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 South Korea [With Korean Covers Too!] (31–40)
Samurai Heart (Some Like It Hot!!)SPYAIR
SPYAIR’s “Samurai Heart (Some Like It Hot!!),” which was used as the ending theme for the hugely popular anime Gintama’, was released in 2011 and has gained popularity not only in Japan but also in South Korea.
Gintama itself—including the original manga, the anime, and even the live-action films—has been enjoyed by many fans in Korea.
SPYAIR has performed at numerous large outdoor festivals in Korea, showcasing this song many times there as well.
Combined with the fact that it’s the theme song for a manga/anime beloved in Korea, it has thrilled many fans.
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.
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!
left-right confusionYorushika
There are tons of videos on YouTube by Korean creators like “I tried singing a Yorushika song” or “I listened to a Yorushika song.” Yorushika’s music is popular in Korea as well, and this track, Sayūmō, has charted on Korean Apple Music and Spotify.
Sayūmō refers to a phenomenon where a person can’t distinguish left from right; some say it isn’t even a specific illness.
The lyrics—along the lines of “heartbreak left me so shattered I can’t even tell left from right”—focus exquisitely on the pain of a breakup and the quiet that follows.
It’s a highly recommended song that showcases Yorushika’s delicate perspective.