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 Korean songs: Hit song collection (361–370)
PleasePark won
A sweet yet bittersweet voice that resonates in the heart—Park Won’s number.
Released in July 2024, this song delicately portrays love and the pain of parting.
Showcasing the talent and sensibility of the Korea-born singer-songwriter and producer, the piece features a melody woven with tenderness and wistfulness.
It expresses the paradox of love within self-sacrifice, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
It was also used as an insert song in the popular Korean drama “Snowdrop,” further elevating the show’s most moving scenes.
A perfect track for those experiencing the anguish and conflicts of love.
FAKE IDOLQWER
A rising girl band from Korea, Kwo, is gaining attention with their latest track.
It’s a catchy pop-rock number and the lead single from their mini-album released in September 2024.
Featuring clap beats and a brisk tempo, the song exudes a playful vibe with touches of humor.
This work carries messages about today’s music industry and idol culture, conveying resilience against shallow criticism and an emphasis on valuing connections with listeners.
The music video is also captivating, packed with visual fun through chaotic sets and varied production.
It’s a recommended track for those seeking a lively rhythm paired with a powerful message.
My Name Is MalguemQWER
A September 2024 release by K-quell, a four-member Korean girl band.
It’s the title track of their mini-album “Algorithm’s Blossom,” with (G)I-DLE’s Soyeon participating in both lyrics and composition.
The song tells of the determination to face forward and move past the pain of heartbreak, featuring a refreshing sound and delicate vocals.
As the title suggests—meaning “My name is Sunny”—it’s infused with hope for a bright future.
It was well-received right after release, entering the top five on the Melon chart.
It’s a great track to listen to when you’re on the verge of breaking, one that gives you courage.
9 DaysRIIZE
This song features a poignant, passionate melody that leaves a strong impression.
Included on RIIZE’s first mini-album, “RIIZING,” it expresses the feelings of young people pursuing their dreams.
Set for release in April 2024, the track showcases the growth of the seven-member boy group from Korea.
RIIZE has been drawing attention as SM Entertainment’s first new group in seven years since NCT.
With member Shotaro from Japan among them, their vocals are sure to resonate.
Recommended for anyone who cherishes each day.
Love 119RIIZE
This is a song released in January 2024 by RIIZE, a seven-member boy group from South Korea.
It features a memorable piano melody and rhythmic beat, creating a sound that captures the flutter of falling in love.
The lyrics use expressions that liken the excitement of love to an emergency, and describe the feeling of someone standing out in a crowd, bringing back memories of a bittersweet first love.
The music video was reportedly filmed in Japan and has visuals that convey the brilliance of youth.
It’s a perfect track for anyone who wants to feel the thrill of romance.
One KissRIIZE
This is a fan-centered song by the seven-member Korean boy group RIIZE.
Released in April 2024, it’s included on their 1st mini album, RIIZING.
It’s a mid-tempo pop track with an addictive rhythm and melody, powerful drums, and emotional lyrics that depict two people pledging eternal love.
The music video, filmed in Lisbon, Portugal, conveys the members’ desire to cherish their memories and deepen their bond with fans.
It’s the perfect song to end a happy day spent with someone special.
RIIZE debuted in September 2023 and has quickly gained popularity, achieving million-seller status.
CosmicRed Velvet
It’s a pop dance track themed around cosmic love.
Featuring distinctive synth strings and disco rhythms, it captivates with a mysterious world inspired by horror films.
Set against the vastness of space, it portrays an emotional journey to find a connection with someone.
Encounters from distant stars and bonds that transcend time and space express both anticipation and uncertainty about new relationships through cosmic imagery.
It’s a song that shines with Red Velvet’s signature originality.
As the title track of a mini-album released in June 2024, it has a dreamy, enchanting vibe—perfect for listening under a starry sky.
If You Ask Me What Love IsRoy Kim
A soul-stirring, lyrical ballad.
South Korean singer-songwriter Roy Kim released it in October 2024.
With lyrics that question the essence of love and his warm, resonant vocals, it truly touches the heart.
The song captures the feeling of autumn, using images from nature’s beautiful moments to portray love in a memorable way.
It tells a simple, beautiful love story that resonates with those searching for the meaning of romance.
In December, he’s scheduled to hold the “Roy actually” concert at Seoul Olympic Park, where fans are hoping to hear this piece performed.
It’s a perfect song for the moments when you think of someone special.
Run With MeRoy Kim
Produced for the soundtrack of the film “Better Days,” this track is Roy Kim’s new release from August 2024.
A singer-songwriter from South Korea, he won an audition program in 2012 and debuted the following year.
This work is a remake of Sunwoojunga’s original, featuring Roy Kim’s emotionally rich vocals and a gradually intensifying, dynamic sound.
The lyrics, carrying the message “Let’s keep running together,” resonate deeply with the film’s themes of youth, growth, and struggle.
It’s a song that combines warmth and strength, offering comfort while uplifting the listener.
When Spring ComesRoy Kim
A heartwarming song that sings of the seasons of life.
It’s a fresh spring track released in March 2024 by Roy Kim from Korea.
The song feels like a gentle anthem of support, filled with gratitude for the people who helped him overcome growing pains.
Debuting in 2013 and winning a Golden Disc Award with “Love Love Love,” Roy Kim has also shined on drama OSTs, captivating many listeners with his emotionally rich vocals.
Listening to this song might give you the courage to embrace a new season.
A lovely piece that stays close to your heart with the arrival of spring.