[2026] A roundup of K-pop songs popular in the United States

Super ShyNEW!NewJeans

NewJeans (뉴진스) ‘Super Shy’ Official MV

Among the so-called fourth generation of K-pop, NewJeans sparked a global phenomenon with their singular presence and brilliantly retro-meets-modern songs, achieving feats that will go down in K-pop history despite their short period of activity.

Among their tracks, the worldwide hit is “Super Shy.” It’s a dance-pop song whose Jersey club rhythm and breezy vocals feel refreshing, and its lyrics capturing the bashfulness of a crush have resonated with listeners.

Released in July 2023 as a pre-release single from the EP “Get Up,” it peaked at No.

48 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S.

The dance project tied to YouTube Shorts also generated major buzz.

With a sense of openness reminiscent of the Lisbon-shot music video, it’s perfect BGM when you want to refresh your mood.

The FeelsNEW!Twice

TWICE “The Feels” M/V

世界的な人気を誇る多国籍ガールズグループ、トワイス。彼女たちがアメリカ市場へ本格的に進出するきっかけとなったのが、こちらの初めてのオリジナル英語シングルです。2021年10月に発売された本作は、米ビルボードHot 100で83位に初登場するという快挙をなしとげました。のちにアルバム『Formula of Love: O+T=<3』にも収録されたことでも知られていますね。跳ねるようなディスコのリズムとベースラインが心地よく、恋に落ちた瞬間のドキドキする高揚感がストレートに表現されています。思わず体が動き出してしまうようなグルーヴ感は、聴いているだけでポジティブなエネルギーをもらえるはず。なにか挑戦する前の気分を上げたいときや、ドライブのお供にもぴったりな1曲ですよ！

Chasing That FeelingNEW!TXT

TXT (투모로우바이투게더) ‘Chasing That Feeling’ Official MV

It features a striking new wave sound that evokes a nostalgic 80s vibe.

It’s the title track from the five-member group Tomorrow X Together, who debuted in 2019; released in October 2023, the hit album “The Name Chapter: FREEFALL” reached No.

3 on the U.S.

Billboard charts.

With a driving beat and cool synth tones, the song powerfully conveys the resolve to face the pain of reality.

The music video, which depicts waking from sweet illusions and falling into reality, is set in a city reminiscent of New York and boasts a cinematic scale that’s truly captivating.

It even took first place on Korean music programs and has earned support worldwide.

Its message—moving forward despite anxiety—will gently encourage anyone taking on a challenge.

Immerse yourself in this world!

I Am The BestNEW!2NE1

2NE1 – 내가 제일 잘 나가(I AM THE BEST) M/V

2NE1, the Korean girl group that left behind countless legends.

Their June 2011 release “I Am The Best” is a track that powerfully expresses overflowing confidence.

The beat, fusing electro house and hip-hop, is intense and grabs listeners’ hearts.

True to the lyrics, “I’m the best,” it continues to be loved as an anthem that boosts self-esteem.

Years after its release, the song sparked a wave of renewed appreciation in the U.S.

when it was used in Microsoft’s Surface Pro 3 commercial in 2014.

It’s also included on the album “2NE1 2nd Mini Album” and in the game “Just Dance 2020.” Give it a listen before a crucial moment or whenever you want to fire yourself up.

GeeNEW!Girls’ Generation

Girls’ Generation 소녀시대 ‘Gee’ MV

Girls’ Generation, the defining group of K-pop’s second generation and still reigning as legends today.

The title track of their mini-album released in January 2009 captures the thrill of falling in love with a burst of upbeat pop sound.

The chorus, with its memorable repeated phrases, is highly addictive and continues to captivate many listeners.

The music video, where the members—dressed in colorful skinny jeans—pose as mannequins, even became a social phenomenon at the time.

On Korea’s music show Music Bank, it set an astonishing record by taking first place for nine consecutive weeks, and it’s also beloved in the U.S.

as a go-to classic.

Its exhilarating vibe makes it perfect as background music for drives or parties.

The choreography is easy to follow, so it’s fun to dance along with friends on TikTok and the like!

Bad BoyNEW!Red Velvet

Red Velvet 레드벨벳 ‘Bad Boy’ MV

If you want to enjoy a cool, sophisticated R&B sound, this is the work you should hear.

Red Velvet is a girl group that masterfully handles a variety of concepts.

This track can be said to draw out to the fullest their mature “velvet” charm.

The groove woven by the heavy bass and synthesizers will stick in your ears after just one listen.

It’s the title track included on the repackaged album “The Perfect Red Velvet,” released in January 2018.

It has received high praise from overseas critics, including being selected by U.S.

Billboard as one of the Best Songs of 2018.

Their lustrous vocals riding over hip-hop-derived beats are a must-hear.

Also pay attention to the members’ cool expressions and fashion in the music video.

It’s a perfect song for a night drive or when you want to sink into a more mature mood.

ManiacNEW!Stray Kids

Stray Kids “MANIAC” M/V

Stray Kids, the Korean boy group taking the world by storm with their signature “mala flavor” sound.

This song was released as the lead track from their mini album ODDINARY in March 2022.

It features a heavy beat that fuses trap and EDM, with an addictive sound colored by distinctive effects.

It carries a message of rejecting the confines of what society calls “normal” and embracing the “odd” parts within yourself.

Led by the production team 3RACHA, the track’s global popularity has been proven, including a Gold certification from the RIAA in May 2024.

It’s a powerful song that gives you a push when you want to charge ahead without worrying about others’ eyes!