[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】A Roundup of This Year’s Hit K-POP Songs (41–50)

CEREMONYStray Kids

Stray Kids “CEREMONY” M/V

CEREMONYStray Kids

Stray Kids continue their unstoppable rise, from dome tours to global stages.

Opening the curtain on their album KARMA, released in August 2025, this track plays like a celebratory anthem honoring their glory.

The sound—fusing EDM trap with baile funk—is quintessential SKZ.

A powerful beat underpins an addictive melody, as if boldly proclaiming that all their past efforts have finally borne fruit.

Considering the overwhelming energy this song radiates, it’s no surprise the album soared to No.

1 on the Billboard 200.

It’s the perfect number for sharing the exhilaration of achievement or giving yourself a powerful boost.

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[2026] Summary of Popular K-POP Hits That Were Trendy This Year (51–60)

Cherish (My Love)ILLIT

ILLIT (아일릿) ‘Cherish (My Love)’ Official MV

Cherish (My Love)ILLIT

Many people’s hearts are likely to dance to this love song, which carries the refreshing scent of first love.

It’s a track from ILLIT, a five-member girl group from Korea and Japan, included on their second mini-album “I’LL LIKE YOU,” released in October 2024.

The unique music video themed around wisdom teeth also drew a lot of attention.

The pop, catchy sound and heart-filled choreography convey their desire to feel closer to fans.

The lyrics, brimming with youthful passion, reveal a new charm of ILLIT as they continue to grow as fifth-generation idols.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants to relive the romance of their youth.

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I AMive

IVE 아이브 ‘I AM’ MV

I AMive

The six-member Korean girl group IVE delivers a confident anthem that boldly champions self-love and a positive attitude.

As the title track from their first album, “I’ve IVE,” released in April 2023, it features lyrics co-written by the members themselves, building a worldview that is distinctly IVE.

The lyrics, which emphasize finding your own path and believing in yourself, are sure to inspire and empower listeners.

The song became a major hit, charting not only in Korea but also on Billboard’s Global Excl.

US chart and the Spotify Global chart.

It’s a highly recommended track for anyone just getting into K-pop.

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첫 만남은 계획대로 되지 않아TWS

TWS (투어스) ‘첫 만남은 계획대로 되지 않아’ Official MV

첫 만남은 계획대로 되지 않아TWS

This is TWS’s debut track, bringing a fresh breeze to the K-pop scene.

The lyrics, which capture the tension and excitement of a first meeting with refreshing clarity, leave a strong impression.

Its hybrid pop sound—woven from crisp drums, guitar, and synths—features an irresistibly catchy refrain.

Upon their January 2024 debut, the song topped major Korean music charts.

It was also selected for Billboard’s “20 Best K-Pop Songs of 2024 So Far,” earning support from fans around the world.

A perfect song for making summer memories—and a great pick for your driving playlist.

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FOREVERBABYMONSTER

BABYMONSTER – ‘FOREVER’ M/V

FOREVERBABYMONSTER

BABYMONSTER, rapidly gaining popularity on the K-pop scene, delivers this refreshing, summery track from the seven-member group, released by YG Entertainment in July 2024.

Evoking an ’80s-style synth-pop sound interwoven with catchy melodies and choruses, it captivates listeners.

The song carries a powerful message directed at young women, emphasizing the importance of valuing one’s true self.

It has already sparked a major response, surpassing 5 million views on YouTube within 24 hours.

As a piece that showcases BABYMONSTER’s growth and musical evolution, it has won the hearts of many fans.

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Love LanguageTXT

TXT (투모로우바이투게더) ‘Love Language’ Official MV

Love LanguageTXT

A dance track that blends Afro house rhythms with an enchanting melody.

Released in Japan in May 2025 as a digital single by TXT, the piece showcases the group’s evolving artistry.

TXT, a five-member boy group that debuted in March 2019, has risen as a young act under HYBE.

For this release, member Hueningkai contributed to the lyrics.

Their silky, vocal-group polish and groove-rich new sound come together to deliver a striking sense of growth.

The music video, filmed in Spain, features the members’ distinctive performances set against beautiful scenery such as coastlines and gardens.

Centered on the theme of expressing love, it’s a song that makes your face start dancing the moment you hear it.

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Deja VuTOMORROW X TOGETHER

TXT (투모로우바이투게더) ‘Deja Vu’ Official MV

Deja VuTOMORROW X TOGETHER

The lead track from the new release by TOMORROW X TOGETHER, a five-member male idol group from South Korea, set for April 2024, is a poignant song that sings of nostalgia for past promises and dreams.

Included on the album “minisode 3: TOMORROW,” the track features a pop sound infused with shades of rage and emo rock, expressing the chaotic emotions of youth and the aching desire to reconnect with someone lost.

In the music video, the members’ intense performance is presented with a cinematic flair.

It’s a masterpiece that anyone reminiscing about their youth should definitely listen to.

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