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!
- A Korean song you often hear on TikTok. Trending K-pop.
- K-POP Popularity Rankings [2026]
- Guaranteed to hit repeat: Energetic K-pop songs that will lift your mood
- Korean karaoke songs: beloved tunes from popular ballads to K-pop
- K-POP Masterpieces & Best Hits [Latest and Classic Popular Songs + Editor’s Select]
- [Korean popular music] Popular trot songs. Masterpieces by trot singers.
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- K-POP and Korean tear-jerker songs: tracks that deeply resonate and bring you to tears
- Stylish K-pop and Korean songs. Songs with a nice vibe.
- [2026] Cool! K-pop dance tracks that make you want to move
- Popular K-pop and Korean songs that brighten up YouTube Shorts
- [2026] A roundup of popular K-POP hits that were trending this year
- Today's recommendation! K-pop songs
Trendy Korean Songs: Top Hits (1–10)
Boom Boom BassRIIZE
This is the opening track of the seven-member boy group RIIZE’s mini-album “RIIZING,” released in June 2024.
With its funky disco beat and groovy bassline, it captures the excitement of young people enjoying music.
It’s a rhythmic dance-pop song with an irresistible groove that makes you want to move.
In the music video, the members dance joyfully amid the chaos caused by a mysterious guitar that descends from space—an especially striking scene.
The song also carries a message celebrating the power of music, showcasing RIIZE’s commitment to growth.
If It Were MeNa Yoon Kwon & D.O.
Veteran balladeer Na Yoon Kwon—unrivaled when it comes to singing aching love—and D.O., the main vocalist of EXO, have realized a dream collaboration.
The beloved ballad that drew attention as part of the 2004 drama Crown Prince’s First Love OST and was included on the album Addiction has been reborn with a fresh touch in November 2025.
Its plaintive portrayal of unrequited love—the heart-wrenching thought, “If only I were the one by their side”—tightens the chest.
Na Yoon Kwon’s deep, resonant voice intertwines with D.O.’s warm yet wistful vocals, drawing listeners into an even more dramatic development.
It’s perfect for those long autumn nights when you feel lonely and want to quietly lose yourself in the music.
Bam Yang GangBiBi
A talented singer, BIBI released this track in February 2024.
It sparked a movement that led the first half of the year, even achieving a Perfect All-Kill.
Through her collaboration with the popular musician Jang Kiha, BIBI’s captivating vocals and Jang Kiha’s superb songwriting blend beautifully.
The playful lyrics—expressing feelings for a departing lover through the sweet metaphor of ‘chestnut yokan’—leave a lasting impression.
They carefully portray complex emotions and are sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.
Above all, its irresistibly cute sound is wonderfully addictive—a perfect recommendation for anyone troubled by love.
Trendy songs in Korea: A compilation of hit songs (11–20)
MagneticILLIT
ILLIT is a five-member girl group that debuted in March 2024.
Released as their debut track, this song centers on the theme of an irresistible charm likened to powerful magnetism, built on a poppy melody and a catchy refrain.
From its release, it has enjoyed strong support among younger generations in both Japan and Korea, and it has continued to rank near the top of various charts into the second half of the year, becoming a long-running hit.
Produced by HYBE’s chairman, Bang Si-hyuk, it appears on their debut mini-album SUPER REAL ME, which portrays the rich imagination and everyday lives of teenage girls.
Paired with a design that symbolizes the free-spirited nature of youth, it fully expresses ILLIT’s unique world.
It really lets you feel the thrill of that moment when you fall in love.
Love wins allIU
A hugely popular songstress, IU has delivered her first ballad in two years.
Its warm message affirming every form of love is deeply moving.
The piano-driven arrangement beautifully complements her clear, crystalline vocals.
True to its title, “Love Wins All,” the hopeful lyrics speak to overcoming any hardship.
Since its release in January 2024, it has captured many hearts, topping the monthly chart and even achieving a Perfect All-Kill.
It’s a must-listen not only for those in love, but for anyone who holds someone dear.
Sudden ShowerEclipse
A love ballad by ECLIPSE that’s drawing attention as a buzzworthy track from Korea.
Released in April 2024, it’s used on the soundtrack of the TV drama “Lovely Runner.” The lyrics, which poignantly depict a bittersweet love perfectly suited to the drama’s world, are particularly striking.
They beautifully portray love arriving like a sudden rain, and the memorable melody line is also captivating.
The piano tones seep into the heart.
This song gently wraps around the feelings of someone in love.
It’s recommended for moments when you want to bask in memories with someone special or sink into a romantic mood.
If I’m S, Can You Be My N?TWS
A light, R&B-tinged pop track that leaves a pleasant impression with its captivating vocals.
It’s the title song from Korean rookie boy group TWS’s second mini album “SUMMER BEAT!” released in June 2024.
Using the S and N poles of a magnet as a metaphor, it portrays a relationship and friendship where people with different qualities are drawn to each other.
Characterized by a funky rhythm and vivid synths, it’s a number that evokes the freshness of summer and the sparkle of youth.
It embraces differences, conveying that those differences can deepen a relationship—perfect for anyone who wants to explore the essence of friendship and love.