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.
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- [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
Spotlight & Popular! Featured Bands Energizing South Korea’s Rock & Pop Scene (21–30)
Night ViewTOUCHED
Touched, a band that shines with a unique brilliance in the Korean music scene.
Formed by graduates of the Seoul Institute of the Arts’ Department of Practical Music, this four-piece rock band blends rock with elements of pop and ballads for a versatile sound.
They debuted in 2021 with the EP “Dawn,” and in 2022 won Mnet’s band survival program “Great Seoul Invasion.” While proving their musical excellence, they also achieved a remarkable feat in 2020 by becoming the first band in the history of the Yoo Jae-ha Music Contest to win the Grand Prize.
In 2022, they demonstrated their international presence by performing at “OCTOPOP 2022” in Bangkok, Thailand.
With a sound that balances power and delicacy and a rich expressive range, Touched is the perfect band for those seeking warm, comforting music.
12가지 말들bongjeingan
Bonjaeingan, a band leaving a powerful mark on South Korea’s indie rock scene, has drawn attention as a supergroup formed by members of renowned bands.
Their appeal lies in a distinctive sound that weaves together diverse elements, including psychedelic rock and progressive rock.
Their album “12 Types of Words,” released in October 2023, stirred the music scene and was nominated for Best Rock Album at the Korean Music Awards.
Known for an improvisational approach to composition and a fresh visual edge, they also earned praise for their solo concert at LG Arts Center Seoul in March 2025 and captivated audiences at the Asian Pop Festival.
They’re the perfect band for music fans seeking experimental artistry and innovative performances.
coiicotoba
Kotoba is a math-rock band known for complex rhythms and emotionally charged melodies.
Debuting in 2019, they take their name from the Japanese word for “words,” and operate under the concept of conveying emotions through music that cannot be fully expressed in language.
Based in Seoul, South Korea, the mixed-gender band fuses math rock with elements of post-rock and shoegaze.
In 2022, they released their first full-length album, “4pricøt,” not only in Korea but also in a Japanese edition.
They’re highly recommended for listeners who enjoy intricate time signatures, airy textures, and a comfortably immersive groove.
Love AgainTHE SOLUTIONS
Solutions started as a twin unit with singer-songwriter Park Sol and Naru, then became a four-member band.
They’re an electro-pop band that evokes the sound of American alternative bands while also delivering a futuristic pop feel.
This is a pleasant, chill track that brings back memories of summer days.
Their song “BEAUTIFUL,” featuring Kei from the girl group Lovelyz, also attracted attention.
GRAVITYONEWE
They debuted in 2015 under their former name, MAS0094.
ONEWE is a band currently signed to RBW, the agency known for MAMAMOO.
As of 2023, they are a five-member group that incorporates piano and rap.
They honed their skills by performing street gigs in Hongdae.
In 2019, the year after transferring agencies, they launched their debut project starting with ‘1/4’ and also made their indie debut in Japan.
The members reportedly all contribute ideas during production, and their genre-defying style is one of their strengths.
Their music is diverse—from refreshing tracks to trot-inspired songs—and they also exude a visual kei-like allure reminiscent of ‘GRAVITY,’ showcasing their chameleon-like versatility.
New World AwaitsVassline
They are a hardcore band based mainly in Seoul, South Korea, with the chops to have been nominated for Best Rock Vocal, among other accolades.
Their sound features aggressively driven guitars and heavy drums, making them irresistible for fans of hard music.
BlazeRolling Quartz
Loud rock by all-girl bands like BAND-MAID and SCANDAL has been gaining attention in Japan.
The genre is popular in Korea as well, and among them, the five-member rock band Rolling Quartz stands out with a modern, heavy sound.
Tracks like 2020’s “Blaze” and 2022’s “Delight” showcase their distinctive musical style.
Be sure to check out their music videos too, where you can enjoy their colorful, unique hairstyles and outfits!
