Monsta X Jooheon's new release has received focused attention from foreign media. Released on January 5, Jooheon's second mini album '光 (INSANITY)' is a musical work completed over approximately three years. The American economic magazine Forbes highlighted this album on January 22 (local time), praising Jooheon's musical capabilities.

Forbes stated about Jooheon's new release, "Music critics highly praised Jooheon's intense beats and sharp lyrics." In particular, regarding the title track 'STING (Feat. Muhammad Ali),' it described it as "a song that delivers a heavy punch," citing Jooheon's overwhelming rapping as the highlight of the album. The publication emphasized that '光 (INSANITY)' is an authentic work born from the artist's personal experiences.

Through the title track 'STING,' Jooheon clearly showcased his strengths. He sensibly arranged symbolic references such as voice sampling of Muhammad Ali, demonstrating his skills as a producer. Forbes evaluated this as a result of Jooheon leading the entire production process and proving his unique producing abilities.

Additionally, Jooheon expanded his musical spectrum through collaborations with various artists including Tiger JK and IVE's Rei. Forbes focused on the original worldview that expanded the narrative of 'light,' which began with Jooheon's first mini album 'LIGHTS,' into this album '光 (INSANITY).' The philosophical message "Only by going insane do you truly shine" was musically realized with density.

Jooheon's new release also proved its authenticity through global chart performance. After its release, the album entered the iTunes Worldwide Album Chart at its peak and appeared on the iTunes Top Album and Song Charts as well as the K-pop Top Album and Song Charts in a total of 24 countries and regions, including the United States. On the U.S. iTunes K-pop Top Song Chart, all tracks from the album charted successfully, once again proving Jooheon's global influence.

After successfully completing his solo activities, Monsta X Jooheon will continue the momentum with team activities. Monsta X is scheduled to hold the 2026 Monsta X World Tour 'THE X : NEXUS' at Seoul KSPO DOME for three days from January 30 to February 1, where they will meet with fans.