[2026] A roundup of popular K-POP hits that were trending this year

POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Since its expansion into Japan in the late 2000s, it has spread widely and become a major genre, especially among younger generations.

It has also gained popularity as part of the “oshi-katsu” movement (supporting one’s favorite artists).

In recent years, it has shown explosive growth, even appearing on the lineups of major music festivals and drawing in Western music fans who hadn’t listened to K-pop before.

Collaborations with artists from Japan and around the world are also increasing, further expanding its appeal.

In this article, we’ve compiled both “representative tracks to watch this year” and “past hit songs,” recommended not only for longtime fans but also for those who’ve recently become interested in K-pop.

Enjoy!

【2026】A Roundup of This Year’s Hit K-POP Songs (41–50)

특(S-Class)Stray Kids

Stray Kids “특(S-Class)” M/V

특(S-Class)Stray Kids

Stray Kids is a boy group that enjoys immense popularity in Japan as well.

From their album “★★★★★ (5-STAR),” we’re introducing “특 (S-Class).” This track features a dark sound with heavy bass that feels like it expresses one’s inner emotions.

The lyrics depict the passion of striving toward one’s goals and the inner conflicts that arise along the way.

Listening to it might give you courage and strength.

Also, don’t miss their hallmark perfectly synchronized performance.

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Beautiful StrangersTOMORROW X TOGETHER

TXT (투모로우바이투게더) ‘Beautiful Strangers’ Official MV

Beautiful StrangersTOMORROW X TOGETHER

An inspiring song where each other’s existence becomes a light in a collapsing world.

Featured on the album “The Star Chapter: TOGETHER,” released in July 2025, this track captivates with a grand soundscape woven from dreamy piano and explosive synths.

Many listeners will likely feel their hearts swell at the lyrics depicting two “beautiful strangers” drawn powerfully to one another as their bond deepens.

The story of trying to save one’s companions while being hunted by the system reminds us of the preciousness of human connection in today’s loneliness-filled world.

Listen to it on a night when you yearn to share your feelings with someone, and you may find a warm light kindling in your heart.

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Do the DanceILLIT

ILLIT (아일릿) ‘빌려온 고양이 (Do the Dance)’ Official MV

Do the DanceILLIT

@illit_official
#보이넥스트도어 에서 #빌려온고양이 #성호 선배님😼 @boynextdoor_official #SUNGHO #BOYNEXTDOOR #BND #ILLIT_bomb #Billyeoon_Goyangi #Do_the_Dance #IROHA #이로하 #MOKA #모카 #ILLIT #아일릿
♬ Billyeoon Goyangi (Do the Dance) – ILLIT

This is a Eurodance-style track from ILLIT, the Korean girl group that dominated the music scene in 2024.

Positioned as the lead track from their mini-album “Bomb,” released in June 2025, its light and energetic sound is brimming with a charm that makes you want to move.

The lyrics depict a shy protagonist—like a “borrowed cat,” nervous on a first date—who musters the courage to take a step forward, which is utterly cute.

The fact that member Yuna co-wrote the song with LE SSERAFIM’s Huh Yunjin adds another layer of depth to the work.

It could be a blast to try a perfect cover with friends for a school festival or as a practice track for dance!

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Cherish (My Love)ILLIT

ILLIT (아일릿) ‘Cherish (My Love)’ Official MV

Cherish (My Love)ILLIT

Many people’s hearts are likely to dance to this love song, which carries the refreshing scent of first love.

It’s a track from ILLIT, a five-member girl group from Korea and Japan, included on their second mini-album “I’LL LIKE YOU,” released in October 2024.

The unique music video themed around wisdom teeth also drew a lot of attention.

The pop, catchy sound and heart-filled choreography convey their desire to feel closer to fans.

The lyrics, brimming with youthful passion, reveal a new charm of ILLIT as they continue to grow as fifth-generation idols.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants to relive the romance of their youth.

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Dramaaespa

aespa 에스파 ‘Drama’ MV

Dramaaespa

The self-titled lead track from their 4th mini-album, “Drama,” which achieved a million-seller for the third consecutive release.

It was released in November 2023.

Unlike the new ground explored with the previous title track “Spicy,” this one is a hip-hop tune marked by a strikingly bold attitude and a powerful, quintessentially aespa hook reminiscent of their early days.

It’s easy to listen to, yet retains that addictive “this is aespa” quality.

Packed with a strong message about creating a new drama, it delivers a boost of power alongside aespa’s cool, charismatic edge.

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