Popular K-pop and Korean songs that brighten up YouTube Shorts

바람 (Wish)Choi Yu Ree

[갯마을 차차차 OST Part 4] 최유리 (Choi Yu Ree) – 바람 (Wish) MV

This is a ballad by singer-songwriter Choi Yu-ri.

The melody is simple and touching, conveying the yearning for a bittersweet kind of love.

Released in September 2021 as part of the OST for the popular drama “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha,” it moved many viewers.

Choi Yu-ri wrote and composed the song herself, showcasing her delicate sensibility.

The lyrics, which portray pure love, are highly relatable and fit perfectly with the drama’s world.

It’s recommended for times when you want to feel a bond with someone special or are seeking music that stays close to the heart.

DUETZICO, Lilas (Ikuta Rira)

ZICO (지코), Lilas (YOASOBI’s ikura) ‘DUET’ Official MV

This talked-about release teams up Zico—renowned as both a rapper and producer—and Lila Ikuta, one of Japan’s leading singer-songwriters.

Dropped in December 2025, the collaboration single also drew attention for its comical dance in the music video.

Riding a dazzling track that fuses hip-hop and pop to perfection, their rap and vocals playfully trade lines like a real conversation.

As their voices blend beyond borders and language barriers, just listening makes your heart lift.

It sparked a huge reaction, including a performance on the year-end Music Station SUPER LIVE 2025.

Highly recommended if you’re looking for an uplifting duet.

DRIPBABYMONSTER

BABYMONSTER – ‘DRIP’ M/V

A track by BABYMONSTER, a seven-member girl group that debuted in 2023 from South Korea.

Signed to YG Entertainment, they’ve been in the spotlight as the next big act following BLACKPINK.

The song fuses EDM and hip-hop, showcasing a confident attitude and YG’s signature sound.

G-DRAGON participated in the composition, and the addictive hook and hard-hitting beat leave a strong impression.

Released as the title track of the album “DRIP” in November 2024, it created a major buzz.

Its popularity has been growing especially through dance videos, and with powerful performances and cool lyrics, it’s recommended for anyone who wants a boost of confidence.

SPAGHETTI (feat. j-hope of BTS)LE SSERAFIM

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) ‘SPAGHETTI (feat. j-hope of BTS)’ OFFICIAL MV

A track featuring BTS’s j-hope was released in October 2025.

Issued as the title track of the group’s first single album, “Spaghetti,” it blends alternative pop and funk, weaving bouncing bass with tight, hard-edged drums.

Packed into a runtime of just over two minutes, the song is engineered for high addictiveness, delivering hook after hook.

Like spaghetti intertwining, the lyrics unfold self-referential metaphors—“it won’t leave your head,” “it’s addictive”—positioning LE SSERAFIM themselves as an irresistible presence.

The concept is intriguing, and international reception has been strong, including their first-ever top-50 entry on the UK charts.

It’s a track that showcases a fresh charm—pop-savvy with a vibrant street feel.

오늘만 I LOVE YOUBOYNEXTDOOR

BOYNEXTDOOR (보이넥스트도어) ‘오늘만 I LOVE YOU’ Official MV

A track that stands out with its cute pop sound and bittersweet lyrics, packed with BOYNEXTDOOR’s charm.

Released as a digital single in January 2025, members Taesan and Woonhak took part in the songwriting and composition.

The music video drew attention, even being shown on Shinsegae Department Store’s digital billboards.

Centered on themes of self-loathing and lingering feelings after a breakup, it’s a great pick when you want to sort through your emotions post-heartbreak.

Trying a dance challenge on TikTok could be fun, too.

Recommended for those who love a sweet-and-sour vibe.

BBUU!PLAVE

PLAVE ‘BBUU!’ M/V

A breezy R&B-pop track from PLAYB, a five-member virtual boy group that has been active since their debut in March 2023.

It was included as the title track of their single album “PLBBUU,” released in November 2025.

This song is a collaboration with Sanrio Characters, and its cute, whimsical world has been generating buzz.

Its popularity is evident from the over 1.09 million copies sold in its first week.

The lyrics count love through numbers, expressing a pure emotion overflowing with reasons to like someone—just listening is enough to make your heart flutter.

The members themselves took part in the production, resulting in a sound full of playfulness and charm.

It’s perfect for when you want to feel upbeat or need a boost of energy.

HOME SWEET HOME (feat. TAEYANG & DAESUNG)G-DRAGON

G-DRAGON – HOME SWEET HOME (Official Audio) (feat. TAEYANG & DAESUNG)

A long-awaited collaboration track with BIGBANG members by G-DRAGON, who has led the Korean music scene.

It’s a song filled with a warm message that says, “We’re back.” Released in November 2024 and featuring Taeyang and Daesung, the track is truly one fans have been waiting for.

Even amid a changing music landscape, it conveys a steadfast commitment to his own musical identity and a determination to walk forward together with his bandmates.

Their three-member performance at the 2024 MAMA Awards moved many fans.

It’s a heartwarming song that lets you feel their deep love for music and the bond among the members.