[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!
- K-POP Popularity Rankings [2026]
- Popular songs on Korean TikTok & K-pop and trending tracks
- [2026] Cool! K-pop dance tracks that make you want to move
- [List of New Korean Songs] Latest & Trending K-POP Roundup [March 2026]
- Nothing but famous and hit songs! K-pop tracks recommended for Gen Z
- [Cute Korean Songs] K-POP used on TikTok
- A Korean song you often hear on TikTok. Trending K-pop.
- 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 (171–180)
NEURON (with 개코, 윤미래)j-hope
A heartfelt track released by BTS’s J-Hope as part of his solo project.
It explores his roots as a street dancer and tells a story of people connecting like neural cells.
Built on old-school hip-hop, the song shines with collaborations from Gaeko and Yoonmirae.
Included on the March 2024 album “HOPE ON THE STREET VOL.1,” it’s also tied to a documentary series of the same name.
Centered on themes of self-discovery and spiritual awakening, it sings of unwavering determination and the courage to move forward.
It’s a must-listen when you’re feeling lost in life or ready to take a new step.
HeroAKMU (Akdong Musician)
AKMU’s new song, delivering magical healing and hope, is a warm track that feels like being wrapped in love.
It’s the title track of the Korean brother-sister duo from YG Entertainment’s third mini-album, LOVE EPISODE, released in May 2024.
Blending distinctive folk and jazz elements with tender, comforting vocals, it resonates with people living through challenging times.
Brother Lee Chan-hyuk wrote and composed every track, while sister Lee Su-hyun captivates with her clear, pure voice.
It’s a heartwarming song you’ll want to listen to with someone you love.
Balloon in LoveSUNMI
A new song from Korean songstress Sunmi that likens a sweet, bittersweet crush to a balloon.
Set to a refreshing British rock sound, it delicately captures the feeling of falling in love.
Released in June 2024, this carefully crafted track was written and composed by Sunmi herself.
Coupled with the beautiful scenery of its music video filmed in Croatia, it’s a richly charming piece that evokes memories of summer romance.
The empathetic lyrics, which portray the feelings of someone in love, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Highly recommended as a breezy love anthem you’ll want to play with the arrival of summer.
Ice CreamJEON SOMI
This is a sweet and juicy summer tune released in August 2024 by Jeon Somi, a South Korean artist.
The song celebrates the charms of love, likening it to ice cream, and stands out with its upbeat rhythm and catchy melody.
Actor Park Seo-joon makes a surprise appearance in the music video, creating a buzz.
Since her solo debut in 2019, Somi has steadily built her career.
Brimming with her bright, energetic charm, this track is perfect for the hot season.
Add it to your summer playlist for a refreshing vibe.
Bag Bad BackRIIZE
@riize_official 빙빙 돌아가도 직진 #RIIZE#라이즈#RISEandREALIZE#BagBadBack#RIIZE_BagBadBack#ODYSSEY
♬ Bag Bad Back – RIIZE
RIIZE, the Korean group that’s been on a meteoric rise since their 2023 debut, released their first full album “ODYSSEY” in May 2025.
This track from the album is a hip-hop number marked by a heavy bass and groovy drums.
The vocal work, which deftly switches between whispers and shouts, feels fresh and has an addictive quality that sticks with you after just one listen.
Beyond the lyrics’ determination toward the future, the unique choreography—like the move that mimics holding a bag—is perfect for dance practice.
It’s the kind of song that’ll be a hit at school festivals if you do a full-on cover, guaranteed to fire up the floor!
MONA LISAj-hope
@bts_official_bighit Like a painting in motion 🖼️🕺 #MONALISAChallenge#jhope_MONALISA#jhope#제이홉
♬ MONA LISA – j-hope
J-hope, a South Korean artist who continues to lead the scene as a rapper and dancer of the global boy group BTS.
In 2022, he headlined a major U.S.
music festival, and his solo momentum shows no signs of slowing.
Released in March 2025, this track fuses hip-hop and R&B into a fizzy, groovy dance number.
With lyrics that liken the subject to a masterpiece of art and celebrate their one-of-a-kind charm, it works like magic to lift the listener’s spirits.
The sophisticated group choreography—praised by U.S.
media as “a strong showcase of dancer J-HOPE’s diverse strengths”—is breathtaking.
Its chill beat makes it a killer tune for when you want to dance or boost your mood!
ShopperIU
A track from IU’s sixth mini-album “The Winning,” released in February 2024, stands out with its retro electropop sound and her bright, expressive vocals.
The lyrics, which depict boundless desire and the endless pursuit of it, convey the importance of chasing the dreams you had as a child without trampling on them.
The music video, with a worldview reminiscent of a fantasy film, is also a highlight.
Showcasing a new side of IU, this song is a great recommendation for those just getting into K-pop.
DIE 4 YOUDEAN
Singer-songwriter DEAN, known for high-quality songwriting and collaborations with acclaimed artists.
“DIE 4 YOU” is his first new track since May 2019, and upon its release in November 2023, it was well received on charts like Melon, Spotify, and Apple Music.
It’s a poignant breakup song that spreads a sense of emptiness, resonating with those feeling blue.
With striking lines like “I could die for you,” its emotionally unstable, confessional lyrics really hit home.
By Your SideCrush
This is a love song wrapped in the warm tones of affection by Crush, a Korean R&B singer-songwriter known for his sweet, captivating vocals.
Released in April 2024, the track serves as the first installment of NHN Bugs’ music curation brand project “essential; With Artist.” The protagonist’s desire to overcome everyday anxiety and loneliness through a bond with a loved one resonates deeply alongside Crush’s gentle voice.
A promise to always be by your side tenderly embraces the listener’s heart, making this a healing, soothing piece.
SmoothieNCT DREAM
A song by NCT DREAM from South Korea that vividly portrays the struggles of youth.
Featured on the album DREAM( )SCAPE, it stands out for its powerful message about lightly overcoming the world’s coldness and self-doubt.
Set to an 808 bassline and groovy rhythms, the lyrics convey straightforward emotions that are sure to resonate with listeners.
Released on March 25, 2024, the track became a million-seller on its first day.
It’s a song that offers support to teens and people in their twenties facing pressure and the hardships of a competitive society—definitely worth a listen.