RAG MusicK-POP
Lovely K-pop

[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!

[Korean Rap] Popular K-hip hop rappers and artists to watch (31–40)

Fallin’Lil Boi

릴보이 (lIlBOI) – Fallin’ MV
Fallin'Lil Boi

Lil Boi debuted in 2011 as a member of the hip-hop duo Geeks.

After a hiatus, he made a strong comeback and won Show Me the Money 9.

In 2022, he released his solo debut album, Meantime.

He has also been featured on tracks by various artists, including K-pop idols like Sejeong and Soyou.

His music often gives a relaxed vibe that you can listen to effortlessly, almost like background music.

His strengths include singing-rap and an accessible sound that isn’t bound by genre.

With its laid-back atmosphere, his music is recommended for those who enjoy gentle, soothing tunes.

You Look Good (Feat. 검정치마)Verbal Jint

버벌진트 (Verbal Jint) ‘좋아보여 (You Look Good) (Feat. 검정치마)’ M/V
You Look Good (Feat. 검정치마)Verbal Jint

Verbal Jint is known as a key figure who brought innovation to the Korean hip-hop scene.

He began his career in 1999 as a member of the hip-hop crew Show N Prove, and debuted in 2001 with the mini-album Modern Rhymes.

With an intellectual background in economics from Seoul National University, he is acclaimed as a pioneer who introduced new rhythmic structures to Korean-language rap.

His distinctive sound blends hip-hop with elements of R&B and jazz.

He made a major breakthrough with his 2011 album Go Easy, winning numerous awards including Best Hip-Hop Album at music awards.

He is also active as a producer, running his own label, Otherside.

With his refined musicality and melodic rap style, he’s perfect for listeners seeking intellectually rich lyricism.

Boy In The Mirror (Feat. Kidd King)punchnello

펀치넬로 (punchnello) – ‘Boy In The Mirror (Feat. Kidd King)’ Official Music Video (ENG)
Boy In The Mirror (Feat. Kidd King)punchnello

Punchnello stands out with a unique presence in South Korea’s hip-hop scene.

He began his career as a member of Club Eskimo, and since his 2016 debut, he has captivated many listeners with emotionally rich lyrics and a distinctive flow.

His tracks skillfully fuse trap beats with soulful melodies, showcasing his delicate sensibility.

In 2019, he proved his prowess by winning Show Me the Money 8.

His collaborations with renowned artists such as Crush and DEAN have also drawn attention.

His appeal lies in his expressive emotional range and lyrical depth, and his energetic live performances are not to be missed.

Highly recommended for those drawn to subtle sensitivity and original musicality.

Dedication (feat. Jay Park)JMIN

JMIN – Dedication (feat. Jay Park) (Official Video)
Dedication (feat. Jay Park)JMIN

JAYMIN is a rapper born in the U.S.

state of Georgia in 2000.

Born and raised in America, he has a skillful flow that leverages English lyrics and gained popularity mainly through his online activities, including YouTube.

In 2021, he joined H1GHR MUSIC, founded by Jay Park, and simultaneously released “Homecoming,” which could be called his anthem.

He also captivates listeners with works featuring catchy hooks like “Night Sky.” He’s an artist who draws attention for his sexy, low-register vocals and strikingly handsome looks.

Life In ColorBeenzino

빈지노 (Beenzino) – Life In Color MV
Life In ColorBeenzino

Rapper Beenzino, who also performed as a member of the hip-hop duo Jazzyfact, spent his elementary school years in New Zealand and studied sculpture at Seoul National University.

While still in school, he made his debut under the production of renowned Korean producer Primary.

On “Dali, Van, Picasso,” a track from his 2014 album Up All Night, he showcased an artistic sensibility rooted in his art studies.

He captivates listeners with a smooth, sweet vocal tone that feels as if he’s speaking directly to them.

In conclusion

We introduced popular Korean rappers who are energizing the K-hip hop scene.

Of course, there are plenty of serious, full-fledged tracks, but there were also many catchy, easy-to-listen-to songs.

Let’s start by digging a little deeper into artists whose names you’ve seen before or songs that caught your attention!