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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Popular Korean songs. Hit song roundup (311–320)
헤어지자 말해요(Let’s Say Goodbye)박재정(Parc Jae Jung)
Ballad singer Park Jae-jung, who also performs as a member of the limited-time vocal group MSG WANNABE.
This song is the lead track from his April 2023 album “Alone,” written and composed by Park himself.
It’s a bittersweet love song that portrays the desire for the other person to be the one to say goodbye.
The lyrics convey the anxiety of once-harmonious, mutually loving days collapsing, and the pain of having hurt a lover—feelings that can seem selfish, making the man’s heart all the more heartrending.
사건의 지평선윤하(YOUNHA)
A singer-songwriter, Younha, who debuted in Japan before her home country, released this number in 2022 and it became a major hit.
It seems the song spread after being performed at a school festival, helped by the track’s inherent brilliance.
Among recent K-pop, I think this is an especially approachable, song-driven piece.
Carrying beautiful memories in your heart while moving forward into new days—the message is emotional.
It’s a tune that many people can relate to and enjoy together.
Its bright image and gentle tone also seem perfect for warming up the atmosphere at karaoke!
Do or Die임영웅(Lim Young Woong)
After debuting as a trot singer in 2016, Lim Young-woong has enjoyed nationwide popularity in Korea, including winning the hit music competition show “Mr.
Trot” in 2020.
His 2023 release “Do or Die” is a song infused with a fierce determination to live each day without regrets as the leading character of one’s own life.
Showcasing a new side of an artist known for pop and ballads, the track is crafted as dance music rooted in electronica.
It’s K-pop where his brilliant vocals resound over a heavy beat infused with passionate sounds.
Grain of Sand임영웅(Lim Young Woong)
Lim Young-woong, a singer who enjoys immense popularity in South Korea.
This is a slow, acoustic-style number he released in June 2023.
It carries a gentle message to a loved one, like “You can always rest by my side.” The whistling in the interlude and the imagery in the lyrics may give you a sense of healing, as if becoming one with nature.
Above all, his beautiful, calm voice—full of warmth and compassion—is truly soothing.
아로하 (Aloha)조정석 (CHO JUNG SEOK)
This is the OST from Hospital Playlist, which became a huge hit along with the drama.
In 2020, the year when drama OSTs were especially popular, this song ranked third on the Melon year-end chart.
You’ll be drawn to its beautiful melody line, reminiscent of Anzen Chitai and connected to Japanese music.
It’s a love song with lyrics like “You are my everything,” conveying Korea’s uniquely direct expressions of love in a straightforward way.
Listening to this track will surely deepen your love for someone special.
It’s a wonderful masterpiece, both as an OST and as a timeless love song.
Fate(G)I-DLE
A track included on the 2nd full album “2” by the five-member South Korean girl group (G)I-DLE.
It features a distinctive sound that fuses pop punk and funk.
The song expresses everyday stress and complex emotions through minimal yet colorful music.
The lyrics, which portray the turmoil of being swept up by a suddenly appearing “fate” and a distaste for overthinking—capturing the mental burdens of modern life—resonate with listeners.
Released on January 29, 2024, the album garnered 1.8 million pre-orders.
Recommended for anyone seeking a song that gently accompanies those urgent emotions that surface amid a busy life.
Super Lady(G)I-DLE
A powerful anthem sung by (G)I-DLE, a five-member girl group from South Korea.
It’s a track from their album “2,” released in January 2024, featuring an impressive, confidence-filled message.
With lyrics that encourage listeners—telling you, “You are the super lady”—the song really resonates.
The high level of attention is evident, with over 1.8 million pre-orders recorded.
Its EDM-inspired sound and strong beat are sure to give you the courage to live true to yourself.
A perfect pick when you need a boost of confidence or an energy recharge.
Late Night Walk10cm
A leading figure in Korea’s indie pop scene, 10CM (Kwon Jung-yeol) released this track in April 2024, themed around a pleasant late-night walk.
It’s included on the single “5.6 [Late Night Walk].” The song features evocative lyrics about conversations under the starry sky and the emotions felt in quiet moments.
With its acoustic sound and melodic pop style, it offers a relaxing escape from everyday life.
Perfect for when you want to savor the night atmosphere or spend time in a calm mood.
Filled with 10CM’s signature emotional depth and distinctive lyrical charm, this work is sure to resonate with many listeners.
Spring Snow10cm
A love song released in May 2024 by Kwon Jeong-yeol of 10cm, a leading figure in Korea’s indie pop scene.
It’s also gained attention as part of the OST for the drama “Lovely Runner.” The lyrics, which depict the arrival of spring and a wish for reunion, evoke a bittersweet feeling.
The metaphor of reuniting with a long-awaited lover as spring snow is swoon-worthy.
The acoustic tones are soothing, and the gently flowing melody will put you in a romantic mood.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to think of someone special or for a springtime stroll in the warm weather.
Gradation(그라데이션)10cm
“Gradation,” released in July 2022 by 10cm, a pop singer representing Korea’s indie scene.
The timing of its release makes it an especially refreshing track you’ll want to listen to in summer.
Its lyrical mood and evocative lyrics convey a sense of feelings gently spreading in color.
Highly recommended if you like pop songs with an emotional edge.
The music video comes in two versions—one featuring the artist himself with a summery vibe, and a romantic drama version—so you can enjoy it in different ways.