Spotlight & Popular! A special feature on bands energizing South Korea’s rock and pop scene
When it comes to Korean music, K-pop has become the mainstream and is heard around the world, but there’s also a vibrant rock scene with its own compelling appeal.
Despite the notion that cultural development can be challenging due to national circumstances, there are many fascinating bands out there.
Here, we’ll introduce artists who are energizing Korea’s unmissable band scene!
From those bands you spot at festivals to the ones that frequently perform in Japan.
Let’s dive into the captivating world of K-ROCK as you discover and search for your favorite Korean bands!
Hot and Popular! A Special Feature on Bands Energizing Korea’s Rock & Pop Scene (1–10)
Starting OverCNBLUE
CNBLUE, a rock band that arguably represents Korea’s mainstream scene, is highly recommended as a great band to start with.
They are known for coming to Japan to hone their musical skills and performing countless live shows.
Originally a four-piece, they have been a trio—Jung Yong Hwa, Kang Min Hyuk, and Lee Jung Shin—since mid-2019.
They made their indie debut in Japan in 2009 and debuted in Korea the following year, 2010.
Since then, they have continued to work actively in Japan as well and have entered the ranks of seasoned veterans.
Beyond their powerful band ensemble, their music offers a comfortable groove and a sense of sensuality, with a vivid, familiar sound that stands out.
They are legendary figures who achieved success within Korea’s rarefied band scene.
UnbelievableLucy
Lucy is a band brimming with catchy charm in a format different from typical bands.
They are signed to MYSTIC STORY, which is also home to Billlie.
The group was formed following the 2019 audition program Superband.
At the time they finished as runners-up, the vocalist was Lee Juhyuk, but he left to focus on another band.
Since then, Choi Sangyeop has served as the main vocalist and guitarist.
Above all, their lineup incorporates a violin into a three-piece setup—something not often seen even among Japanese bands.
Perhaps thanks to this configuration, they exude an elegant, glamorous appeal.
Their beautiful lyricism and pop sound are wonderful as well!
Hot PotatoN.Flying
N.Flying is a band from FNC Entertainment and the junior group to FTISLAND and CNBLUE.
As of 2023, the five members are Lee Seunghyub (vocals & rap), Yoo Hweseung (vocals), Cha Hun (guitar), Kim Jaehyun (drums), and Seo Dongsung (bass).
After indie activities in Japan in 2013, they debuted in their home country in 2015.
They broadened their popularity with Rooftop, which took first place in 2019.
Their sound is characterized by rhythmic elements that incorporate rap, offering the best of both rock and hip-hop with an irresistible groove.
The comfortable twin vocals make your heart bounce as you listen! They also upload many cover videos of Japanese hit songs on YouTube, so be sure to check those out too.
SageFTISLAND
FTISLAND is a band you often hear in Korea’s mainstream scene and a big-brother presence at FNC Entertainment.
They debuted in 2007 while they were still in high school and won numerous rookie awards, then made their major debut in Japan in 2010.
As of 2023, the lineup consists of three members: vocalist Lee Hong-gi, bassist/vocalist Lee Jae-jin, and drummer Choi Min-hwan.
Among them, Hong-gi’s playful personality and his stunning, endlessly soaring vocals are something many people encounter on their journey into K-pop.
Their musical range spans rock numbers, ballads, and pop tunes, yet in every style they exude a bright, catchy appeal.
Their extensive activities in Japan are also noteworthy—it’s great that they tour almost every year!
LOVE YA!HYUKOH
When you listen to this song, you might think, “Huh? A Western band?” It’s actually a four-piece Korean band called Hyukoh.
From the relaxed vibe of the music to the natural English lyrics, everything might make you feel they aren’t an Asian band.
It could be because the frontman, Oh Hyuk, spent his childhood in China and speaks both Chinese and English, giving him an international background.
It’s a song about love between people—not just romantic love between a man and a woman—set to gentle, soothing sounds!
You Were BeautifulDAY6
DAY6 is a band from JYP Entertainment, known for groups like 2PM and TWICE.
They debuted in 2015 as a six-member group, but as of 2023 they have been active as a four-piece.
Most members handle vocals as well as songwriting and composing, showcasing a richly diverse musicality.
Both their uptempo tracks and ballads are easy to get into, and their beautiful style is captivating.
Young K’s standout songwriting is exceptional as well; in 2023 he drew attention for the lyrics of H1-KEY’s “Rose Blossom.” Their 2017 hit “You Were Beautiful” has been especially beloved over time as a signature song, having been covered by artists like CHEEZE and Stray Kids’ Seungmin.
ExtinctionTHORNAPPLE
Thornapple was formed in 2009 around vocalist Yoon Sunghyun and bassist Shim Jaehyun.
They debuted in 2010, and in 2015 they even performed at Japanese music festivals such as SUMMER SONIC.
One of their strengths is a shoegaze-like sound, enveloping listeners in a unique groove and a sense of weightless drift.
It’s a mysterious feeling, as if you’re walking on clouds.
Sunghyun’s beautiful falsetto is another highlight, and their literary lyrics help create a dreamlike world of their own.