[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 Songs That Were Trendy This Year (21–30)
사랑은 봄비처럼… 이별은 겨울비처럼NEW!Lim Hyun Jung
A lyrical love ballad you’ll want to hear alongside the soul-soaking sound of rain.
Sung by the accomplished singer-songwriter Lim Hyun-jung, it’s a track that has enjoyed enduring support over many years.
Originally released on the album “A Year Out..In The Island,” which came out in March 2003, the song remains deeply popular today.
It paints a contrast between the beginning and the end of love through rainy scenery, while its warm acoustic tones strike straight to the heart.
Beloved as part of the OST for the film “키다리 아저씨” (My Little Giant/ Daddy-Long-Legs), it drew major attention again when it was chosen as the main theme for the 2026 film “만약에 우리” (If We…).
The vocals leave a quiet afterglow, perfect for gently revisiting past memories on a rainy day.
Ode to LoveNEW!NCT WISH
NCT WISH is a popular group active in Japan and South Korea that won first place on a music show just 21 days after their debut.
This is a work they released in April 2026.
It features a lively beat grounded in British dance music, fused with the sampled, nostalgic melody of a classic tune.
A hallmark of the song is its universal message of spreading warmth in a cold world.
It was released as the title track of their first full album, “Ode to Love – The 1st Album.” Although there are no notable tie-ins, it showcases a new side of the group.
Highly recommended for when you want to feel warm inside or let yourself sink into a comfortable rhythm!
[2026] Summary of Popular K-POP Hits This Year (31–40)
KISS KISS KISS (Prod. by Hukky Shibaseki)NEW!NOWIMYOUNG、Royal 44、SUNWOO
Released in March 2026, “KISS KISS KISS (Prod.
by Hukky Shibaseki)” is a track distributed in connection with a stage on the Korean hip-hop survival show “SHOW ME THE MONEY 12.” With melodious raps by Nauimyeon and Royal Forty-Four, and a featured appearance by Sunwoo of THE BOYZ adding to the sparkle, the song creates a glamorous vibe.
The lyrics, depicting romance and club scenes, an obsession with brand-name goods, and inner emptiness, leave a strong impression.
Strong elements of catchy, sing-along pop-rap make it appealing to a broad range of K-pop and hip-hop listeners.
It’s a recommended number when you want to savor the atmosphere of a dazzling night.
DaydreamNEW!WENDY
This is a lyrical pop ballad sung by Wendy, known as the main vocalist of the Korean girl group Red Velvet.
The song is included in the official soundtrack for the Netflix original series “Can You Interpret This Love?” released in January 2026.
Centered on a gentle piano timbre, it’s beautifully structured to let the emotions blossom toward the chorus.
Its worldview, expressing the thrill of budding romance and daydream-like longing, perfectly complements the drama’s romantic atmosphere.
With restrained embellishment and a vocal delivery that treasures breath and nuance, it draws you in, making it a perfect recommendation for quiet nights alone when you want to relax, or when you want to savor the fluttering excitement of love’s beginning.
We on FireNEW!&TEAM
As a Japan-born global group, &TEAM is engaging in activities that connect a diverse world.
The lead track from their EP “We on Fire,” released in April 2026, is a song that conveys the group’s intensity and momentum.
Tied to HYBE’s original story “DARK MOON,” its concept and narrative-driven visual expression have also drawn attention.
Characterized by a dynamic sound and a cohesive performance, it’s perfect for moments when you want to take a new step forward or lift your spirits.
Be sure to check out this exhilarating pop tune with a brisk, driving beat.
Chk Chk BoomStray Kids
A fast, catchy anthem released in July 2024 by the popular boy group Stray Kids, depicting ambition and an obsession with success.
Built on fierce energy and hooks, it celebrates youth coming of age while showcasing the group’s musical evolution.
The music video features a comedic cameo by Ryan Reynolds, known for the film Deadpool & Wolverine.
As the lead track from their ninth mini-album, ATE, it hints at a new direction for K-pop.
With their distinctive expressiveness, it’s sure to capture the hearts of music fans.
Supernovaaespa
A double title track included on the four-member girl group aespa’s first full-length album, Armageddon.
Its striking lyrics probe the meaning and origins of existence.
It’s a dance track that fuses electropop and hip-hop, characterized by a minimalistic track sound.
Released on May 27, 2024, it became a massive hit, breaking the record for the longest consecutive run at No.
1 on the MelOn chart.
The song symbolizes the members’ inner explosions and an adventure into a cosmic dimension.
The music video highlights aespa’s innovativeness with cutting-edge AI-driven visual effects and intricate dance sequences.
Its weighty sound, imbued with philosophical themes, is also recommended for anyone facing a turning point in life.