BOYNEXTDOOR’s ‘The Action’ EP: Every Track Ranked

BOYNEXTDOOR returned this week with their fifth mini album The Action. When the group spent time in Chicago last August for their Lollapalooza performance, fans caught glimpses of them filming a music video — signaling early on that the album would carry a ‘movie’ concept. On the day of release, the group held a showcase event in Seoul to mark their return.

The album’s title draws inspiration from the term “Hollywood Action,” referring to large-scale films — or metaphorically, to bold, exaggerated and daring attitudes. The track “Hollywood Action” is ultimately about taking action itself. During the media showcase, leader MYUNG JAEHYUN said, “We’ve worked hard, making four comebacks over the past year including our Japanese promotions. I hope that people who find it difficult to take the first step will be inspired by our actions to challenge themselves.” The youngest member WOONHAK added, “This song is for anyone who hesitates or feels intimidated about trying something new.” TAESAN elaborated, “If our last album’s keyword was No Genre, this time it’s about breaking all limits and diving right in.”

Released at 6 p.m. KST on Monday, The Action captures the emotions and moments BOYNEXTDOOR’s six members are currently experiencing. Built around the cinematic theme, the album consists of five tracks that vividly translate their present selves into sound. While their previous record No Genre leaned toward smoother, genre-fluid tracks (with the exception of the title song “I Feel Good”), this new release explores a broader range — from acid jazz and hip-hop to ballads. Sonically and thematically, it succeeds in expressing BOYNEXTDOOR’s distinctive emotional world.

The opening track “Live in Paris” reflects the creative struggles of the group, echoing the light self-reflection found in “Twenty” from their EP 19.99. The rock-driven “Bathroom” delves into the pain of a romantic relationship, reminiscent of the poetic metaphors in “Gonna Be A Rock.” Meanwhile, “JAM!” captures the members’ playful energy while keeping things ‘chillin’ within the rules,’ much like the clever self-awareness shown in the line “I never cross the line, trust me” from “Dangerous.”

Knowing how to perform freely while still respecting boundaries — that’s the essence of BOYNEXTDOOR, and it’s what sets them apart in today’s K-pop scene. From the synchronized choreography of “Hollywood Action” to the album’s varied soundscape, The Action offers plenty to see and even more to hear.

All four of BOYNEXTDOOR’s previous albums have charted on the Billboard 200, and fans are eager to see whether The Action will extend that streak. Judging by the strength of this EP, the outlook looks bright — and Billboard Korea has ranked every track on the project.