[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] Special Feature on Korean Artists’ Debut Songs! Iconic Tracks That Marked Their Start (41–50)
CHEEKYEL7Z UP
EL7Z UP, a girl group formed through the survival audition program “QUEENDOM PUZZLE,” released this title track from their debut mini-album ‘7+UP’ in September 2023.
The group’s name is pronounced ‘Elle’s Up.’ With a lineup of elite members, the song delivers consistently high quality and undeniable coolness.
While it has a hip-hop flavor, its catchy chorus evokes classic K-pop vibes.
It also incorporates repetitive phrases that reflect current trends and give it an addictive feel, making you want to hit repeat.
[K-POP] Special Feature on Korean Artists’ Debut Songs! Masterpieces that Marked Their Start (51–60)
PerADYA
ADYA’s debut track brims with anticipation and hope for adventures yet to come.
This song by the five-member Korean girl group celebrates self-affirmation and freedom.
Released in May 2023, it carries a positive message about valuing your true self.
The high-quality production by Lim Young Woong and choreography involving all members drew attention.
The rap section in the chorus is especially striking, with a rhythmic drive that makes you want to move.
Emphasizing the importance of believing in yourself, this piece may be perfect for anyone ready to take a new step forward.
Bomb Bomb BombMYTRO
With a fresh fusion of trot and K-pop, the five-member group MYTRO is shaking up the Korean music scene.
Co-produced by SM Entertainment and TV Chosun, they first unveiled this track on the variety show “My Neighbor Trot: The Birth of MYTRO,” expressing the power and passion of love.
Its trot sound infused with Latin rhythms brims with innovative charm that defies convention.
This song stands out with its youthful, high-energy performance and lyrics that carefully portray the feelings of being in love.
Perfect for hyping things up at karaoke with friends or for a quick mood boost.
BIRDPSY
The renowned singer and producer behind the famous “Gangnam Style,” a veteran with over 20 years in the industry.
One of his charms is his razor-sharp dance moves, which you wouldn’t expect from his appearance.
While his recent songs are often catchy and addictive, his debut track was an unmistakably memorable rap song.
NU SHOESTOZ
This is the debut song by TOZ, a K-pop group made up of Japanese members who debuted in May 2024.
It features a lively pop sound and an uplifting message, expressing the moment of putting on new shoes and setting off on your own path.
The music video is set on a school campus, with a memorable dance scene on a basketball court.
The song is included on their first mini-album, “TO my new friends,” which contains five tracks in total.
It’s a perfect song for anyone starting a new chapter in life, and is recommended for those who want to soak in a youthful, positive vibe.
FREAKYUQI
This song blends alluring pop with horror and carries a message of self-affirmation.
Chinese-born Yuqi, also known as a member of (G)I-DLE, released it in April 2024 as the title track of her first solo mini-album “YUQ1.” The music video—featuring motifs inspired by horror movie characters—also drew attention.
With lyrics that unleash one’s true self and an addictive beat, it’s a fitting work to mark her solo debut.
It’s a track that gives you the courage to recognize and embrace your individuality.
Highly recommended for anyone in the midst of self-discovery.
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.