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

Seven (feat. Latto)Jung Kook

정국 (Jung Kook) ‘Seven (feat. Latto)’ Official MV

This is the solo debut single released in July 2023 by Jungkook, the main vocalist of the hugely popular BTS.

Its light, UK garage-inspired rhythm feels refreshing, and the straightforward lyrics about loving you every day of the week are passionately delivered.

It became a massive global hit, debuting at No.

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

The popular American rapper Latto appears as a guest, and the track was later included on the album GOLDEN.

The music video, featuring actress Han So-hee, drew attention for its comedic, movie-like portrayal of a couple.

Jungkook’s soaring vocals and the catchy melody make it perfect for driving or when you want to lift your mood.

Give it a listen!

ButterBTS

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘Butter’ Official MV

Following the worldwide sensation of “Dynamite,” this dance-pop number by BTS was released in May 2021.

It spent a total of 10 weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S., becoming an anthem of that summer.

With its smooth bassline and refreshingly bright synths, it’s a song that makes your heart dance just by listening.

The music video’s polished performance also became a hot topic, sparking a global dance cover boom.

Crossing the boundaries of music, the track turned into a social phenomenon, including a collaboration with McDonald’s.

It’s the perfect number for blowing away the blues or kicking up your energy on a morning when you need a boost.

Why not start your day with this song full of positive energy and make it your best one yet?

The FeelsTwice

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！

I Am The Best2NE1

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.

Bad BoyRed 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.

NobodyWONDER GIRLS

Wonder Girls “NOBODY (Eng. Ver)” M/V

The Wonder Girls, who led K-pop’s overseas expansion as retro queens.

“Nobody,” released in September 2008, is their signature hit.

Its retro sound reminiscent of 1960s Motown and its irresistible, stick-in-your-head catchiness are unforgettable.

The chorus, conveying the message “I only need you,” and the finger dance with stand microphones sparked a worldwide craze! In 2009, they became the first Korean artists to enter the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100, and the song was also featured in the film Penguins of Madagascar.

Brimming with a charm that makes your body move naturally when you hear it, this track is perfect for dancing with everyone at a party.

Experience this timeless classic that continues to be loved across generations!

GeeGirls’ 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!