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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Trendy Songs in South Korea: Hit Song Compilation (101–110)
Tick-TackILLIT
A song by the five-member Korean girl group ILLIT that captures the complex emotions of teenagers.
It’s included on their second mini-album, “I’LL LIKE YOU,” released in October 2024.
The lyrics, which focus on the wavering feelings of love and the struggle for self-expression, leave a strong impression.
Unique expressions appear throughout, such as depicting the inner heart as a hectic cabinet.
Paired with a refreshing sound that feels like a snapshot of youth, the track resonates deeply with listeners.
Also noteworthy are the face-covering hand dance that hints at a trend on social media and the addictive rhythm that mimics the ticking of a clock.
KIDDINGISEGYE IDOL
Since around the summer of 2023, “KIDDING” has been lighting up Korean charts like Melon.
It’s sung by the virtual idol group Isegye Idol and seems to be drawing attention in Japan within the VTuber community as well.
They debuted in 2021.
You can watch the cute characters dance, but what really stands out is the surprisingly natural, human-like cute pop sound.
It evokes the vibe from the era when Girls’ Generation and KARA were in the spotlight, and from the rise of groups like TWICE and GFRIEND.
It’s a simple, purely enjoyable, adorable song.
Running WildJIN
A pop-rock sound rooted in British rock.
It’s a track in which BTS’s Jin infuses a message full of warmth and hope brought by love.
Chosen as the title song of his first solo album, “Happy,” released in November 2024.
Gary Barlow from the legendary British band Take That took part in the production.
Blending sophisticated musicality with Jin’s captivating vocals, the piece overflows with a positive, refreshing vibe.
In the music video, Jin spending happy moments with his beloved dog even as the end of the world approaches leaves a strong impression, seemingly emphasizing the joy of being with someone precious no matter the circumstances.
ISTJNCT DREAM
NCT is a male idol group formed in 2016.
The group has various sub-units such as NCT U, NCT 127, and WayV.
Among them, NCT DREAM stands out with its cool and pop vibe.
In particular, “ISTJ” is a powerful dance tune built on a base of tightly driving sixteenth-note beats.
The highlight right before the chorus is especially cool! It’s such a catchy, upbeat track that you’ll be hooked after just one listen—be sure to check it out!
DittoNewJeans
With production by Min Hee-jin, NewJeans is a girl group that has earned strong support for its fresh, distinctive concept.
“Ditto,” pre-released from their first single “OMG,” is a track that feels nostalgic and tugs at the heart.
Member Minji took part in writing the lyrics.
It’s retro yet polished, with a soft, airy mood.
Alongside lyrics that seem to depict the passage of time and budding feelings of love, the school uniforms and visuals in the music video evoke an emotional layer that overlaps with memories of student life.
Trendy songs in South Korea. Hit song collection (111–120)
ETANewJeans
Get Up is an EP released in 2023 by the Korean girl group NewJeans.
The title track, ETA, is an irresistible number featuring their characteristically expressive vocals and a rhythmic groove.
Notably, the track has a calm, chill-out vibe.
While K-pop often leans toward busy, densely arranged productions, their track offers a mellow, nighttime mood that’s wonderfully pleasant to listen to.
NonstopOH MY GIRL
The title track of OH MY GIRL’s mini album of the same name.
It became a standout hit in their career at the time, winning eight trophies on music shows.
While it’s a Western-style dance number, it’s delightful how you can still feel OMGP’s signature lightness and clarity throughout, especially in the chorus.
The song rhythmically captures the thrill of love, and you’ll likely be hooked after just one listen.
Their cuteness and stylish artistry are beautifully balanced, creating an exquisite, fluttering vibe.