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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!

Trendy Songs in South Korea: Hit Song Compilation (141–150)

Accendioive

IVE 아이브 ‘Accendio’ MV
Accendioive

A song by the six-member girl group IVE from South Korea that depicts a magical self-transformation.

It’s included on their second mini-album, IVE SWITCH, released on April 29, 2024.

Set to an uptempo, EDM-based sound, the lyrics explore inner conflict and a forbidden allure.

In the music video, a fantastical world unfolds where the members battle their evil alter egos.

The phrase “Watch me, don’t touch me” is especially striking, expressing a complex feeling of wanting to be observed while keeping a distance.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to face yourself.

HEYAive

IVE 아이브 ‘해야 (HEYA)’ MV
HEYAive

IVE’s latest release, set in a fantastical world, is drawing major attention.

It’s a captivating track where Eastern hues blend with modern pop.

Released in April 2024 as part of their 2nd EP, “IVE SWITCH,” the song features an addictive melody and catchy phrases.

The outfits and accessories evoke hanbok, leaving a strong impression, while the music shines with a fusion of tradition and innovation.

With a rap section included, it showcases a variety of expressions.

Its easy sing-along appeal makes it enjoyable across a wide range of ages.

As their first comeback in six months, this track reveals a fresh side of IVE.

Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)JIMIN

지민 (Jimin) ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)’ Official Track Video
Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)JIMIN

This track features a vibrant sound that fuses a large-scale orchestra with hip-hop.

Released in June 2024 as the pre-release track for Jimin’s second solo album, MUSE, it showcases how he continues to explore new musical possibilities as a solo artist alongside his work with BTS.

Jimin’s refreshing vocals and Loco’s rap are a perfect match in this piece.

It has been highly praised on charts both in Japan and abroad as a work that not only conveys Jimin’s musical growth but also lifts the listener’s spirits.

Trendy songs in South Korea. Hit song roundup (151–160)

R.E.MKISS OF LIFE

KISS OF LIFE (키스오브라이프) ‘R.E.M’ Official Music Video
R.E.MKISS OF LIFE

Keep an eye on the pre-release single dropped in October 2024 by Korea’s up-and-coming girl group KISS OF LIFE.

Its dreamy worldview, blurring the line between dreams and reality, is captivating.

Centered on love and emotional bonds that transcend physical distance, it expresses the twin-soul connection with a warm, gentle melody.

Hopes are high for it as a track on their 3rd mini album, “Lose Yourself.” The MV leaves a strong impression with scenes of youth in full bloom.

It’s the perfect song for winding down before bed or reminiscing about precious moments with someone special.

KISS OF LIFE’s emotive vocals are sure to soothe your heart.

Please Summer!KWON EUNBI

[MV] KWON EUNBI(권은비) _ Please Summer!(여름아 부탁해)
Please Summer!KWON EUNBI

A vibrant, feel-good song from Kwon Eun-bi—who shone as the leader of IZ*ONE—packed with a message to fully enjoy the summer.

Released in July 2024, it’s a remake of INDIGO’s beloved Korean summer classic, blending nostalgia with freshness for an irresistibly breezy sound.

The music video shows her getting ready for a summer trip, radiating an innocent, carefree vibe.

It’s the perfect track to accompany time by the seaside or poolside.

Kwon Eun-bi’s bright, refreshing vocals make it an ideal soundtrack for the season.

StrollKim Dong Ryul

김동률 (Kim Dong Ryul) – 산책 (Stroll) (Official M/V)
StrollKim Dong Ryul

A song by Kim Dong-ryul, a heavyweight in the Korean music scene, released in October 2024.

It’s a ballad perfectly suited to the calm atmosphere of autumn, with elegant piano and strings that resonate pleasantly.

Its theme—turning our attention to the small joys and beauties of everyday life—seems sure to comfort people leading busy lives.

Kim’s deep, rich vocals deliver a sense of relaxation and nostalgia to listeners.

It’s an ideal track for a leisurely weekend morning or a quiet nighttime drive.

EASYLE SSERAFIM

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) ‘EASY’ OFFICIAL MV
EASYLE SSERAFIM

The title track from their third mini-album released in February 2024.

It’s a song packed with LE SSERAFIM’s bold new challenge.

Set to a pop sound, it sings about the importance of taking on challenges with confidence and determination.

The strength and beauty they display in the performance are striking as well.

The choreography, which incorporates old-school hip-hop dance, is another highlight.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to keep moving forward without giving up, even in difficult situations.

A fitting comeback that embodies LE SSERAFIM’s innovative musicality and the members’ powerful vocals.