[K-POP] A Special Feature on Korean Artists’ Debut Songs: Iconic Tracks That Marked Their Start
When discussing the allure of K-pop, the artists’ dazzling debut songs are indispensable.
These tracks embody their musical identity and hopes for the future, carrying a special meaning as they color their first encounter with fans.
They also mark the moment when the hard work and dreams built up since trainee days come to fruition, and sometimes you can sense the origins of later mega-hits.
In this article, we’ll look back at the debut works of various artists active in the K-pop scene and introduce the hidden charms within each song.
As we compare them with their current activities, please enjoy tracing the trajectory of their growth.
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[K-POP] A Special on Korean Artists’ Debut Songs! Iconic Tracks That Marked Their Start (1–10)
Get A GuitarRIIZE
RIIZE is a Korean boy group that debuted in 2023 under SM Entertainment.
This song, which marked their brilliant start, is a dance-pop track where retro synths and funky guitar create a comfortable groove.
Overflowing with positive energy, it vividly conjures the image of boys with guitars in hand, chasing their musical dreams alongside their friends.
The track is the title song of their single album “Get a Guitar,” which became a million-seller in its first week.
They also performed it on the Japanese music media program THE FIRST TAKE.
It’s the perfect song to boost your mood or when you’re taking a new step forward—sure to give you that exciting push you need!
Black Mambaaespa
Aespa’s landmark debut single champions an innovative concept where the virtual world intersects with reality.
Its electronic sound, driven by a roaring, powerful bass, pairs with a storyline about confronting an unknown enemy that disrupts the connection with their avatars—perfectly matching the image of an epic universe just beginning.
Simply listening pulls you into a thrilling world.
Released in November 2020, the track made major waves, with the music video surpassing 100 million views in about 51 days.
If you love futuristic sounds or need a boost when you’re gearing up to take on a challenge, this song will make you feel that extra push.
BOOMBAYAHBLACKPINK
BLACKPINK’s landmark debut that took the world by storm.
Released on the single album “SQUARE ONE” in August 2016, this track fuses energetic EDM sounds with hip-hop, delivering an overwhelming impact that grabs listeners from the first second! The powerful beat and unforgettable, catchy melody are truly their signature.
With a confident performance, they embody the allure of the girl-crush concept.
The fact that the music video surpassed 1 billion views on YouTube in October 2020 speaks volumes about its popularity.
It’s a perfect pick-me-up that gives you a boost whenever you need it!
[K-POP] Special Feature on Korean Artists’ Debut Songs! Iconic Tracks That Marked Their Start (11–20)
HEARTRISNiziU
NiziU is a girl group that delivers a unique sound blending elements of J-POP and K-POP.
Their lead track “HEARTRIS” from the single “Press Play,” released as their Korean debut in 2023, takes its title from a combination of “heart” and a famous puzzle game’s name.
J.Y.
Park also participated in writing the lyrics.
With synth tones that create a pop-inspired soundscape and the group’s irresistibly cute vocals, the song is sure to stick with you.
It’s dance music that paints a glamorous scene, conveying the thrill of a new encounter.
WE BELONG TOGETHERBIGBANG
This song portrays a powerful bond between lovers, one that makes you believe, “We’re destined to be together.” Marking the dazzling debut of the powerhouse group BIGBANG, it’s a mid-tempo track where R&B and hip-hop blend seamlessly.
The raps by G-DRAGON and T.O.P create a deft groove, over which sweet, bittersweet vocals celebrate the couple’s eternal love.
Their pure feelings—trusting one another and holding each other close—come through vividly.
Included on their debut single album “BIGBANG,” released in August 2006, the track also features a noteworthy guest appearance by Park Bom, who later rose to fame with 2NE1.
How about playing it as background music for a night spent with someone special, reaffirming your bond together?
CROWNTOMORROW X TOGETHER
It’s the brilliant debut song of TOMORROW X TOGETHER, embodying their group name, “different you and I gathering under one dream.” The differences from others and the complexes faced in adolescence are expressed through the unique metaphor of “horns growing from one’s head.” Meeting friends transforms those horns into a shining “crown,” a story of self-affirmation that resonates over glittering synth-pop.
Debuting in March 2019 with the mini-album The Dream Chapter: STAR and achieving a triple crown on music shows, their remarkable feat heralded the beginning of their legend.
If you’re struggling with your individuality or feeling lonely, listening to this will surely give you warm courage.
WaveWaySAY MY NAME
SAY MY NAME’s debut song is a hopeful track about overcoming days that rise and fall like waves.
Its kitschy sound and refreshing melody stand out, with a distinctive sine-wave tone adding color throughout the piece.
The lyrics capture the feeling of riding the waves and pushing through while having fun.
Released in October 2024, the song drew attention, with its music video surpassing 10 million views.
It’s a bright, forward-looking track perfectly suited to launch the group led by former IZ*ONE member Hitomi Honda.