[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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- Popular songs on Korean TikTok & K-pop and trending tracks
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- [List of New Korean Songs] Latest & Trending K-POP Roundup [February 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 (131–140)
Running WildJIN
A pop-rock sound rooted in British rock.
It’s a track in which BTS’s Jin infuses a message full of warmth and hope brought by love.
Chosen as the title song of his first solo album, “Happy,” released in November 2024.
Gary Barlow from the legendary British band Take That took part in the production.
Blending sophisticated musicality with Jin’s captivating vocals, the piece overflows with a positive, refreshing vibe.
In the music video, Jin spending happy moments with his beloved dog even as the end of the world approaches leaves a strong impression, seemingly emphasizing the joy of being with someone precious no matter the circumstances.
Feel the POPZEROBASEONE
Born from a popular Korean audition program, ZEROBASEONE’s track packs the full appeal of pop music into a single song.
As the title suggests, it features a heartbeat-raising beat and an energetic melody.
It carries a positive message that blows away everyday stress and anxiety, encouraging you to make the most of the present moment.
Included on the mini-album “You Had Me at Hello,” released in May 2024, this song captures the momentum of a group that has achieved remarkable growth in the short span of about a year since their debut.
It’s recommended for anyone seeking the courage to take a new step forward through music.
My Name Is MalguemQWER
A 2024 September release by the four-member Korean girl band QWER.
It’s the title track of their mini-album “Algorithm’s Blossom,” with (G)I-DLE’s Soyeon participating in writing and composition.
The song expresses the resolve to face forward after overcoming the pain of heartbreak, featuring a refreshing sound and delicate vocals.
As the title—meaning “My name is Sunny/Clear”—suggests, it’s imbued with hope for a bright future.
It was well received right after release, reaching the top 5 on the Melon chart.
Why not give it a listen when you’re on the verge of breaking down—it’s a track that gives you courage.
ImpossibleRIIZE
This is a refreshing energy song from RIIZE, a seven-member boy group from South Korea.
Released in April 2024 as a prologue single, the track is included on their first mini-album, “RIIZING.” Set to a sound that fuses pop rock and EDM, it sings of dreams, hope, and the bonds with loved ones.
The dramatic melody and mystical synths strikingly bring out RIIZE’s charm.
The dazzling dance performance is also a highlight.
It’s a song that feels like it gives a push to young people moving toward their dreams.
Supersonicfromis_9
fromis_9, who are taking the Korean music scene by storm, are releasing a summer anthem in August 2024.
With a sound influenced by Miami bass, this track rides a refreshing pop groove to convey confident strength.
The lyrics, which evoke a sense of “moving at the speed of sound,” capture a strong desire to take on new challenges.
It’s a number that’s sure to light up the dance floor while delivering a positive message.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for an energetic song to blow away the summer heat.
Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)JIMIN
Jimin of the Korean K-pop group BTS is breaking new ground as a solo artist.
This advance single from his album “MUSE” is a bright and energetic track that fuses sweeping orchestral sounds with hip-hop elements.
Released on June 28, 2024, the song pairs Jimin’s refreshing vocals with a feature from rapper Loco, creating a perfect synergy that encourages listeners to embrace happiness and their emotions.
With a title that includes the flower “Smeraldo,” a symbol of truth, the track delivers a powerful message about the importance of accepting and expressing one’s feelings and truth.
TAPTAEYONG
A track by Taeyong, a Korea-born artist, released in February 2024 that combines a groovy, modern drum and 808 bass foundation with rock- and blues-inspired guitar sounds.
Featured on his second mini album, the song’s lyrics reveal a playful back-and-forth with a counterpart, powered by confidence and charisma.
The clever use of “tap” as a motif in digital communication is especially striking, reinforcing its message about the importance of self-expression.
It’s a song that gives you the courage to shine as yourself—highly recommended not only for K-pop fans but also for those who enjoy hip-hop and pop rock.