NCTzens, fans of NCT, are thrilled with the debut of a new subunit! NCT DREAM’s Jeno and Jaemin have come together as a new duo, NCT JNJM, making them the must-watch duo of 2026. The release of their first mini album ‘BOTH SIDES’ on Feb. 23 follows NCT DREAM’s 6th mini album ‘Beat It Up’ and the conclusion of the main Asia leg of their 2025-26 NCT DREAM TOUR <THE DREAM SHOW 4 : DREAM THE FUTURE> in Nagoya, Japan, in January 2026.
However, to celebrate further, the tour will close with a grand finale encore, taking place over six days from March 20–22 and March 27–29 at the KSPO Dome in Seoul. With a new subunit and a sold-out finale on the way, Jeno and Jaemin are starting the year strong.
Before announcing their new subunit, Jeno and Jaemin starred as Woojin and Taehee in WIND UP, a 10-episode short-form drama of their own. Set in the world of high school baseball, the drama portrays the sincere friendship that forms when a transfer student steps in as his manager to help a pitcher who has lost his aim.
The debut EP spans six tracks, while it captures the duality of Jeno and Jaemin as they show their individual opposite charms and teamwork. No one could have asked for a more perfect duo because the two of them have trained together and have been members of NCT and NCT DREAM for over 10 years now. Their chemistry is undoubtedly strong, as they have shared highs and lows together.
“BOTH SIDES”
The album begins with the confident title track named after the album. “BOTH SIDES” is a glossy and sensual hip-hop dance track. Smooth rhythmic drum beats combine with playful bantering vocals and rap allow Jeno and Jaemin to flex their charismatic and attractive sides.
With a spoken intro with lyrics like, “This girl came up to me, she wanted a photo / She asked me, ‘Which one is your best side?’ / I told her, ‘Both sides!’” This leaves listeners torn between the two choices, mesmerizing us with their two distinct, magnetizing appeals. It’s also cool that the song ends with each member’s voice panning from right to left, highlighting the contrast between the two.
“I.D.O.L.”
Heavy 808 kicks and a Miami bass beat power the uptempo pop groove of “I.D.O.L.” Jeno and Jaemin further fill the song with their free-spirited rap and punchy melodic lines. Just like the duo’s commanding stage presence, the lyrics capture the confident attitude of an idol dominating the world stage, while still delighting fans on a personal level by staying grounded despite all the fame and flash.
“What It Is”
Featuring lyrics written by Jaemin, “What It Is” is an uptempo R&B track that uses the five senses to describe small details or little moments, like a quick glance or a familiar scent, that can spark a powerful attraction. Jeno and Jaemin’s contrasting vocal tones and their laid-back charm further complement the mood.
“HASHTAG”
Meanwhile, “HASHTAG” blends late-2000s Southern hip-hop flows with a cool back-and-forth between the low-register rap and smooth melodic lines. The lyrics tackle the countless hashtags, which are the constant noise of social media, to prove that no matter what you say or tag them in, they’re going to keep showing you how talented and charming they really are.
“WIND UP”
Sharing a name with their short-form drama, “WIND UP” uses baseball themes for an empowering, bouncy hip-hop track. The heavy drums and horn sounds mirror the build-up of power before a pitch.
“sexier”
Finishing strong with a slightly hyperpop sound, “sexier” contains an addictive chorus with bright synths and a steady dance beat. The lyrics catch the playful, daring tension that intensifies between two people who just can’t look away from each other.
Ultimately, these six songs give us a clear look at what NCT JNJM is capable of. The album brings together their different performance styles and sharp wit, showing that Jeno and Jaemin have the personality and teamwork to lead the way in 2026.
After listening to the whole EP, is it even possible to pick just one of their ‘BOTH SIDES’? Let us know on Instagram and Twitter/X!
FOLLOW NCT JNJM ON THEIR SOCIALS
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Featured Image Credit: Courtesy of SM ENTERTAINMENT
