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[Nutosong] Korea’s New + Retro Masterpieces · K-POP
Korea’s “newtro” culture, which has drawn attention especially with its surge in popularity since 2019.
In this article, we’ll spotlight K-pop tracks where you can really feel that newtro vibe.
A fresh sensation born from a fusion of new and retro!
It’s a culture emblematic of the Reiwa era’s beginning, popular mainly among millennials and younger (teens to 30s), and embraced in areas like fashion and lifestyle as well.
In music, you’ll find soothing tracks influenced by city pop, and glittering, dazzling soundscapes centered on synthesizers—sure to get your heart racing.
Let’s dive in and enjoy the charm of these newtro songs!
[Neutro Song] Korea’s New + Retro Masterpieces: K-POP (1–10)
KNOCK (With PARKMOONCHI(박문치))Gwon Jina (Kuwon Jina)
Singer Kwon Jin-ah, who drew attention after appearing on the audition program K-POP Star Season 3, released this track, KNOCK, in 2021.
Its groovy sound, highlighted by airy synth tones, is striking.
The song delivers a retro disco vibe reminiscent of 1980s city pop.
Her soft, reverb-laden vocals are soothing, too.
Set over a pulsing, undulating bass line, it’s the kind of track that will make your body sway before you know it—so be sure to give it a listen.
I CAN’T STOP METwice
TWICE is a girl group loved by music fans around the world, transcending the bounds of Asia.
They’re known for their dazzling looks and live performances.
Their track “I CAN’T STOP ME” was included on the 2020 album Eyes wide open.
It’s an electronica piece with an exotic atmosphere.
The group’s vocals, which convey a strong will, pair perfectly with the groovy synth tones.
Why not give this neo-retro song, packed with the unique charm of K-pop, a listen?
Blue HourTXT(TOMORROW X TOGETHER)
TOMORROW X TOGETHER is a male idol group that captivates listeners with outstanding vocal and dance performances.
This track was produced as the title song for their 2020 mini-album “minisode1: Blue Hour.” A four-on-the-floor funky beat rings out alongside groovy guitar and bass tones.
It’s a song where a retro, disco-inspired sound perfectly meshes with modern synths and vocals.
Why not give this colorful K-pop that makes your heart and body sway a listen?
Last night storyIU
Singer IU, who enjoys overwhelming popularity in Korea to the point of being called the “Nation’s Little Sister,” also thrives as an actress, making the most of her cute looks.
Featured on her 2017 album A Flower Bookmark 2 is Last Night Story, a modern cover of a hit by the Korean male idol group Sobangcha that helped accelerate the rise of Korea’s “newtro” culture.
The snappy guitar and synth tones riding the danceable beat are seriously addictive.
Why not give it a listen alongside her coquettish, captivating vocals?
We Ride(운전만해)Brave Girls
Brave Girls are a female idol group delivering songs that cross over hip-hop and electronica.
Among their tracks, the one that best captures the momentum of Korea’s newtro culture is 2020’s “We Ride.” Its glamorous, urban-tinged sound pairs perfectly with their elegant choral work.
It’s an upbeat dance number featuring airy, floating synth tones.
Be sure to check out this newtro song—perfect for neon-lit cityscapes and clubhouses.
Love In SpaceCherry Bullet
If you’re looking for a K‑pop song with a “newtro” vibe, I recommend Love In Space.
It’s included on Cherry Bullet’s 2022 mini album Cherry Wish; Cherry Bullet is a girl group with members from Korea and Japan.
The track features a hefty, EDM‑like beat layered with soft, airy synths.
Their idol-perfect, cute vocals are soothing, too.
Give this newtro song with a retro disco feel a listen.
Ring RingRocket Punch
Rocket Punch is a girl idol group composed of members from Japan and South Korea.
They debuted in 2019 and are active mainly across Asia.
In 2021, they released Ring Ring.
Shimmering synths that light up the night cityscape resound throughout the track.
Their refreshing vocals, perfectly matched with the danceable beat, are sure to soothe you.
It’s a number packed with charm, featuring a melody line that carries a hint of nostalgia.
Give this girly, newtro song a listen.