Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
In today’s world, where people have long been calling it an unprecedented K-POP boom, many K-POP artists are hugely popular in Japan as well.
Of course, there are those who have been fans from the start, but even people who aren’t very familiar with the genre probably know at least a few names.
In particular, there are some artists the younger generation will want to keep on their radar.
So this time, we’re introducing songs by K-POP artists that we recommend for Gen Z!
From famous and hit tracks to buzzy songs, we’ve compiled a wide-ranging list—be sure to check it out.
- K-POP Masterpieces & Best Hits [Latest and Classic Popular Songs + Editor’s Select]
- Trendy songs in South Korea: A roundup of hit songs
- From top popular groups to the hottest under-the-radar newcomers! A roundup of recommended female K-pop artists.
- I.O.I Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- [2026] A roundup of popular K-POP hits that were trending this year
- [K-POP] Korean songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: classic crowd-pleasers
- [K-POP’s Charisma] A Special Feature on BIGBANG’s Popular and Classic Songs
- An iconic K-pop song that captivates with its sexy performance
- A roundup of popular K-pop songs that trended in 2022
- [2026] Cool! K-pop dance tracks that make you want to move
- [Introduction to Male Korean Artists] A Collection of K-POP Groups, Singers, and Bands
- The evolution still hasn’t stopped! K-pop tracks recommended for the Yutori generation
- K-pop that was popular in 2020. Korea’s best hit songs.
All famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z (1–10)
DittoNewJeans
The five-member Korean girl group NewJeans released a work in December 2022 that drew attention for its delicate emotional expression and distinctive sound.
The lyrics depicting unrequited love and the beautiful harmony created by the minimal production are particularly striking.
It was released as a digital single and was later included as a pre-release track on the single album “OMG,” which came out in January 2023.
It’s a song I’d recommend not only to young people struggling with love, but also to those who enjoy music from the ’90s.
Don’t Wanna CrySEVENTEEN
The song released in May 2017 by SEVENTEEN, a 13-member South Korean boy group, is a powerful track that portrays the complex emotions after a breakup.
Featuring an emotional sound infused with EDM elements and poignant lyrics, it expresses the lingering feelings for a former lover.
This work marked a turning point in SEVENTEEN’s musical style and received high praise both in Japan and abroad, earning Gold certification from the RIAJ in Japan.
It’s a recommended song for when you want to heal the pain of heartbreak or sink into a bittersweet mood.
It’s a moving masterpiece that Gen Z listeners should definitely check out.
WA DA DAKep1er
The song by the girl group Kep1er, formed through a global audition program, is an energetic, catchy dance-pop number.
The lyrics, which sing about the courage to pursue one’s dreams and the importance of self-expression, carry a message that resonates with Gen Z.
Released in January 2022, the track also gained popularity in Japan, demonstrating its impact by earning platinum certification through streaming.
This work is supported by a wide fan base, especially among younger listeners, and is recommended for those seeking a performance full of energy and confidence.
Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z (11–20)
TTTwice
The catchy hook and addictive melody really stand out.
Titled with the emoticon “TT,” which expresses a bittersweet, heartbroken feeling, the song skillfully portrays the complex emotions of being in love.
Released in October 2016, it brought attention to TWICE in Japan, where their recognition had been relatively low until then.
With its music video surpassing 400 million views, it has captured listeners’ hearts around the world.
The lyrics, which convey the feelings of a girl troubled by love, are filled with TWICE’s signature freshness and cuteness, making it a track that speaks for the hearts of lovestruck girls.
WANNABEITZY
A song carrying a message that values self-esteem and individuality was released in March 2020.
With catchy phrases, it appeals to the importance of staying true to yourself.
Debuting as the title track of the second mini-album “IT’z ME,” it ranked sixth on the Gaon Digital Weekly Chart and has received high international acclaim.
This work is an empowerment anthem that encourages believing in yourself and having the courage to walk your own path without being bound by others’ expectations, resonating with many people.
GOOD SO BADZEROBASEONE
Riding on a breezy pop-funk sound, this number captures the passion of young people in love.
It made waves as the title track of Korean hit group ZEROBASEONE’s 4th mini album, “CINEMA PARADISE,” released in August 2024.
Its lively rhythm and nostalgic synthesizer tones blend seamlessly, resulting in a captivating song that evokes the 80s disco vibe.
It’s a highly recommended emotional pop tune that soothes the hearts of youths struggling with love.
Cupid (Twin Ver.)NEW!FIFTY FIFTY
Debuting from a small-to-mid-sized agency and taking the world by storm, the girl group FIFTY FIFTY made a major splash.
This track, included on their single album “The Beginning: Cupid,” released in February 2023, can be considered their signature work.
Its retro, breezy synth-pop sound and the members’ sweet vocals are delightful.
The lyrics, which portray the feelings of being in love and the frustration of unfulfilled longing, gently resonate with listeners.
Their popularity is the real deal, with the song peaking at No.
17 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Composed with English lyrics, this version is accessible to Western pop fans as well—why not give it a listen when you’re in the mood to relax, like on a weekend afternoon or during a drive?