Famous Kpop Songs of All Time

In recent years, K-pop has captured the hearts of a vast and diverse audience, ranging from teenagers to adults. Originating from South Korea, K-pop has grown into a global sensation, mesmerizing listeners with its catchy tunes, mesmerizing choreography, and dynamic performances.

Are you also a fan of K-pop songs and want to know the background of famous K-pop songs? Then, this guide is tailor-made for you!

Embark on an exciting journey through the colorful and energetic realm of Korean popular music, better known as K-pop.

Get ready to groove to the rhythms of K-pop’s greatest hits!

10 Famous Kpop Songs

1: NewJeans, “Super Shy”

Lyricist: Gigi, Kim Dong-Hyun, Erika de Casier, Kristine Bogan, Frankie Scoca, and NewJeans’ Danielle

Director: Shin Hee-won

Choreographer: Black. Q and Eunju Kim

“Super Shy” by NewJeans, featured on their 2023 EP Get Up, explores the theme of wanting to connect with someone but being held back by shyness. The song’s lyrics delve into the anxiety of confessing a first love.

Musically, the song blends elements of liquid drum and bass, bubblegum pop, and Jersey club, characterized by a distinctive bass drum pattern.

“Super Shy” achieved significant chart success, becoming NewJeans’ third number-one hit on the South Korean Circle Digital Chart, where it stayed at the top for eight weeks. The song also reached number one in Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Taiwan and peaked at number two on the Billboard Global 200. It performed well on both the UK and the US Billboard Hot 100.

The song video’s choreography showcases waacking and accessible dance moves, youthful styling, and visuals inspired by Wes Anderson’s films.

Critics have praised the song for its innovation and significant impact on K-pop in 2023. They have cemented “Super Shy” as one of the standout tracks of the year and marked it amongst famous Kpop songs.

2: Jimin, “Like Crazy”

Lyricist: Pdogg, Blvsh, Chris James, Ghstloop, Jimin, RM, Evan

Director: Oui Kim

Produced by: Pdogg and Ghstloop

“Like Crazy” by Jimin of BTS, released on March 24, 2023, is the second single from his debut solo album Face. This synth-pop track is available in both Korean and English versions, each offering a distinct emotional narrative.

In the Korean version, the song delves into the pain of losing someone special and escaping into a dream-like world to cope with the loss. However, the English version addresses the struggles of fame and the feeling of losing one’s identity. Both versions connect deeply with listeners through their heartfelt lyrics and Jimin’s emotive delivery.

“Like Crazy” achieved unprecedented success, becoming the first song by a South Korean solo artist to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It also reached number eight on the UK Singles Chart and entered the top 10 in several countries, including Hungary, India, the Netherlands, Singapore, and South Korea. Furthermore, the song topped the charts in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Peru, the Philippines, and Taiwan.

With over 71.2 million streams and 86,000 sales worldwide, “Like Crazy” debuted at number two on the Billboard Global 200.

3: IVE, “I Am”

Lyricist: Kim Eana, Ryan S. Jhun, Audun Agnar, Eline Noelia & Kristin Marie

Director: Seung-hee Son

“I Am” by IVE is a powerful anthem celebrating self-discovery and empowerment. The song’s lyrics emphasize the importance of individuality and self-belief, encouraging listeners to follow their unique path and trust in their strengths. It portrays life’s journey as a beautiful galaxy where everyone can create their own story.

With its uplifting message, “I Am” inspires listeners to embrace their talents and pursue their dreams with confidence. The song serves as a reminder that each person has the power to shape their own destiny and shine brightly in their own right.

Released on April 10, 2023, as part of IVE’s debut album “I’ve Ive,” the song quickly topped charts, including a six-week reign on the Circle Digital Chart. It also gained international acclaim, charting in countries like Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Furthermore, the was praised for its impactful lyrics and vocal performance which makes it one of the famous Kpop songs.

4: Crush, “Hmm-cheat”

Lyricist: Crush, Penomeco, and Hong So Jin

Director: Jae Yeob Bang

“Hmm-cheat” is the title track of Crush’s third album “wonderego.” This fun and upbeat song focuses on enjoying the night and letting go of inhibitions. The lyrics celebrate women, encouraging them to indulge in the moment, have fun, and enjoy themselves without restraint. Overall, the song portrays a celebration of letting go and embracing the joy and excitement of the night.

Featuring cowbell percussion, beatboxing, and a gurgling bass line, “Hmm-cheat” is a throwback to the hip-hop-inflected boy band pop of the ’90s. Hailing from his 2023 album, “wonderego,” “Hmm-cheat” showcases the Crush’s seductive swagger and ability to switch between sugary harmonies and boisterous flirtations, reflecting his unique style and musical versatility.

5: SEVENTEEN, “Super”

Lyricist: Woozi, Bumzu, S.Coups, Vernon, and August Rigo

Director: Oui Kim

Choreographer: Choi Young-Joon

“Super” by Seventeen, a South Korean boy group, dropped on April 24, 2023, is a catchy jam with a blend of Korean culture and anime vibes. Its Korean title, (Son O-gong), nods to Sun Wukong from Chinese tales and Goku from Dragon Ball Z, adding an exciting twist to its lyrics. With a duration of 3:20 minutes, it’s a fun ride in G♯ major, tapping at 137 beats per minute.

