Recommended K-pop for the morning: Korean wake-up songs

Wakey WakeyLucy

[MV] LUCY – 잠깨 / ENG sub

A new release from Korean indie band LUCY in March 2025, marked by a catchy pop melody intertwined with violin lines.

Led by violinist Shin Ye-chan, the four-piece delivers a dazzling sound that culminates in an exhilarating track.

Light, nimble piano phrases and clear, translucent vocals create a pleasant atmosphere that evokes the arrival of spring.

From their 2020 debut “Dear.” to albums like “PANORAMA,” this song showcases the musical maturity they’ve steadily built while growing their fanbase.

Centered on the theme of waking up in the morning and expressing a positive mindset, it’s perfect for a morning drive or your commute to school or work.

WISH (Korean Ver.)NCT WISH

NCT WISH 엔시티 위시 ‘WISH (Korean Ver.)’ MV

It’s the debut song of the boy group NCT WISH.

Set to a refreshing melody, it portrays young people charging forward toward their dreams.

The powerful message, “The future is in my hands,” is especially striking.

Released in February 2024, the track dominated the charts in both Japan and Korea, achieving the remarkable feat of 370,000 pre-orders.

If you need the courage to dive into a new environment, this song is sure to lift your spirits.

A highly recommended track for anyone who wants to keep moving forward.

Glow UpRESCENE

RESCENE (리센느) ‘Glow Up’ Official MV

A pop number released from girl group RESCENE’s 2nd mini album, “Glow Up.” Centered on the theme of a soap fragrance, it weaves a fresh blend of translucent purity and a wish for self-growth.

Released in February 2025, the track has been gaining international recognition, including being selected as one of the Top 10 artists to watch in the Pop category for Apple Music and Shazam’s “Shazam Fast Forward 2025.” Its dreamy melody and addictive hook intertwine exquisitely, stirring up a positive feeling.

Perfect for when you want to feel upbeat or take that first step in the morning.

days like today2AM

2AM “days like today(오늘따라)” M/V

2AM is a four-member male idol group that debuted in 2008.

“days like today” is a wake-up song I recommend for anyone who wants a relaxing morning.

Although it’s a bittersweet track that sings about longing for someone unforgettable, it’s also perfect for spending a quiet morning.

One and OnlyBOYNEXTDOOR

BOYNEXTDOOR (보이넥스트도어) ‘One and Only’ Official MV

Like the dazzling light of morning, here comes a refreshing pop tune that’s perfect for waking up.

Debuting from Korea in 2023 and drawing attention, BOYNEXTDOOR delivers this track produced by ZICO, a fun number that makes you want to dance as it captures the thrill right before a confession.

It’s included on their 1st single “WHO!” and showcases the harmonies and dance performances of the six members.

The choreography cleverly incorporates opening and closing doors, and a dance challenge video with LE SSERAFIM has also been released, adding a fresh twist.

It’s a lively song you’ll want to hear first thing in the morning—why not add it to your playlist?

Awesome dayGHOST9

GHOST9 – 째깍째깍 (Awesome day) (Official Lyric Video)

It’s a bright and positive track from GHOST9 that’s perfect for the morning.

It encourages you to forget everyday worries and enjoy the present moment, and just listening to it is sure to lift your spirits.

Released in June 2024, it features a pop sound with a striking funky guitar riff.

In the music video, the members are shown having fun at the beach, conveying a sense of summer freedom.

It’s an energetic song that’s just right for welcoming a new day.

Good luckPeppertones

페퍼톤스 – 행운을 빌어요. PPTNZ 4th ‘Beginner’s Luck’ title

Peppertones’ “Good Luck” is a wake-up song I recommend for anyone who wants to start their morning with energy.

The sounds Peppertones create share a lot in common with J-pop, so even those who aren’t very interested in K-pop can enjoy it without hesitation.

Be sure to give it a listen.