What Does “Version” Mean in K-pop Albums?
The term “version” in K-pop albums generally refers to two main types of differences:
1. Different Album Formats or Packaging Styles
These versions typically differ in format, design, structure, and product SKU. They are clearly treated as separate products, and you can freely select their preferred version.
Examples 1.
JENNIE - 1st Studio Album [Ruby] Photobook Ver. (SKU : L200003174)
JENNIE - 1st Studio Album [Ruby] Digipack Ver. (SKU : L200003175)
JENNIE - 1st Studio Album [Ruby Vinyl] (Unsigned) LP (SKU : L100006052)
Examples 2.
SEVENTEEN - 5th Album [HAPPY BURSTDAY] Standard Ver. (SKU: PLD0577)
SEVENTEEN - 5th Album [HAPPY BURSTDAY] DAREDEVIL Ver. (SKU: PLD0578)
SEVENTEEN - 5th Album [HAPPY BURSTDAY] Weverse Albums Ver. (SKU: PLD0579)
SEVENTEEN - 5th Album [HAPPY BURSTDAY] KiT Ver. (SKU: PLD0580)
2. Same Format, Different Cover or Version Name
An album may come in “A Ver.”, “B Ver.”, and “C Ver.” — all in the same size and structure, with different cover designs or concept photos, but under the same SKU.
This product is treated as one single album, regardless of version, and therefore, specific version selection is not available.
When ordering one copy, a random version will be shipped.
However, when multiple copies are purchased, our policy is to include as many different versions as possible to avoid duplicates.
If you wish to own all versions, please make sure to order at least as many copies as there are different versions.
Examples 1.
JENNIE - 1st Studio Album [Ruby] Photobook Ver. (SKU : L200003174)
Zen (Black) - (SKU : L200003174)
Jane (Red) - (SKU : L200003174)
Examples 2.
Stray Kids - SKZHOP HIPTAPE [合 (HOP)] ACCORDION Ver. (SKU : JYPK1908)
BANG CHAN Ver.
LEE KNOW Ver.
CHANGBIN Ver.
HYUNJIN Ver.
HAN Ver.
FELIX Ver.
SEUNGMIN Ver.
I.N Ver.
Notice: For albums that were released a while ago, certain versions may be sold out, temporarily unavailable, or no longer in production. In such unavoidable cases, we kindly ask for your understanding that duplicate versions may be included in your order.
In general, official K-pop stores based in Korea follow the same sales structure described above.
Labels and manufacturers have built their version strategies on decades of sales experience, optimizing album designs to drive maximum sales.
We are aware that some resellers offer listings where buyers can choose specific versions for every album.
However, please note that such listings typically come with significantly higher prices often marked up by at least several dozen percent.
FAQs
Q : How can I tell if version selection is available?
In general, if each version is uploaded as a separate product, version selection is available.
If all versions share the same SKU and are grouped into one listing, selection is usually not possible.
If the SKUs are different, version selection is typically available.
Q : Our customer is specifically requesting the Hyunjin version. The other member versions may not be in demand or are unlikely to sell.
Every idol group has members who are more popular than others.
However, that doesn’t mean the other members’ versions won’t sell at all.
Your store just needs the right strategy to market and move those versions effectively.
Q: Is there a set product that includes all versions of the album?
For various reasons, set products are not uploaded separately for wholesale orders.
If you wish to purchase a full set, please refer to the product description and simply order the same number of copies as the total number of versions. We will process it as a complete set accordingly.
Q: Does each version come with a different photobook or photocard design?
Even if the album name is the same, different SKUs usually indicate different inclusions.
We recommend checking the product description to see what each version includes.