BABYMONSTER CHOOM Mini Album: Awards, Sales, Reviews 2026
CHOOM (춤) is BABYMONSTER’s third mini album, released on May 4, 2026, by YG Entertainment. The four-track hip-hop and dance EP features the title track “CHOOM,” which means “dance” in Korean. The album broke BABYMONSTER’s career records with 387,871 first-day sales on Hanteo Chart and surpassed 810,000 copies on Circle Chart. The music video reached 100 million views in approximately 14 days, making it the fastest 2026 K-pop MV to achieve this milestone
On May 4, 2026, BABYMONSTER released their highly anticipated third mini album, CHOOM (춤), marking a defining moment in the group’s meteoric rise. The album, whose title translates to “dance” in Korean, encapsulates the group’s ambition to unite the world through music and movement. From its explosive debut, CHOOM shattered the group’s previous sales records, dominated global charts, and became one of the most talked-about K-pop releases of the year. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the awards, ratings, and critical reception of BABYMONSTER’s CHOOM, drawing on verified data from official sources including YG Entertainment, Hanteo Chart, and reputable music publications.
Quick Facts: CHOOM at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Album Title | CHOOM (춤) |
| Artist | BABYMONSTER |
| Release Date | May 4, 2026, 6:00 PM KST |
| Label | YG Entertainment |
| Format | 3rd Mini Album (EP) |
| Number of Tracks | 4 |
| Tracklist | “MOON,” “CHOOM,” “I LIKE IT,” “LOCKED IN” |
| Genre | Hip-hop, Dance, R&B/Soul |
| Pre-order Start | March 30, 2026 |
| Physical Versions | Jewel, Plush Keyring, Crimson, Metallic, Prism |
Table of Contents
Overview: The Significance of CHOOM
CHOOM represents a pivotal chapter in BABYMONSTER’s career. Following the success of their previous mini album WE GO UP (October 2025), the group returned with a project that not only showcased their musical growth but also demonstrated their ability to command the global stage. The album’s title, derived from the Korean word for “dance,” reflects the group’s vision of transforming the world into a vast dance floor.
Executive produced by YG Entertainment’s founder Yang Hyun-suk, CHOOM embodies what industry observers have called “YG DNA”-a signature blend of powerful hip-hop beats, charismatic performances, and undeniable star power. The album’s lead single, also titled “CHOOoM,” is a hip-hop dance track driven by an addictive synth riff and powerful bass, conveying a message of unity and confidence.
Awards and Nominations
in August 2026, BABYMONSTER’s CHOOM has garnered significant recognition across various award platforms. While the major Korean music award ceremonies (MAMA Awards, Golden Disc Awards, Seoul Music Awards, Melon Music Awards) typically occur later in the year, the album’s achievements have already positioned it as a strong contender.
Award Nominations
| Award Ceremony | Category | Nominee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAJ2026 (Japan) | Multiple categories (5 nominations) | BABYMONSTER – “CHOOM” | Nominated |
BABYMONSTER received five nominations at the MAJ2026 (Magnet Award Japan), a prestigious Japanese music awards ceremony. The specific categories have not been detailed in public sources, but the nominations underscore the group’s growing influence in the Japanese market.
Music Show Wins
BABYMONSTER’s “CHOOM” promotions included appearances on major Korean music shows, where the group competed for weekly trophies.
| Music Show | Date | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| M Countdown | May 14, 2026 | 2nd Place | Lost to CORTIS’s “REDRED” (10,160 points) |
According to reports from the May 14 episode of Mnet’s M Countdown, BABYMONSTER’s “CHOOM” was a candidate for first place alongside CORTIS’s “REDRED.” CORTIS ultimately took the prize with a total of 10,160 points.
Other music show appearances included:
- Show! Music Core (May 9, 2026) – First comeback stage
- Show! Music Core (May 16, 2026)
- SBS Inkigayo (May 17, 2026)
While specific win counts are not fully documented, the group’s music show performances were met with enthusiastic responses from fans and critics alike.
