Kpop is such a diverse genre because it refers to all popular music in Korea, similar to how pop is diverse too. However, the distinction between the two genres can cause it to be daunting for people to get into Kpop because, for some, it sounds like Kpop will sound completely different than western pop songs. Well, I’ve taken it upon myself to tell you that it’s not completely different and that there are some great songs to get you hooked onto Kpop, even some written and composed by western artists. Here are 7 songs to get you hooked onto Kpop that have come out this year.
- Talk that Talk by TWICE
Coming off fresh from their contract renewal, where all 9 members renewed, TWICE comes out strong with “Talk that Talk”. A more mature sound than their previous songs, it will have you dancing and singing along as you listen.
- After Like by IVE
This song will definitely sound familiar to some as it was inspired by “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor. It’s a quick listen relative to other songs but it is pleasantly sounding and the music video is aesthetically pleasing.
- LOVE DIVE by IVE
This list wouldn’t be complete without LOVE DIVE. As IVE’s first comeback after their debut, they really raised the bar on what a comeback should be. LOVE DIVE is a dreamy song with an addictive hook that will have you humming to it all day. Also, the dance is so fun and relatively quick to pick up, making this song all the better.
- Girls by aespa
You might’ve seen these four on an HP ad or late night talk shows, but these girls come out with hard-hitting songs that will make you feel powerful. This song reminds me of “Bad Blood” by Taylor Swift so if you love that action hero feel, this song is for you.
- RING ma Bell (what a wonderful world) by Billlie
For those that are more inclined to pop rock songs, Billlie’s latest song is for you. Coming off the heels of their first comeback, “GingaMingaYo (the strange world)”, this song shows the versatility of their catalog. For me, a song is really good if it makes you dance and this one does it for me, which is especially fun since it has a coordinated dance for a rock song.
- Hype Boy by NewJeans
This group came out of nowhere when they unexpectedly dropped a music video for “Attention”, but “Hype Boy” has to be my favorite from their debut EP. Meant to show off their dance moves, thing song gets listeners very hyped. They made four versions of this music video, but I personally like Hanni’s the best.
- Good Boy Gone Bad by Tomorrow X Together (TXT)
Last but not least, and because it holds a special place in my heart, “Good Boy Gone Bad” is the latest comeback from TXT. They hail from the same company as BTS and can sometimes be referred to as BTS’ little brother group. This song holds a special place because TXT’s concert in Houston was my first ever Kpop concert and the show was so immaculate. This whole entire album was amazing so if you can, give it a listen. “Good Boy Gone Bad” sounds exactly like you think with hard-hitting melodies and dark tones. It honestly sounds like an action theme song.
Hopefully I equipped you with songs that will get you into Kpop. As more songs get released (looking at you Stray Kids), I will make more of these lists because I am always on a quest to get people to like Kpop. Happy listening!