[Korean Oldies · Genre-Free] Songs from Korea you’ll want to listen to now—nostalgic Korean tracks
Beginning with Korean popular music like trot and moving through the groundbreaking work of Seo Taiji and Boys—hailed by some as “the cultural president”—Korean pop opened up new horizons.
Thanks to pioneers like the idol groups H.O.T.
and S.E.S., we also saw an increase in freer, more open forms of expression.
In Japan, hit songs by groups such as Girls’ Generation, KARA, and Wonder Girls—who helped spark the K-pop movement—were once fondly shared on social media under the hashtag “#KoreanOldies.” In this article, we’ve chosen to spotlight timeless masterpieces and nostalgic hits that defined eras in Korean music, regardless of genre.
Let’s take our time and enjoy these Korean oldies—still fresh and wonderful even today!
- [Korean popular music] Popular trot songs. Masterpieces by trot singers.
- Hit songs that colored Korea's 1990s: Kayo (K-pop) pop music.
- [K-POP] Korean songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: classic crowd-pleasers
- K-POP and Korean tear-jerker songs: tracks that deeply resonate and bring you to tears
- [Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the soul. Korean Ballads
- An emotional Korean song. A gently moving, sensitive masterpiece.
- Trendy songs in South Korea: A roundup of hit songs
- Korean karaoke songs: beloved tunes from popular ballads to K-pop
- [Japan–Korea Spotlight Again] Feature on Korean Enka Singers, Trot Singers
- Guaranteed to hit repeat: Energetic K-pop songs that will lift your mood
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- [2026] Cool! K-pop dance tracks that make you want to move
- K-pop and Korean love songs: Love songs that really capture the Korean view of romance
[Korean Oldies · Genre-Free] Songs from Korea you want to listen to now! Nostalgic Korean tracks (1–10)
Story of Last Night (어젯밤 이야기)소방차(Sobangcha)
Sobangcha is a music group that represents Korea.
They’re often said to be the prototype for today’s K-pop.
Although their musical style differs greatly from modern K-pop, as pioneers they still enjoy strong and lasting popularity among certain fans.
One of Sobangcha’s classic hits is “어젯밤 이야기” (Last Night’s Story).
While they laid the foundation for K-pop, their sound leans more toward rock.
The song also has a vibe similar to Japanese idol music.
Be sure to check it out.
Run to youDJ DOC
DJ DOC is a Korean hip-hop group that drew attention from heads in Japan as well.
Their style retains an old-school and mid-school vibe, and they’re still regarded as heavyweights in the Korean hip-hop scene today.
Among their works, “Run to you” is a track I especially recommend.
Their performance, which leans closer to contemporary idol-style hip-hop, is quite striking.
It’s also the original song for DJ OZMA’s “Age♂Age♂EVERY☆Knight,” so many of you might find it familiar.
여름 안에서(In summer)DEUX
An essential summer song beloved in Korea, “In Summer” (여름 안에서) was released in 1994.
The original was by the male duo Deux.
It has been covered by many idols and artists, and a 2020 remake by SSAK3 also created a big buzz.
Its soft, open, and breezy mood is pleasant, and the inclusion of wave sounds is a fun touch.
The lyrics, which capture the thrill of romance, lift your spirits, while the nostalgic, homesick-tinged melody brings a sense of comfort.
If you like laid-back summer tunes, you might get totally hooked.
With a catchy appeal that also connects to Japanese pop, it’s a classic old-school gem.
[Korean Oldies • Genre-Free] Songs You’ll Want to Listen to Now! Nostalgic Korean Tracks (11–20)
A glass of soju (one shot of shochu)Imu Chanjon
A quintessential Korean ballad that conveys the pain of heartbreak and regret through a deeply moving vocal performance.
Released in June 2003 by the accomplished artist Lim Chang-jung, it is included on the album “Bye.” Blending the sense of loss from losing a beloved partner with the bittersweet attempt to drown sorrow in soju, this song resonated with countless listeners and became a nationwide favorite.
It has been covered by many K-pop artists, including BTOB’s Seo Eunkwang, and continues to be loved across generations.
Its appeal lies in the profoundly emotional vocals and universal themes—anyone who has known the pain of love can relate.
A masterpiece of Korean ballads that you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night, letting it seep into your heart.
T.O.P.(Twinkle Of Paradise)SHINHWA
Since their debut in 1998, the idol group Shinhwa has been beloved by fans for many years.
They’re known for songs rooted in electronica and R&B.
Among their tracks, a standout recommendation is the title song from Twinkle Of Paradise, released in 1999.
Its languid, moody atmosphere exudes a mature allure, and the hip-hop–styled flow and cool choral work are part of its charm.
If you enjoy Korean hip-hop from the 1990s to 2000s, give it a listen.
DecemberTURBO
A supreme number that beautifully captures the poignancy of winter.
This gem of a track, included on dance unit TURBO’s 1997 album “Born Again,” delicately portrays memories by the winter seaside and the sorrow of parting.
Kim Jong Kook’s velvety vocals and the moving melody paint the silver-white world with stunning elegance.
The gentle tones of piano and strings make the winter scenery even more evocative.
An anecdote from the recording sessions—where they actually sang while experiencing real cold—speaks to the song’s meticulous expressiveness.
It’s a perfect piece for quiet winter nights when you want to soothe your heart alone.
GeeGirls’ Generation (Shōjo Jidai)
Girls’ Generation is a music group that has had a major impact not only on the Korean music scene but also on J-pop.
Known for their global success, they even made their debut in Western markets beyond Asia.
Among their works, a particular recommendation is Gee, released in 2009.
It was a huge hit in Japan, so many of you may have heard it.
The melody line brilliantly embodies electronica and dance-pop.
It’s a track that brought the charm of K-pop—its distinctive tempo and rhythm—to the world.