K-pop isn’t just music—it’s a global phenomenon that blends infectious beats, jaw-dropping visuals, and jaw-dropping performances into one unforgettable experience. Over the past two decades, this genre has taken the world by storm, breaking records, redefining pop culture, and building fanbases that span continents. From stadium-shaking anthems to emotionally charged ballads, K-pop has produced some of the most iconic songs in modern music history. But which tracks truly stand above the rest?
Welcome to our definitive list of the Top 15 Most Popular K-pop Songs of All Time—a celebration of the songs that have shaped the genre, smashed international charts, and left a permanent mark on millions of hearts. These aren’t just hits; they’re milestones that define eras, launch global careers, and unite fans in ways only K-pop can. Whether you’re a seasoned stan or a curious newcomer, this list will take you on a journey through the songs that have lit up YouTube, dominated streaming platforms, and created cultural waves across the globe. Get ready to dance, sing, and maybe even cry a little—because these are the tracks that made K-pop a worldwide sensation. Let’s dive into the legends, the trailblazers, and the unforgettable sounds of K-pop’s finest.
1. “Gangnam Style” – PSY (2012)
When PSY released “Gangnam Style” in July 2012, he probably didn’t expect to ignite a global phenomenon—but that’s exactly what happened. The song, a cheeky satire of Seoul’s wealthy Gangnam district, combined thumping electro-pop beats with outlandish visuals and a now-iconic horse-riding dance move. PSY’s flamboyant delivery and over-the-top charm turned what could have been a local novelty into a viral juggernaut. The music video spread like wildfire, eventually becoming the first video on YouTube to surpass 1 billion views—a feat that symbolized the power of internet culture. But “Gangnam Style” was more than a meme. It shattered barriers for K-pop, showing that you didn’t need to speak Korean to enjoy the fun, energy, and satire the genre could offer. With its absurdist humor, addictive chorus, and sharp social commentary, the song planted K-pop firmly on the global stage and paved the way for future artists. Over a decade later, “Gangnam Style” remains one of the most memorable moments in 21st-century pop—an unforgettable blend of humor, rhythm, and cultural disruption that redefined what it meant to go viral.
2. “Dynamite” – BTS (2020)
“Dynamite” isn’t just a song—it’s a burst of joy that lit up the world during one of its darkest moments. Released in August 2020, this was BTS’s first fully English-language single, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. With a retro disco-pop groove, slick production, and infectious energy, “Dynamite” felt like sunshine in musical form. It channeled the spirit of Michael Jackson’s golden era with funky basslines, crisp horns, and smooth choreography, all wrapped in BTS’s signature charm. Beyond the sound, the song’s uplifting lyrics—about bringing light and positivity—resonated globally amid the challenges of the pandemic. It wasn’t just a feel-good anthem; it was a cultural reset. “Dynamite” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making history as the first track by a Korean act to do so, and stayed on top for multiple weeks. Its colorful, candy-coated visuals and high-energy performances made it a staple on playlists and award shows alike. “Dynamite” didn’t just break records—it broke through emotional walls, offering a global hug when the world needed it most.
3. “DDU-DU DDU-DU” – BLACKPINK (2018)
When BLACKPINK dropped “DDU-DU DDU-DU” in June 2018, they didn’t just release a song—they made a statement. Blending fierce hip-hop rhythms with trap beats, EDM drops, and razor-sharp choreography, the track was a sonic explosion that immediately commanded attention. The title mimics the sound of gunfire, and that’s fitting—BLACKPINK came out blazing. The lyrics are unapologetically confident, with the group asserting their dominance in both love and life, sending a clear message of female empowerment. Visually, the music video is a feast of high fashion, surreal sets, and bold symbolism, which helped it shatter YouTube records at the time of release. The combination of powerful aesthetics, genre fusion, and undeniable charisma solidified BLACKPINK’s role as not just performers, but icons of a new era in K-pop. “DDU-DU DDU-DU” wasn’t just a hit—it was a launchpad that helped catapult BLACKPINK into international superstardom. With this track, they proved they weren’t just part of the K-pop wave—they were leading it.
4. “Boy With Luv (feat. Halsey)” – BTS (2019)
Released in April 2019, “Boy With Luv” is a breezy, feel-good anthem that showcases BTS’s ability to craft infectious pop while remaining emotionally sincere. Featuring American singer Halsey, the song blends glossy funk-pop with soft, upbeat melodies, creating a warm atmosphere that feels like a celebration of love in its most joyful form. Unlike the grandiose love songs of the past, “Boy With Luv” zooms in on the small, intimate moments—the details that make affection real and lasting. With pastel visuals, playful choreography, and effervescent energy, the music video quickly broke the record for the most views in 24 hours on YouTube at the time. The collaboration with Halsey also marked a significant moment of global crossover, showing how seamlessly BTS could blend international pop sensibilities with their Korean roots. But beyond the stats, what makes “Boy With Luv” special is its sincerity. It radiates happiness and gratitude, offering listeners a reminder that love doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. It was a turning point for BTS—an era-defining track that combined charm, artistry, and global appeal.
