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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Trendy Korean Songs: Hit Song Compilation (271–280)
Super ShyNewJeans
Super Shy features a lively, popping programmed beat that feels great.
Released in 2023 by the five-member girl group NewJeans, this track is super stylish, with a chillout-like minimal arrangement.
Just like their previous song Ditto, the backing track doesn’t overassert itself, allowing their vocals to really shine—an unmistakable NewJeans touch you won’t find in other K-pop groups! The lyrics are also super cute, with lines like “I’m really shy, so please wait a little,” so be sure to check it out!
ZeroNewJeans
NewJeans debuted in 2022 with “Attention.” The five-member girl group has released many catchy songs such as “Ditto” and “OMG.” Among them, “Zero,” released in 2023, is an addictive track with a unique melody that intertwines with the bass drop.
Written specifically as a Coca-Cola commercial song, its chorus line that conveys the drink’s deliciousness is especially memorable!
Still YoursParc Jae Jung
Park Jae-jung, who became a breakout star in South Korea after the 2023 smash hit “Let’s Say Goodbye,” released this pre-enlistment single on May 9, 2024.
It portrays the feelings of regret that well up even while living happily after a breakup.
The music video features Jae-jung himself and Loossemble’s Hyunjin, enhancing the song’s poignant atmosphere.
This love ballad draws you in with the contrast between the mellow verses, colored by his calm, sweet low register, and a chorus where the emotions burst forth.
HERO (From the Film ″Firefighters″)Park Hyo Shin
A gem of a ballad by Park Hyo-shin.
His duet with BTS’s V, “Winter Ahead,” also made waves.
This song was written as the theme for the film “Firefighter,” released in December 2024.
Park Hyo-shin was involved in every step—lyrics, composition, and arrangement—marking his first new release in five years.
It carries a message for those who quietly express love out of sight and devote themselves without fanfare.
Park Hyo-shin’s powerful vocals and distinctive timbre truly stand out.
Perfectly in harmony with the film’s profound message, it leaves a deep impression on listeners.
The lyrics, which convey a wish for everyday safety, are perfect for anyone thinking of someone dear.
DiscordQWER
QWER is a girl band featuring Lee Si-yeon, formerly of NMB48.
Their debut single “Harmony from Discord” was released in October 2023 as the title track of their 1st single.
It delivers a fast-paced, edgy sound, with an especially cool guitar riff—definitely worth a listen.
As of December 2023, they’re gaining popularity in South Korea and heating up music charts like Melon and YouTube.
The song carries a positive message about making music in your own way, even if it’s not perfect—great for when you need a boost.
The use of music-related phrases also makes it especially appealing as a debut track for a band.
Get A GuitarRIIZE
This is RIIZE’s debut single, which drew attention as SM Entertainment’s first boy group in seven years since NCT.
It was released in September 2023.
It includes former NCT members and the Japanese member Shotaro.
The song’s funky guitar rhythm feels great, and while the melody has a stylish, contemporary flair, it somehow calls to mind Michael Jackson’s music and gentle old-school pop.
Combined with a “let’s dance together” vibe reminiscent of BTS’s Dynamite and Butter, it creates a fun, uplifting mood.
It’s a masterpiece that will likely stand as the starting point for their rise to stardom.
HugRIIZE
A love song by RIIZE filled with warmth and tenderness.
It’s included on the album released to commemorate SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary.
Ahead of the album, Hug was released in January 2025.
A remake of a classic by TVXQ, it features a trendy Y2K-inspired sound and the group’s signature soft harmonies.
The lyrics, which express the desire to hold you close and stay by your side, are sure to warm your heart.
It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to with someone special.