[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)

UNFORGIVEN (feat. Nile Rodgers)LE SSERAFIM

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) ‘UNFORGIVEN (feat. Nile Rodgers)’ OFFICIAL M/V

UNFORGIVEN (feat. Nile Rodgers)LE SSERAFIM

Debuting in 2022 with an appearance at the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen and following up the next year with a world tour and a smash-hit debut album, UNFORGIVEN, LE SSERAFIM shines brightly in today’s K-pop scene.

This release also drew attention for featuring the legendary guitarist and producer Nile Rodgers.

Its powerful lyrics, which sing of self-assertion and a thirst for freedom, have captured the hearts of many fans and highlight the importance of self-expression.

Their cool, dynamic tracks are popular as dance challenges, too, with numerous musicians and celebrities taking part and generating major buzz.

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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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Crushive

IVE 아이브 ‘CRUSH’ MV

Crushive

August 7, 2024 became a special day for IVE, the six-member Korean girl group.

On this day, a pre-release single from their second Japanese mini-album, “ALIVE,” was released for streaming.

The song, which portrays an irrepressible feeling of love, features a catchy, dance-ready pop sound.

Its energetic vibe captures the thrill and excitement of romance in the very texture of the track.

Positioned as part of their activities in Japan and tied to their summer promotions, the lyrics depicting young love are sure to resonate with many listeners.

This is a track that brings out IVE’s charm to the fullest.

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LOVE, MONEY, FAME (feat. DJ Khaled)SEVENTEEN

SEVENTEEN (세븐틴) ‘LOVE, MONEY, FAME (feat. DJ Khaled)’ Official MV

LOVE, MONEY, FAME (feat. DJ Khaled)SEVENTEEN

The heart-thumping pop tune from SEVENTEEN is included on their mini-album “SPILL THE FEELS,” released in October 2024.

The lead track, featuring DJ Khaled, blends DJ Khaled’s groove with SEVENTEEN’s signature energetic sound.

Its striking exploration of love, fame, and wealth—channeled through Jeonghan’s sense of loneliness and inner conflict—makes it a song that truly resonates with listeners.

Showcasing the diverse talents of all 13 members, the release also conveys gratitude to fans and is sure to win many hearts.

In the MV teaser, the members singing in the rain leave a powerful impression, and the work unfolds with a rich narrative centered on the theme of emotional eruption.

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Swaying -Flower of Destiny-ZEROBASEONE

ZEROBASEONE (ゼロベースワン) ‘Yurayura - Flower of Destiny -’ MV

Swaying -Flower of Destiny-ZEROBASEONE

ZEROBASEONE, the group born from the Korean audition program “BOYS PLANET,” released their long-awaited first Japanese single on March 20, 2024.

On the same day, a special program spotlighting their Japanese debut was streamed, creating a huge buzz.

This work sings of hearts fluttering on the spring breeze and an irreplaceable love that blossomed between two people.

It’s a track marked by ZEROBASEONE’s passionate vocals and a catchy melody.

A sweet-and-tart vibe perfect for the refreshing season—a classic we’d love to deliver to everyone in love.

Highly recommended not only for fans, but also for those who haven’t discovered them yet.

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