[Korean popular music] Popular trot songs. Masterpieces by trot singers.
A feature on classic Korean “trot” songs—another genre to watch alongside K-pop!
Originating from the Western social dance style “foxtrot,” this Korean popular music is characterized by a rhythm that feels like you could dance to a 4/4 beat.
Its appeal includes melodies imbued with a bittersweet, nostalgic mood—partly influenced by Japanese enka—as well as many unique, high-energy numbers.
From the renewed attention sparked by the hit song “Omona” in the 2000s to the heated popularity in both Japan and Korea following audition programs around the 2020s, trot has been making waves.
In this article, we’re focusing on trot’s classics and fan favorites!
Let’s all dive into the world of trot together!
- [Japan–Korea Spotlight Again] Feature on Korean Enka Singers, Trot Singers
- [Korean Oldies · Genre-Free] Songs from Korea you’ll want to listen to now—nostalgic Korean tracks
- [K-POP] Korean songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: classic crowd-pleasers
- K-POP and Korean tear-jerker songs: tracks that deeply resonate and bring you to tears
- [Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the soul. Korean Ballads
- Hit songs that colored Korea's 1990s: Kayo (K-pop) pop music.
- Guaranteed to hit repeat: Energetic K-pop songs that will lift your mood
- An emotional Korean song. A gently moving, sensitive masterpiece.
- [Female Vocalists from Korea] Singers and Solo Artists Who Color the World of K-POP
- Tearjerker K-pop ballads: Korean songs that will make you cry
- A J-POP song highly popular in South Korea [with a Korean-language cover too!]
- Korean karaoke songs: beloved tunes from popular ballads to K-pop
- Popular K-pop and Korean songs that brighten up YouTube Shorts
[Korean Popular Songs] Popular Trot Songs: Masterpieces by Trot Singers (21–30)
풍등I chanwon (I·chanwon)
Lee Chan-won, who is drawing attention as a leading figure in the trot scene of the 2020s.
Among his songs, the one I especially recommend is “Pungdeung.” The title refers to sky lanterns that are sent up into the air.
Its lyrics liken fading love and memories to lanterns drifting away into the sky.
These heartrending lyrics match exquisitely with the uniquely wistful sound of trot.
It’s also a great recommendation for fans of Japanese enka.
Pitiful (찐이야)Yontaku
If you want to switch off your brain and just have fun, I recommend the trot song “Jjin-iya.” Youngtak, who’s also respected as a composer and took second place on Mister Trot in 2020, performed this upbeat number on the show.
The chorus has a repeated phrase that’ll definitely make you want to hum along! The song portrays the feeling of having your heart stolen by someone wonderful, and its catchy choreography—perfect for everyone to dance and enjoy together—is another big draw.
It’s sure to get the crowd going at karaoke, too.
With its comical vibe, it has the power to sweep everyone up in the fun!
별, 그대 (You are my star)kimu hije (kimu hije)
If you’re looking to listen to a calm, relaxing trot song, I recommend “Star, You (별, 그대).” It’s a ballad released in 2021 by Kim Heejae, who is a classmate of BTS’s V (Taehyung) and placed seventh on “Tomorrow is Mr.
Trot.” The lyrics, written by Heejae himself, metaphorically refer to his fan club “Joyful Star,” conveying a warm message to his fans.
The somewhat nostalgic melody is soothing, and his beautifully reassuring vocals are a must-hear!
힘을 내세요I chanwon (I·chanwon)
Lee Chang-won, who has appeared on numerous music shows since childhood and became one of the Top 7 on Tomorrow is Mr.
Trot, released “Cheer Up” as the title track of his first mini-album ..Gift in 2021.
It’s a medium-tempo number where Korea’s signature rhythmic trot sound harmonizes with a Japanese enka-style melody.
The house-influenced track with brass is so fun it makes you want to sing along.
Its message gives you an energizing boost—like charging your tired body with vitamins—and the contrast between that and Chang-won’s unexpectedly deep, rugged vocals, despite his sweet baby face, is part of the song’s charm.
Myung Hoon is going(명훈이 간다)cheon minhun (chon minhun)
Jung Myung-hoon, who was active as a member of the idol group NRG, is also bringing a fresh breeze to the trot scene.
With a track that adds a Chinese-inspired flavor to a light and playful melody, it’s a work brimming with a spirit of challenge that opens up new territory.
Released in 2020, its melodious and catchy development is captivating, packed with the fun and brightness that only the multi-talented Myung-hoon can express.
It’s the perfect song for lifting your mood or getting an energy boost, and it’s sure to help you discover a new charm in trot.