A J-POP song highly popular in South Korea [with a Korean-language cover too!]
Japanese music is gaining attention among younger generations in Korea.
Of course anime plays a role, but in recent years the influence of social media has helped people enjoy music from all over the world, regardless of country.
Through things like dance collaborations between idols and programs such as the “Japan-Korea Top Ten Show,” we can feel the growing exchange between Japanese and Korean artists, as well as the spread of J-pop and Showa-era pop.
For a long time, sales of Japanese records were restricted in Korea, but now it’s great to see them becoming popular and spreading thanks to various influences.
Let’s all enjoy the J-pop that’s so popular in Korea!
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Popular J-POP Songs in Korea [with Korean Covers too!] (21–30)
Goodbye-byeTomioka Ai
Ai Tomioka’s “Goodbye Bye” stands out for its lyrics that show strength even while bearing deep wounds from love.
It’s a must-listen, having charted on Spotify’s Korea Viral chart and Billboard’s Japan Songs chart.
Her first street performance in Korea and her TikTok videos with Korean subtitles have drawn attention, and it’s no wonder the YouTube comments section is buzzing in multiple languages.
Her collaboration with Yuuri has further broadened her appeal, uniting music fans in both countries.
LemonYonezu Kenshi (COVER: B.I.G)
A singer-songwriter who can be considered one of the most important artists in today’s J-POP scene, Kenshi Yonezu’s 8th major-label single.
Written as the theme song for the TV drama “Unnatural,” this track is also known for propelling Yonezu—who had previously gained popularity as the Vocaloid producer Hachi—into nationwide recognition.
It drew further attention when BTS’s Jungkook performed it a cappella at a live show, and its popularity is evident from the fact that it topped the J-POP chart in Korean karaoke for three consecutive years.
It’s a masterpiece that will go down in J-POP history, beloved not only in Japan but also in Korea.
Popular J-Pop Songs in South Korea [With Korean Covers Too!] (31–40)
Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA（COVER：N.Flying）
This is the 15th single by singer LiSA, whose powerful vocals—so impressive she was nicknamed the “Avril Lavigne of Gifu” during her school days—and wide-ranging expressiveness captivate fans across different songs.
Known as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, which became a social phenomenon, the track was such a smash hit in 2020 that there was hardly a day you didn’t hear it.
In South Korea, its popularity is evident from numerous cover performances, including one by the five-member rock band N.Flying, as well as countless “I tried singing” videos posted by amateurs and professionals alike.
Beyond Korea, there are covers in more than 15 languages, and buoyed by the anime’s popularity, the song drew global attention.
I’d rather die.Fuji Kaze
Fujii Kaze delivered a stunning performance at the 2022 Kohaku Uta Gassen as well.
The piece was “Shinunoga E-Wa,” which broke out across countries around the world.
The music video includes subtitles in Indonesian, Thai, and six other languages, and its momentum hasn’t slowed down even into 2023.
Naturally, it also charted on Spotify in Korea.
Perhaps the weighty expression of love—“If breaking up with you is the only option, I’d rather choose death”—resonates with people in Korea and elsewhere in Asia.
Looking at the English translation of the lyrics, you’ll also find subtly different shades of affectionate expression, making it a track you can enjoy over and over.
Highly recommended!
Yes, with pleasure.kocchi no kento
This song was created by Kocchinoken-to, who began performing as a one-man a cappella singer, based on his own mental health experiences.
The lyrics portray the struggle with depression and everyday inner conflicts while carrying a positive message.
Beneath its lively rhythm and bright melody lies a deep emotional core.
Released in May 2024, the track offers warmth and encouragement to people facing similar struggles.
It has gained popularity through its unique music video and borderline SNS dance, and it has charted on various rankings in Korea.
It’s a popular number you can enjoy with a light touch and a relaxed vibe.
Racing into the NightYOASOBI（COVER：Darlim&Hamabal）
A two-member music unit formed by Ayase, who has been active as a Vocaloid producer, and singer-songwriter Ikura (Rira Ikuta), YOASOBI’s first digital-only single.
Although it was the unit’s first released track, it swept the J-POP scene in 2020 and is widely known as YOASOBI’s signature song.
Its popularity extended beyond Japan, with a highly polished cover by Korean newcomer vocalist MAY also drawing attention.
The fact that MAY, who does not speak Japanese, covered the song in Japanese just like the original shows how highly the piece is regarded overall.
It’s a number that signals the beginning of a new musical style from Japan to the world.
motion sickness from proximitywanuka (COVER: SG)
This is the first digital-only single by Wanuka, who reveals only the profile of being an active university student singer-songwriter and mainly works on social media and YouTube.
Over 26,000 videos using the song have been posted on TikTok, making it explosively popular especially among younger generations.
It has also drawn attention for its modern, viral spread, including a Korean-language cover by solo artist SG that became a hot topic both in Japan and abroad.
With a melody based on the yonanuki (pentatonic) scale, a relaxed shuffle beat, and lyrics and arrangements with a moist, atmospheric feel, it’s a track packed with elements that resonate comfortably with Japanese listeners, evoking a certain sense of nostalgia.