[Korean Rap] Popular K-hip hop rappers and artists to watch
In this article, we’ll introduce popular rappers who are energizing South Korea’s hip-hop scene!
K-hip hop became much more widely embraced thanks to the audition program Show Me The Money, which began in 2012, and High School Rapper, which has featured high school students since 2017.
In recent years, collaborations with a variety of artists—from K-pop idols to musicians in Japan and around the world—have become common, offering many ways to enjoy the genre.
From handsome male rappers to talented female MCs, there are plenty of recommended artists.
Beyond the rap itself, it can also be fun to pay attention to your favorite artists’ fashion sense and lifestyles!
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[Korean Rap] Popular K-hip hop Rappers and Artists to Watch (1–10)
Drowning Feat SOLEBOBBY
Bobby debuted as a member of iKON, inheriting BIGBANG’s lineage, and his rap skills—so exceptional they transcend the typical idol image—have long drawn attention.
Even before debut, he won the popular rap survival show “SHOW ME THE MONEY 3”! He made his solo debut in 2017 with the album “LOVE AND FALL,” and in 2023 he held his first solo tour in Japan.
As the group’s mood maker, his songs are instantly catchy with melodies that are easy to get into.
Even listeners who don’t usually listen to hip-hop may find themselves drawn in.
His husky, cool vocals and seamless rap are captivating!
Lambo!, Tic Tac!, VVS, Daisy, Asphalt, BAD BOY (Medley)MIRANI
Now that Korean hip-hop feels more familiar than ever, all eyes are on Mirani, who exudes outstanding presence.
In 2020, she showcased her dazzling talent on Show Me The Money 9 and released the buzzworthy VVS.
The track was a smash hit, topping the charts at No.
1.
Her fashion sense is superb, making it impossible to ignore not only her music but also her style.
With her distinctive high-tone rap, she captivates listeners, and songs like Achoo and Daisy are unforgettable standouts.
As expectations for her future rise, her music offers a chance to fully immerse yourself in a new vision of K-hip hop.
You can feel the allure of her sound—it’ll surely make you want to add her tracks to your playlist.
ROSETTA (Feat. MILLI)pH-1
PH-1 is a rapper who showcases melodious rap that draws on his wide-ranging musicality.
Born in South Korea, he moved to New York State at the age of 12, and after graduating from Boston University, he worked as a web developer.
With this background, he made his debut in 2016 and gained attention after appearing on the Korean music program Show Me the Money 777.
In addition to his exceptional rap skills, he is also popular for his sweet, baby-faced looks and fashion sense.
[Korean Rap] Popular K-hip hop Rappers and Artists to Watch (11–20)
주지마 (Above Live)Loco
Loco, a hip-hop star with a friendly, next-door-brother vibe, leaves a strong impression.
Because he collaborates so often, people who frequently listen to K-pop idols have likely come across him many times.
He won the very first season of the popular hip-hop audition show “Show Me The Money” and debuted in 2012.
He’s signed to major label AOMG and is active on multiple fronts, including running the burger shop THE FAMOUS BURGER.
He has released many collaborations with MAMAMOO’s Hwasa, his ideal type, and their 2018 track “Above Live” was a huge hit.
His knit caps and bold primary-color outfits show great style, and his fashion is cool as well.
With his easy-to-follow flow and sweet vibe, he’s a recommended artist for anyone looking to dive deeper into K-hip hop.
1,2,3,4,5Coogie
Born in Daejeon, South Korea, Kugi is a prodigy who began exploring overseas hip-hop and writing lyrics from his elementary school days.
He released his debut single in March 2018 and appeared on Show Me the Money 777.
His appeal lies in a sound that skillfully weaves together trap, R&B, and lo-fi elements, paired with catchy melodies.
His collaboration track with CHANGMO and songs featuring Paloalto and others won Collaboration of the Year at the 2021 Korean Hip-Hop Awards.
In 2022, he signed with AOMG, one of Korea’s leading hip-hop labels, propelling his career even further.
Blending energetic beats with smooth melodies, his music is perfect for those who enjoy a pop-leaning vibe.
잠수이별 (Ghosting) (Prod. 코드 쿤스트) with meenoiWoo
Woo, also known as Woo Won-jae, gained attention on the hip-hop survival show SHOW ME THE MONEY 6 in 2017.
He later signed with the label AOMG and began releasing music actively.
He also appeared as a rap master in episode 6 of the audition program Girls Planet 999.
His signature style centers on laid-back tempos that convey a languid, moody, and darker atmosphere.
He’s praised for artistic yet down-to-earth messages drawn from his own experiences.
Representative tracks include We Are, which reached No.
1 in 2017.
In 2022, Ghosting, a collaboration with Meenoi that exquisitely captures the natural fading of a romantic relationship, became a hit.
His smile is incredibly charming!
아퍼 (Feat. Kid Milli, Lil tachi, 김승민, NO:EL, C JAMM)GIRIBOY
Giriboy, a leading figure in the modern Korean hip-hop scene.
You’ve probably seen his name often, thanks to his stylish tracks and collaborations with a wide range of artists.
The 2019 hit “We don’t talk together,” where he was featured on Heize’s song, is also well-known.
Some of you may have discovered him through that track.
With an exceptional eye for aesthetics, he has guided rappers to victory, and his production skills are highly trusted by idols like PENTAGON and Monsta X.
His trademark glasses and his adorable tendency to trail off into what sounds like “zero languages” nicknames add to his charm.
He’s also known for his love of Japan—he’s an avid reader of manga like ONE PIECE and has incorporated Japanese into his song “Hogu.” While Giriboy isn’t bound by genre, I personally think his laid-back tracks are especially wonderful.
Highly recommended for those looking for gentle hip-hop or mellow tunes.