the free-spirit concept and casual shots in the music video, the girls have truly showcased a unique and refreshing style, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

 

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Groundwork

With the rhythmic beat and monotonous vocals, you can’t help but naturally bob along to the beat. What makes this track stand out from the rest of the album is the glitchy synths during the chorus.

Did you also notice the hidden lyrics in the outro featuring a Korean icebreaker game? 

The subtle lyrics, “I’m ground, let’s introduce ourselves” below the overpowering “Groundwork” chant, also adds a touch of nostalgia. 

I Do Me 

I do me, I do it my way. With its vibrant and uplifting lyrics, I Do Me (2025) is surely my new anthem for a motivational boost.  

As the title suggests, the track embodies the sense of empowerment and being unapologetically yourself.

There They Go 

This R&B-infused track, paired with a synchronised marching beat, is surely an exciting listen.  

A contrast from the other tracks in the album, this track provides a third-person perspective with lyrics: “KiiiKiii is so exciting/There they go/There they go”. 

BTG

BTG (2025) showcases KiiiKiii’s versatility, flaunting their vocal and rap skills.

But when you thought you’d seen it all, think again. In the music video, the quintet is seen freely dancing with vegetables and a pig. Well, it sure is refreshing to see the girls go beyond the expectations of female K-pop artists. 

One Off

A more laid-back and mid-tempo melody, One Off (2025) perfectly encapsulates the growth they had during their training process. 

With the other tracks, which are more upbeat in nature, this track truly highlights the group’s vocal prowess and mellow tone. To me, this track speaks to my heart, thanks to the heartfelt meaning behind the lyrics.