[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 Songs That Were Trendy This Year (11–20)

HOME SWEET HOME (feat. TAEYANG & DAESUNG)G-DRAGON

G-DRAGON – HOME SWEET HOME (Official Audio) (feat. TAEYANG & DAESUNG)

HOME SWEET HOME (feat. TAEYANG & DAESUNG)G-DRAGON

A long-awaited collaborative track reuniting G-DRAGON—who has led the Korean music scene—with his BIGBANG members.

It’s a song imbued with a warm message of “we’re back.” Released in November 2024 and featuring Taeyang and Daesung, the track is exactly what fans had been hoping for.

Even amid a changing music landscape, it shows their unwavering musical identity and the way they continue to move forward together.

The trio’s performance at the 2024 MAMA Awards stirred the hearts of many fans.

In Korea, it has earned strong, lasting support, climbing high on the charts and becoming a long-running hit.

It’s a heartwarming song that conveys a deep love for music and a powerful bond among friends.

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Bad Desire (With or Without You)ENHYPEN

ENHYPEN (엔하이픈) ‘Bad Desire (With or Without You)’ Official MV

Bad Desire (With or Without You)ENHYPEN

https://www.tiktok.com/@enhypen/video/7517155780009692434

Born from a survival show, the seven-member Korean group ENHYPEN is a standout act that brings together multinational talent.

Their genre-crossing musicality is epitomized by the lead track from their mini-album “DESIRE : UNLEASH,” released in June 2025.

Centered on dance-pop while fusing elements of R&B and rock, the song is an emotionally charged number where feelings swirl.

It conveys instinctive desires blazing within a melancholic atmosphere, gripping listeners’ hearts.

It’s a cool, powerful track—no wonder it reportedly sold about 1.89 million copies on its first day.

You’ll definitely want to hit the floor and dance, so be sure to experience it for yourself!

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ConfettiNEW!MISAMO

MISAMO 「Confetti」 Music Video

ConfettiNEW!MISAMO

MISAMO is a unit formed by TWICE’s Japanese members Mina, Sana, and Momo.

Released as an advance digital single in January 2026, this track serves as the lead song that heralds their first album, PLAY, coming in February.

Comparing life to an unscripted improv performance, it carries a lovely message: no matter what kind of day you’ve had, shower yourself with celebratory confetti in the end.

Its rhythmical lyrics, woven with both English and Japanese, and its uplifting sound feel like a strong push forward for anyone listening.

It’s also drawing attention through a collaboration with Universal Studios Japan’s “Uniharu” campaign.

Why not give it a listen when you want to blow away the blues or celebrate yourself after a hard day’s work?

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Boom Boom BassRIIZE

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘Boom Boom Bass’ MV

Boom Boom BassRIIZE

Debuting in September 2023 and quickly capturing attention across the K-pop scene, RIIZE’s new track is dance-pop infused with house elements, featuring a funky disco beat and a groovy bassline.

Opening their mini-album “RIIZING,” released in June 2024, the song channels the exhilaration young people feel when enjoying music, with an irresistible groove that makes your body move.

In the music video, the members dance joyfully amid the chaos sparked by a mysterious guitar that descends from space—an image that leaves a strong impression.

Carrying a message that celebrates the power of music, the track showcases RIIZE’s forward-looking growth.

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Super Lady(G)I-DLE

(여자)아이들((G)I-DLE) – ‘Super Lady’ Official Music Video

Super Lady(G)I-DLE

Released in January 2024 as an anthem to women around the world, this (G)I-DLE track features the group’s signature powerful sound and a striking message of confidence.

Issued as the title song of the album “2,” it drew high anticipation with over 1.8 million pre-orders.

The lyrics, infused with a strong determination to overcome any hardship, are sure to give listeners a boost.

Another highlight is that all the members, including Soyeon, took part in the album’s production.

It’s a song for everyone who wants to live true to themselves.

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404 (New Era)NEW!KiiiKiii

KiiiKiii 키키 ‘404 (New Era)’ MV

404 (New Era)NEW!KiiiKiii

KIKI, the buzzworthy group that debuted under Starship Entertainment in March 2025 and swiftly won the Rookie of the Year award at ASEA, returns with this lead track from their EP “Delulu Pack,” released in January 2026—an energetic dance tune driven by a house beat.

Arranged by LDN NOISE, known for producing numerous K-pop hits, the song delivers a powerful impact and addictive quality that heralds a new era.

Alongside the release, chic visuals in fashion magazines drew attention beyond the music itself.

You can feel their strong determination to carve out their own scene, making it perfect for moments when you want a boost of confidence or need to lift your mood.

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[2026] Summary of Popular K-POP Songs That Were Trendy This Year (21–30)

PSYCHOBABYMONSTER

BABYMONSTER – ‘PSYCHO’ M/V

PSYCHOBABYMONSTER

An aggressive track from BABYMONSTER, the multinational girl group that debuted from YG Entertainment seven years after BLACKPINK.

It’s included on their album “WE GO UP,” released in October 2025.

The song seamlessly blends multiple genres—hip-hop, dance, and rock—with a powerful low end that drives the entire track.

The catchy hook is seriously addictive.

The music video, released in November of the same year, is a suspenseful piece themed around “nightmares,” delivering a gripping atmosphere where the boundary between dream and reality blurs.

It surpassed 100 million views in just about 14 days after release.

The tense beat and highly addictive melody intertwine, pulling you in more with every listen.

Highly recommended when you want an energetic song to lift your mood or to immerse yourself in an impactful performance!

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