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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Trending Korean songs. Hit song compilation (371–380)
TAPTAEYONG
The lead single from Taeyong, an artist from South Korea, off his second mini-album.
It’s a unique hip-hop track that fuses groovy drums and 808 bass with rock- and blues-inspired guitar sounds.
The lyrics convey a playful back-and-forth with the other person, powered by confidence and charm, while hinting at hope for the future.
Phrases that weave in the idea of a digital “tap” leave a strong impression.
The album, released in February 2024, contains six tracks in total.
It’s a song that gives you the courage to shine as yourself, and it’s perfect as BGM for enjoying time on social media.
don’t leave me (거짓말처럼)TOIL, Gist
A moving ballad by Korean American producer Ahn Toil—known as Toil—and rapper Ghist.
Created as an insert song for the film “The 10-Year Farewell” released in May 2024, the piece shines with delicate emotional expression centered on the themes of parting sorrow and the loss of love.
The heartfelt harmonies of Toil and Ghist deftly capture the fleeting nature of love that everyone experiences.
Memories of past happiness and the aching wish to stay together until the very end resonate deeply.
Perfectly synchronized with the film’s scenes, this masterpiece is sure to offer comfort to wounded hearts.
Trending Korean songs: Hit song roundup (381–390)
hey! hey!TWS
TWS, a six-member boy group that debuted in January 2024.
The pre-release track from their 2nd mini album “SUMMER BEAT!” is an upbeat summer song that celebrates refreshing friendship and hope.
The lyrics, carrying a reassuring message of “Let’s run together,” convey the strength of the members’ bonds.
Released in June 2024, the song’s energetic melody is perfect for summer! The music video was filmed in Kamakura, Japan, and the beautiful seaside scenery further enhances the song’s vibe.
Highly recommended as a feel-good, motivational anthem.
T’s RomanceTophyun
A new love story from Korea.
This song woven by Taphyeon is a K-pop number characterized by sweet, emotionally rich vocals.
Released by Kakao Entertainment in July 2024, it delicately captures the flutter of a heart in love.
Its calm yet powerful beats and melodies leave a lasting impression.
Showcasing Taphyeon’s distinctive musicality to the fullest, the track captivates fans with its deep emotional expression and originality.
It’s a recommended listen when you want to be close to someone in love or simply enjoy music quietly.
The First MomentWINTER
A winter ballad marked by a translucent vocal and graceful melody.
Released by Winter in July 2024, the song has drawn attention as part of the soundtrack for the anime Love Hachupin.
It delicately portrays the beginning of pure love, letting listeners relive the flutter and confusion of a first crush.
As a solo track by Winter, a member of the popular Korean group aespa, it’s recommended not only for fans but also for those newly in love or nostalgic for their first romance.
Perfectly aligned with the anime’s world, this song’s dramatic progression is sure to capture your heart.
I Missed You (보고싶었어)WSG WANNABE (Sa-Fire)
This is the debut song by 4FIRE, a team from the women’s group WSG WANNABE born out of MBC’s variety show “Hangout with Yoo?” Composer Cho Young-soo, who has also worked on SG Wannabe’s songs, wrote the music.
It’s a light, R&B-flavored pop track that brightly sings about a bittersweet breakup.
The vocals by singer NAVI, SOLE, Kwon Jin Ah, and comedian Um Ji-yoon are pleasant to listen to, and together with the catchy melody, it makes you want to hum along.
ENGLANDYANGHONGWON
An emotional track released in May 2024 by Yang Hong-won, a standout in the Korean hip-hop scene.
Included on the album SLOWMO, the song reflects on his experiences and struggles at the age of 19.
Its delicate melodic lines layered with lyrics vividly portray the loneliness within.
The realistic depiction of youth will surely resonate with many.
It’s a memorable work filled with Yang Hong-won’s signature musicality—perfect for moments when you want to face yourself or are seeking music that stays close to the heart.