[2026] A roundup of popular K-POP hits that were trending this year

NOT CUTE ANYMOREILLIT

ILLIT (아일릿) ‘NOT CUTE ANYMORE’ Official MV

ILLIT delivered a declaration that “cute isn’t the end of the story,” set to a breezy, reggae-tinged pop groove.

Debuting in 2024, the girl group made a dazzling start, racking up 12 music show wins with their title track “Magnetic.” Comprising Korean and Japanese members, they are signed to HYBE’s BELIFT LAB.

This track is the lead song from their first single album, released in November 2025, and under the concept “CUTE IS DEAD,” it sings of breaking free from a fixed image.

The springy rhythm and cool, nonchalant mood leave a strong impression, while the fleeting glimmers of delicacy create a superb contrast.

In December 2025, they clinched wins on KBS’s Music Bank and Show Champion.

It’s a song we highly recommend to anyone searching for their own sense of self.

SPAGHETTI (feat. j-hope of BTS)LE SSERAFIM

LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌) ‘SPAGHETTI (feat. j-hope of BTS)’ OFFICIAL MV

A track featuring BTS’s j-hope was released in October 2025.

Issued as the title track of the group’s first single album, “Spaghetti,” it blends alternative pop and funk, weaving bouncing bass with tight, hard-edged drums.

Packed into a runtime of just over two minutes, the song is engineered for high addictiveness, delivering hook after hook.

Like spaghetti intertwining, the lyrics unfold self-referential metaphors—“it won’t leave your head,” “it’s addictive”—positioning LE SSERAFIM themselves as an irresistible presence.

The concept is intriguing, and international reception has been strong, including their first-ever top-50 entry on the UK charts.

It’s a track that showcases a fresh charm—pop-savvy with a vibrant street feel.

OVERDRIVETWS

TWS (투어스) ‘OVERDRIVE’ Official MV

TWS is a boy group from PLEDIS Entertainment that debuted in January 2024.

Embracing a genre they call “Boyhood Pop,” centered on the everyday life and emotions of youth, they released their 4th mini album ‘play hard’ in October 2025, and this is the title track.

It’s a rock-leaning number that opens with an explosive guitar riff, capturing the thrill and unstoppable rush of falling in love with a driving, fast-paced sound.

Stepping beyond their previously refreshing image, it’s an ambitious work that showcases the fervor and resolve of youth.

The music video—built around a game-like confession simulation concept—is a must-see as well.

Blending elements of pop-punk and funk, the song has a refreshing vibe that’s perfect when you’re in the mood for energetic music.

WE GO UPBABYMONSTER

BABYMONSTER – ‘WE GO UP’ M/V

BABYMONSTER of YG Entertainment will release their second mini-album, “WE GO UP,” in October 2025.

The title track of the same name is a hip-hop dance number notable for its bold brass sound.

Powerfully voicing their determination to “climb higher,” it carries themes of self-affirmation and taking on challenges.

Its sharp rhythms and energetic arrangement seem to symbolize the group’s growth and drive to improve.

The music video surpassed 30 million views in three days, and its action-packed visual direction became a hot topic.

It’s perfect as background music when you want to believe in yourself and move forward, or when you’re facing a new challenge—the kind of song that gives you a courageous push.

THIS IS FORTwice

TWICE “THIS IS FOR” M/V

TWICE, South Korea’s top girl group, has reached a milestone with their 10th debut anniversary.

This song was released in July 2025 as the title track of their first Korean-language full album in about four years, “THIS IS FOR.” It’s crafted as an empowerment anthem that gently stays by your side and gives you strength when you’ve lost confidence or feel down.

The message sung “to all women” overlaps with the journey the nine members have walked, making it resonate even more deeply.

Expressing the supple strength of mature women, this work signals the beginning of a new stage for them.

Listen to it when you want to take on a challenge or encourage yourself, and you’ll surely find courage!

Hollywood ActionBOYNEXTDOOR

BOYNEXTDOOR (보이넥스트도어) ‘Hollywood Action’ Official MV

Released in October 2025 as the title track of their fifth EP, “The Action” centers on the theme of filmmaking.

Under the concept of BOYNEXTDOOR acting as a fictional film crew called “Team The Action,” the track was produced by ZICO, Pop Time, and others.

Its swing rhythm and brassy sound create the exhilarating feeling of walking a red carpet.

Packed with playful nods to movie credits and cast introductions, the song captures the moment you shine as the main character.

The music video—shot mainly on location in Chicago—features cinematic direction that’s a highlight in itself.

The release peaked at No.

40 on the Billboard 200 and took first place on Korean music shows.

It’s the kind of song that gives you a push when you’re ready to move toward your dreams and goals.

GoldenHUNTR/X, EJAE, AUDREY NUNA, REI AMI, KPop Demon Hunters Cast

“Golden” Official Lyric Video | KPop Demon Hunters | Sony Animation

This is a song by Huntrix, a fictional K-pop group born from the Netflix film “KPOP Girls! Demon Hunters.” The vocals are performed by powerhouse Korean American artists Lee Eun-jae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami.

The track is an epic electropop number that captures the group’s resolve as they live as idols by day and fight as spirit hunters by night.

Their declaration to “believe in the power that sleeps within and carve out our destiny” mirrors the life of Lee Eun-jae, who has pursued her dreams for many years.

The song’s storytelling is sure to move some listeners to tears.

Despite being a fictional group, they reached No.

1 on the Billboard Global 200 in July 2025.

If you’re ready to take a new step forward, this song will surely make your heart shine.