A roundup of popular K-pop songs that trended in 2022
Looking back at K-pop in 2022, the most striking thing—also noted by international music media—was the dominance of girl groups.
While third-generation groups like BLACKPINK continued to enjoy global popularity, fourth-generation acts such as LE SSERAFIM, NewJeans, and NMIXX debuted, and earlier fourth-gen debut groups like (G)I-DLE and IVE made major breakthroughs.
With the big news of BTS going on hiatus and comebacks from BIGBANG and Girls’ Generation, 2022 truly felt like a year of transformation.
Curious which songs defined K-pop in 2022? Be sure to check this article to find out.
- K-POP that was popular in 2021. Korea’s best hit songs
- [2026] A roundup of popular K-POP hits that were trending this year
- A Korean song you often hear on TikTok. Trending K-pop.
- K-POP Popularity Rankings [2026]
- Summary of Korean female idols: Introducing popular K-pop girl groups
- K-POP Masterpieces & Best Hits [Latest and Classic Popular Songs + Editor’s Select]
- Guaranteed to hit repeat: Energetic K-pop songs that will lift your mood
- What is the ranking of popular songs by (G)I-DLE?
- K-pop to color your Instagram stories: recommended Korean songs
- K-pop Idols of a New Era! Ranking of aespa’s Most Popular Songs
- [Cute Korean Songs] K-POP used on TikTok
- PENTAGON Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- Jay Park Popular Song Rankings [2026]
Summary of Popular K-POP Hits from 2022 (1–10)
Tomboy(G)I-DLE
The track (G)I-DLE released in March 2022 marks a new frontier for the group with its rock-infused sound.
The lyrics, carrying the message of “cherish your true self,” are sure to resonate with listeners.
The five-member group from South Korea has earned overwhelming global support with this song, surpassing 28 million views on YouTube.
Its powerful beat and bold melody will energize anyone who listens.
Released as the lead single from their first full-length album, I NEVER DIE, the song portrays a confident image of womanhood and heralds the beginning of a new era.
FOREVER 1shōjo jidai
Girls’ Generation, a debut girl group behind many hit songs, released an album in 2022 to mark their 15th anniversary—about five years since their last one.
Its title track is “FOREVER 1.” The song features heartwarming lyrics that depict love and bonds that last forever.
Paired with a disco-inspired sound, it’s the kind of track that lifts your spirits.
And considering it’s their first release after a hiatus, listening with that context may make it even more emotionally resonant.
GingaMingaYo (the strange world)Billlie
Billlie is a girl group that debuted in 2021.
Their lead single from their second mini-album, “the collective soul and unconscious: chapter one,” is “GingaMingaYo (the strange world).” It’s a track with catchy phrases and a bouncy sound that you’ll find yourself hooked on.
By the way, a Japanese version of the song has also been released, so you can check the lyrics there as well.
Summary of popular K-POP songs that trended in 2022 (11–20)
Yet to Come (The Most Beautiful Moment)BTS
Let me introduce “Yet to Come (The Most Beautiful Moment),” which drew major attention with its Grammy nomination.
This track was released by the well-known boy group BTS and serves as the lead single from the album Proof.
Its content looks back on their activities to date while imagining the future ahead.
Combined with the situation of being just before their hiatus, it resonated deeply with many fans.
AttentionNewJeans
NewJeans’ music is already generating major buzz, and their debut single “Attention” is a must-hear.
Drawing on 90s R&B influences, its sound skillfully fuses a Y2K vibe with Gen Z sensibilities.
The lyrics, which capture the bittersweet feelings of someone in love, deliver a message that deeply resonates with the new generation.
Released digitally in July 2022, the track earned platinum certification in Korea and has surpassed 100 million streams.
It’s a captivating song that really speaks to young people—perfect for dance performances at school festivals and similar events.
That That (prod. & feat. SUGA of BTS)PSY
A collaboration track by Korean singer PSY and BTS’s SUGA was released in April 2022.
The song is a catchy, high-energy party tune themed around the joy of reveling in freedom and a sense of release after the pandemic.
PSY’s trademark humor and SUGA’s polished production blend seamlessly, resulting in an irresistible track that grabs listeners instantly.
Upon release, it quickly climbed the charts on platforms like Spotify and iTunes, and sparked major buzz by surpassing 50 million YouTube views within 75 hours.
It’s a perfect pick for lighting up the dance floor or giving yourself a refreshing mood boost.
WHEN I MOVEKARA
KARA is a girl group formed in 2007, known as a driving force behind the rise of K-pop.
In 2022, the year they celebrated their 15th anniversary, they released “WHEN I MOVE,” their first new song in about seven years.
It’s an up-tempo track with a strong groove.
The lyrics depict the exhilaration that comes from music, accurately conveying the song’s theme.
Be sure to check out the sharp, precise choreography as well.