[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] Summary of Popular K-POP Hits That Were Trendy This Year (71–80)

SmartLE SSERAFIM

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) ‘Smart’ OFFICIAL MV

SmartLE SSERAFIM

LE SSERAFIM’s new song, a standout in the K-pop scene, is a captivating track that blends femininity with strength.

The lyrics portray the journey toward self-realization and success, delivering a message that truly resonates with listeners.

Included on their mini-album “EASY,” released in March 2024, the song also features a colorful music video.

It emphasizes the importance of believing in your own potential and taking on challenges, offering encouragement to anyone striving toward their dreams.

Showcasing a new side of LE SSERAFIM, this work is recommended not only for K-pop fans but also for those interested in self-improvement.

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YELLOWTREASURE

TREASURE – ‘YELLOW’ M/V

YELLOWTREASURE

A bittersweet love song that begins with gentle piano sounds and is marked by a powerful drumbeat rhythm.

Released in March 2025 as the title track of the special mini album “PLEASURE” by TREASURE, the 10-member boy group under YG Entertainment, it expresses the warm feelings sparked by meeting someone you love.

Members Choi Hyun Suk, Yoshi, Asahi, and Haruto contributed to the lyrics, with Asahi also participating in the composition.

With a melody woven from refreshing vocals and rap, the track feels as pleasant as a spring breeze.

The music video highlights a story set in everyday spaces and features adorable choreography.

It’s a perfect song to lift the feeling of being in love—and just right for a morning drive.

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DASHNMIXX

NMIXX “DASH” M/V

DASHNMIXX

Released in January 2024, this song by the six-member Korean girl group NMIXX champions strength and a spirit of challenge.

It features their signature “MIXX POP” style, blending hip-hop and pop-punk, with a groovy bassline and a catchy chorus that leave a strong impression.

The key changes within the track are placed intentionally to give listeners a fresh surprise, and the slowdown effect on Jiwoo’s vocals helps ease the song’s repetitiveness.

Its energetic, positive message emphasizes pursuing freedom and taking risks without fear, urging listeners to keep moving forward without setting limits.

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[2026] Summary of Popular K-POP Hits That Were Trendy This Year (81–90)

Seven (feat. Latto)Jung Kook

정국 (Jung Kook) ‘Seven (feat. Latto)’ Official MV

Seven (feat. Latto)Jung Kook

The new song by Jung Kook from South Korea skillfully weaves in soothing R&B elements.

Its lyrics convey a devotion that remains unchanged for seven days—every day of the week.

Latto features on the track, and her one-of-a-kind rap adds new depth to the piece.

Jung Kook’s vocals are crystal clear and utterly captivating.

True to its title, the song evokes specific days of the week and has a loop-worthy charm that makes you want to replay it.

Released in July 2023, the track reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Jung Kook’s first entry into the top 10 and his first No.

1.

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Girls Will Be GirlsITZY

ITZY “Girls Will Be Girls” M/V

Girls Will Be GirlsITZY

@itzyofficial
#류진 이와 #엔하이픈 #정원 님의 #GWBGChallenge 를 못 보는 천국은 지옥인걸😈 #ITZY #MIDZY #RYUJIN #ITZY_GWBG #ITZY_GirlsWillBeGirls #ENHYPEN #JUNGWON @enhypen
♬ Girls Will Be Girls – ITZY

ITZY, the five-member Korean group dubbed a “monster rookie” after sweeping numerous newcomer awards from their debut, released the EP “Girls Will Be Girls” in June 2025.

Its title track is a dance number defined by a powerful electropop beat.

The song sparked a major response, reaching No.

2 on Korea’s Circle Album Chart for the week.

Celebrating female solidarity and the power of self-confidence, it brims with energizing appeal that fires up listeners.

It’s also perfect as a practice track for their signature powerful choreography, and if you can flawlessly recreate it at a school festival, you’re bound to steal the show.

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Off The Recordive

IVE 아이브 ‘Off The Record’ MV

Off The Recordive

IVE is an extraordinary, boundary-defying girl group whose momentum has shown no signs of slowing since their debut.

Their song Off The Record is one of the triple title tracks from their 1st EP, I’VE MINE.

While it’s a rare, more subdued track within IVE’s discography, their elegant allure remains intact.

The lyrics, which portray the emotions of love that seeks stimulation and lays bare instinct, feel refined through IVE’s unique color.

It’s a stylish number with a comfortable groove and richly expressive vocal work from all members.

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Good GoodbyeHwasa

화사 (HWASA) – ‘Good Goodbye’ MV

Good GoodbyeHwasa

A digital single released by Hwasa, known as a member of MAMAMOO, from P NATION in October 2025.

It contemplates whether a parting moment can be called a “good goodbye,” portraying the struggle of suppressing one’s own feelings while wishing the other person happiness, set to a mid-tempo, ballad-like arrangement.

Hwasa was deeply involved in writing and composing, and the minimalist production highlights the nuances in her voice.

The emotional boiling point arrives as the melody soars in the chorus.

The music video features actor Park Jung-min, carefully depicting the quiet acceptance of separation between lovers.

An alternate version by the string quartet Duomo was released simultaneously, expanding the afterglow through orchestration.

It’s a song that quietly stays by your side when you want to empathize with pain that doesn’t need to scream.

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