[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)
사는게 다 (Life goes like that)YOYOMI
A song I’d like to share with anyone looking for a heartwarming track from a drama OST.
Performed by the versatile artist Yoyomi from Cheongju, it was recorded in March 2021 for TV Chosun’s drama “Perhaps a Family.” Portraying the joys and hardships of life with gentle grace, the piece captivates with its soft vocals and a simple yet resonant melody.
Set against a calm arrangement of piano and strings, it warmly sings of people who meet by chance and begin walking together as a family.
Carrying a hopeful message that smiles await after tears, this song offers a universal story that celebrates the beauty of embracing life in all its facets.
Loop of LoveJeongu Dongwon (Chon Donwon)
This song by trot singer Jeong Dong-won marks a bold venture into new territory, incorporating elements of ballad and gospel.
Released in November 2024, it delves deeply into the complexities of love and fate, striking a poignant chord.
Jeong Dong-won’s wistful vocals further heighten the song’s atmosphere.
Top Korean session musicians also took part, resulting in a meticulously crafted track down to the finest details.
It’s recommended for those struggling with relationships or wishing to reflect deeply on love.
As autumn lends itself to sentimentality, why not take some time to listen at a relaxed pace and reflect on your own heart?
Camellia MaidenRi Miko/Imija (I Mija)
Lee Mi-ja is a legendary singer who represents Korean popular music—comparable, in Japan, to Hibari Misora.
Her signature song “Dongbaek Agassi (Camellia Girl),” released in 1964, was a massive hit.
It was used as the theme song for a film of the same name and became Korea’s first million-seller.
Among trot songs, its style is very close to Japanese enka, so it may feel familiar to Japanese listeners.
The lyrics depict the pure feelings of waiting for a loved one, which resonated with many people at the time.
This trot number shines with the nostalgic expression of Lee Mi-ja, who was known as the Queen of Elegy.
Get Set YoASTRO MJ
Get Set Yo is a semi-trot number that’s perfect for listening to when you wake up to power up your day.
It’s the title track of Happy Virus, the digital single released in 2021 by MJ of the popular boy group ASTRO.
Produced by Young Tak—runner-up on Tomorrow is Mr.
Trot—this song lifts your mood with its fun groove, catchy melody, and MJ’s refreshing charm! It also carries that signature, easy-to-get-into vibe unique to Young Tak, which is just fantastic.
Enjoy the harmony between idol pop and trot!
Monologue(독백)Jeongu Dongwon (Chon Donwon)
A melancholic ballad by young trot singer Jeong Dong-won, perfectly suited to the sentimental mood of autumn.
With a delicate vocal that feels like a heartfelt monologue, the song drew attention as a pre-release track from the remake album “Collection of props Vol.1,” unveiled in September 2023.
Within a gentle soundscape woven from tender piano tones and strings, hitmaker Yoon Myeong-seon’s lyrical melody beautifully conveys subtle emotions such as inner conflict and anxiety.
It’s a comforting track you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.
In conclusion
I introduced some classic hits of Korean popular music, Trot.
The expressive performances by Korea’s emotionally rich vocalists are truly captivating.
It’s a fascinating genre with a wide range—from sentimental songs that touch the heart to friendly, upbeat tracks—and listeners’ preferences are likely to vary.
I’d be delighted if this helps readers discover songs or artists they love.