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 songs from Korea. Hit song roundup (391–400)
하늘 여행이찬원
The song that Lee Chang-won produced himself is a message piece imbued with the wish for an elderly couple, in the twilight of their lives, to be reunited.
The anecdote that he wrote and composed it in tears conveys just how deeply he felt during its creation.
Included on his second mini-album “bright; San,” the track features emotionally rich vocals delivered with profound feeling that truly move the listener.
Known as a trot singer from Korea, his distinctive voice beautifully expresses the dignity of a couple spending the final stage of life side by side.
It’s a song I highly recommend to anyone who holds someone dear in their heart.
If We Ever Meet Again (다시 만날 수 있을까)임영웅(Lim Young Woong)
The number “If We Ever Meet Again” by trot singer Lim Young-woong is a massive hit in his home country.
It’s the title track from his first album, IM HERO, and upon its release in May 2022, it enjoyed a long run on various charts.
Written and composed by singer Lee Juck, the song is a ballad that conveys the heartbreak of being able to do nothing but watch someone leave.
Anyone who has experienced a parting tinged with regret will likely find it deeply relatable.
Lim Young-woong’s emotionally rich vocals make the song resonate even more.
Come backSuzy
A gem of a ballad that meticulously portrays the longing to be reunited with a loved one.
Released in February 2025 as her new work, the accomplished Korean artist Bae Suzy marks her return to the music scene after about two years.
With its delicate and graceful vocals, this piece beautifully expresses both yearning and loneliness, resonating deeply with listeners.
She is also set to star in the highly anticipated Netflix original drama “Everything Will Come True,” and this song offers a glimpse of a new side to Suzy, who thrives across multiple fields.
A warm track that accompanies quiet nights spent thinking of someone dear.
Thirstyaespa
The medium-tempo track “Thirsty” wraps you in a pleasant, falling sensation.
It was included on the third mini-album “MY WORLD,” released on May 8, 2023.
The mellow melody line is striking, and it feels like songs in this vein might gradually increase.
It’s especially recommended if you liked the remake track “Forever”! You’ll be captivated by aespa’s signature, dreamy-sweet vocal work.
While the song has a mature mood and stylish vibe, the music video charmingly showcases the members’ playful, bubbly side.
Heavenly fateLEE CHANGSUB
A soundtrack for a webtoon crafted by Lee Changsub from South Korea.
Known as the lead vocalist of BTOB, his voice vividly portrays a bittersweet tale of heartbreak.
Set to a beautiful melody woven by strings and guitar, it expresses the regret of not being able to protect a loved one, while still wishing them happiness.
Released in February 2024, the song highlights his matured vocals as he marks his 12th debut anniversary.
With lyrics and composition by Yoo Haejoon and arrangement by AIMING, it becomes a deeply moving piece.
Recommended for those seeking to heal the pain of a broken heart.
Tears Are FallingNCT WISH
A sweet, bittersweet vocal that resonates in the heart—this is a track by NCT WISH, a six-member Korean-Japanese boy group.
Featured on the June 2024 release Songbird, the song is produced by BoA.
Its warm lyrics leave an impression, expressing the idea that you can smile through tears because you’re together with someone.
With a melodic track and warm vocals, it’s full of positive energy.
Different versions were released in Japan and Korea, making it appealing to enjoy in two languages.
It’s a recommended song for anyone who wants to overcome everyday challenges together with someone.
Little StarPaul Kim
Known for his emotive vocals, Korean artist Paul Kim presents a heartwarming ballad released this spring.
Created as part of a film collaboration project, this piece reimagines Standing Egg’s original song with a fresh arrangement, transforming it into a moving track.
His musicality—delicately capturing life’s many scenes, from cherished everyday moments to feelings of parting—is on full display.
Paul Kim’s clear, expressive voice weaves a melody that resonates deep within the listener and gently envelops them.
Give it a listen when your heart feels tired or when you’re seeking comforting words.
In conclusion
I introduced some trending songs from Korea. Starting with K-pop—led by idols who are captivating audiences worldwide—there were many different types of tracks. It seems idol songs are very popular in both Japan and Korea. But there are plenty of other great numbers too, so if you like, use summaries like this to dig deeper!