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
Trending and popular! Featured bands boosting Korea’s rock and pop scene (11–20)
I Don’t Know WhyHOA
HOA, a distinctive Korean band, has been rapidly gaining attention.
Formed in 2015, they made their debut in May 2016 with the rare setup of all four members serving as vocalists.
Centered on British rock, their broad musical appeal blends Beach Boys–style choral work with stadium rock elements.
They are highly active in live performances both in Korea and abroad, and their tours in Japan have captivated many fans.
Their music, which exquisitely blends nostalgia and freshness, is perfect for those who enjoy British rock and melodic pop.
내일의 나에게(Regret)기프트(GIFT)
Gift is a band popular for covering a wide variety of songs.
Their high-pitched vocals are striking.
The title “내일의 나에게 (Neire Naege)” means “To Tomorrow’s Me.” It’s a song that makes us pause for a moment in days when we’re prone to hurting others with impulsive words born of emotion and ending up with regrets or losing things we cherish.
They also deliver a high-quality cover of RADWIMPS’s “Nandemonaiya,” the theme song from the hit film Your Name.
Their Japanese is excellent and really resonates.
Tiramisu CakeWE ARE THE NIGHT
We Are The Night is a Korean indie rock band that captivates listeners with a cinematic sound.
Formed in 2013 around Byungseon Ham, they are known for synthesizer-driven, dreamlike melodies and a musical style that delicately portrays the emotions of youth.
They made their debut with the album “We Are The Night” and have released numerous EPs and albums since.
At the 2016 Korean Music Awards, their album “Star, Fire, Night and Such Things” was nominated for Best Dance & Electronic Album, earning critical recognition.
They’re the perfect band for music fans seeking ethereal sounds and melodies that resonate deeply.
I forgotFoxee
It’s hard to say whether to recommend Foxy as a Korean band or a Japanese band.
They’re based in Tokyo, and the four Korean members just happened to be in Japan when they started the band.
Seeing them sing in Japanese, you might think they’re a Japanese band if you didn’t know.
It reminds you that music has no nationality or borders in the first place!
가시 (Thorn)Buzz
Formed in 2000, the South Korean band Buzz made their major debut in 2003 and grew into a popular act.
Their music spans rock, pop, and power ballads, and their emotive melodies and powerful vocals have won the hearts of many fans.
They produced signature songs that have long been beloved in karaoke, such as “Thorn (가시)” released in 2005.
In 2006, they achieved the remarkable feat of placing three songs on MTV Korea’s top chart simultaneously.
They have an impressive track record of accolades, including wins in the Rock category at the SBS Gayo Daejeon and at the Mnet Asian Music Awards.
Even as time has passed, they continue to command a strong presence in the Korean music scene.
With a blend of powerful sound and pop appeal, Buzz’s music is perfect for anyone who wants to experience a different side of Korean music beyond K-pop.
벚꽃 엔딩Busker Busker
A band that officially debuted in 2012 after finishing as runner-up on the audition program Superstar K3.
When it comes to Busker Busker, their signature song is Cherry Blossom Ending, a perennial spring classic loved for years in Korea.
Many people feel like listening to it when spring arrives.
The members are three: Jang Beom-june on vocals and guitar, Brad on drums, and Kim Hyung-tae on bass.
Jang Beom-june is also active as a solo artist, with new songs charting as well.
Give their refreshing pop sound a listen—it’ll put a spring in your step.
Spotlight & Popular! Featured Bands Energizing South Korea’s Rock & Pop Scene (21–30)
FearlessRolling Quartz
Rolling Quartz burst onto the Korean girl-band scene with flair.
Debuting in December 2020, this five-member group emerged from an underground band active mainly in clubs around the Hongdae area of Seoul.
Resourceful during the pandemic, they leveraged online streaming and social media to steadily grow their fanbase.
Arum and Iree are fluent in Japanese, and the band’s popularity is rising both in Korea and abroad.
In February 2022, they even reached the top five on the U.S.
iTunes Rock Albums chart, earning high praise internationally.
Their sound is defined by powerful guitar riffs and energetic vocals, and their musicality shines as all members participate in writing and composing.
They’re a perfect pick for anyone interested in Korean female bands with a strong rock edge.