[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)
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.
Dream GirlsI.O.I
South Korea is currently in the midst of an audition show boom! Among them, the show considered the original—PRODUCE 101 Season 1—featured trainees from various agencies who were chosen by public votes, and from it a temporary 11-member girl group was formed for one year.
Unfortunately, they have since disbanded, but they enjoyed immense popularity.
This energetic song expresses the feelings of dream-filled girls ready to spread their wings and take flight.
[K-POP] A Special Feature on Debut Songs by Korean Artists! Masterpieces That Marked Their Start (31–40)
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!
IZNAizna
A seven-member girl group born from “I-LAND2: N/a,” izna debuted this track in November 2024.
Its confident lyrics and catchy sound leave a strong impression.
Featuring an addictive chorus and a minimal beat, this hip-hop song brims with self-affirmation.
Producer Teddy, known for crafting hits for global K-pop artists, participated in the production, elevating the song’s polish and quality.
Included on their debut album N/a, the track portrays girls with limitless potential as they push past their limits and take on a new world.
It’s the perfect song when you want a boost of confidence or energy.
WE WOOpristin
In 2017, Pristin won the Rookie Girl Group Award at what is considered the most prestigious music awards in South Korea.
They are well known for having two former I.O.I members.
It’s a girl-crush song told from a lofty, unattainable woman’s perspective—one that only these tall, strikingly beautiful members could sing and dance.
I Don’t Like Your GirlfriendWeki Meki
A rookie girls’ group with two former I.O.I members and an average age of 17, known for their energetic and fresh vibe.
The song portrays a cute, defiant attitude as the singer, who thought she was just about to become his girlfriend, has him taken by another woman and insists, “I’m the better fit for him.”
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.