Sales and Chart Performance
Album Sales
CHOOM achieved remarkable commercial success, breaking BABYMONSTER’s own records across multiple sales platforms.
| Metric | Figure | Details |
|---|---|---|
| First-Day Sales (Hanteo) | 387,871 copies | 1.5× increase from WE GO UP (261,650) |
| First-Week Sales (Hanteo) | Approximately 750,000 copies (company tally) | |
| First-Week Sales (Circle Chart) | 464,106 (regular) + 237,597 (Nemo) = 701,703 copies | |
| Cumulative Sales (Circle Chart) | 810,807+ copies | |
| Cumulative Sales (YG Internal) | ~750,000 copies (one week); approaching 1 million |
According to Hanteo Chart data, CHOOM sold 387,871 copies on its first day of release-a 48% increase from the previous mini album WE GO UP, which sold 261,650 copies on its first day. This marked the group’s highest record to date.
By May 13, 2026-just over one week after release-YG Entertainment announced that CHOOM had sold approximately 750,000 copies based on the company’s internal tally. The achievement was reached in about one week after the album’s release.
On the Circle Chart (formerly Gaon Chart), the album’s regular version sold 464,106 copies during the period of May 3–9, 2026, while the Nemo version sold 237,597 copies, bringing the total to over 700,000 copies in its first week. By June 2026, CHOOM had surpassed 800,000 copies on the Circle Chart, becoming the highest-selling 5th-generation girl group album of the year with sales of 810,807 copies.
Digital and Streaming Performance
| Platform | Achievement |
|---|---|
| iTunes Worldwide Album Chart | #1 |
| iTunes Album Charts | #1 in 19 regions / 15 regions |
| YouTube Music Video Views | 100 million+ in ~14 days |
| YouTube 24-Hour Views | 14 million+ in half a day |
| YouTube Global MV Chart | #1 |
| Billboard Japan Download Album Chart | #2 |
| Japan Download Album Chart | #1 (418 downloads, May 4–6) |
| US Qobuz Downloads Chart | #10 |
| Circle Download Chart | #5 |
CHOOM topped the iTunes Worldwide Album Chart immediately after release, setting a new personal best. The album also reached #1 on iTunes album charts in 19 regions globally.
In Japan, the album topped the download album chart with 418 downloads during the May 4–6 tracking period, according to GfK/NIQ Japan. It also peaked at #2 on the Billboard Japan Download Album Chart.
On YouTube, the music video for “CHOOM” amassed over 14 million views in just half a day following its release. The video ranked #1 on YouTube’s Global MV Chart.
Music Video Milestones
| Milestone | Time to Reach |
|---|---|
| 14 million+ views | ~12 hours |
| 100 million views | ~13 days, 21 hours |
On May 18, 2026, at approximately 2:50 PM KST, the music video for “CHOOM” surpassed 100 million views on YouTube. This made it the fastest K-pop music video released in 2026 to reach the 100 million mark, and the second overall. It was also BABYMONSTER’s 16th music video to achieve this milestone.
International Reception
CHOOM received significant attention from international media and fans alike.
Global Chart Performance
- iTunes Worldwide Album Chart: #1
- iTunes Album Charts: #1 in 19 regions
- US Qobuz Downloads Chart: #10-the only K-pop song in the Top 10
- Billboard Japan Download Album Chart: #2
International Media Coverage
According to YG Entertainment, CHOOM received “global acclaim” from music fans worldwide. The album’s success was particularly notable in China, Japan, and North America, where album sales exceeded expectations.
International outlets highlighted the group’s growth. Analytic Dreamz described the album as “the YG girl group’s strongest comeback yet,” noting the record-breaking first-day sales.
Critics’ Reviews
Critical reception to CHOOM was mixed, with reviewers divided on the album’s musical direction and execution.
