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!
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Trending songs in Korea. Hit song roundup (71–80)
MOUNTAINSStray Kids
A powerful track by Stray Kids, an eight-member boy group from South Korea.
Released in July 2024 as part of the album ATE, it uses the metaphor of “climbing a mountain” to express facing difficulties head-on in pursuit of one’s dreams.
With its epic sound and hard-hitting message, it’s guaranteed to light up a live show.
You can really feel the intensity unique to a “self-producing idol” group, with the members themselves involved in the production.
In 2023, they won numerous music awards, including Artist of the Year (Daesang).
Be sure to check out this gripping song that showcases the high musicality of Stray Kids.
GGUMYEONJUN
Yeonjun of the Korean K-pop boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER released his first solo project in September 2024.
It’s an energetic track grounded in hip-hop with an electro edge, powerfully expressing his dreams and ambition.
True to its title, which means “dream,” it conveys a performer brimming with confidence.
The song achieved global success, topping the iTunes Top Songs chart in over 32 countries.
The music video—featuring dynamic visuals and a touch of humor—is also a must-see.
It’s a perfect pick when you want to believe in your talent and push toward your dreams.
GOOD SO BADZEROBASEONE
A song by ZEROBASEONE, a fifth-generation K-pop boy group from South Korea, is creating a buzz.
It’s the title track of their 4th mini album, “CINEMA PARADISE,” released in August 2024.
The track features exhilarating synth-pop with an energetic beat.
The lyrics, expressing deep feelings for someone and emotions that sometimes turn confusing, leave a strong impression.
Phrases like “It’s blindingly amazing” and “The whole universe says, don’t miss it” are repeated, conveying the frustration of love and an irresistible pull.
Actor Yoo Ji-tae appears in the music video, and the diverse performances by the nine members are also a highlight.
Live My Lifeaespa
This is a new song by aespa, a four-member girl group from South Korea.
It’s included on their album Armageddon, released in May 2024, and features a striking new sound with pop-rock elements.
The lyrics, which emphasize the importance of living true to yourself, are deeply moving.
Some have noted that it even carries a Taylor Swift–like vibe.
It’s a track that symbolizes aespa’s musical evolution and has been highly praised by fans.
The song offers courage and hope for everyday life and is an uplifting listen.
It’s also perfect for a summer drive.
FaSHioNCORTIS
CORTIS, a new star emerging from BIGHIT MUSIC—the label behind BTS and TOMORROW X TOGETHER—marks the company’s first new group in six years.
They champion “collaborative creation,” with all members involved in everything from songwriting and composing to video production.
Featured on their debut EP, COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES, released in September 2025, this track is a hard-hitting hip-hop number driven by piercing synths.
Rather than chasing trends, it celebrates a way of life that defies existing boundaries—like finding your own value in vintage clothing.
Reportedly chosen from over 300 songs crafted over more than two years, the track’s intensity is overwhelming.
When you want to stay true to yourself, it’s a powerful anthem that will lift your spirits.