Producer JAKOPS (Simon Junho Park) reflected on the journey of girl group XG while revealing behind-the-scenes insights into the creation of their upcoming album, building anticipation for the group’s first studio album set for January next year.
Music media outlet Billboard recently published an exclusive interview with JAKOPS, CEO and lead producer of XGALX and XG. With XG’s first studio album scheduled for January 23, 2026, and the PS118 project, which announced the launch of new artists, gaining international attention, public interest in producer JAKOPS has also been intense.
In the interview, JAKOPS stated: “I see the first studio album as the true starting point of XG. I hope it will be a memorable album for life and carry the mission of XGALX.” He also discussed XG’s journey since debut, including three years of experience featuring a world tour, the Coachella Sahara stage, and a concert at the Tokyo Dome, marking the group’s steady progression.
Producer JAKOPS demonstrated his professionalism during XG’s large-scale tour, ensuring the best possible performances. During the two weeks at Coachella, he adjusted the setlist according to audience reactions and supported each member to maintain optimal conditions, guaranteeing a high-quality show.
Even during the tour, JAKOPS continued producing XG’s first studio album. He commented:
“We are currently in the final stages, but I still feel tense. This is the moment to realize what we’ve always said: to create the best album in the world. The growth of the seven members is impressive.”
To mark the end of the tour and announce the group’s comeback, XG released the first pre-album single “GALA”. This song, which challenges stereotypes and embodies XG’s surreal universe, has surpassed 10 million views on its music video and reached number one on the global trends chart on YouTube Music, attracting international attention. The first studio album is thus expected to encapsulate XG’s musical identity and universe.
Finally, JAKOPS plans to expand the XGALX universe with the first studio album and the PS118 project, which had already generated buzz with its teasers. With the recent teaser release for the second world tour, XG aims, through their first studio album on January 23, to set new standards in the global music market.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: XGALX
