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

Happy Hour (퇴근길) (With 권진아)J.Y. Park

박진영 (J.Y. Park) “Happy Hour (퇴근길) (With 권진아)” M/V

Here’s one to listen to when you want to let your shoulders drop at the end of a busy day.

J.Y.

Park, also known as Park Jin-young, released this digital single in November 2025 featuring the sensitive singer-songwriter Kwon Jin-ah.

Set to a warm, country-tinged guitar sound, it carries a message of relief after work and of treating yourself with kindness.

The lyrics capture that comforting feeling you get the moment you step out of the office into the evening air, and they really sink in.

Park Jin-young is also set to hold a solo concert of the same name in Seoul in December, and this track is a centerpiece of the show.

Their beautiful harmonies gently resonate like a reward for all your hard work.

It’s the perfect healing song for those nights when you’re hurrying home and want to give yourself some praise.

Whiplashaespa

aespa 에스파 ‘Whiplash’ MV

A track by the girl group aespa.

It’s characterized by fierce energy and a message brimming with confidence.

Riding a fast EDM beat, it powerfully conveys self-affirmation and individuality.

Released in October 2024 as the title track of their mini-album, it sparked buzz for its music video and choreography, both marked by a striking cyberpunk aesthetic.

The album topped Korea’s Circle Chart.

True to its whip-crack lyrical impact, this song leaves a powerful impression on listeners.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking the courage to stay true to themselves.

휘파람 (WHISTLE)BLACKPINK

BLACKPINK – ‘휘파람 (WHISTLE)’ M/V

This is BLACKPINK’s debut song, and they’ve now become global superstars.

The distinctive rhythm and sound are so fun you’ll find yourself humming along.

It’s a very cool track with a minimalist yet addictive melody! The high-level skills of Jennie, Jisoo, Lisa, and Rosé are a must-see, too.

Released in August 2016, it topped the Korean music charts.

The music video racked up around 10 million views within five days and has continued to grow ever since.

It would bring a sleek, stylish vibe to short-form videos as well.

Highly recommended not only for hip-hop fans but for a wide range of listeners.

Blue ValentineNMIXX

NMIXX(엔믹스) “Blue Valentine” M/V

The title track from NMIXX, the girl group under JYP Entertainment, off their first full-length album “Blue Valentine,” released in October 2025.

Embodying the album’s key theme of the paradox of love, the song paints the pain that comes precisely from loving deeply in shades of “blue.” Opening with melancholic synths, it blends boom‑bap rhythms with pop‑rock‑leaning guitar riffs—an elevated take on NMIXX’s signature “MIXXPOP.” From mid-October, it took first place consecutively on five major Korean music programs and made its presence felt on charts at home and abroad.

A track that stirs listeners’ emotions with a driving sound imbued with poignant sorrow.

Eeny meeny miny moeFIFTY FIFTY

FIFTY FIFTY (피프티피프티) ‘가위바위보(Eeny meeny miny moe)’ Official MV

After achieving a global breakthrough with “Cupid” in 2023 and relaunching with a new lineup in 2024, FIFTY FIFTY released this track in November 2025 as the title song of the digital single “Too Much Part 1.” The lyrics were co-written by Gaho, with arrangement by Charlie McClean and others.

It’s a playful number that overlays the tension of “choosing and being chosen” at the moment of falling in love with the motif of a universally known counting rhyme, while light synths and a bouncy beat make for an easy, pleasing listen.

The music video visualizes the randomness of fate with a colorful “Fate Dealers” theme.

From the highlight medley released on October 28 to a busking performance at COEX on November 2, the staged promotions steadily built anticipation and drew attention.

This song further refines the charm of their polished easy-listening pop.

Dear my X(나의 X에게)Kyoung Seo

[MV] KyoungSeo(경서) _ Dear my X(나의 X에게)

A song distinguished by its guitar tones and clear, translucent vocals.

It was released in April 2022 by the Korean female solo singer KyoungSeo.

The lyrics are captivating, weaving in Korean scenery and culture—places like Garosu-gil and Hangang Park, and even a nod to ‘Cherry Blossom Ending.’ Portraying the ache of heartbreak and the hope of reunion, the song resonated with many and performed well on music charts.

It has also earned support from fellow artists, with Arin of OH MY GIRL among those who covered it.

It’s the perfect track for reminiscing about love or finding strength to move past a farewell with someone dear.

강아지의 달콤한 꿈강아지의 하루

강아지의 달콤한 꿈

Gaeaji’s Day, a rising presence on the Korean social media scene, creates healing music themed around dogs.

One track from the December 2021 album “Puppy Lullaby Music 5” is a delightful 1 minute and 14 seconds long.

Its gentle, unhurried piano tones are soothing, evoking the sweet dreams of a beloved pup.

It’s a perfect match for everyday pet moments, having been used in over 11,000 TikTok videos.

Wrapped in its tender melody, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy a relaxing time with their dog.

Just listening to it is sure to soothe your heart!