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Trendy songs in South Korea: A roundup of hit songs

These days, K-culture—centered around K-pop—has become mainstream in Japan, hasn’t it?

One of the defining elements of K-culture is surely its music.

Here, we’ll be introducing some of the latest hit songs from Korea!

We’ve picked out tracks lighting up various charts: not only songs by popular idols, but also artists with enduring support in genres like trot and ballads, as well as Japanese songs that are gaining popularity in Korea.

There are countless amazing masterpieces, so feel free to use summaries like this as a starting point and dive deeper!

Trending songs in Korea. Hit song roundup (71–80)

Pink VenomBLACKPINK

BLACKPINK – ‘Pink Venom’ M/V
Pink VenomBLACKPINK

BLACKPINK, the hugely popular Korean group affectionately known as “Burupin” in Japan, had been focusing on solo activities for a while, so Pink Venom drew major attention even before its release as their first new song in some time.

The music video, made with a massive budget, is incredibly cool, and racked up 90.4 million views within just 24 hours of its YouTube debut—an astounding figure that placed it third all-time among male and female artists worldwide.

Musically, the track blends the hip-hop elements BLACKPINK has been embracing recently with an oriental flair, resulting in a uniquely addictive sound.

FOREVER 1Girls’ Generation

Girls’ Generation 소녀시대 ‘FOREVER 1’ MV
FOREVER 1Girls' Generation

Girls’ Generation, the Korean girl group also known in Japan by the nickname “Shoujo Jidai.” Compared to their older hits like Gee (2009) and MR.

TAXI, which were especially popular in Japan, their 2022 release FOREVER 1 features a higher proportion of vocal melodies and choruses, giving it a poppier, more accessible feel.

By the way, the music video is also worth a watch—its choreography highlights the group’s famously beautiful legs, a signature of Girls’ Generation—so why not check it out as well?

Baddieive

IVE 아이브 ‘Baddie’ MV
Baddieive

IVE is a girl group active mainly in South Korea and Japan.

The song they released in 2023, “Baddie,” has drawn attention across a wide range of fields including music and fashion.

Its lyrics depict living authentically without being swayed, no matter what happens.

Their lustrous vocals shine over a track with a tribal vibe, resonating brilliantly.

The playful sound that incorporates various sound effects is also a must-hear.

This is K-pop that captivates with the members delivering rhyming chorus lines in a low register.

Trendy songs from South Korea: Hit song roundup (81–90)

Either Wayive

IVE 아이브 ‘Either Way’ MV
Either Wayive

IVE is a girl group that has continued to captivate people not only with their records and lasting impact since their debut, but with so much more.

This song is one of the triple title tracks pre-released from their first EP, “I’VE MINE,” which came out in October 2023.

Some of you may have been stunned the first time you heard it.

In contrast to their previous works that showcased glamorous charm and a powerful style, this is a message song—yet you can still clearly feel IVE’s core.

The more you empathize, the more it resonates: an encouraging anthem whose gentle words offer comfort and perfectly fit our times.

I AMive

IVE 아이브 ‘I AM’ MV
I AMive

IVE is a six-member girl group.

The title track of their first full-length album, “I’ve IVE,” released in 2023, is “I AM.” The song showcases IVE’s signature powerful and positive vocals.

The way it builds in the second half is particularly distinctive, offering a freshness not often found in K-pop—so definitely give it a listen.

The music video also highlights a lavish, cool atmosphere that only they can create, and it’s so captivating you’ll find yourself drawn in just by watching!

REBEL HEARTive

IVE 아이브 ‘REBEL HEART’ MV
REBEL HEARTive

A six-member group brimming with charisma, IVE delivers a track that hits straight to the heart.

The self-affirming lyrics leave a strong impression, and the song blends lush strings with a powerful beat.

It was pre-released on January 13, 2025, and the music video surpassed 5 million views on YouTube within 16 hours.

On iTunes, it dominated the top charts across Asian countries.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants to stay true to themselves or cherish bonds with their friends.

The lyrics, which portray both defiance and empathy, are guaranteed to lift your spirits!

ANTIFRAGILELE SSERAFIM

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) ‘ANTIFRAGILE’ OFFICIAL M/V
ANTIFRAGILELE SSERAFIM

LE SSERAFIM radiates presence with their one-and-only strong style.

“ANTIFRAGILE” is the title track from their 2022 mini-album of the same name, and its distinctive rhythm sticks in your ears.

The song carries a message about growing stronger the more you face hardship, and the contrast with the members’ cuteness is irresistibly appealing.

Its slightly niche, edgy vibe is guaranteed to lift your mood.

The repeated vocal parts, like in the intro, are insanely addictive—they’ll have your head bobbing before you know it.