[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! Masterpieces That Marked Their Start (31–40)
SHOOT (Firecracker)CHAEYOUNG
Chaeyoung, who also shines as TWICE’s main rapper, released this as the title track of her solo debut album “LIL FANTASY vol.1” in September 2025.
It’s a dance-pop number that fuses jazz and disco, with groovy rhythm guitar and a funky bass line keeping the vibe light and buoyant.
Chaeyoung’s smooth, airy vocals and the catchy chorus leave a strong impression.
Celebrating new beginnings and launching one’s ambitions, the song’s message feels like a declaration of resolve as she takes her first step as a solo artist.
The album featuring this track reached No.
3 on Korea’s weekly charts.
It’s the perfect number for when you want to lift your mood and dance.
CRZYHAECHAN
Haechan, who enjoys immense popularity as a main vocalist across multiple NCT units.
This is the title track from his first solo album, “TASTE,” released in September 2025.
It’s an R&B dance number marked by a funky rhythm and guitar, themed around the tension of romantic push-and-pull, and it showcases Haechan’s expressive vocals to the fullest.
You can sense a mature allure that’s distinct from the expressions he shows within the group.
The release marked a brilliant start to his solo career, earning first-place trophies on music shows.
It’s a perfect listen for nights when you want to sink into a sophisticated, urban mood.
AbandonedJay Park
An American-born former member of the popular idol group 2PM, now a singer and producer.
One track from his solo debut album after leaving the group is an R&B song that reflects his American roots.
The music video, which also showcases his dance skills, features a sexy concept that gives a different impression from his idol days.
Plot TwistAtHeart
A jaw-dropping, fresh-feeling dance track with breakneck twists and turns.
It’s the title song of Plot Twist, the debut EP by AtHeart, who debuted under Titan Content, a company founded by former SM Entertainment executives, slated for release in August 2025.
True to its theme of defying expectations, it expresses a powerful resolve to shatter the mask of being a “good girl.” The arrangement keeps revealing new textures—Afrobeats, amapiano, and more—like a story’s plot twist you can’t get enough of.
In Japan, it’s featured in Meiji’s SAVAS Shape & Beauty commercials.
Put it on when you want to break out of a monotonous routine and discover a new you—it’s sure to give you courage.
Selected by Billboard as this month’s K-pop Rookie, the song is making waves worldwide.
Lost ChildIU
This is the debut song of IU, a pioneering female solo singer who continues to enjoy steady popularity even 10 years after her debut.
It may not be very well-known, but it’s a hidden gem.
It’s a ballad that leaves a strong impression with IU’s straight, clear voice.
[K-POP] Special Feature on Korean Artists’ Debut Songs! Iconic Tracks That Marked Their Start (41–50)
Stay With UN.TOP
N.TOP, a boy group that debuted in August 2025 to great anticipation.
The lead track from their debut mini-album “WE:DISCONNECT” is a refreshingly cool pop-rock number.
Their appeal lies in a self-expressive style where the members handle everything from songwriting to choreography, and this release was also led by leader Seunghyun.
While it serves as the prologue to a grand concept of “disconnection,” the song conveys a single-minded desire to stay with someone precious.
The harmony woven by energetic guitar sounds and youthful vocals is enough to set your heart ablaze.
It’s a cheering, motivational track you’ll want to hear when taking a new step or when you want to feel the bond with your friends.
Virtual AngelARTMS
Released in May 2024 as the debut single by the five-member Korean project group ARTMS, this track is a dance-pop song that portrays an ideal existence transcending the boundary between digital and reality.
It features a dreamlike sound infused with Eurodance elements and a glamorous, memorable music video.
The song carries a strong message exploring identity and ideals in the digital age.
As a relaunch project by former LOONA members, it has sparked high expectations among fans.
We can’t take our eyes off their future activities as they embark on new musical challenges!