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 (261–270)
Fact CheckNCT 127
This is the self-titled lead track from NCT 127’s fifth full-length album, released in October 2023.
It embodies a reaffirmation of NCT 127’s cutting-edge appeal and identity, and the promotions have centered around Seoul as a theme—making it fun to listen while connecting it with the city’s unique charm.
The lyrics seem to align perfectly with their style of breaking existing conventions.
The intense rhythm leaves a distinctly NCT 127–style addictive imprint on your ears! Personally, my highlight is the second half of the chorus where the low and high vocals intertwine.
The well-balanced sense of speed and the smooth, stylish rap feel great and are guaranteed to lift your mood!
PerfumeNCT DOJAEJUNG
NCT’s unit DoJaeJung—made up of Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Jungwoo—has a title track called “Perfume” on their first album, also titled “Perfume.” This number captivates with its pop sound that showcases their fresh, positive vibe.
Their emotional, top-tier vocals are another must-hear highlight.
The song centers on the theme of love, and its deep lyrics are part of its appeal.
Be sure to check out the lyrics along with the track!
Broken MelodiesNCT DREAM
NCT is a male idol group formed in 2016.
Their derivative unit, NCT DREAM, has a standout melancholic pop song called “Broken Melodies.” The group is a seven-member boy band with a diverse mix of nationalities—Korean, Chinese, and Canadian—and their energetic vibe is captivating.
This track in particular features a pleasing contrast between powerful chest voice and languid falsetto, and listening to it will naturally lift your spirits!
When I’m With YouNCT DREAM
This is a new song by NCT DREAM, from their November 2024 album “DREAMSCAPE.” It’s an electronic pop track rooted in house, featuring an addictive chorus.
They sweetly sing about their feelings for “you,” whom they met in a utopia.
Mark participated in crafting the rap, adding the group’s signature bright energy.
Be sure to check out the music video too, which depicts time spent on a train and a leap into the galaxy.
With its refreshing vibe, it could be perfect for hanging out with friends or even a date.
Baggy JeansNCT U
When it comes to baggy jeans, they give off the vibe of a fashion-savvy pro, and that edgy, cool appeal really stands out.
It’s an irresistibly catchy hip-hop tune that serves as one of the double title tracks from NCT’s 4th album “Golden Age,” released in August 2023.
The song is performed by five of the original debut members.
The shouted calls layered over the repeated low-end sections are incredibly cool! Because the title’s pronunciation resembles the name of the protagonist from the drama “Twenty-Five, Twenty-One,” dance videos combining the two have also become popular.
With its powerful performance and immersive world, it also gives you strength as an anthem for staying true to your own style.
MiracleNCT WISH
A pop tune from the boy group NCT WISH that celebrates the joy of love.
It’s a remake of a song by their senior group SUPER JUNIOR, released as a digital single in January 2025.
Riding on a New Jack Swing sound, it expresses the miracles brought by encounters and a sense of gratitude.
Its light rhythm and refreshing melody capture the hearts of those in love.
The catchy chorus and choreography leave a strong impression, showcasing NCT WISH’s youthful energy at full throttle.
It’s a recommended track for anyone newly in love or looking to express appreciation to someone special.
Love Me Like ThisNMIXX
NMIXX, who debuted with “O.O” in 2022.
Their 2023 release “Love Me Like This” is notable for a more pop-leaning sound that still makes the most of their signature energetic vibe.
It’s interesting how, over a bouncy beat, the melody sections are sung with a soft, R&B-like tone, while the chorus switches to a hip-hop-style repetition of the same phrase.
Also, the bridge features solo parts that highlight the members’ vocal abilities, so be sure to listen for that too!
Soñar (Breaker)NMIXX
A pre-released track from NMIXX, the JYP Entertainment girl group, off their second mini-album “Fe3O4: BREAK,” released in January 2024.
Rather than the heavy intensity often heard in recent K-pop hip-hop, it has a light, easygoing feel.
“Soñar” reportedly means “to dream” in Spanish.
True to its title, the lyrics portray forging your own path toward your dreams, giving you a push to take that first step.
With soaring high notes, tough rap, and a whistle register that hits ultra-high notes near the end, it’s a track that showcases NMIXX’s flexible and impressive vocal skills.
Young, Dumb, StupidNMIXX
Drawing attention for its unique musicality is “Young, Dumb, Stupid.” This is NMIXX’s first release since reorganizing at the end of 2022.
It was released as a pre-single for the mini album “expérgo.” Its standout feature is a distinctive melody that samples the French folk song “Frère Jacques.” The track blends stylishness with a cute, comical charm.
기장갈매기(Gijang`s Seagull)Na Hoon-A
A track included on the 2023 album Dawn, which drew attention for making every song a title track and producing a music video for each.
Its retro vibe and relaxed tempo are pleasantly soothing.
The music video for this song, which portrays the life of a man who stays true to his obligations, features Nafla himself.
He performs a dance reminiscent of a seagull, and the short dance-challenge videos became widely loved, surpassing 4 million hits.
Nafla is a legend who has led the Korean music scene, and in his recent releases he has incorporated trendy elements as well—perfectly embodying a charm that stays close to the public while continually updating itself.