There is more to the song “Gangnam Style” when it comes to Korean popular music. This selection is proof of this: it brings together some of the best songs from k pop of the last 25 years, with the purpose of offering you an introduction to this varied, vibrant and exciting world.
If you already consider yourself a fan of the genre, it’s still for you because you may be reminiscing or rediscovering some of the hits from Asia. Later, we will update the list until we complete a few dozen compositions.
Of course, it is not free from subjectivity, however, please know that suggestions from fans, colleagues, friends and other online sources were also considered. Without further ado, let’s start the journey with the best-known songs and those that can be considered part of the first generation (right now, it is possible to identify at least four).
The best known songs of k-pop
Gangnam Style by Psy
Even if you have no idea of some of the most representative songs of the k pop, it is certain that you have heard this one from Psy. A stunning viral hit, the clip from the 2012 piece has nearly 4.8 billion views to date. Its addictive sound and catchy chorus probably introduced many outside of Korea to the genre. A true classic, which is why it’s one of the few non-group songs allowed on this list.
Pop/Stars by K/DA
Yes, we mean the song of League of Legends. She is played by Miyeon and Soyeon, two members of the group (G)I-dle, along with Madison Beer and Jaira Burns, and sung in both English and Korean. It will be familiar to gamers of Beat Saber and, like “Gangnam Style”, it will be the first point of contact for many people for the k pop.
Dynamite by BTS
This won’t be the only mention of global sensation BTS on our list. It is a wonderful summer piece that was incredibly popular internationally, plus it is also one of the best BTS songs on Beat Saber (the VR video game) and has been used by Samsung for the Galaxy S20 FE and other promotional activities of the brand.
Kill This Love by Blackpink
Does Blackpink need an introduction? Possibly not, as he has garnered enormous international success performing everywhere from Coachella to TV appearances as The Late Late Show. Nor is it possible to deny her multiple collaborations with artists like Lady Gaga. “Kill This Love” is one of the group’s best-known anthems.
Love Scenario by iKON
Smooth and melodious, “Love Scenario” was controversial in South Korea upon its release, with parents concerned about exposing children to the song’s addictive properties and lyrics some considered inappropriate for young ears. It may be true, since once you hear it, you won’t stop humming it.
Pick Me by Produce 48
The lyrics of “Pick Me” symbolize the connection between an idol and their fans, making it the ideal theme for the various “survival” shows on the Korean music channel Mnet, in which would-be idols compete for a spot on the show. a new group. The trainees have performed a different arrangement for each show, but this version for the series Produces 48 It’s the most iconic.
TT from Twice
Like Blackpink, Twice have a huge and deserved international following, albeit with a totally different concept and sound. This is perfectly illustrated by the catchy “TT”, whose title refers to the crying emoticon.
First generation (1997-2002)
Candy, from HOT (1996)
Get Up, by Baby VOX (1997)
Dreams Come True, by SES (1998)
Funky Tonight, by Clone (1999)
Pure Love by Koyote (1999)
Coming of Age Ceremony, by Park Ji Yoon (2000)
The controversial lyrics and theme couldn’t stop “Coming of Age Ceremony” from changing the industry, plus it has been covered by multiple major groups and artists from around the world. k pop since its release. Her story and the effect she had professionally and personally on Park Ji Yoon are elements that it would be wise to explore if you are a newcomer.
Come Back Home, by Seo Taiji & Boys (2000)
Like many of the Korean groups of the time, the sound of “Come Back Home” is heavily influenced by the hip hopbut with a synchronized choreography that would become the trademark of all bands of k pop in the future. “Come Back Home” is a classic song that has been covered several times by different groups, such as BTS and TXT.
Eternal Love, by Fin KL (2000)
Shinhwa’s Perfect Man (2002)
No.1, from BoA (2002)
Our last solo artist on the list – he’s too big of a legend not to include, having released multiple albums and found success singing in Korean, Japanese and English long before other artists on the list. k pop they would do the same. She continues to influence performers and shape the industry today.
Hot, from 1tym (2003)
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