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!

[On Repeat for Sure] Energetic K-POP Tracks That Lift Your Mood (151–160)

GOLucy

[MV] 최상엽 (LUCY) – GO [조폭인 내가 고등학생이 되었습니다 (High School Return of a Gangster) OST Part.1]

GOLucy

This song was released as the first OST for the fantasy human drama “High School Return of a Gangster,” which is based on a web novel.

The vocalist is Choi Sang-yeop, frontman of the band LUCY, known for their distinctive violin-driven sound.

It exudes the radiant atmosphere characteristic of LUCY, with an upbeat band sound, refreshing melody, and soaring high-tone vocals that lift your spirits.

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Let’s get itNOWADAYS

NOWADAYS(나우어데이즈) ‘렛츠기릿 (Let’s get it)’ Official Music Video

Let's get itNOWADAYS

A five-member boy group, NOWADAYS, delivers a hip-hop track packed with fresh appeal.

Its addictive sound, blending distinctive string timbres with powerful electronic elements, leaves a strong impression.

The song carries a message of breaking free from everyday boredom and savoring the present moment, resonating with listeners.

Produced by earattack, known for work on BTS’s “DOPE,” with the members themselves deeply involved in the creation, it was released as a digital single on November 21, 2024.

The music video features staging inspired by traditional Korean games, another highlight to watch for.

It’s the perfect song for taking a new step forward or refreshing your mood.

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Say My NameSay Yes

[9회/풀버전] ‘Say Yes!’ ♬Say My Name @아티스트 배틀

Say My NameSay Yes

The Korean online audition program BOYS PLANET.

From its artist battle came Say Yes!’s “Say My Name.” This song is a pleasant number that blends their fresh voices with an upbeat mood.

As a synth-pop track with a swinging groove, its irresistibly dance-inducing feel is a major draw.

The members’ performances in school uniforms are also cool, so be sure to check out the videos on YouTube!

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Tap Tap (Japanese ver.)VERIVERY

VERIVERY – ‘Tap Tap (Japanese ver.)’ Official M/V

Tap Tap (Japanese ver.)VERIVERY

VERIVERY is a boy group that debuted in 2019.

Their second Japanese single is “Tap Tap (Japanese ver.).” It’s a Japanese rendition of “Tap Tap,” which was released in Korea in 2022.

For Japanese fans, it’s great to be able to grasp the song’s content more intuitively.

Highlights include the shift from a gentle A-melody into a key change that ramps up the excitement.

Overall, it’s up-tempo, making it perfect for when you want to get hyped or lift your spirits.

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RU-PUM PUM Japanese ver.8TURN

8TURN (에잇턴, Eight Turn) “RU-PUM PUM Japanese ver.” M/V

RU-PUM PUM Japanese ver.8TURN

The Japanese version included on EIGHT TURN’s third mini album, “STUNNING,” by the eight-member boy group from South Korea.

Riding a hip-hop-based, addictive rhythm, it delivers a message brimming with youthful confidence.

Released in January 2024, the track is also notable for the members’ involvement in its production.

It’s a song you can enjoy by giving in to its bubbly cuteness and beat—don’t miss the music video, either.

Although they only debuted in January 2023, their activities in Japan are ramping up with this release.

Highly recommended for anyone looking to discover fresh new music!

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TANG TANG TANG90TAN

구공탄 (90TAN) ‘탕탕탕(TANG TANG TANG)’ MV

TANG TANG TANG90TAN

The debut single from the new Korea-born unit 90TAN is an absolute banger! It’s a fresh challenge from BTOB’s Eunkwang and Minhyuk.

The track fuses hip-hop and rock, layering the sounds of gunfire over the passion of romance.

The visuals are also captivating, blending a ’90s retro vibe with modern flair.

Released on July 31, 2024, they also performed it at WATERBOMB SEOUL 2024 on the 5th of the same month, drawing lots of attention.

It’s perfect for when you want to soak up a breezy summer mood.

A recommended number for anyone who wants to feel that heart-pounding rush of falling in love!

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[Guaranteed Repeat] Energetic K-pop Tracks, Mood-Boosting Songs (161–170)

SupernaturalACE

에이스(A.C.E) ‘Supernatural’ M/V

SupernaturalACE

An energetic track that blends electropop with K-pop.

Released in May 2024 by A.C.E, it stands out with a catchy melody.

The guitar rhythm, reminiscent of city pop, adds an easy-to-groove feel, while lyrics that capture the thrill of love lift your spirits.

Paired with a powerful performance, it draws you deeply into A.C.E’s world.

It’s the perfect song when you want to break free from the everyday.

Light and breezy to listen to, it’s great for a quick mood reset.

Be sure to check out this track packed with the charm of A.C.E, a five-member boy group from South Korea!

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