[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!
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[Neutro Song] Korea’s New + Retro Masterpieces: K-POP (11–20)
나로 바꾸자 Switch to me (duet with JYP)RAIN(비)
Rain, an actor and singer active mainly in Asia, is loved by fans worldwide for his stylish looks.
In 2020, he teamed up with music producer J.Y.
Park to create “나로 바꾸자 Switch to me (duet with JYP).” The track features retro synth tones reminiscent of 1990s R&B.
Also noteworthy is how he delivers a love story with a dramatic progression.
With its glamorous yet cool worldbuilding, this song is perfect as nighttime BGM with an urban vibe.
I Feel YouWONDER GIRLS
Wonder Girls, the girl group that sparked the Korean idol boom, also drew attention for their retro-inspired music and fashion.
Among their songs, “I Feel You” is where you can really feel the ‘newtro’ vibe.
It was included on their 2015 album Reboot.
The track is characterized by glittering sounds that light up the night dance floor and club.
Nostalgic synth tones ring out over their sultry vocals.
Be sure to experience this irresistibly danceable disco sound that will set your body and heart in motion.
G999 (feat. Mirani)Munbyoru/MoonByul (Munbyoru)
G999 (feat.
Mirani), released in 2021 by Moonbyul—who is also active as a member of the girl group MAMAMOO—features rapper Mirani.
The track has a somewhat retro atmosphere, blending a hip-hop-inspired beat with bold, dynamic synths.
You’ll be captivated by their skillful rap performances.
It’s a vibrant neo-retro song reminiscent of 1990s hip-hop.
Be sure to give it a listen and dive into its girly, whimsical soundscape.
When We Disco (Duet with 선미)박진영 (J.Y. Park)
J.Y.
Park, who has produced many K-pop artists, and Sunmi released “When We Disco (Duet with Sunmi)” in 2020.
It features a nostalgic melody reminiscent of 1980s disco sounds.
The funky beat may bring to mind a lighted-up dance floor.
It’s a danceable neo-retro song that matches the glittering nighttime vibe.
Be sure to listen for the dramatic story depicting a mature romance.
Star이달의 소녀（LOONA）
Luna is a female idol group with borderless popularity.
They’ve been gaining attention for their global activities, such as filming on location around the world.
Among their songs, the one that exudes a neo-retro vibe is “Star.” It was included on their 2020 album 12:00.
The track features a soft, airy sound with expansive ambient synth tones.
Its retro-tinged melody pairs perfectly with their cute vocals.
Experience this contemporary sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Starlight태일 (TAEIL)
“Starlight,” which was also featured on the soundtrack of the drama Twenty-Five Twenty-One, was created in 2022 by singer Moon Taeil, who is also active as a member of the male idol group NCT.
The song is an emotional piece that captures both the freshness and poignancy of youth.
Its slightly retro vibe and his cool vocals are sure to soothe the heart.
It’s a neo-retro track that colors a story with dramatic twists and turns.
If you like kayōkyoku or pop music, this is a must-check!
[Neutro Songs] Korea’s New + Retro Masterpieces: K-POP (21–30)
YOUTH!!!CATCH THE YOUNG
A track included on the debut mini-album “Catch The Young : Fragments of Youth,” released in 2023 by the boy band Catch The Young.
It’s a pleasant uptempo number with a retro sound that puts synthesizers front and center.
Fresh and breezy, yet exhilarating! You can feel the lively energy and sparkling charm of youth.
It’s a hopeful song that I’d especially recommend to listeners who enjoy that kind of vibe—and to the younger generation in particular.
