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

Girls Never DietripleS

tripleS(트리플에스) ‘Girls Never Die’ Official MV

This is a song by the 24-member South Korean girl group tripleS.

Despite being such a large group, they’re packed with talent and even won the Rookie of the Year award at the MAMA Awards in May 2023.

This track is the lead single from the album ASSEMBLE24 and was chosen through fan voting.

The lyrics, which focus on the strength and self-affirmation of young girls, are striking and seem likely to inspire listeners with courage.

The chorus has a catchy melody that you might find yourself humming along to.

It’s the perfect song when you want a boost of confidence or a shot of energy.

아메리카노 한잔에 빗소리채원（CLASS:y）

CLASS:y(클라씨) 채원 ‘아메리카노 한잔에 빗소리’ M/V

Chewon, an artist from South Korea, delivers her first solo work.

Known as the main vocalist of the group CLASS:y, she released this debut single in May 2024.

It’s a soothing pop ballad that paints a quiet moment of enjoying the sound of rain and an Americano.

Chewon’s powerful vocals and delicate expressiveness truly shine.

It’s the perfect track for taking a breather amid a busy day.

This piece fully showcases her sensibility and musical talent.

How about adding it to your playlist for a relaxed mood or as a companion to a rainy-day café time?

THAT’S MEODD YOUTH

ODD YOUTH (오드유스) ‘THAT’S ME’ MV

This is the debut song by the five-member girl group Odd Youth.

With “youth” and “friendship” as its core concepts, their performance is excellent—delivering both freshness and power over a catchy melody.

Released in November 2024, it captured the hearts of K-pop fans.

Speaking to their peers, it conveys the importance of “living true to yourself.” For a debut track, their confident self-expression is overwhelming.

It’s an energetic number that truly symbolizes a new era of K-pop.

Check PatternSUNGJIN

성진(SUNGJIN) “Check Pattern” M/V

Sungjin, the leader of the Korean rock band DAY6, has made his solo debut.

Featured on his first full-length album “30,” released in November 2024, this ballad likens the meetings and partings of life to a checkered pattern.

Sungjin’s richly expressive vocals truly stand out.

His passion for music shines through, as he was involved in writing and composing all 10 tracks on the album.

At his first solo concert held to celebrate the release, he reportedly deepened his bond with fans.

It’s recommended not only for DAY6 fans but also for anyone seeking a song to accompany life’s turning points.

I’m Not SorryDEAN

DEAN – I’m Not Sorry ft. Eric Bellinger

Currently, DEAN is extremely popular—especially among women—for his distinctive voice and handsome looks.

He’s also known for collaborations like his work with Syd from the American neo-soul band The Internet, as well as for producing other artists.

Having spent years in the underground scene, his debut track is in English with a strong Western vibe and features the famous American singer Eric Bellinger.

Candy Jelly LoveLovelyz

Lovelyz “Candy Jelly Love” Official MV

Lovelyz, whose concept is the exact opposite of the current girl-crush trend, embraces a pure and cute image and is said to have a overwhelmingly larger male fanbase than female.

Their debut song is also an adorable track that likens love to candy, filled with the group’s unique charm.

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.

SixteenSamuel

[MV] Samuel(사무엘) _ Sixteen (Feat. Changmo)(식스틴 (Feat. 창모))

This is also a solo debut from an audition program.

As a debut track that truly showcases Samuel—who was highly praised for his top-tier vocals and dance—it’s a dance number that leans a bit toward Western R&B.

A Japanese version of this song has also been released.

짠쿵쾅 (JJan! Koong! Kwang!)momoland

[MV] MOMOLAND(모모랜드) _ JJan! Koong! Kwang!(짠쿵쾅)

A nine-member girl group that repeatedly won first place on numerous music shows at the beginning of 2018 and also made their debut in Japan.

From their debut song onward, their music has consistently featured catchy melodies with an addictive quality that makes you find yourself humming along.

The title of the song is said to mean the Japanese onomatopoeia for “Ta-da!” used when presenting something.