[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 [May 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 (121–130)
Shooting StarKep1er
It’s the dawn of a new adventure from Kep1er, the dream nine-member group poised to dominate K-POP.
Their first album, “Kep1going On,” encapsulates the two and a half years since their debut in a definitive collection.
Among its tracks, the title song shines especially bright, weaving hopeful lyrics with a driving, exhilarating sound.
The enchanting visuals, where the nine members’ radiance overlaps beneath a starry sky, are equally captivating.
Their youthful, energetic vocals and dance are infused with determination and courage for the future.
For anyone taking a new step forward, this is sure to be a reassuring anthem.
THUNDERSEVENTEEN
A song packed with SEVENTEEN’s new challenge as they mark the milestone of their 10th debut anniversary.
Taken from their May 2025 album “HAPPY BURSTDAY,” it features a comfortably resonant EDM-based dance-pop sound.
With lyrics themed around thunder and lightning, it powerfully portrays being reborn into a new self through taking on challenges, symbolizing SEVENTEEN’s very own rebirth.
Composed by Woozi and BUMZU, with leader S.Coups also joining the composition, the track showcases their musical evolution.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to gear up for a new stage or transform yourself.
Last night (Guitar by Park Juwon)JEONGHAN X WONWOO (SEVENTEEN)
A sweet and bittersweet track by the unit formed from Korea’s popular group SEVENTEEN, featuring Jeonghan and Wonwoo.
It’s included on their debut single album THIS MAN, released in June 2024.
The lyrics depict a man who visits in dreams, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Set to a mid-tempo groove, the song unfolds a dark and sexy world.
Park Juwon’s guitar further elevates the piece’s appeal.
A song that makes you want to listen alone at night, stirring a mature sense of romance.
Recommended not only for SEVENTEEN fans but also for anyone who enjoys smooth, moody K-pop.
Winter Ahead (with PARK HYO SHIN)V
A duet by V (Kim Taehyung) and Park Hyo-shin, distinguished by its heartwarming harmonies.
Sung about the warm bond that exists between them even in the harshness of winter, the song features a pleasant melody infused with jazz-pop elements.
Released in November 2024, it stands out with the tones of saxophone, trumpet, and prepared piano, and the two artists’ captivating vocals blend beautifully.
It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to spend time with someone during the cold season or feel the connection with someone special.
[2026] Summary of Popular K-POP Hits That Were Trendy This Year (131–140)
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.
I’ll Be ThereJIN
A new song by Jin, world-renowned as a member of the K-pop group BTS, has arrived.
Unlike his previous tracks, it features a bright, lively pop-rock sound with a rockabilly flair.
Carrying a strong message of hope and encouragement for those who feel lonely, the song has sparked a major international response.
Released in October 2024, it achieved remarkable popularity, including Jin’s first-ever top 10 entry on Spotify’s global chart.
The track serves as a lead single for the album “Happy,” scheduled for release in November, heightening anticipation for Jin’s solo activities.
It’s a perfect pick-me-up when you’re feeling down or need an energy boost—be sure to give it a listen.
Soda PopSaja Boys
This is a track by the group Saja Boys from the Netflix animated film “KPOP Girls! Demon Hunters.” Though fictional, they’ve been stirring up the real music scene—ranking on U.S.
music charts by July 2025.
At first listen, it’s a classic idol song with the fizz and freshness of popping soda! But the lyrics aren’t a sweet love song; they actually express the very desires of their true identities: demons that devour souls.
That duality—the sparkling idol façade and the dark nature hidden beneath—really grabs you, doesn’t it? You might just get hooked on the sweet melody of this piece, the “first trap” in the story.