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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 Korean songs. Hit song compilation (301–310)

When you aloneWoody

[MV] Woody(우디) _ When you alone(혹시 세상에 혼자 남겨진 것 같다면)
When you aloneWoody

A medium-tempo rock tune released in April 2024 by singer-songwriter Woody, known for hits like “If This Song Played in the Club.” It’s his first new track since moving to Gold Moon Entertainment.

The message reaches a heart so exhausted it feels left alone in the world.

The lyrics offer uplifting words like “No rain lasts forever” and “Let’s take each other’s hand and walk,” which truly resonate.

It’s a song that also overlaps with themes of what remains and the pain of a final farewell.

The performance creates an emotional atmosphere, and Woody’s sweet yet passionate vocals are empowering.

FORM(폼미쳤다)YoungTak

[MV] YOUNGTAK(영탁) _ FORM(폼미쳤다)
FORM(폼미쳤다)YoungTak

The title track from the second full-length album released in 2023.

Although Yeontak rose to fame through a trot survival show, he works on all-around music, and this one is crafted as a modern K-pop–style dance number.

The phrase “폼 미쳤다,” which spread from the sports world and really took off thanks to YouTubers—meaning something like “that’s insanely good” or “seriously awesome”—has come to be used frequently.

Centering on that phrase, the self-encouraging lyrics and unique expressions are truly uplifting!

In BloomZEROBASEONE

ZEROBASEONE (제로베이스원) ‘In Bloom’ MV
In BloomZEROBASEONE

ZEROBASEONE is a nine-member boy group selected through the Korean survival audition program BOYS PLANET.

They are a multinational group composed of six Koreans, two Chinese members, and one Canadian.

In Bloom is a refreshing pop track that showcases each member’s individuality to the fullest.

While the track features a straightforward structure emblematic of classic K-pop, the members’ diverse vocal timbres keep it engaging from start to finish.

Don`t you know(PROD.ROCOBERRY)ZO ZAZZ

[MV] ZO ZAZZ(조째즈) _ Don`t you know(PROD.ROCOBERRY)(모르시나요(PROD.로코베리))
Don`t you know(PROD.ROCOBERRY)ZO ZAZZ

An unconventional genius who burst onto the Korean music scene.

Debuting in January 2025, this track has drawn attention for his powerful, emotive ballad vocals that carry the original song.

The grand orchestral soundscape interwoven with his rich, husky voice creates a world steeped in poignancy, evoking the sorrow of parting from someone dear.

Arranged by Ahn Young-min and performed by a 50-piece orchestra, the expansive sound blends seamlessly with his vocal prowess.

Originally known as a Davichi song from the drama IRIS 2’s OST, this version offers a fresh, male-perspective interpretation.

It has surpassed 5 million views on YouTube and is gaining traction on domestic rebound charts.

Highly recommended for those who love ballads that resonate deep in the heart.

UNLOVE (prod. HONNE)Zion.T

Zion.T – ‘UNLOVE (prod. HONNE)’ M/V
UNLOVE (prod. HONNE)Zion.T

Zion.T, an R&B singer garnering worldwide attention.

Let me introduce “UNLOVE (prod.

HONNE)” from his album Zip.

It’s one of the three title tracks alongside “Unknown People” and “V (Peace) (feat.

AKMU),” and it portrays deep love and heartbreak.

The contrast between the light, breezy melody and the heartrending lyrics is especially compelling.

Their well-synced performance with HONNE is another highlight.

V (Peace) (feat. AKMU)Zion.T

Zion.T – ‘V (Peace) (feat. AKMU)’ M/V
V (Peace) (feat. AKMU)Zion.T

Zion.T, who has gained popularity with his sophisticated R&B-based tracks, released this song as one of the three title tracks from his third full-length album “Zip,” which came out in December 2023.

The lyrics seem to depict relationships with friends or a romantic partner, conveying a message of wanting to keep getting along well in the future.

In addition to incorporating Japanese, the music video was filmed in Japan, featuring a number of Japanese artists, which gives it a familiar feel.

It’s said to be influenced by the Shibuya-kei sound, and its slightly airy stylishness and laid-back vibe are charming and comfortable.

모르는 사람Zion.T

Zion.T – ‘모르는 사람’ M/V
모르는 사람Zion.T

Zion.T, an R&B singer popular especially among younger generations in South Korea.

Released as one of the triple title tracks from his third full-length album “Zip,” his first in two years since 2021.

The title means a stranger or an outsider, and the song portrays a lonely state of mind with the theme of being alone.

The contrast with its retro, jazz-tinged sound creates a uniquely intriguing atmosphere.

The music video is distinctive as well.

If you like slightly offbeat, ennui-infused tracks, be sure to check it out.