Positive Reviews
| Publication/Reviewer | Rating/Quote |
|---|---|
| Ciroriberi (Album of the Year) | “CHOOM is a really strong comeback and another solid step forward for BABYMONSTER’s identity as a group.” |
| justalittlefangirllove | “The bridge is gorgeous and we’ve got some big, powerful voices going on here, with more vibrato than you normally hear from a fifth gen group.” |
| K-pop Echo | “The ‘MONSTER party’ has officially begun, and if this track is any indication, BABYMONSTER is only just getting started with their takeover of the 2026 music scene.” |
| Hanteo News | “YG-style curry flavor that hooks you the more you listen” |
Ciroriberi, writing on Album of the Year, praised the album’s personality and energy: “Even though not every b-side feels equally impactful, the project succeeds because of how much personality, energy, and charisma it carries from beginning to end”.
Mixed and Negative Reviews
| Publication/Reviewer | Rating/Quote |
|---|---|
| everm0re (Album of the Year) | “Title track is one of their worst songs… overall underrated ep and pretty good but a little boring and forgettable” |
| baddieburger (Album of the Year) | “Overall, CHOOM isn’t terrible, but it’s disappointing after the progress they seemed to be making.” |
| The Bias List | “CHOOM’s hook is mostly empty space” but also noted “it is such a good song, awesome to dance to” |
| Mokshiri | Criticized the track’s repetitive chorus and formulaic production, accusing YG of recycling rather than innovating |
Several critics expressed concern that BABYMONSTER’s sound was too formulaic. One reviewer noted: “In 2010s it maybe work, but it is 2026, babymonster’s songs sound nothing different from a decade ago”. Another critic argued that “Choom” “neither innovates sufficiently nor escapes the shadow of BLACKPINK’s blueprint”.
Track-by-Track Reception
| Track | Reception |
|---|---|
| “MOON” | Polarizing-praised by some as a favorite, criticized by others as “one of the worst K-pop songs of 2026” |
| “CHOOM” | Described as “nonsensical yet unusually understated for a Baemon title track”; praised for its drop and flute melody |
| “I LIKE IT” | Considered “a bit better than the other 2 tracks” but still “boring” |
| “LOCKED IN” | Received less attention in reviews |
Audience Response
Fan Reception
BABYMONSTER’s fanbase, known as MONSTIEZ, responded enthusiastically to the album’s release. The group’s comeback live broadcast recorded 1.57 million views, and their first music show performance on May 9, 2026, was met with “explosive” reactions from fans.
Social Media Impact
The album’s title track generated significant buzz on social media platforms, with fans praising the group’s performance skills and the song’s energetic choreography. The “CHOOM” dance challenge became a trend among fans and fellow idols.
Concert and Tour Response
The album’s success was further validated by the announcement of the “2026–27 BABYMONSTER WORLD TOUR [CHOOM]”. The Seoul leg, held from June 26–28, 2026, at Jamsil Indoor Stadium, was met with overwhelming demand, with all three nights selling out. The tour was scheduled to continue through Japan (Kobe, Fukuoka, Yokohama, Chiba, Nagoya, Osaka) and expand to Asia, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas.
Major Achievements
| Achievement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Career-High First-Day Sales | 387,871 copies (Hanteo) |
| Fastest 2026 K-Pop MV to 100M | ~14 days |
| #1 on iTunes Worldwide Album Chart | First for the group with this album |
| #1 on iTunes in 19 Regions | Global dominance |
| 16th Music Video with 100M+ Views | BABYMONSTER’s 16th visual to hit the milestone |
| Highest-Selling 5th-Gen Girl Group Album of 2026 | 810,807+ copies (Circle Chart) |
| #1 on YouTube Global MV Chart | |
| #2 on Billboard Japan Download Album Chart | |
| 5 MAJ2026 Nominations (Japan) | |
| World Tour Announced | “2026–27 BABYMONSTER WORLD TOUR [CHOOM]” |
Historical Significance
CHOOM holds a significant place in K-pop history for several reasons:
1. Fifth-Generation Leadership
As a leading 5th-generation girl group, BABYMONSTER’s CHOOM demonstrated the commercial power of the new generation. With over 810,000 copies sold on the Circle Chart, it became the highest-selling 5th-generation girl group album of 2026.
