[2026] A roundup of popular K-POP hits that were trending this year
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!
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- K-POP Masterpieces & Best Hits [Latest and Classic Popular Songs + Editor’s Select]
- Guaranteed to hit repeat: Energetic K-pop songs that will lift your mood
- Popular K-pop and Korean songs that brighten up YouTube Shorts
- Today's recommendation! K-pop songs
- I.O.I Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Stylish K-pop and Korean songs. Songs with a nice vibe.
[2026] Summary of Popular K-POP Hits That Were Trendy This Year (71–80)
Lucky Girl SyndromeILLIT
ILLIT’s self-confidence anthem is a cheerful track inspired by the TikTok trend “I am the luckiest person.” It carries a message of staying positive and cherishing the small joys of everyday life, and its imaginative teen-centric worldview is also captivating.
Featured on their debut mini album “SUPER REAL ME,” released on March 25, 2024, the song stands out as one of the diverse tracks that fully showcase the group’s individuality.
Despite being newly debuted, its high level of polish is impressive, and it appears to be gaining strong support primarily among women in their teens and twenties.
With its bright vocals that lift your spirits, it’s a perfect song for the mood right now.
첫 만남은 계획대로 되지 않아TWS
This is TWS’s debut track, bringing a fresh breeze to the K-pop scene.
The lyrics, which capture the tension and excitement of a first meeting with refreshing clarity, leave a strong impression.
Its hybrid pop sound—woven from crisp drums, guitar, and synths—features an irresistibly catchy refrain.
Upon their January 2024 debut, the song topped major Korean music charts.
It was also selected for Billboard’s “20 Best K-Pop Songs of 2024 So Far,” earning support from fans around the world.
A perfect song for making summer memories—and a great pick for your driving playlist.
Hollywood ActionBOYNEXTDOOR
Released in October 2025 as the title track of their fifth EP, “The Action” centers on the theme of filmmaking.
Under the concept of BOYNEXTDOOR acting as a fictional film crew called “Team The Action,” the track was produced by ZICO, Pop Time, and others.
Its swing rhythm and brassy sound create the exhilarating feeling of walking a red carpet.
Packed with playful nods to movie credits and cast introductions, the song captures the moment you shine as the main character.
The music video—shot mainly on location in Chicago—features cinematic direction that’s a highlight in itself.
The release peaked at No.
40 on the Billboard 200 and took first place on Korean music shows.
It’s the kind of song that gives you a push when you’re ready to move toward your dreams and goals.
[2026] Summary of Popular K-POP Hits That Were Trendy This Year (81–90)
Queencard(G)I-DLE
Now widely recognized as a powerhouse girl group representing the K-POP scene, South Korea’s (G)I-DLE released this track on their sixth mini-album “I feel” in May 2023.
The song is characterized by confident lyrics and a powerful rock sound.
It achieved an all-kill on domestic music charts and reached No.
1 on the iTunes Top Albums chart in 18 regions, proving its truly global popularity.
Centered on themes of self-love and self-affirmation, the lyrics emphasize the importance of embracing oneself as you are, resonating with many people living in the age of social media.
MOUNTAINSStray Kids
Released in July 2024, this track is a powerful number from Stray Kids, the eight-member Korean boy group.
Packed with the passion unique to a “self-produced idol” group in which the members themselves are involved in production, the song channels the spirit of boldly taking on challenges toward dreams and goals, expressed through lyrics that evoke climbing a steep mountain.
Its epic sound, woven from guitars and synthesizers, leaves a strong impression and has been warmly received by fans.
Included as a track on the album “ATE,” it’s sure to ignite the crowd at live shows.
Be sure to check out this captivating song that showcases Stray Kids’ exceptional musicality.
Sugar Rush RideTOMORROW X TOGETHER
The globally active boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER.
Let me introduce their mini-album’s title track, “Sugar Rush Ride.” It’s a song with a tropical vibe, and the lyrics portray being unable to resist the temptation of a captivating presence.
Some say the lyrics depict romantic love, while others interpret them as the members’ love for music.
A Japanese version has been released, so it’s also fun to listen and compare.
FOREVERBABYMONSTER
BABYMONSTER, rapidly gaining popularity on the K-pop scene, delivers this refreshing, summery track from the seven-member group, released by YG Entertainment in July 2024.
Evoking an ’80s-style synth-pop sound interwoven with catchy melodies and choruses, it captivates listeners.
The song carries a powerful message directed at young women, emphasizing the importance of valuing one’s true self.
It has already sparked a major response, surpassing 5 million views on YouTube within 24 hours.
As a piece that showcases BABYMONSTER’s growth and musical evolution, it has won the hearts of many fans.