[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 Trending This Year (161–170)

TAPTAEYONG

TAEYONG 태용 ‘TAP’ MV

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.

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Season of MemoriesGFRIEND

GFRIEND (여자친구) ‘우리의 다정한 계절 속에’ OFFICIAL MV

Season of MemoriesGFRIEND

A song commemorating the 10th anniversary of the girl group GFRIEND’s debut was released in January 2025.

The lyrics, which reflect the group’s history and gratitude to their fans, are notable and sprinkled with phrases that recall their past signature tracks.

Included as the title track of the album “Season of Memories,” it’s an emotional piece quintessentially GFRIEND.

Fans say they can’t stop crying, and it showcases GFRIEND’s musical maturity.

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MalatanghuluEVE SEO

[MV] 서이브 (SEO EVE) – 마라탕후루 (Malatanghulu)

MalatanghuluEVE SEO

A young Korean artist, Soib, released a song in April 2024 that’s been generating a lot of buzz.

Despite being only 12 years old, she wrote both the lyrics and music herself.

The song features innovative lyrics that compare two foods—malatang and tanghulu—to romance, using the contrast between spiciness and sweetness to express the complex emotions of love.

On TikTok, the “Malatanghulu” dance challenge has taken off, becoming hugely popular, especially among Korean students.

With its rhythmic, catchy melody, the track is an instant mood-lifter—perfect for hyping up with friends or for anyone tangled up in matters of the heart.

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Fly UpRIIZE

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘Fly Up’ MV

Fly UpRIIZE

A thrilling title track from RIIZE, the boy group proudly presented by SM Entertainment, taken from their album “ODYSSEY,” released in May 2025.

It’s a powerful dance number infused with the essence of 1950s rock ’n’ roll, unfolding a high-velocity sound together with a choir.

The lyrics, expressing a desire to connect people around the world through music and dance, embody the group’s vision.

The music video was filmed in Los Angeles and features a collaboration with 38 dancers.

It’s set to become a signature work for RIIZE, vividly capturing artists and fans growing together.

Starting in July 2025, their first Asia tour, titled “RIIZING LOUD,” will kick off, with performances planned in Japan—making them even more unmissable.

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CosmicRed Velvet

Red Velvet 레드벨벳 ‘Cosmic’ MV

CosmicRed Velvet

A pop, psychedelic track that evokes a dreamlike journey through space.

It’s the title song of the mini-album “Cosmic,” released in June 2024, and it showcases Red Velvet’s uniquely imaginative world.

Set to a disco rhythm, the melody brims with a floating sensation, as if drifting among the stars.

Against a cosmic backdrop, it sings of bonds that transcend time and space, and the mingled anticipation and anxiety of new encounters—feelings that will surely resonate deeply with listeners.

The piece is said to have been inspired by a 2019 horror film, striking an exquisite balance between eerie and radiant.

Highly recommended for listening under a starry sky.

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삐그덕 (Walk)NCT 127

NCT 127 엔시티 127 ‘삐그덕 (Walk)’ MV

삐그덕 (Walk)NCT 127

The self-titled lead track from NCT 127’s sixth album, “WALK,” released in July 2024, is an innovative song that fuses classic hip-hop elements with a retro-tinged guitar riff.

Its lyrics, brimming with confidence and a determination to move forward, symbolize a new step for the group.

While recreating the vibe of early-2000s hip-hop, the track showcases NCT 127’s unique coolness and charisma.

With its diverse musicality and experimental approach, it’s a recommended listen not only for K-pop fans but also for music lovers who enjoy hip-hop and R&B.

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FAMOUSALLDAY PROJECT

ALLDAY PROJECT – ‘FAMOUS’ M/V

FAMOUSALLDAY PROJECT

ALLDAY PROJECT is a co-ed Korean group that brings together five members with unusual backgrounds, including a chaebol heiress and a world-class dancer.

This is the title track from their debut album, FAMOUS, released in June 2025.

Its urban, hip-hop-based sound and brimming confidence make it instantly addictive.

It feels like a declaration of their resolve to “stay true to themselves no matter what,” forged through overcoming many trials—and just listening somehow gives you strength.

Within only ten days of debut, this song won first place on a music show and became emblematic of the group.

If you listen to it when you’re anxious before a big challenge, it’ll lift your spirits and make you think, “A bright future is definitely waiting!”

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