[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!
- K-pop to color your Instagram stories: recommended Korean songs
- A Classic of Korean City Pop [KOREAN CITY POP]
- The evolution still hasn’t stopped! K-pop tracks recommended for the Yutori generation
- [Korean Oldies · Genre-Free] Songs from Korea you’ll want to listen to now—nostalgic Korean tracks
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- Trendy songs in South Korea: A roundup of hit songs
- Stylish K-pop and Korean songs. Songs with a nice vibe.
- An emotional Korean song. A gently moving, sensitive masterpiece.
- [K-R&B] A Special Feature on Classic Korean R&B Songs
- [Youth Songs] Various K-POP & Korean Youth Anthems
- Cute K-pop and Korean songs: heartwarming, energizing, and heart-throbbing tunes
- Popular songs on Korean TikTok & K-pop and trending tracks
- An addictive K-POP special
[Neutro Song] Korea’s New + Retro Masterpieces: K-POP (1–10)
NEONYUKIKA
Yukika made her solo debut as a singer in South Korea in 2019.
In Japan, she has also been active across a wide range of fields as an actress and model.
Among her songs, “NEON” exudes a distinctly retro vibe.
Its airy sound evokes 1980s city pop.
Paired with her translucent vocals, it offers an experience that feels both nostalgic and new.
It’s a track packed with the charm of kayōkyoku and Showa-era idol songs.
Be sure to give this urban, neo-retro song a listen—it conjures images of the city at night.
보라빛 밤 (pporappippam)SUNMI
Sunmi, a singer from the former girl group Wonder Girls, captivates listeners with dynamic performances of singing and dance.
In 2020, she released “pporappippam,” characterized by a funky beat reminiscent of disco.
With rhythmic guitar work and a metallic bassline, it offers a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Her coquettish vocals are irresistibly showcased throughout.
DilemmaRainbow note
The perfect song for anyone looking for something nostalgically fresh in the neo-retro vein is “Dilemma.” It was released in 2021 by Rainbow Note, a city pop duo formed by vocalist Ahn Seul-hee and keyboardist Lee Sara.
Shimmering synths ring out like lights coloring the city at night.
You’ll feel the neo-retro vibe in the funky beat, the unfolding guitar lines, and the pulsing bass.
The bright, cute vocals are sure to soothe you, too.
Dive into a K-pop sound world that makes the most of disco influences.
[Neutro Song] Korea’s New + Retro Masterpieces: K-POP (11–20)
LA DI DAEVERGLOW
EVERGLOW is a girl group attracting attention not only in Korea but also in the West.
They are known for their overwhelming performances that make full use of their stunning looks.
LA DI DA is included on their 2020 album -77.82X-78.29.
It’s a deep electronica track featuring dynamic synths.
From lead vocals to harmonies and rap parts, the song showcases radiant choral work throughout.
Be sure to check out this K-pop that hints at the dawn of a new era.
SET ME FREELadies’ Code
Ladies’ Code is a female idol group that was active in the 2010s.
Their dramatic performances—showcasing both vocals and dance—won over many listeners.
The title track produced for their 2019 mini-album is “SET ME FREE.” Over a heavy beat, radiant synths evoke the flair of EDM, while the somewhat nostalgic melody line keeps things cool.
It’s a newtro song that lets their cute vocals shine.
Give this deep, urban-tinged electronica a listen.
Thumbs Upmomoland
If you’re looking for a groovy, feel-good newtro song that evokes a glamorous dance floor, “Thumbs Up” is a great pick.
It was released in 2019 by the girl group MOMOLAND, named after the fairy tale Momo.
The track features a funky sound with bright brass band tones.
Their glossy, cute choral work is soothing, while the hefty beat makes it irresistibly danceable.
It’s a number packed with a charm that’s both nostalgic and fresh—be sure to check it out.
90’s LoveNCT U
NCT is a global group made up of multinational members.
One of the tracks included on their 2020 album “RESONANCE Pt.
2” is “90’s Love.” It’s a song that blends the sounds of 1990s hip-hop and R&B with contemporary electronica.
Their aggressive rap is etched into a heavy beat, creating a cool and energetic neo-retro track.
Be sure to pay attention to the lyrics, which convey a straightforward longing for both the past and the future.