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 collection (281–290)
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.
number one girlROSÉ
Through this work, Rosé delicately expresses her inner emotions.
It’s a ballad themed around the longing for love, and it resonates deeply.
Released in November 2024, the song is included on her first solo full-length album, “rosie,” which came out in December.
The track was produced by Bruno Mars, with Rosé herself participating in both the songwriting and composition.
In the music video, her subtle expressions stand out against the backdrop of Seoul’s nightscape.
It’s especially recommended for those who have experienced heartbreak or are seeking to discover their own self-worth.
toxic till the endROSÉ
A love song from Rose, who made waves with “APT.,” that captures fans’ hearts.
In this new release, she sings about both the toxicity and allure of romance.
With a fresh arrangement that fuses pop and indie rock, it also boasts a cinematic atmosphere.
Included on the album “rosie,” released in December 2024, the track drew major attention in Japan.
The must-see music video features actor Evan Mock, known for the film Gossip Girl.
The lyrics, portraying emotional conflict and dependency, are sure to resonate with anyone who’s experienced complicated love.
On The GroundROSÉ
In 2021, many solo tracks became hits, and Rosé—BLACKPINK’s main vocalist—also saw success with “On The Ground,” included on her solo debut single.
Released in March, it ranked 47th on Melon’s year-end chart.
The song suits Rosé, whose voice is deeply rooted yet beautifully refined within the group.
Brimming with the energy to live strongly, it finds meaning in everything on the ground.
It even evokes an image of the world opening up.
After listening, you’ll surely be wrapped in a forward-looking, positive feeling.
Chill KillRed Velvet
This is the title track of the 3rd full album, “Chill Kill.” It features a horror-tinged concept that’s quintessentially Red Velvet.
The contrast between the dark verses and the catchy chorus, along with the mysterious coexistence of darkness and brightness, leaves a strong impression.
The title itself—combining “chill,” evoking relaxation, and “kill,” meaning to break or destroy—may also express that duality.
It also feels infused with themes of change and new beginnings.
The storytelling is rich, so be sure to watch it together with the music video.
음악의 신SEVENTEEN
SEVENTEEN is a male idol group that holds solo tours around the world, including in South Korea and Japan.
The title track from their 2023 album “SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN” is “God of Music” (음악의 신).
With the theme of uniting the world through music, it delivers the message: “Let’s enjoy singing and dancing together!” It’s K-pop that portrays everyone sharing happy moments.
Set to a dance beat enriched with a glamorous horn section, their radiant smiles unfold through lush choral work—give it a listen.
