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 Korean songs: A roundup of hit tracks (211–220)
이렇게 좋아해 본 적이 없어요BOYNEXTDOOR
A tie-in song for the webtoon “Girl’s World” by the boy group BOYNEXTDOOR, who debuted in 2023.
It’s a medium-tempo ballad distinguished by lyrics that trace a sweet, bittersweet first love and a clear, gentle melodic line.
Their tender vocals further enhance the webtoon’s worldview.
Since its release in March 2025, it has been a major topic on social media.
In the not-too-distant future, it’s sure to fill listeners’ hearts with warmth.
It’s the perfect track to soundtrack memories with someone special in the season when the arrival of spring can be felt.
EgoCrush
A mid-tempo track included on R&B artist Crush’s third full-length album, “wonderego,” which features a number of timeless songs.
“Ego” is one of the four title tracks.
Its distinctive tempo feels soothing, and the lyrics—depicting the many emotions of love—leave a strong impression.
It might even capture that feeling of being hopelessly, overwhelmingly in love.
It’s an adorable song, especially if you listen while watching the music video featuring Crush himself.
Dear My LightDawn
DAWN, formerly a member of PENTAGON and now active as a member of Triple H, is an artist whose name is pronounced “Don.” He has a neutral, innocent vibe and vocal tone reminiscent of G-DRAGON, and he’s well-regarded for both upbeat tracks and more downbeat songs.
His new solo track is “Dear My Light.” It features a simple arrangement of piano and vocals, shaped into a highly emotional melody.
Recommended for those who enjoy works like BIGBANG’s “IF YOU.”
DIE 4 YOUDEAN
Singer-songwriter DEAN, known for high-quality songwriting and collaborations with acclaimed artists.
“DIE 4 YOU” is his first new track since May 2019, and upon its release in November 2023, it was well received on charts like Melon, Spotify, and Apple Music.
It’s a poignant breakup song that spreads a sense of emptiness, resonating with those feeling blue.
With striking lines like “I could die for you,” its emotionally unstable, confessional lyrics really hit home.
심DK (디셈버)
Announced on February 19, 2023 and a long-running hit on South Korean charts, “Heart (심)” is a love song that also remains high in karaoke rankings.
DK, formerly of the duo December, remade Yang’s song originally released in 2002.
DK’s overwhelming vocal prowess is incredible, while the melody is gentle and the chorus opens up dramatically in a classic ballad structure.
I think it will feel familiar to Japanese listeners as well.
It seems likely to be sung as a staple karaoke classic well beyond 2023.
Smoke (Prod. Dynamicduo, Padi)Dynamicduo · Lee Young Ji
In the fall of 2023, the hip-hop track “Smoke (Prod.
Dynamicduo, Padi)” has become a hit in Korea.
It’s a song from the dance survival show Street Woman Fighter Season 2, which has become a social phenomenon, and it’s spreading on social media as a dance challenge.
Many K-pop idols, including BTS’s V, have joined in and boosted the hype.
Dynamicduo’s creative power and headstrong style shine through in the lyrics, and the cool rap by the popular female rapper Lee Young Ji stands out.
Take CareDynamicduo, GUMMY
A heartwarming farewell song from a hip-hop duo and the queen of ballads.
The track released by Dynamic Duo and Komi in January 2025 offers a glimpse into a mature, grown-up view of love.
The rap and soulful vocals blend exquisitely, delivering a calm yet powerful message.
The lyrics, infused with the wish “I hope you stay well,” resonate with anyone looking back on past relationships.
It’s been featured on a popular Korean radio show and is generating buzz.
A recommended song for those who want to embrace the end of love with a positive outlook.
Drunk-DazedENHYPEN
True to its title meaning “drunk and dazed,” Drunk-Dazed is a track defined by a thrilling, intoxicating sound that makes you lose yourself.
Released in 2021 as the title track of ENHYPEN’s second mini-album BORDER : CARNIVAL, it achieved the milestone of surpassing 100 million views on its YouTube music video.
With its pop-rock vibe and easy listening appeal, it’s also a great recommendation for K-pop beginners.
Onion-Hey-Say-YoEZUZ
EZUZ is a male hip-hop duo that debuted in 2016.
Released in January 2024, this digital single brims with the duo’s charm and playfulness as they uniquely voice socially minded messages.
With a clever bank-themed concept and contributions from various online creators, it became a hit through social media.
The music video has also gained popularity on YouTube in their home country.
Its simple rhythm and rhymes make it highly addictive and easy for anyone to enjoy.
Recommended for fans of laid-back hip-hop!
CupidFIFTY FIFTY
“Cupid” is at the top of the K-pop songs I especially want to recommend from 2023.
It’s gained global popularity, even entering the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100.
In Korea, it’s become a long-running hit in a sort of reimported way thanks to its worldwide success.
The English “Twin Ver.” has been the bigger chart hit.
With its familiar, beautiful melody line and retro vibe, it’s the kind of song that will instantly draw in certain listeners.
There’s a touch of ennui to it, yet it leaves you wrapped in a happy feeling that’s very pleasant.
The members’ harmonies are also wonderful—such a lovely track.