This Kpop song is Seventeen’s way of answering life’s tough questions, especially after their song “F*ck My Life.” The song reflects their journey, showing how they’ve pushed through hard times and kept moving forward. It’s a reminder of their bond with their fans and how they’ve grown stronger together.

The music video is a visual feast, bursting with vibrant choreography. Backed by 228 dancers, it is Seventeen’s second video to hit 200 million views. The song marked Seventeen’s first entry into the top 40 of the Billboard Global 200, highlighting its widespread popularity and impact.

6: Le Sserafim, “Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife”

Lyricist: Anabelle Shim

Director: Yoon Ji-hye

Choreographer: Amy & Elly (Performance Directors) and Kiel Tutin

“Eve, Psyche & the Bluebeard’s Wife” by Le Sserafim emerges as a standout in K-pop, famous songs infusing Jersey club vibes. Released on May 23, 2023, within their debut album “Unforgiven,” the track swiftly gained traction for its girl power themes. Its music video, depicting the group’s playful antics, bolstered its rise to number two on South Korea’s Circle Digital Chart.

Crafted by a collaborative team, the song’s lively tempo and electro beats resonate with audiences, while its lyrics challenge societal norms. It earned acclaim from Billboard and NME. This Kpop song clinched spots on music program awards like Inkigayo, underscoring its commercial success and cultural significance in the K-pop sphere.

7: iKON, “U”

Lyricist: Bobby

iKON’s “U” represents a pivotal moment for the group, revealing a blend of confidence and maturity. Released through 143 Entertainment in 2024, it seamlessly merges rap verses with soulful vocals, creating a unique fusion of R&B and hip-hop. This track showcases iKON’s versatility by hinting at their growth as artists. Alongside hits like “Panorama” and “T.T.M,” “U” solidifies iKON’s position as a dynamic force in K-pop, promising continued innovation and excitement for fans.

With “U,” iKON introduces a fresh vibe to their discography, reflecting their evolution and musical prowess. It exudes a sense of fun and freedom while capturing the group’s distinctive style. Released amidst much anticipation, this track further cements iKON’s place in the famous Kpop songs, paving the way for future exploration and experimentation.

8: So!YoON! & RM, “Smoke Sprite”

Lyricist: So!YoON!, RM, Chae Lin Suh, Te Rim, and ​Chiyoonhae

Director: Suho Lee

“So!YoON! & RM, “Smoke Sprite” stands out as a prime example of K-pop’s fusion with diverse musical styles. Featured on RM’s album Indigo, this collaboration highlights the multifaceted talents of both artists. So!YoON!’s emotive vocals intertwine seamlessly with RM’s dynamic rap verses, creating a captivating narrative within the song’s crunchy, psychedelic soundscapes. As Billboard’s top K-pop album of 2022, RM’s Indigo showcased his penchant for innovative musical exploration, further exemplified by the beautiful “Smoke Sprite.”

With its twisted fairytale romance theme, this track showcases the artist’s ability to evoke a range of emotions, from fervid passion to delicate vulnerability, making it a standout addition to the pantheon of famous K-pop songs.

9: Dynamic Duo & Lee Youngji, “Smoke”

Lyricist: Gaeko, Choiza, Lee Young Ji & Padi

Choreographer: Bada Lee

Artists: Dynamic duo, Lee Young Ji

Dynamic Duo and Lee Young Ji’s “Smoke” is a standout track from the survival dance program “Street Woman Fighter 2,” pulsating with themes of empowerment and resilience. The lyrics exude confidence and strength, reflecting an unwavering determination to overcome obstacles. Its viral choreography by Bada sparked a phenomenon, inspiring dance covers from K-pop giants like BTS’s V and Jungkook, Jay Park, EXO, SEVENTEEN, ITZY, TXT, ATEEZ, IVE, and a plethora of other influential names in the industry.

The song’s infectious energy and message of triumph have solidified its place as a timeless anthem in the K-pop realm, resonating with audiences worldwide.

10: Jung Yong Hwa, “Your City”

Lyricist: Jung Yong Hwa, Hwang Yoo Bin, Sooyoon, Jacob Aaron, El Capitxn, and Louis

Jung Yong Hwa’s “Your City” marks a significant return for the artist, breaking a six-year hiatus from Korean releases. The announcement of his second mini-album, “Your City,” on September 2, 2023, created waves of anticipation among fans. Released on September 14, the album features this track as its title song, showcasing Yong Hwa’s evolved musicality and lyrical prowess. Marking its place among famous Kpop songs, this physical album offers fans two distinct versions: Over City and Among City.

With its release, “Your City” not only reaffirms Yong Hwa’s presence in the K-pop scene but also demonstrates his ability to captivate audiences with his heartfelt melodies and poignant lyrics.