K-pop and Korean summer songs that color and enliven the season

I SwearSister

[MV] SISTAR(씨스타) _ I Swear

A summer tune released in 2014 by the queens of summer, SISTAR.

Its steady rhythm and the members’ beautiful falsettos and high notes are soothing, and just listening to “I Swear” puts you in a refreshing mood.

It also has a lovely, romantic atmosphere that’s a bit different from their earlier work.

The signature Idan Yubbaegi sound is fun too, making it a song that lets you savor the freedom of summer both to the ears and the eyes.

In terms of situations, it’s perfect for a drive or for a mellow evening after a day of fun!

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UP ALL NITE (Feat. SUMIN)Crush

Crush (크러쉬) – ‘UP ALL NITE (Feat. SUMIN)’ MV

A comfortable R&B number that seems to bottle the flutter of a summer-night romance.

It’s a track included on FANG, the mini-album released in August 2025 by Crush, a leading figure in the Korean R&B scene.

This song marks his first release in about a year and nine months, and its whispery vocals and playful delivery leave a strong impression.

With lyrics that capture the thrill of a budding romance, it lets you sink into an intimate mood, like the two of you chatting until dawn.

Featuring Sumin, the interplay between the two adds an even sweeter atmosphere.

It might heighten the romantic mood even more when you listen to it while feeling the summer night breeze, spending time with someone special.

O time, stopILLIT

ILLIT (아일릿) 'Time, Please Stop (Toki Yo Tomare)' Official MV

Since their debut in 2024, ILLIT quickly rose to popularity and were even nominated for the Best New Artist Award at the Japan Record Awards that same year.

The title track of their first single in Japan is like capturing the fleeting sparkle of late summer in a jewelry box.

The lyrics, written by singer-songwriter Ima Murasaki, vividly express a girl’s bittersweet wish for time to stand still.

The glittering disco-pop sound and its slightly nostalgic melody really strike a chord.

The single also includes the fan favorite “Almond Chocolate,” making it quite a lavish release.

If you listen when you’re feeling sentimental, as though reluctant to let the season pass, it will surely keep you company at heart.

NEWTONMONSTAX

[MV] 몬스타엑스(MONSTA X) – NEWTON

A light, energetic pop tune that feels like bottling the sheer freedom of midsummer into music.

It carries a message of defying gravity and spreading your wings, with lyrics that brightly capture the positive feelings of love and new challenges—so refreshing! Released by MONSTA X in July 2017, this summer song offers a pleasant contrast to their more aggressive, dynamic image with its bright, rhythmic sound that naturally gets your body swaying.

Perfect for poolside hangs, drives, or summer festivals—any time you want to soak in that open, carefree mood.

A refreshingly cool track that feels like it blows away the heat of the season.

Time OutStray Kids

Stray Kids “Time Out” M/V

A mixtape track by Stray Kids released in August 2022.

It’s a surprise number celebrating the 4th anniversary of the fandom name “STAY,” created with memories from a trip to Gangwon-do.

Carrying an open-hearted message to toss aside complicated worries and just have fun, it perfectly captures the free spirit of summer! With an energetic sound that fuses pop rock and punk rock, it even features wave sounds recorded by the members, adding a refreshing touch.

It’s perfect for when you want to get away from a busy routine and refresh yourself, or for lively summer moments with friends!

RunawayPENTAGON

[MV] PENTAGON(펜타곤) _ RUNAWAY

A dance-pop track released in November 2017.

As the title suggests, the lyrics intertwine a fashion show runway with “the path one must forge ahead on.” In other words, it conveys their determination in the show business world that “there’s no stopping.” The sound is bass music that uses rests with sidechain compression, seemingly modeled after The Chainsmokers.

SmileSUPER JUNIOR

Super Junior – Smile!

SUPER JUNIOR is an idol group that has been loved by many people since their debut.

This song by SUPER JUNIOR is a refreshing number that’s perfect for listening to in the summer.

When you want to smile, why not listen to “Smile,” a track that gives you positive energy?