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!
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- 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! Feature on Bands Energizing Korea’s Rock & Pop Scene (51–60)
IDEALISTLuciDreaM
LuciDreaM, a name that means a lucid dream in which you’re aware you’re dreaming.
The band features vocalist Ria, who is also active as a solo singer and fronts the metal band IVITS.
They create songs that incorporate elements of emo and screamo, delivering a sound where heavy band performances intertwine with synths.
Their lyrics, which mix Korean and English, convey their global appeal.
They are a rising force in South Korea’s melodic hardcore scene.
Can’t StopMARMELLO
The five-piece girls’ band MARMELLO captivates with a modern sound.
In particular, the lead tones from keyboardist Down, with their EDM-like textures, share similarities with the musical style of popular Japanese bands like Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas and FABLED NUMBER.
If you’re into bands like those, their tracks are likely to hit home.
At the same time, the raw, lively guitar sound is another highlight, and some songs even feature classic, ’80s rock-style guitar solos.
Why not check out their innovative tracks for yourself?
PauseTRPP
TRPP is a three-piece band known for their simple, garage rock-like sound.
The languid tone of female vocalist Yoon Ji-young creates a pleasantly soothing vibe with a mysterious charm that can hook you after just one listen.
Beyond garage rock, their highlights include a psychedelic and dreamy sound that blends multiple genres like dream pop and shoegaze.
It also seems like it would work quite well as background music for falling asleep.
In conclusion
Have you found any favorite songs or artists? If they’ve performed at Japanese festivals or have easy-to-listen melodies, they might feel more familiar to you.
It’s often said that bands have a hard time thriving in Korea, but there are plenty of great bands—starting with CNBLUE, who also found success in Japan! Whether you love K-pop or rock, be sure to check them out!