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

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.

WISH (Korean Ver.)NCT WISH

NCT WISH 엔시티 위시 ‘WISH (Korean Ver.)’ MV

This is the debut single by NCT WISH, a six-member boy group from South Korea.

Set to a refreshing melody, it portrays young people charging toward their dreams.

The powerful message—“The future is in my hands”—really stands out.

Released in February 2024, the song swept the charts in both Japan and South Korea, achieving the remarkable feat of 370,000 pre-orders.

If you need the courage to dive into a new environment, this track is sure to lift your spirits.

It’s a perfect song for anyone who wants to keep moving forward.

The day we foughtBolbbalgan4

[M/V] 싸운날 – 볼빨간 사춘기

A female duo that has been gaining popularity since 2017, especially among young women.

Their debut song, sung with a high, gentle voice like that of a young girl, portrays the pure feelings of first love.

By the way, the group’s name in Japanese means “pubescent girls with red cheeks,” which is quite adorable.

WonderlandGugudan

gugudan(구구단) – Wonderland Music Video

A nine-member group that includes former I.O.I member Kim Sejeong, who enjoyed top-tier popularity, along with two other members who were already well-known.

The group name, Gugudan, means “multiplication tables,” which surprised many idol fans and drew a lot of attention.

It’s a classic idol song with a mermaid concept.

SHOOT (Firecracker)CHAEYOUNG

CHAEYOUNG “SHOOT (Firecracker)” M/V

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 해찬 ‘CRZY’ MV

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.

Now or NeverEJel

이젤(EJel) ‘Now or Never’ M/V

A debut number by singer-songwriter Lee Jell, who placed third on Sing Again 3.

It’s included on the digital single album “A N E W,” released in October 2024.

This powerful pop ballad centers on the passion and determination to keep striving toward one’s dreams.

Emotionally charged, it features a catchy melody line and a striking dance beat.

The music video portrays someone running relentlessly toward their goals, making a strong visual impact as well.

It’s a song that gives courage to anyone ready to take a new step forward.