[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 You’ll Want to Listen to Now! Nostalgic Korean Tracks (11–20)
Tell meWONDER GIRLS
The girl group Wonder Girls is known for its retro vibe that incorporates 80s disco and funky pop.
Released in September 2007, this song features a catchy melody and an addictive refrain.
Its lyrics, expressing the longing to hear words from a loved one and the joy of discovering love for the first time, are sure to resonate with many people.
The simple, easy-to-imitate choreography sparked a social phenomenon and propelled Wonder Girls to the status of a “national girl group.”
ParanKOYOTE
An energetic dance tune that represents the golden era of Koyote.
Shinji’s powerful vocals, Kim Jong-min’s singing, and Kim Ku’s rap create an exquisite harmony.
While the theme sings of the turbulence and passion of love, the techno rhythms and dance music fuse brilliantly, achieving outstanding completion as a club track.
Released in November 2000 as a follow-up to the album “Passion,” it caused a major stir in the Korean music scene at the time.
Its catchy melody and exhilarating rhythm not only light up the dance floor but also make it a great choice for karaoke.
Perfect for livening up a party or when you’re in the mood to sing and dance your heart out.
잠못드는 밤 비는 내리고 (Sleepless Rainy Night)Kimu Gonmo
A beautiful number that seeps into the heart like a single streak of rain.
Released in 1992 as the debut work of South Korea’s accomplished singer Kim Gun-mo, this piece captivates with his rich vocals and a distinctive sound that incorporates elements of jazz and blues.
The sound of rain falling through the late night and the melody woven with longing and loneliness draw you in before you know it.
Included on his first album, this track fully showcases Kim Gun-mo’s abilities as a vocalist and foreshadows his later success.
It’s a song that gently stays by your side on nights when you want to face the hazy feelings in your heart.
길(Road)god
Since their debut in 1999, g.o.d has been beloved across generations for their approachable personas, and they’re known for energizing the K-pop and Korean entertainment scene.
Featured on their 2001 release Chapter 4 is the track Road, which resonates with a poignant sound reminiscent of cool R&B.
The lyrics, portraying stylish yet delicate emotions, are equally moving.
Why not give this essential hit by a group indispensable to the story of Korean entertainment a listen?
가시 (Thorn)Buzz
A groove-filled rock ballad by the melodic rock band Buzz that skillfully portrays the emotional scars of lovers who’ve endured a heartbreaking farewell.
Featured on the classic album “Effect,” released in March 2005, it sent shockwaves through the Korean music scene.
Min Kyung-hoon’s expressive vocals and the band’s powerful performance come together to create a majestic sound that is truly breathtaking.
It has long been beloved as a karaoke favorite.
Continually covered by many artists, this song is perfect for soothing the pain of a breakup or when you want to dwell on feelings for someone special.
편지 (The Letter)Kimu Gwanjin
This is a moving ballad by Kim Kwang-jin, a singer-songwriter highly acclaimed in Korea.
His warm, gentle voice and a simple yet heartfelt melody are truly captivating.
The piano and strings weave together with emotional richness, offering a calm yet deeply touching experience.
Included on his third album, “It’s Me,” released in 2000, this piece has been covered by many artists and remains beloved.
Its natural expression of feeling and universal themes enrich the song’s storytelling world.
It’s a track that quietly stays by your side when your heart wavers or when you’re thinking of someone—one I highly recommend you listen to.
[Korean Oldies · Genre-Free] Songs You Want to Hear Now! Nostalgic Korean Tracks (21–30)
I’m Your GirlS.E.S
S.E.S., who debuted in 1997 under SM Entertainment—the company that later produced Girls’ Generation and aespa—are a must-listen for anyone exploring late-90s K-pop.
The track to check out is “I’m Your Girl.” It features a soft, airy hip-hop sound with a gentle flow.
The calm sound effects and rhythms are striking, and you’ll likely be captivated by their cool, mature dancing.
This slow-tempo nostalgic tune will wrap you up.