[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 Feature on Debut Songs by Korean Artists! Iconic Tracks That Marked Their Start (21–30)
Shiny Star(2020)Kyoung Seo
This is the debut song of rising sensation Kyungseo, which drew a lot of attention.
It was released in November 2020.
It’s a remake of Yang Jung Seung’s hit track.
Beyond its original widespread recognition, its easy-listening style—well-suited to the tastes of the 2020s and beyond—likely helped drive its success.
Not only did it compete for the top spot on digital charts and music shows against the hugely popular BTS, it also ranked sixth on Melon’s 2021 year-end chart.
The song features quintessentially Korean, emotionally rich lyrics and a gentle melody that are truly lovely.
Kyungseo’s clear voice further enhances the song’s charm, making it a perfect companion for peaceful moments with someone you love.
It’s a very beautiful, heartwarming love song.
WHISTLEBLACKPINK
A group from YG, the same label as BIGBANG, that sets itself apart from other groups with a girl-crush sound and overwhelming singing and dance skills that belie their rookie status.
Their unforgettable debut track has surpassed 200 million views on YouTube, proving their worldwide popularity.
Back to Life&TEAM
&TEAM is a global boy group produced by HYBE LABELS JAPAN.
They made their Korean debut in October 2025, and the title track of their 1st mini-album “Back to Life” is a song that portrays a strong will to move forward after overcoming setbacks and trials.
Their stance of turning adversity into energy and rising again is expressed by likening it to a wolf’s instincts, delivering a powerful message that resonates deeply.
The dynamic sound fuses electronic and dance-pop, layered with lyrics that naturally weave between English and Korean, evoking a global reach.
In its first week, it sold over 700,000 copies on Billboard JAPAN Top Albums Sales and set a new personal best on Oricon as well.
It’s a song that symbolizes a new chapter for them as they soar from Japan to the world.
NAKEDY:SY
Lee Seo-yeon, beloved as an all-rounder in the girl group fromis_9 for her singing, dancing, and songwriting/producing, has taken a new step under the name Y:SY.
Her solo debut single, released by the label H1GHR MUSIC in November 2025, rides on a minimalist R&B foundation and, with lyrics entirely in English, portrays her shedding her armor and revealing her true self.
Her resolve to move forward while carrying even her own shadow, and her message of acknowledging inner vulnerability, resonate deeply alongside her composed vocals.
It’s a perfect listen for quiet nights or moments when you want to face yourself gently.
LATATA(G)I-DLE（gen: i-dle）
A multinational girls’ group that debuted in May 2018, featuring many foreign members despite being brand-new.
Centered around Soyeon, a rapper who was already well-known, their catchy song pairs the trendy girl-crush concept with Soyeon’s distinctive high-pitched rap.
MAMAEXO
A pioneering presence among global idols that brought together a large, multinational lineup.
In their home country, they’ve won prestigious music awards almost every year and enjoy unwavering popularity—this is EXO.
Back at their 2012 debut, this track featured the distinctly bold makeup that was in vogue and a strong K-sound that really sticks in your ears!
FACENu’Est
After debuting in 2011 and struggling to gain popularity, the group appeared on an audition program in a bid for a comeback.
There, the members’ personalities and skills were recognized, and they released a song in 2017.
In their sixth year since debut, NU’EST earned their first No.
1 with their debut track, a dance number produced by a famous Swedish composer.
The music video also features many SEVENTEEN members from before their debut.