Hit songs that colored Korea's 1990s: Kayo (K-pop) pop music.
These days, K-pop has become beloved worldwide.
In today’s Reiwa-era Korea, J-pop—nostalgic yet refreshingly new—is starting to catch on, and songs that incorporate retro flavors are gaining popularity.
Korea’s 90s tracks are packed with the charms of mainstream pop that also seem connected to Japanese music!
Some of you may have discovered certain songs through covers by K-pop artists.
From emotionally rich ballads to irresistibly catchy tunes that still resonate today—there are so many wonderful classics.
Be sure to check them out!
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Hit songs that colored Korea’s 1990s. Kayo (pop) (1–10)
어젯밤 이야기소방차(Sobangcha)
Sobangcha is a music group that represents Korea.
They’re often said to be the prototype for today’s K-pop.
Although their musical style differs greatly from modern K-pop, as pioneers they still enjoy strong and lasting popularity among certain fans.
One of Sobangcha’s classic hits is “어젯밤 이야기” (Last Night’s Story).
While they laid the foundation for K-pop, their sound leans more toward rock.
The song also has a vibe similar to Japanese idol music.
Be sure to check it out.
달의 몰락kimuhyonchoru (kimu hyonchoru)
Hyun Chul Kim is a singer-songwriter from South Korea.
These days, in addition to being an artist, he’s also active as a composer and music producer.
Among his songs, the one I especially recommend is ‘달의 몰락’ (The Moon’s Fall).
His breathy vocal style is striking, and overall his musical sensibility is similar to Koji Tamaki in Japan.
The sweet, almost broken-off vibrato is quite sensual, so if you focus on that while listening, you’ll enjoy it even more.
Don’t Leave MeJ.Y. Park
Park Jin-young, the South Korean singer-songwriter better known as J.Y.
Park or JYP.
Many people in Japan may be familiar with him as well.
He has been active since the 1990s and continues to work as an entrepreneur today.
Among his works, the song I especially recommend is “Don’t Leave Me.” It’s a memorable track with production that evokes the club scene of the time and smooth vocals.
It’s perfect for those who enjoy revival-style works that capture the feel of a bygone era.
Reflection of You in Your SmileShin Sunghun (Shin Sunhun)
Shin Seung Hun is a quintessential Korean singer-songwriter who has remained popular for many years.
He debuted in 1990 and immediately scored a hit with 1.4 million copies sold.
He continued to release hit tunes and has been loved by many fans up to the present.
One of his classic songs is “Reflection of You in Your Smile.” It’s similar to Japan’s “Get Along Together” or “Mou Ichido Yoru wo Tomete,” crafted as a sweet pop ballad.
Poisonomu jonfa
Uhm Jung-hwa, a female singer often hailed as the Madonna of Korea and the queen of K-pop, captivates with songs born from her beautiful looks and voice—each one moving and impactful.
Among her discography, a particularly recommended track is “Poison.” It features a sound that blends club music with Korean pop sensibilities, giving off a vibe similar to Japan’s “Dancing Hero.” It also has qualities reminiscent of Japanese 1980s idol songs, so be sure to check it out.