[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 (21–30)

HugRIIZE

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘Hug (포옹)’ Stage Video

HugRIIZE

A love song by RIIZE filled with warmth and tenderness.

It’s included on the album released to commemorate SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary.

Ahead of the album, Hug was released in January 2025.

A remake of a classic by TVXQ, it features a trendy Y2K-inspired sound and the group’s signature soft harmonies.

The lyrics, which express the desire to hold you close and stay by your side, are sure to warm your heart.

It’s a heartwarming track you’ll want to listen to with someone special.

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CALL ME BACKNEW!TNX

TNX – ‘CALL ME BACK’ MV

CALL ME BACKNEW!TNX

TNX is a boy group under P NATION formed through the audition program LOUD.

This is the title track of their second digital single, released in January 2026.

Member Hwi took part in composing and lyric-writing for this piece, showcasing their creative talent.

While it features a refreshing band sound and energetic vocals, the lyrics portray delicate emotions such as anxiety and confusion while waiting for a message.

Its narrative appeal lies in how it fills the emotional gaps continuing from their previous album, For Real?.

Riding on a rock-driven beat, the straightforward message really comes through, making it a great listen when you’re waiting for a reply in love or just want to feel refreshed.

It’s bright yet somehow earnest in tone—and that contrast becomes addictive.

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Mono (Feat. skaiwater)NEW!i-dle

i-dle (아이들) ‘Mono (Feat. skaiwater)’ Official Music Video

Mono (Feat. skaiwater)NEW!i-dle

(G)I-DLE, who lead the K-pop scene with their distinctive musicality.

This is the digital single they released on January 27, 2026, after entering a new phase by changing their group name in 2025.

Featuring UK artist skaiwater, the track delivers a minimal, refined beat that feels effortlessly smooth.

In contrast to their previously glamorous style, it carries a deep theme of stepping away from prying eyes and noise to listen to one’s own essence.

It also drew attention as the opening move toward their 2026 world tour, “2026 i-dle WORLD TOUR [Syncopation].” It’s a song that will keep you company on quiet nights when you want to face yourself alone or reset your mind.

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toxic till the endROSÉ

ROSÉ – toxic till the end (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

toxic till the endROSÉ

A love song from Rose, who made waves with “APT.,” that captures fans’ hearts.

In this new release, she sings about both the toxicity and allure of romance.

With a fresh arrangement that fuses pop and indie rock, it also boasts a cinematic atmosphere.

Included on the album “rosie,” released in December 2024, the track drew major attention in Japan.

The must-see music video features actor Evan Mock, known for the film Gossip Girl.

The lyrics, portraying emotional conflict and dependency, are sure to resonate with anyone who’s experienced complicated love.

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POWERG-DRAGON

G-DRAGON – POWER (Official Video)

POWERG-DRAGON

A new release from G-DRAGON, a member of BIGBANG who also commands strong charisma as a solo artist.

Released in October 2024, it marks his first solo track in about seven years and four months.

Centered on the theme of “power,” the work portrays G-DRAGON’s career, his passion for music, and his resurgence from adversity.

Driven by hip-hop beats and energetic rap, it showcases personal strength and influence while redefining what “power” means.

The lyrics convey a determination to forge his own path despite prejudice and criticism, offering a sense of empowerment to fans.

The music video stands out with its futuristic and bold visuals.

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XOXZive

IVE 아이브 ‘XOXZ’ MV

XOXZive

IVE is an extraordinary, boundary-defying girl group whose momentum since debut shows no signs of slowing.

The title track of their EP “IVE SECRET,” released in August 2025, explodes with cool, mysterious allure.

A hip-hop track where hefty 808 bass is sliced by razor-sharp brass, it pulls listeners straight into its world.

The lyrics, which member Wonyoung participated in writing, center on the theme of “secret signals” shared only between those who are close.

Behind a confident, cool exterior, they paint a sweet and enigmatic message that promises clandestine rendezvous in dreams.

The slightly dangerous, dominant worldview that lures you into a dream realm unbound by reality is simply irresistible.

It’s a highly addictive number you’ll want to sink into during the stillness of the night.

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Blue ValentineNMIXX

NMIXX(엔믹스) “Blue Valentine” M/V

Blue ValentineNMIXX

The title track from NMIXX, the girl group under JYP Entertainment, off their first full-length album “Blue Valentine,” released in October 2025.

Embodying the album’s key theme of the paradox of love, the song paints the pain that comes precisely from loving deeply in shades of “blue.” Opening with melancholic synths, it blends boom‑bap rhythms with pop‑rock‑leaning guitar riffs—an elevated take on NMIXX’s signature “MIXXPOP.” From mid-October, it took first place consecutively on five major Korean music programs and made its presence felt on charts at home and abroad.

A track that stirs listeners’ emotions with a driving sound imbued with poignant sorrow.

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