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)
Waiting For Your Calling BackSultan of the Disco
If you’re into funky bands, you should definitely check out Sultan of the Disco.
Formed in 2006 around leader Najam-su, who handles vocals and synthesizer, they evolved from a lip-sync dance group into a funk band, captivating listeners with a sound that incorporates danceable 1970s funk.
Their light, snappy grooves will have your body swaying before you know it! They made their Japan debut in 2016, have appeared at SUMMER SONIC, and have shared the stage with Japanese bands SCOOBIE DO and CHAI.
Love Flutters(설레임)TheEastLight
Originally a six-member idol band that debuted in 2015 at the very young age of 15.
The EastLight is a group that combines a fresh idol vibe with solid skills as a band.
“Love Flutters” is very pure and innocent, singing from the perspective of a boy who’s always thinking about the girl he likes—wondering, “What should I do?” and deciding, “I’ll buy her a ring with my allowance.” It’s adorable!
Spotlight & Popular! A feature on bands energizing South Korea’s rock and pop scene (31–40)
sorrow starCHUNGYOILE
Chung Yoile is bringing a fresh breeze to the Korean music scene.
Their unique sound, infused with elements of alternative music, is captivating, with Jung-o serving as vocalist and guitarist.
Starting out in the indie scene, they have earned support across generations with a genre-defying musical style.
In 2024, they held the “IDIOTS & CHUNGYOILE JAPAN TOUR” in Japan, performing at DOMe Kashiwa in Chiba and MOONSTEP in Nakano, Tokyo, expanding their activities across borders.
Centered on live performances, they are gaining attention as an artist with strong musicality and a distinctive aesthetic.
Highly recommended for those interested in the diversity of Korean music or seeking a new musical experience that fuses tradition and modernity.
LoveinGOGOSTAR
Formed by Lee Tae-sung and Sona, who had previously been active in another band, this band drew attention from the time of its formation.
By incorporating synthesizers into its band sound, it features an original sound unlike that of other bands.
Da-Jung Punk GenerationRomantic Punch
Romantic Punch, radiating a hot, ever-evolving charm.
They started in 2003 and changed their name in 2009.
As of 2023, when this was written, they’re still actively performing across all kinds of scenes, offering the reassuring appeal of a band you can enjoy for years.
They also appear regularly at rock festivals.
The vocalist, Bae In-hyuk, has a style that at times evokes the ’80s or Guns N’ Roses.
Above all, their high-speed songs and dynamic, full-of-life performances are seriously cool! They’re the kind of artist who will get you even more fired up live.
There are plenty of live videos on YouTube, so be sure to enjoy that sense of unity as well.
flying duckCherry Filter
Cherry Filter are a legendary presence in the Korean music scene.
Formed in 1997, this four-piece rock band builds powerful yet accessible music around Cho Youjeen’s commanding vocals.
After debuting with the album “HEAD-UP” in 2000, they scored a major hit with “sweet little kitty” from 2002’s “Made in Korea.” The band’s name is said to express harmony between the feminine and the masculine.
Highly acclaimed, they won the Rock Award at the 2002 SBS Gayo Daejeon and the Popularity Award at the 2003 Golden Disc Awards, and in 2022 Cho Youjeen’s collaboration with BTS’s RM also made waves.
Their appeal lies in a solid, no-frills rock sound—distinct from the gloss of K-pop.
If you love bands, they’re a must-check!
National Police Sh!tDrinking Boys and Girls Choir
Hailing from Daegu, South Korea, the punk band Drinking Boys And Girls Choir has earned international acclaim for their exhilarating sound that fuses skate punk with power pop.
Formed in 2013, they debuted in 2015 with the EP “We Are.” In 2018, they released their first full-length album, “Keep Drinking,” and garnered attention in 2019 with appearances at SXSW and European music festivals.
Their 2021 album “Marriage License” resonated widely for its socially conscious themes addressing LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, receiving high praise from numerous media outlets.
In 2024, they successfully completed a North American tour.
Blending social messages with high-energy musicianship, their music is highly recommended for fans of pop punk and the DIY ethos.