MONSTA X’s Comeback with THE X: A 10th Anniversary Celebration Shaking the World
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MONSTA X celebrates their 10th anniversary with the release of THE X. Their first full-group album in 4 years breaks records worldwide. Fans and media alike praise their return while recognizing leader Shownu’s role.
MONSTA X’s return to the global music scene this year is more than just a regular comeback—it is a grand celebration of their decade-long journey. On September 1, 2025, members Shownu, Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon, Joohoney, and I.M officially released their 13th mini album and first full-group album in four years, THE X. This release immediately drew global media attention, from Rolling Stone to Forbes, and sparked massive excitement among Monbebe worldwide.
Rolling Stone praised THE X as a “love letter to Monbebe,” showcasing the group’s artistic maturity. The members directly participated in songwriting, composition, and track selection. The title track “N the Front” was described as a melodic rap song filled with intense percussion that could appeal across generations. I.M emphasized that each track had a clear vision, highlighting Savior as one that perfectly fit the vocalists. Rolling Stone added that this clarity of vision is why MONSTA X has managed to remain relevant in such a competitive industry.
Forbes also reflected on MONSTA X’s journey, emphasizing how they have become “icons of the Korean music scene” a decade after their debut in 2015. The magazine applauded their boldness in experimenting with EDM, Latin, R&B, pop, and future bass, while releasing songs in Korean, Japanese, and English. Joohoney stressed in an interview that THE X proves they can do it all—rappers singing, vocalists rapping—expressing the confidence they’ve built throughout their career.
Global Excitement, Record-Breaking Achievements, and Recognition for Shownu’s Leadership
The anticipation surrounding MONSTA X’s full-group comeback was already enormous. Dingo Music confirmed that the group would appear live on Killing Voice, a moment fans had been longing for. Fans’ reactions online highlighted just how deeply this comeback was awaited.
“Finallyyyyyy 😭👏 after 10 years yes 👏 I’m so excited MONSTAX IS BACK!!!!”
“AAAAAAAAAA FINALLY!!! Ohh I’m sooo ready for this one 😭🙌”
“I’ve been dreaming of days like this”
“YESSSSSS!!!!! Thank you! We’ve been waiting, hoping, wishing for this!!! Let’s Go!!!”
THE X immediately delivered record-breaking numbers. According to the World Music Awards, the album sold more than 332,000 copies within days, including 269,000 on the first day alone—the highest first-week sales in their career. The album charted at #11 on US iTunes, #8 on Worldwide iTunes, and #19 on European iTunes. The title track “N the Front” trended worldwide on YouTube, surpassing 2.1 million views.
However, not all feedback was positive, as some skepticism also surfaced.
“BTS dupe lol”
“They’re washed it’s time for TXT”
“And it will fall flat… very ordinary music.”
Despite the criticism, most comments celebrated the moment as extraordinary.
“MONSTA X coming back with THE X after 4 years isn’t a comeback, it’s a statement. Most groups fade in that time, they turned absence into anticipation.”
“What an incredible moment for MONSTA X and Monbebes! After 4 years, getting a full group album like THE X is truly special.”
Attention also turned to Shownu’s role as leader. During a recent program, musician Lee Mujin praised his grounded leadership as the key to MONSTA X’s strength over the past decade. Fans noted the emotional moment when Shownu’s eyes sparkled at the compliment.
“Thank you Lee Mujin for saying that.. Shownu needs to hear it more 🥺”
“The way Shownu’s eyes sparkled when Lee Mujin complimented his leadership… so deserved 😭💞”
THE X is not just another album release—it is a testament to MONSTA X’s consistency, dedication, and loyalty to their fans. While criticisms exist, the impressive chart rankings, record-breaking album sales, and global support prove that MONSTA X remains a powerful force in K-pop. With plans to release another English album in the future, their journey is far from over—and Monbebe are ready to walk every step of the way with them.
Sources: OSEN, Chosun
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