Feature on South Korean male bands. Noteworthy bands in the K-pop scene.
We’re going to feature Korean male bands!
When you think of Korean music, many people probably picture K-pop idol groups.
In that context, it can be tough to start from scratch if you want to discover band artists.
So we’ve put together a list of bands you should know and some that are getting attention lately.
While the culture may seem more limited compared to Japan, there are some incredibly accessible and outstanding artists!
We’ll introduce not only bands active in the more visible K-pop scene, but also fresh new bands drawing attention with their clean-cut looks.
If you’re interested, be sure to read to the end.
- [Introduction to Male Korean Artists] A Collection of K-POP Groups, Singers, and Bands
- Spotlight & Popular! A special feature on bands energizing South Korea’s rock and pop scene
- CNBLUE’s classic and popular songs
- Popular Band Songs Ranking [2026]
- K-pop that touches the heart: masterful ballads by Korean male artists
- [Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the soul. Korean Ballads
- Stylish K-pop and Korean songs. Songs with a nice vibe.
- [Korean Rap] Popular K-hip hop rappers and artists to watch
- [2026] Cool! K-pop dance tracks that make you want to move
- [Solo Singer Special] K-POP & Korean Male Solo Artists
- A J-POP song highly popular in South Korea [with a Korean-language cover too!]
- Ranking of popular songs by Crush, a leader in South Korea’s R&B scene
- [Youth Songs] Various K-POP & Korean Youth Anthems
Feature on South Korean male bands. Notable bands in the K-pop scene (11–20)
벚꽃 엔딩Busker Busker
A band that took second place on the audition program Superstar K3 and officially debuted in 2012.
Speaking of Busker Busker, their signature song is the long-beloved spring classic in Korea, “Cherry Blossom Ending.” Many people probably feel like listening to it when spring arrives.
The members are Jang Beom-june on vocals and guitar, Brad on drums, and Kim Hyung-tae on bass—three in total.
It seems they are currently on hiatus.
Jang Beom-june is also active as a solo artist, with new songs charting and more.
Give their refreshing pop sound a listen—it’ll put a spring in your step.
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!
Dazed & ConfusedGlen Check
Glen Check stands out as a unique presence in the Korean music scene.
Debuting in 2011, they’ve drawn attention with an innovative sound that fuses electronica and synth-pop.
Influenced by France’s Daft Punk and Justice, they won the Best Dance & Electronic Album at the Korean Music Awards with their album “Haute Couture.” They proved their prowess again by winning the same award with the following album, “Youth!”.
Their live shows place strong emphasis on visuals, and they’ve made their mark on international stages such as Summer Sonic and SXSW.
Blending a variety of genres, their music is a perfect fit for fans of electronic music and alternative rock.
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.
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.
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.
Feature on South Korean male bands. Notable bands in the K-pop scene (21–30)
ExtinctionTHORNAPPLE
Thornapple was formed in 2009 around vocalist Yoon Sunghyun and bassist Shim Jaehyun.
They debuted in 2010, and in 2015 they even performed at Japanese music festivals such as SUMMER SONIC.
One of their strengths is a shoegaze-like sound, enveloping listeners in a unique groove and a sense of weightless drift.
It’s a mysterious feeling, as if you’re walking on clouds.
Sunghyun’s beautiful falsetto is another highlight, and their literary lyrics help create a dreamlike world of their own.