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

FantacyJBJ

[MV] JBJ _ Fantasy

A derivative group formed thanks to overwhelming support from fans, despite all of its members being eliminated from the audition show PRODUCE 101 Season 2.

In contrast to Wanna One, all the members are adults, featuring sexy choreography in suits and a mature sound.

UhUhRESCENE

RESCENE (리센느) ‘UhUh’ MV

Debuting in March 2024, the five-member girl group RESCENE’s debut track is a powerful pop anthem that celebrates self-affirmation and individuality.

Set to an energetic sound highlighted by striking brass and bass, they boldly sing a message of “embracing your true self.” It’s a song packed with the charm that’s drawing attention—especially from younger listeners—and a fitting introduction for a rising star from Korea.

Perfect for moments when you want to move forward with confidence or recharge your energy.

We can’t take our eyes off RESCENE’s future activities!

Tough Cookie (Feat. Don Mills)ZICO

지코 (ZICO) – TOUGH COOKIE (터프쿠키) Official Music Video

ZICO’s solo debut track, performed by the Block B member who also shines as a main rapper and producer.

It features sharp, compelling rap that showcases a different charm from his work with the group, and it’s a collaboration with the well-known rapper Don Mills.

F GirlBaby DONT Cry

Baby DONT Cry – ‘F Girl’ MV

This is the debut work of Baby DONT Cry, produced by Soyeon of (G)I-DLE.

As P NATION’s first girl group led by PSY, they made a striking entrance in June 2025 with their single “F Girl.” The release features a unique sound dubbed “Baby Rock,” combining punchy beats with a strong will beneath a cute exterior.

It’s the perfect track to listen to when you want to take on a challenge or strengthen your resolve—it’s sure to give you a powerful push forward!

The day we foughtBolbbalgan4

[M/V] 싸운날 – 볼빨간 사춘기

A female duo whose popularity has been growing since 2017, especially among young women.

Their debut song features high, gentle vocals reminiscent of a little girl and expresses the pure feelings of first love.

By the way, the group’s name in Japanese translates to the charming phrase “Adolescent with Red Cheeks.”

I don’t KnowA Pink

[MV] Apink(에이핑크) _ I don’t Know(몰라요)

Apink is the group that brought a refreshing breeze with a pure and innocent concept to the K-pop scene, where a sexy image had been mainstream.

This song was released in April 2011 as the lead track from their debut mini album, “Seven Springs of Apink.” It portrays the frustrations of unrequited love—repeatedly trying to get the attention of someone you like, only to go unnoticed—expressed through delicate vocals.

Despite its sweet-and-sour theme, the dramatic sound with brilliantly resonant strings leaves a strong impression.

The music video also drew attention for featuring BEAST’s Lee Gikwang.

It’s the perfect song for when you want to recall those sweet, tingling feelings at the start of love.

InsaneBTOB

BTOB – 비밀(Insane) Official Music Video

This song expresses the madness and pain brought on by passionate love through a dramatic sound.

It’s the memorable debut work of the powerhouse vocal group BTOB, showcasing an impression filled with raw, early-stage impulse that differs from their later reputation as masters of ballads.

The track portrays a protagonist suffering so deeply for love that they can hardly stay sane, and you can clearly imagine the piano and violin stoking that intense emotion.

With members participating in the lyrics, the song was included on their debut EP “Born to Beat,” released in March 2012, and reached No.

3 on the weekly charts.

On nights when you feel overwhelmed by uncontrollable emotions, listening to this track might stir your heart with their youthful energy.