[K-POP] A Special Feature on Korean Artists’ Debut Songs: Iconic Tracks That Marked Their Start

잠못드는 밤 비는 내리고 (Sleepless Rainy Night)Kimu Gonmo

잠못드는 밤 비는 내리고 (Sleepless Rainy Night)

A beautiful number that seeps into the heart like a single streak of rain.

Released in 1992 as the debut work of South Korea’s accomplished singer Kim Gun-mo, this piece captivates with his rich vocals and a distinctive sound that incorporates elements of jazz and blues.

The sound of rain falling through the late night and the melody woven with longing and loneliness draw you in before you know it.

Included on his first album, this track fully showcases Kim Gun-mo’s abilities as a vocalist and foreshadows his later success.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side on nights when you want to face the hazy feelings in your heart.

AirYEJI

YEJI “Air” M/V

A solo piece marked by edgy synth-pop melodies and a powerful bassline.

Yeji, the leader of the girl group ITZY, released it in March 2025 as the title track of her solo debut EP, “Air.” The song’s concept captures the immersive feeling on stage and the dynamism of live performance, with Yeji herself taking part in writing the lyrics.

It fully showcases her appeal as she continues to take on new challenges one after another.

You can’t take your eyes off her performance, which blends striking charisma with undeniable skill.

The ChaseHearts2Hearts

Hearts2Hearts 하츠투하츠 ‘The Chase’ MV

Hearts2Hearts made a dazzling debut from SM Entertainment in February 2025.

Armed with a fantastical track inspired by Alice in Wonderland, they herald a new era of K-pop.

Their synth-pop–based sound blends seamlessly with a mystical worldview, dramatically expressing curiosity and a spirit of adventure toward the unknown.

True to the origin of their name, the harmonies that make the hearts of the eight members resonate with one another are striking.

Exceptional in quality for a debut song, it has earned high praise.

This work stands beside anyone taking on a new challenge, offering courage and support.

When you’re ready to take a step toward your dream, be sure to give it a listen.

Tabom (feat. Shindong)Jungseul

정슬(JUNG SEUL) feat.신동(SHIN DONG) – ‘따봉(Tabom)’ MV

Jongseul, a rising star bringing new brilliance to the Korean music scene, made a spectacular debut in January 2025.

Featuring Super Junior’s Shindong, this ambitious release blends traditional trot with modern arrangements.

True to its title—derived from Portuguese and meaning “like!”—the song carries a bright, uplifting message.

Choreographed by renowned choreographer Jung Jin-seok, the performance incorporates elements of dancesport, earning buzz for its captivating staging.

Their joint appearance on KBS’s Music Bank won over many viewers, heightening expectations for Jongseul as a new-generation trot singer.

Celebrating the small joys of everyday life and the importance of friendship, this track is perfect for starting your day on a cheerful note.

Don`t you know(PROD.ROCOBERRY)ZO ZAZZ

[MV] ZO ZAZZ(조째즈) _ Don`t you know(PROD.ROCOBERRY)(모르시나요(PROD.로코베리))

An unconventional genius who burst onto the Korean music scene.

Debuting in January 2025, this track has drawn attention for his powerful, emotive ballad vocals that carry the original song.

The grand orchestral soundscape interwoven with his rich, husky voice creates a world steeped in poignancy, evoking the sorrow of parting from someone dear.

Arranged by Ahn Young-min and performed by a 50-piece orchestra, the expansive sound blends seamlessly with his vocal prowess.

Originally known as a Davichi song from the drama IRIS 2’s OST, this version offers a fresh, male-perspective interpretation.

It has surpassed 5 million views on YouTube and is gaining traction on domestic rebound charts.

Highly recommended for those who love ballads that resonate deep in the heart.

TrespassMONSTAX

[MV] MONSTA X(몬스타엑스) _ Trespass(무단침입)

MONSTA X is full of skilled members with sturdy, masculine builds, and their sexy, manly vibe is a major draw.

In 2017, they won first place on a music show for the first time, proving their popularity with the general public.

Their debut track, with its slightly hard-hitting, provocative style, features the EDM sound that was a huge trend at the time and leaves a strong impression.

AGASSYSOOJIN

수진 (SOOJIN) – 아가씨 (AGASSY) MV

Let me introduce a captivating track that blends Eastern mystique with contemporary sound to create an alluring, enchanting world.

Soojin debuted in 2018 as a member of the girl group (G)I-DLE.

This song, included on her solo debut mini-album AGASSY released in November 2023, paints a dreamlike image of a woman dancing among crimson-dyed flowers.

Traditional instruments intertwine exquisitely with modern beats, resulting in an impressive dance number that conveys purity and mystique.

The six-track release features a variety of genres.

It’s a recommended pick not only for fans of dance music, but also for those seeking refined beauty and artistry.