RAG MusicK-POP
Lovely K-pop

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 Collection (351–360)

WAY 4 LUVPLAVE

PLAVE(플레이브) ‘WAY 4 LUV’ M/V
WAY 4 LUVPLAVE

The lead track from Korean virtual boy group PLAVE’s second mini album, “ASTERUM: 134-1,” following their March 2023 debut.

Released in February 2024, the song was produced and written by the members themselves.

With a sound close to soft rock, its lyrics—centered on a journey in search of love—leave a strong impression.

The cinematic storytelling and beautiful imagery are deeply moving.

The group’s popularity has surged, including their first-ever music show win on Show Champion after debut.

It’s a track that lets you fully immerse yourself in a romantic world, perfect for a drive date with your partner.

PleasePark won

[Special Clip] 박원 – 부디 (viewfinder ver.)
PleasePark won

A sweet yet bittersweet voice that resonates in the heart—Park Won’s number.

Released in July 2024, this song delicately portrays love and the pain of parting.

Showcasing the talent and sensibility of the Korea-born singer-songwriter and producer, the piece features a melody woven with tenderness and wistfulness.

It expresses the paradox of love within self-sacrifice, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

It was also used as an insert song in the popular Korean drama “Snowdrop,” further elevating the show’s most moving scenes.

A perfect track for those experiencing the anguish and conflicts of love.

FAKE IDOLQWER

QWER ‘가짜 아이돌’ Official MV
FAKE IDOLQWER

A rising girl band from Korea, Kwo, is gaining attention with their latest track.

It’s a catchy pop-rock number and the lead single from their mini-album released in September 2024.

Featuring clap beats and a brisk tempo, the song exudes a playful vibe with touches of humor.

This work carries messages about today’s music industry and idol culture, conveying resilience against shallow criticism and an emphasis on valuing connections with listeners.

The music video is also captivating, packed with visual fun through chaotic sets and varied production.

It’s a recommended track for those seeking a lively rhythm paired with a powerful message.

Trending Korean songs: Hit song collection (361–370)

My Name Is MalguemQWER

QWER ‘내 이름 맑음’ Official MV
My Name Is MalguemQWER

A September 2024 release by K-quell, a four-member Korean girl band.

It’s the title track of their mini-album “Algorithm’s Blossom,” with (G)I-DLE’s Soyeon participating in both lyrics and composition.

The song tells of the determination to face forward and move past the pain of heartbreak, featuring a refreshing sound and delicate vocals.

As the title suggests—meaning “My name is Sunny”—it’s infused with hope for a bright future.

It was well-received right after release, entering the top five on the Melon chart.

It’s a great track to listen to when you’re on the verge of breaking, one that gives you courage.

9 DaysRIIZE

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘9 Days’ MV
9 DaysRIIZE

This song features a poignant, passionate melody that leaves a strong impression.

Included on RIIZE’s first mini-album, “RIIZING,” it expresses the feelings of young people pursuing their dreams.

Set for release in April 2024, the track showcases the growth of the seven-member boy group from Korea.

RIIZE has been drawing attention as SM Entertainment’s first new group in seven years since NCT.

With member Shotaro from Japan among them, their vocals are sure to resonate.

Recommended for anyone who cherishes each day.

Love 119RIIZE

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘Love 119’ MV
Love 119RIIZE

This is a song released in January 2024 by RIIZE, a seven-member boy group from South Korea.

It features a memorable piano melody and rhythmic beat, creating a sound that captures the flutter of falling in love.

The lyrics use expressions that liken the excitement of love to an emergency, and describe the feeling of someone standing out in a crowd, bringing back memories of a bittersweet first love.

The music video was reportedly filmed in Japan and has visuals that convey the brilliance of youth.

It’s a perfect track for anyone who wants to feel the thrill of romance.

One KissRIIZE

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘One Kiss’ MV
One KissRIIZE

This is a fan-centered song by the seven-member Korean boy group RIIZE.

Released in April 2024, it’s included on their 1st mini album, RIIZING.

It’s a mid-tempo pop track with an addictive rhythm and melody, powerful drums, and emotional lyrics that depict two people pledging eternal love.

The music video, filmed in Lisbon, Portugal, conveys the members’ desire to cherish their memories and deepen their bond with fans.

It’s the perfect song to end a happy day spent with someone special.

RIIZE debuted in September 2023 and has quickly gained popularity, achieving million-seller status.