K-POP that was popular in 2021. Korea’s best hit songs
K-pop has spread into the mainstream and is now loved by many people.
In 2021, BTS kept up the momentum from the previous year’s release of “Dynamite” while scoring a hit with “Butter,” further accelerating their popularity beyond just K-pop fans.
Solo tracks by girl group members, including BLACKPINK’s Rosé, also became major hits.
You also can’t miss the new-generation solo artists and the sleeper hits that climbed back up the charts!
It felt like there were many bright songs that broke through the mood of the time, giving listeners energy.
Let’s look back and listen to this collection of K-pop hit songs that defined 2021!
- K-pop that was popular in 2020. Korea’s best hit songs.
- A roundup of popular K-pop songs that trended in 2022
- [2026] A roundup of popular K-POP hits that were trending this year
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- Stylish K-pop and Korean songs. Songs with a nice vibe.
- K-pop idols who debuted in 2019! Introducing ITZY’s popular songs
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- K-POP Masterpieces & Best Hits [Latest and Classic Popular Songs + Editor’s Select]
- BLACKPINK’s Greatest Hits Collection | A BLINK Best for Both Newcomers and Diehard Fans
- BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan) Masterpiece Collection | A comprehensive songbook that both newcomers and devoted fans can enjoy
- [Cute Korean Songs] K-POP used on TikTok
- BLACKPINK Popular Song Rankings [2026]
K-pop that was popular in 2021. Korea’s Best Hit Songs (1–10)
CelebrityIU
The lead single by South Korean singer-songwriter IU, known for her clear, translucent vocals.
Released in January 2021, it pairs charming synth sounds with a message encouraging listeners to cherish their true selves.
IU’s gentle voice celebrates the beauty of embracing individuality and feels like a reassuring push forward.
The song is included on the album “LILAC” and reached No.
78 on the Billboard Global 200 chart.
It’s a perfect pick when you’re lacking confidence or want to encourage someone you care about.
Traffic light(신호등)Lee Mujin(이무진)
Lee Mujin, who drew attention on the survival show ‘Sing Again’—a program giving talented yet lesser-known singers a shot at a comeback—released in May what became one of 2021’s signature hits and his defining song.
Thanks to the quality of the composition, it steadily grew in popularity.
Titled ‘Traffic Light,’ the song’s lyrics portray a life journey where the road ahead is uncertain—something anyone can relate to.
Mujin’s distinctive, memorable voice creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
The brass parts fit perfectly, and the buoyant, bouncing chorus melody is fun and uplifting.
It’s an acoustic classic that radiates warmth.
Hellojoy
Among the hit songs of 2021, the one I personally want to recommend is Hello.
It’s the title track from Red Velvet’s Joy’s special album consisting entirely of remakes, which also marked her solo debut.
While retaining the emotional essence of Park Hye-kyung’s original, it adds a driving energy that creates an even brighter, more exhilarating mood.
There’s a line about blowing away the clouds in your head, and that’s exactly how it feels—refreshingly uplifting.
Joy’s bright, endlessly soaring vocals are a perfect match, making this a superb cover.
K-pop that was popular in 2021: Korea’s Best Hit Songs (11–20)
Shiny Star(2020)Kyoung Seo
This is the debut song of rising sensation Kyungseo, which drew a lot of attention.
It was released in November 2020.
It’s a remake of Yang Jung Seung’s hit track.
Beyond its original widespread recognition, its easy-listening style—well-suited to the tastes of the 2020s and beyond—likely helped drive its success.
Not only did it compete for the top spot on digital charts and music shows against the hugely popular BTS, it also ranked sixth on Melon’s 2021 year-end chart.
The song features quintessentially Korean, emotionally rich lyrics and a gentle melody that are truly lovely.
Kyungseo’s clear voice further enhances the song’s charm, making it a perfect companion for peaceful moments with someone you love.
It’s a very beautiful, heartwarming love song.
ASAPSTAYC
The title track from STAYC’s second single album “STAYDOM,” released less than a year after their debut.
Crafted by the duo Black Eyed Pilseung and Jeong Gun, it features an impressively catchy melody.
The lyrics are cute, depicting the fluttery feelings of falling in love and the excitement of hoping to meet an ideal person.
Released in April 2021, the song sparked the “#ASAP_challenge” on TikTok, known for its distinctive “stepping” dance that matches the unique rhythm, with approachable choreography adding to its charm.
The track surpassed 20 million views within nine days of release, accelerating STAYC’s rise in popularity.
NAKKA(with IU)AKMU (Akdong Musician)
NAKKA (with IU) is a song that exotically portrays the dynamics between a man and a woman.
Created by the sibling pop duo AKMU, it is included on their album Next Episode.
The song conveys a declaration of eternal love to a lover.
However, rather than a happy mood, it carries a subtly sorrowful nuance—that’s the key point.
Also, be sure to pay attention to the parts featuring singer-songwriter IU.
Fresh AdventureLABOUM
LABOUM is a girl group that debuted in 2014.
When it comes to their hit song in 2021, it would be Fresh Adventure.
In fact, it was originally released in 2016.
Yet five years later, it climbed to the top of the music charts.
The charm of the song lies in its girly sound and lyrics that convey the excitement of diving into an unknown world.
Listening to it will surely put you in a positive mood.
A Japanese-language version has also been released, so try checking and comparing the lyrics.