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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!

Trendy songs from Korea. Hit song collection (281–290)

Go for a Walk(산책)Sung Si Kyung(성시경)

[MV] Sung Si Kyung(성시경) – Go for a Walk(산책)
Go for a Walk(산책)Sung Si Kyung(성시경)

A singer who commands overwhelming support for ballads, Sung Si-kyung released this heartrending love ballad in June 2024.

It came out as a remake track for producer Shim Hyun-bo’s 25th-anniversary project, “About Love.” Originally sung from a woman’s perspective by Park Ki-young, this version shifts to a man’s point of view, suffusing the song with deep emotion.

It evokes memories and scenes with someone dear to you, from ordinary days to moments of drifting apart.

Be sure to pay attention to the music video as well, whose visual storytelling conveys a sense of connection even amid heartbreak.

Shoong! (feat. LISA of BLACKPINK)TAEYANG

TAEYANG – ‘Shoong! (feat. LISA of BLACKPINK)’ PERFORMANCE VIDEO
Shoong! (feat. LISA of BLACKPINK)TAEYANG

A mid-tempo track by BIGBANG’s Taeyang—an artist who’s hugely influential for performers—featuring BLACKPINK’s Lisa.

It’s a true charisma-filled collaboration! Alongside its dance-forward, wild allure, the R&B, Western-style flavor feels sleek.

It’s a love song that portrays being head over heels for someone.

The Lamborghini reference conveys an intensity of feeling.

The sweet, airy vocals are pleasant, wrapping the song in a mature mood while keeping it energetic.

VIBE (feat. Jimin of BTS)TAEYANG

TAEYANG – ‘VIBE (feat. Jimin of BTS)’ M/V
VIBE (feat. Jimin of BTS)TAEYANG

Romantic, mellow songs are great, aren’t they? They’re perfect for all kinds of moments, like in the morning or before bed.

With that in mind, I want to introduce “VIBE (feat.

Jimin of BTS).” It’s a track by Taeyang of BIGBANG featuring Jimin from BTS.

Over a chill beat, it expresses the feelings of a man who’s fallen in love at first sight.

There’s also an acoustic version available, so be sure to check that out too.

Trendy Songs from Korea: Hit Song Compilation (291–300)

WeekendTaeyeon

TAEYEON 태연 ‘Weekend’ MV
WeekendTaeyeon

Weekend, which became the biggest hit solo track by a girl group member in 2021.

It’s a single released in July by Taeyeon, a Girls’ Generation member and one of Korea’s premier vocalists.

It ranked 35th on Melon’s year-end chart.

The fresh dance number features a breezy sound with a hint of funk that feels delightful.

The lyrics about weekend fun and Taeyeon’s soft, richly colored vocals are guaranteed to lift your mood! Perfect as travel BGM, for unplanned free time, and even in the middle of a busy day.

It lightens the heart and refreshes you.

JIKJINTREASURE

TREASURE – ‘직진 (JIKJIN)’ M/V
JIKJINTREASURE

TREASURE, formed with members selected from the Korean survival show “YG Treasure Box.” Among their songs, the most addictive is “JIKJIN.” It portrays moments when passionate feelings for someone spill over, unfolding phrases that mean “go straight ahead” over a heavy dance beat.

Also pay attention to the sensual vocals that highlight each member’s singing ability, etched into the hip-hop–style track.

It’s a number that builds the heat, especially with the accelerating passion in the latter half’s dance break.

SET ME FREETwice

TWICE “SET ME FREE” M/V
SET ME FREETwice

TWICE is a nine-member girl group.

Their tear pose from their 2016 release “TT” created quite a buzz! Since then, they’ve appeared frequently on news and music programs, drawing even more attention.

Their 2023 release “SET ME FREE” features a disco sound and feels like a track that will further accelerate their popularity.

From the very first synth notes in the intro, the song pulls you in—it’s so addictive you’ll want to replay it over and over after just one listen!

Slow DancingV

V ‘Slow Dancing’ Official MV
Slow DancingV

A number released in 2023 by BTS’s V, overflowing with charismatic charm.

It serves as the title track of his first solo album, “Layover.” Built on a 1970s soul music foundation, the sound creates a stylish mood that stands out across the album.

You’ll be wrapped in a dreamy, gently drifting sense of comfort.

The relaxed vibe of the song evokes sweet romance and a brief moment of rest.

V’s alluring, sexy voice is both soothing and strikingly cool.

The music video—where you can also feel his gentle side, such as his love for dogs—is wonderful too, so be sure to watch it along with the song.