Guaranteed to hit repeat: Energetic K-pop songs that will lift your mood

POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

Because K-pop has actively incorporated overseas music influences, it tends to feature intricate sounds and plenty of high-energy tracks.

In this article, we’ve selected songs that really let you get into the K-pop groove.

Alongside fast-paced numbers, we’re also introducing tracks with unique melodies and catchy hooks that you’ll find irresistibly addictive.

Including the atmosphere and worldbuilding conveyed by each song and artist, try discovering a variety of energetic tracks that match your taste!

[Guaranteed Repeat] Upbeat K-POP Songs That Lift Your Mood (61–70)

I AM THE BEST2NE1

2NE1 – 내가 제일 잘 나가(I AM THE BEST) M/V

I AM THE BEST2NE1

When it comes to the most popular female K-pop group right now, TWICE comes to mind, but in the 2010s, 2NE1 enjoyed a fervent following.

While K-pop groups are generally known for catchy, stylish sounds, 2NE1—like BIGBANG—excelled at flashy, hard-hitting dance numbers.

Their track “I AM THE BEST” is a dance tune that showcases their signature style to the fullest.

Definitely give it a listen.

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SMILEYYENA

YENA “SMILEY - Japanese Ver. - (feat. Chanmina)” Music Video

SMILEYYENA

Former IZ*ONE member YENA—pronounced “Yeh-na.” Since going solo, her popularity hasn’t waned, and she’s been consistently turning out hit songs.

Among her tracks, a highly recommended one that’s easy to sing and great for getting the crowd going is 2022’s “SMILEY.” The song features Japanese female rapper Chanmina, but it leans more pop than hip-hop, so you won’t find the complex flows typical of hip-hop.

Both the rap parts and the vocal lines are easy to sing, so consider adding it to your repertoire.

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Supersonicfromis_9

fromis_9 (프로미스나인) ‘Supersonic’ Official MV

Supersonicfromis_9

A refreshing new track from the Korean girl group fromis_9.

It was unveiled in August 2024 from their third single album.

Riding a Miami bass–style beat, the members’ soaring vocals ring out, overflowing with a sense of liberation that blows away the summer heat.

It’s a confident, uplifting message song that conveys a hunger for new challenges.

A perfect pick for summer festivals and beach parties.

The song also had its first performance on a music show on the release day.

This ambitious work showcases fromis_9’s growth and is full of crowd-pleasing appeal that’s sure to light up the dance floor.

Highly recommended when you want a change of pace or a boost of energy.

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Mr. SimpleSUPER JUNIOR

SUPER JUNIOR 슈퍼주니어 ‘Mr. Simple’ MV

Mr. SimpleSUPER JUNIOR

SUPER JUNIOR is a K-pop group that gained popularity for their edgy musical style.

They also sparked a considerable boom in Japan, so many of you may be familiar with them.

Their sound is sharp and distinctive, often featuring unconventional structures not found in typical pop music.

Mr.

Simple is a track that showcases this musicality.

Its chorus is highly addictive, and the song’s stylish, upbeat vibe makes it a joy to listen to.

Be sure to check it out.

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SWEATZEROBASEONE

ZEROBASEONE (제로베이스원) ‘SWEAT’ Special Summer Video

SWEATZEROBASEONE

A groovy dance tune that makes you want to move without thinking.

Released in April 2024 as the pre-release single from Korean nine-member boy group ZEROBASEONE’s 3rd mini-album “You Had Me at Hello.” With striking synth melodies and R&B vocals, this refreshing track captures the heat of summer and the joy of love.

It conveys the liberating feeling of dancing to the rhythm, and the music video—featuring the members dancing under the sun—is equally captivating.

The song has earned strong international recognition, topping iTunes’ Top Songs chart in 25 regions.

It’s the perfect track to lift your mood with its catchy, upbeat sound.

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