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!
- Feature on South Korean male bands. Noteworthy bands in the K-pop scene.
- A three-member rock band from South Korea! Ranking of FTISLAND’s popular songs
- [2026] Not Just K-pop! A Special Feature on Korean Female Vocal Bands
- [Introduction to Male Korean Artists] A Collection of K-POP Groups, Singers, and Bands
- K-POP Popularity Rankings [2026]
- Stylish K-pop and Korean songs. Songs with a nice vibe.
- Guaranteed to hit repeat: Energetic K-pop songs that will lift your mood
- The evolution still hasn’t stopped! K-pop tracks recommended for the Yutori generation
- [Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the soul. Korean Ballads
- [With Your Power] A List of Cool Songs by K‑pop Female Artists & Idols
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- K-pop that touches the heart: masterful ballads by Korean male artists
- [Solo Singer Special] K-POP & Korean Male Solo Artists
Hot and Popular! A Special Feature on Bands Energizing Korea’s Rock & Pop Scene (1–10)
T.B.HQWER
QWER is a four-member girls’ band that debuted in October 2023.
As their name—drawn from keyboard keys and online gaming skills—suggests, each of the four members brings distinct personality and talent, delivering a unique style that fuses J-rock with K-pop.
With a combined social media following of over 10 million, the members were already accomplished YouTubers and influencers.
Their debut track “Discord” quickly garnered attention, hitting No.
1 on Melon’s daily chart.
They also won the “Rookie of the Year” award at the 2024 Asia Artist Awards, skyrocketing in popularity in their home country.
Their first concert in Japan is set for April 2025 in Tokyo.
This band is recommended for those who enjoy powerful sounds and catchy melodies.
NO PAINSilica Gel
Silica Gel is a band known for its unique sound that fuses shoegaze and neo-psychedelia.
They debuted in 2015 with the EP “Pure Sun,” sweeping the Korean indie scene with their experimental and innovative sound.
After winning Best New Artist at the 2017 Korean Music Awards, they went on to take Best Modern Rock Song for three consecutive years with “Tik Tak Tok.” Their live shows combine visuals and music for an immersive performance that captivates audiences.
In 2024, they also won Best Asian Creative Artist at Taiwan’s Golden Indie Music Awards.
With a diverse musical palette that includes progressive and electronica, they’re recommended for anyone seeking a boundary-free, new musical experience.
Freakin’ BadXdinary Heroes
Xdinary Heroes is a new-generation band that debuted in 2021 under JYP Entertainment, known for groups like DAY6 and TWICE.
The name is pronounced “Ex-dinary Heroes.” As of 2023, they are a six-member band—a relatively large lineup for a band—featuring dual guitars and dual keyboards that create a heavy yet catchy sound.
Their debut track “Happy Death Day” charted on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales, and their 2023 killer tune “Freakin’ Bad” became a smash hit, showing just how much attention they’re getting.
Their upbeat, high-energy songs are especially compelling, so if you like that kind of sound, be sure to check them out!
Trending and popular! Featured bands boosting Korea’s rock and pop scene (11–20)
All This Fxxking TimeNELL
In Korea, where there aren’t that many bands with a robust, full-bodied sound, Nell is a group that’s loved for exactly that style.
They’re so accomplished that even Coldplay has given them a nod.
As the title suggests, this song brims with a defiant, rebellious spirit.
If you ask rock fans in Korea for band recommendations, I think many will mention Nell.
Mind Is LightSay Sue Me
Seisumi is a four-piece band from Busan, South Korea, featuring female member Choi Sumi on vocals and guitar.
Busan is a seaside city known for beaches like Haeundae, one of Korea’s most famous.
Reflecting that, the band’s style is surf rock, offering a comfortable and stylish sound that’s easy to enjoy for both men and women.
This song is in English, but they sometimes sing in Korean as well.
Dry FlowerSURL
One Korean band I really want you to keep an eye on is SURL.
They debuted in 2018 and quickly won numerous rookie awards, drawing attention both at home and abroad.
Their music showcases a wide range of styles rooted in their beloved Britpop.
In interviews, they’ve said they also listen to Japanese music, and they’ve continued to work across borders—opening for Nulbarich’s live shows and performing overseas.
They first came to Japan in 2019, and after a successful North American tour in 2023, they held another tour in Japan.
In 2022, they finished second on Mnet’s band survival program Great Seoul Invasion, which boosted their profile even further.
Their soft sonorities and comfortable grooves are wonderful, so if you like that kind of vibe, definitely give them a listen.
ModelADOY (아도이)
If you like chill-out, emo, and soft, relaxing tracks, I recommend ADOY.
They debuted in 2017 with a lineup of guitar, bass, synth, and drums.
Since some members spent many years abroad, they have many songs with English lyrics.
Their synth-pop style pairs well with the early Reiwa era’s retro mood.
It feels dreamy and comfortable, perfect for unwinding and taking it easy.
You’ll be wrapped in an airy atmosphere that gently spreads out overall.
Their signature songs Wonder and Grace are wonderful, so be sure to give them a listen.