[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 Music] Popular Trot Songs: Masterpieces by Trot Singers (31–40)
로꾸거!!!SUPER JUNIOR-T
The moment Korean traditional music met idol culture, a new chapter in music history was born.
SUPER JUNIOR-T debuted in February 2007 as a six-member subunit with a rich variety of talents.
Their debut track, which blended playful wordplay with a catchy melody, emerged as a fresh take that went beyond the conventional bounds of trot.
In November 2008, they also released a Japanese version in collaboration with the Japanese comedy duo Moeyan, achieving a peak position of No.
2 on the Oricon charts and gaining cross-border popularity.
With its bright vibe and fun dance that laugh off everyday stress and setbacks, it’s perfect for getting everyone hyped at parties or karaoke.
1,2,3 go!paku hiyonho
A song whose refreshing rhythm and warm message resonate with the heart.
Released by Park Hyun-ho in September 2023, this work is a rousing anthem that powerfully sings of young people’s dreams and hopes.
Having previously performed as a member of the idol group ToppDogg, Park Hyun-ho decided to transition to a trot singer after completing his military service.
Produced by the accomplished trot composer 멧돼지, the track blends jazz and trot into a light, upbeat groove that conveys courage and hope in the face of life’s hardships.
Its catchy, familiar melody and easy-to-follow choreography are also major highlights.
It has captured many listeners’ hearts as the perfect song for times when you want to face forward and keep going, or when you need an energy boost.
트위스트고고Lee Chan Won
Highly recommended as a perfect song for sunny summer days or vacations, Twist Go Go is included on ONE, the first full-length album by Lee Chan-won, who took third place on Mr.
Trot.
When the music video was released in August 2023, it ranked on YouTube’s trending charts and more.
It has a trot vibe, but it’s catchy and approachable, getting you excited right from the intro! The casual, easy-to-dance choreography also boosts that travel mood.
For a summer you want to spend feeling free, be sure to have this song with you!
With youMinami Chin / Namjin (Namujin)
Namjin, the emperor of trot who never stops expressing bittersweet emotions.
First sung and made a hit in 1972, this masterpiece is a gem of a love song that celebrates boundless love and devotion to a beloved.
As the couple climbs mountains, walks across plains, and crosses rivers, the scenes of them always by each other’s side resonate deeply.
With a melody woven by a voice that is both powerful and graceful, it’s cherished across generations.
Perfect for moments that celebrate bonds with loved ones, such as weddings and anniversaries.
It’s a warmhearted song that lets you share the joy and happiness of walking through life with your partner.
The man says (don’t make me say it as a man).janguminho(Chiyan.Minho)
After starting his music career in 1997 as a member of the idol group U-Bes, Jang Minho made his re-debut as a trot singer in 2011.
He also competed on ‘Mr.
Trot’ and made the Top 7.
‘A Man Speaks’ (남자는 말합니다) is a track included on his 2013 smash-hit album ‘Don’t Make a Man Say It.’ With a classic style reminiscent of Japanese enka, it carries a nostalgic atmosphere.
Be sure to take your time and savor Minho’s rich, dashing vocals.