2. YG Entertainment’s Legacy
The album reaffirmed YG Entertainment’s position as a powerhouse in the K-pop industry. Executive producer Yang Hyun-suk’s “conviction” in the group’s potential was validated by the album’s commercial success.
3. Global Reach
CHOOM‘s performance on international charts-including iTunes, Billboard Japan, and US Qobuz-demonstrated the growing global appetite for K-pop beyond traditional markets.
4. YouTube Dominance
The music video’s rapid ascent to 100 million views in just 14 days underscored the group’s powerful digital presence and the effectiveness of YouTube as a promotional platform for K-pop.
5. World Tour Launchpad
The album served as the foundation for BABYMONSTER’s second world tour, marking the group’s transition from a rising act to a global touring powerhouse.
Why CHOOM Became Successful
Several factors contributed to the success of BABYMONSTER’s CHOOM:
1. Strong Pre-Release Buzz
YG Entertainment announced the album’s release in March 2026, building anticipation through teasers and promotional materials. Pre-orders began on March 30, 2026.
2. YG Entertainment’s Production Power
The album benefited from YG Entertainment’s signature production style, combining powerful hip-hop beats with polished arrangements. Executive producer Yang Hyun-suk’s involvement added credibility and expectations.
3. Proven Fanbase
BABYMONSTER had already established a dedicated fanbase through previous releases, including WE GO UP (October 2025). This existing support translated into strong first-day sales.
4. Global Marketing Strategy
The album was released across multiple platforms and versions, including Jewel, Plush Keyring, Crimson, Metallic, and Prism editions, catering to collectors and international fans.
5. YouTube and Social Media Engagement
The music video’s rapid viewership growth and the group’s active social media presence helped sustain momentum beyond the initial release week.
6. World Tour Announcement
The simultaneous announcement of the “2026–27 BABYMONSTER WORLD TOUR [CHOOM]” created additional excitement and encouraged album purchases.
7. Critical Discourse
While critical reception was mixed, the debate surrounding the album’s musical direction generated additional attention and discussion among fans and industry observers.
TV Ratings and Broadcast Performance
While CHOOM is an album rather than a television program, its music show performances attracted significant viewership.
Music Show Appearances
| Program | Date | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Show! Music Core | May 9, 2026 | First comeback stage |
| Show! Music Core | May 16, 2026 | Second appearance |
| SBS Inkigayo | May 17, 2026 | Performance |
| M Countdown | May 14, 2026 | Competed for first place |
Broadcast Impact
The group’s first music show performance on May 9, 2026, was described as “captivating” global fans with an “explosive” live performance. The group’s comeback live broadcast also recorded 1.57 million views.
Tracklist and Song Information
| # | Title | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | “MOON” | Opening track |
| 2 | “CHOOM” | Title track; hip-hop dance song |
| 3 | “I LIKE IT” | B-side |
| 4 | “LOCKED IN” | Closing track |
The album contains four tracks, with the title track “CHOOM” serving as the lead single. The song is described as a hip-hop dance track driven by an addictive synth riff and powerful bass, conveying a message of unity.
Music Video and Performance Videos
| Video | Views (In May 2026) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| “CHOOM” MV | 100M+ (May 18) | Reached in ~14 days |
| “CHOOM” Performance Video | 66M+ | Released May 6, 2026 |
The performance video for “CHOOM” was released on May 6, 2026, at midnight, further extending the album’s promotional cycle and digital footprint.
