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

Get A GuitarRIIZE

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘Get A Guitar’ MV

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!

HEARTRISNiziU

NiziU(니쥬) “HEARTRIS” M/V

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.

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WaveWaySAY MY NAME

SAY MY NAME(세이마이네임) ‘WaveWay’ MV

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.

Black Mambaaespa

aespa 에스파 ‘Black Mamba’ MV

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.

District 9Stray Kids

Stray Kids “District 9” M/V

“This isn’t where you belong.” It’s a fierce, powerful work that smashes that kind of one-sided judgment and declares a territory that’s ours alone.

It’s the landmark debut released by the boy group Stray Kids.

Written and composed by the members themselves, it condenses their origins: resisting society’s frameworks and affirming their own chaotic feelings even as nobodies.

The track was included on their debut album “I am NOT,” released in March 2018, and later became the title of their world tour.

When you feel yourself getting swept up by the voices around you, listening to this song might give you the courage to hold your head high, say “I’m fine being myself,” and take a step forward with your friends.

HOPE (WE GOT THIS!)STRITZ

STRITZ 스트리츠 ‘HOPE (WE GOT THIS!)’ MV

STRITZ is a group born from a project that began at the end of 2025, characterized by its unique concept of an “idol creation project by ordinary people.” This debut single, released in March 2026, is a dance track built on a bright, dynamic pop foundation.

It portrays the very process of incomplete youths becoming a team, paired with the image of butterflies flying toward the light.

Designed as a “prologue to the story that’s about to begin,” it delivers a moving message of solidarity—reassuring one another even while carrying their anxieties.

Rather than chasing perfect results, moments of hope that emerge during the time they spend becoming a team are naturally woven into the music and performance.

Brimming with a fresh, forward-driving energy, it’s perfect for starting a new challenge or for moments when you want to encourage your friends.

It’s a warm, endearing song that makes you want to watch over their down-to-earth growth story and see how they’ll spread their wings from here.

Tug of WarV01D

V01D(보이드) Tug of War MV

Boyd, who debuted in South Korea in 2026, is a new five-member boy band that balances live performance and strong visuals.

The title track of their mini-album “01,” released in March 2026, is a rock tune that portrays the complex emotions of being drawn to each other yet clashing in love and human relationships.

Its lyrical melody and intense sound are beautifully harmonized, and the gradually rising emotional contours propel the song forward.

The members themselves took part in writing and arranging, making it a work that conveys their musical agency.

Intensively showcased on music programs and at their showcase, the song’s dramatic progression is sure to stir listeners’ hearts.