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)
GODS ft. NewJeansNewJeans
A track delivered as the official theme song for the global tournament of the multiplayer game League of Legends.
NewJeans, the group leading a new era of K-pop, handled the vocals, and it was released in October 2023.
It’s a grand piece built on a powerful sound.
South Korea has long had a vibrant online gaming scene, and the song reflects a connection to that culture.
Its lyrics evoke the world of LoL and the intensity and rigor of esports, stoking the listener’s fighting spirit.
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!
FlowerOVAN
A standout medium-tempo number released in March 2025 by Obang, a Korean singer-songwriter known for his rich sensibilities.
The gentle tones of the acoustic guitar blend seamlessly with his soft vocals, delivering a message of love and hope.
With delicate melodic lines and a sophisticated arrangement that resonates deeply, this piece is said to have been written by Obang as a proposal to his wife.
Throughout, a quiet yet emotionally stirring soundscape unfolds.
It’s a song that gently embraces life’s transitions and the anticipation of new beginnings—perfect as soothing background music for peaceful moments or when thinking of someone special.
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.