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 South Korea: A compilation of hit songs (161–170)
BEAUTIFUL MONSTERSTAYC
“BEAUTIFUL MONSTER” is a song with a memorable melody reminiscent of mid-2010s K-pop.
Released in July 2022 as the title track of their third single, “WE NEED LOVE,” it’s a stylish number that effectively incorporates acoustic sounds.
The members’ refreshing vocals are wonderful as well.
It seems to portray the complex emotions of being in the midst of a romance, and you might relate to it even more when you feel tossed around by someone you like.
REUNION MEGA MIX (feat. 차진혁, 모요, Yyeon, 강한국, 담영, XIN, 필로, 쿤타, Blue.D)TimeFeveR
A buzzworthy release from Korean producer Time Fever, who’s bringing a fresh breeze to the K-pop scene.
Dropped in June, the track is an energetic collaboration featuring a diverse lineup of artists.
Each member’s distinctive vocals and rap intertwine exquisitely, creating a more complex and richly layered sound.
The lyrics, centered on a class reunion theme, celebrate past memories and reconnecting with old friends, overflowing with warmth, joy, and nostalgia.
Built around a dance beat, the arrangement delivers the perfect energy for a reunion party.
It captures a nostalgic mood while also conveying a refreshing sense of momentum toward the future.
It might be just the thing to play while reminiscing with old friends.
Wish You HellWENDY
A track from the second mini-album by vocalist Wendy from South Korea.
As a member of Red Velvet, she sings with themes of self-discovery and liberation.
It’s a powerful song that conveys a break from her past self and a resolve to embark on a new life.
Released in March 2024, it features participation from renowned creators.
Wendy’s refreshing vocals will gently encourage listeners.
It’s a perfect record for those who feel uncertain or conflicted about living true to themselves.
A countdown live event was also held, deepening her connection with fans.
SWEATZEROBASEONE
A pre-release track from ZEROBASEONE, a 5th-generation K-pop boy group formed through the global audition program BOYS PLANET, taken from their 3rd mini album You Had Me at Hello.
Released digitally in April 2024, the song is an exciting house-genre dance track that expresses the heat of summer and the joy of love.
Featuring distinctive synth melodies and R&B vocals, its refreshing, energetic rhythm heightens the summer vibe.
The music video leaves a strong impression with the members dancing under the sun, enveloping viewers in a sense of openness.
It’s a catchy, upbeat tune that amplifies the mood of summer.
Armageddonaespa
Known for their bold attitude and powerful tracks, aespa released a new song in May 2024.
It’s also gaining attention as the theme song for the popular Korean anime “Bleach.” The track features an impressive fusion of electropop and K-pop with a strong, driving sound.
Its theme—emerging into a new beginning from deep darkness—is expressed through energetic beats and a catchy melody.
Futuristic sound effects are used effectively, drawing listeners in.
The confident lyrics are also appealing, as they seem to awaken the listener’s inner strength.
It’s the perfect song for when you need the courage to face challenges.
Girlsaespa
The title track “Girls” from aespa’s second mini-album Girls, released in July 2022 by the Korean multinational four-member girl group aespa.
This song features quintessential aespa elements—sleek, futuristic sound effects and distinctive synthesizer phrases that are incredibly cool! Additionally, the structure of the pre-chorus (the B section) is particularly inventive: it inserts a punchy, rap-like highlight before flowing into the sung melody, then transitions naturally into the chorus.
The way the arrangement keeps listeners engaged feels exactly like one of aespa’s signature strengths!
HAPPY(prod.hedyy)차노을
The track by Chanoul, a young rapper and singer from South Korea, delivers a positive sound packed with innate brightness.
Released as a digital single in May 2024, it was produced by Heddy.
To overcome the challenge of making new friends, they shot the music video with help from Chanoul’s father, and the video gained traction on social media.
Its bright dance beat and catchy phrases feel great to listen to, making it a song that lifts your spirits.
It’s the perfect track for days when you’re feeling a bit down or when you’re taking on something new.