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!
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- K-POP Masterpieces & Best Hits [Latest and Classic Popular Songs + Editor’s Select]
- A grand compilation of BTS’s greatest hits. A must-listen selection that both newcomers and seasoned fans can enjoy.
- BLACKPINK’s Greatest Hits Collection | A BLINK Best for Both Newcomers and Diehard Fans
- [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)
Next Levelaespa
Aespa’s music is defined by irresistibly addictive melodies that captivate listeners.
Released in May 2021, this track is a remake of a song from the Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw soundtrack.
While rooted in hip-hop, it features an innovative structure with unconventional shifts that leave a strong impression.
It also achieved major commercial success, including reaching No.
1 on Korea’s Melon chart.
The powerful beats and catchy phrases blend perfectly, fully expressing Aespa’s unique world.
Highly recommended for those seeking a fresh musical experience or a powerful track to boost your energy.
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.
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.
K-pop that was popular in 2021: Korea’s Best Hit Songs (11–20)
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.
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.
WeekendTaeyeon
Weekend, which became the biggest hit solo track by a girl group member in 2021.
It’s a single released in July by Taeyeon, a Girls’ Generation member and one of Korea’s premier vocalists.
It ranked 35th on Melon’s year-end chart.
The fresh dance number features a breezy sound with a hint of funk that feels delightful.
The lyrics about weekend fun and Taeyeon’s soft, richly colored vocals are guaranteed to lift your mood! Perfect as travel BGM, for unplanned free time, and even in the middle of a busy day.
It lightens the heart and refreshes you.
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.