Historical Context: BABYMONSTER’s 2026 Comeback
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Album Announcement | March 4, 2026 |
| Pre-order Start | March 30, 2026 |
| Teaser Release | March 30, 2026 |
| Tracklist Reveal | April 20, 2026 |
| Album Release | May 4, 2026, 6:00 PM KST |
| Performance Video | May 6, 2026 |
| First Music Show | May 9, 2026 (Show! Music Core) |
| 100M Views | May 18, 2026 |
| World Tour (Seoul) | June 26–28, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When was BABYMONSTER’s 3rd mini album CHOOM released?
CHOOM was released on May 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM KST.
2. How many tracks are on CHOOM?
The album contains four tracks: “MOON,” “CHOOM,” “I LIKE IT,” and “LOCKED IN”.
3. What does CHOOM mean?
“CHOOM” is the English spelling of the Korean word “춤,” which means “dance”.
4. How many copies did CHOOM sell on its first day?
CHOOM sold 387,871 copies on its first day according to Hanteo Chart.
5. Did CHOOM reach #1 on iTunes?
Yes, CHOOM topped the iTunes Worldwide Album Chart and reached #1 in 19 regions.
6. How quickly did the CHOOM music video reach 100 million views?
The music video reached 100 million views in approximately 14 days.
7. Did BABYMONSTER win any music shows with CHOOM?
While “CHOOM” was a candidate for first place on M Countdown (May 14, 2026), it placed second behind CORTIS’s “REDRED”.
8. What awards has CHOOM been nominated for?
CHOOM received five nominations at the MAJ2026 (Magnet Award Japan).
9. What is the genre of the title track CHOOM?
The title track is a hip-hop dance song driven by an addictive synth riff and powerful bass.
10. How did critics review CHOOM?
Critical reception was mixed-some praised the album’s energy and personality, while others criticized it as formulaic.
11. What is BABYMONSTER’s fandom name?
BABYMONSTER’s official fandom name is MONSTIEZ.
12. Did BABYMONSTER go on tour for CHOOM?
Yes, the “2026–27 BABYMONSTER WORLD TOUR [CHOOM]” began in Seoul on June 26, 2026.
13. How did CHOOM perform on the Circle Chart?
CHOOM sold over 810,807 copies on the Circle Chart, becoming the highest-selling 5th-generation girl group album of 2026.
14. What is the significance of the album’s title?
The title “CHOOM” reflects the group’s ambition to turn the entire world into one giant dance floor.
15. Who produced CHOOM?
The album was executive produced by YG Entertainment founder Yang Hyun-suk.
16. How many versions of CHOOM were released?
The album was released in multiple versions, including Jewel, Plush Keyring, Crimson, Metallic, and Prism editions.
17. What was the first music show performance for CHOOM?
BABYMONSTER performed “CHOOM” for the first time on Show! Music Core on May 9, 2026.
18. How did CHOOM perform on Billboard charts?
The album peaked at #2 on the Billboard Japan Download Album Chart.
19. What was the reaction to the CHOOM performance video?
The performance video, released on May 6, 2026, accumulated 66 million views and reinforced the album’s digital performance.
20. Is CHOOM BABYMONSTER’s best-selling album?
Yes, CHOOM surpassed the sales of their previous mini album WE GO UP and set new career-high records.
Conclusion
BABYMONSTER’s third mini album CHOOM stands as a landmark achievement in the group’s career and a significant moment for 5th-generation K-pop. With record-breaking first-day sales of 387,871 copies on Hanteo Chart, over 810,000 copies on Circle Chart, and the fastest 2026 K-pop music video to reach 100 million views on YouTube, the album demonstrated the group’s commercial power and global appeal.
While critical reception was divided-with some praising the album’s energy and personality and others criticizing its formulaic approach-the album’s commercial success was undeniable. The five MAJ2026 nominations, world tour announcement, and dominance across iTunes, Billboard Japan, and YouTube charts solidified BABYMONSTER’s position as a leading force in the global music industry.
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