5. “Kill This Love” – BLACKPINK (2019)
“Kill This Love,” released in April 2019, roared onto the scene with the force of a sonic cannonball. BLACKPINK delivered a track that’s as bold in its message as it is in its production—a fierce rejection of toxic relationships with cinematic grandeur. From its thundering brass intro and militant drums to its explosive beat drops, every second of the song feels larger-than-life. The accompanying music video is a spectacle of fashion, fire, and drama, featuring everything from giant swan sets to armored outfits that scream power and rebellion. Lyrically, the song is an anthem of self-empowerment, urging listeners to choose self-worth over emotional dependency. “Kill This Love” quickly became a cultural event, dominating social media trends, amassing record-breaking YouTube views, and becoming a go-to anthem for strength and confidence. It further solidified BLACKPINK’s position not just as performers, but as pop culture powerhouses unafraid to blend style with substance. With its aggressive energy and defiant tone, “Kill This Love” is more than a breakup song—it’s a war cry for independence.
6. “Butter” – BTS (2021)
Slick, smooth, and utterly addictive—“Butter” lives up to its name and then some. Released in May 2021, this all-English BTS single is a feel-good, funk-infused summer anthem that slides into your ears and refuses to leave. From its groovy bassline and playful lyrics to its flawless choreography and dazzling visuals, “Butter” is pop perfection. The song channels the spirit of retro ‘80s dance-pop with a fresh, contemporary twist, allowing each member of BTS to shine with charisma and flair. Its light-hearted swagger and cheeky charm make it instantly enjoyable, whether you’re dancing along or just vibing. “Butter” quickly climbed the charts and made history by topping the Billboard Hot 100 for an impressive 10 weeks, solidifying BTS’s unmatched impact on the global music scene. The track’s massive success proved that BTS could effortlessly dominate English-language charts while still staying true to their identity. With “Butter,” BTS delivered a song that was tailor-made for joy—crafted for sunny days, dance floors, and global celebration.
7. “Love Scenario” – iKON (2018)
“Love Scenario,” released by iKON in January 2018, took a surprising path to become one of the most beloved songs in Korean pop music. Rather than relying on high-energy beats or flashy hooks, the track leans into a mellow groove with a laid-back rhythm and minimalist production. It tells the story of a breakup—not in anger, but with acceptance and emotional clarity. The lyrics reflect on love that was meaningful but couldn’t last, delivered with a maturity that struck a deep chord with listeners. Surprisingly, the song became especially popular among children, thanks to its simple melody and easy-to-remember chorus. It dominated music charts in South Korea for weeks and won multiple year-end awards, turning iKON into household names. “Love Scenario” showed a different side of K-pop—one where introspection and subtlety could resonate just as powerfully as spectacle. It’s a quiet masterpiece that lingers in the heart long after the music fades, proving that sometimes, the most profound messages are delivered in the softest tones.
8. “Cheer Up” – TWICE (2016)
With “Cheer Up,” TWICE didn’t just release a hit—they kickstarted a cultural phenomenon. Dropping in April 2016, the song is a bubbly fusion of dance-pop and youthful energy, built around bright synths, a playful beat, and the now-legendary “shy shy shy” line delivered by Sana. That phrase quickly went viral, becoming a meme and a staple catchphrase in Korean pop culture. The song’s light-hearted lyrics and colorful visuals perfectly captured the youthful exuberance that TWICE would become known for. With each member playing a different character in the music video—from horror film heroine to cheerleader—the track was as fun to watch as it was to hear. “Cheer Up” shot to the top of the charts and stayed there, propelling TWICE to superstardom and setting the tone for a new generation of K-pop girl groups. It became a go-to anthem for celebration, motivation, and joy, appealing to fans of all ages. TWICE turned sweetness into strength, and “Cheer Up” remains one of the defining moments of their glittering rise.
9. “Fantastic Baby” – BIGBANG (2012)
When BIGBANG dropped “Fantastic Baby” in March 2012, it wasn’t just a song—it was an adrenaline rush. With its bombastic EDM energy, rebellious lyrics, and that now-legendary “Wow, fantastic baby!” chant, the track became an instant K-pop anthem. It fused explosive beats with an unapologetically wild spirit, perfectly capturing BIGBANG’s fearless attitude and boundary-defying artistry. The music video, filled with surreal imagery, revolutionary undertones, and avant-garde fashion, was as unforgettable as the song itself. It turned concerts into dance parties and festivals into declarations of musical freedom. “Fantastic Baby” wasn’t just a hit in South Korea—it broke into international consciousness, becoming a gateway track for many new K-pop fans around the world. The song’s success helped cement BIGBANG’s legacy as one of the genre’s most influential acts, showcasing that K-pop could be both sonically experimental and visually groundbreaking. Years later, it remains one of the most iconic and recognizable tracks in the genre’s history—a symbol of K-pop’s rise to global prominence and the sheer spectacle that BIGBANG brought to every performance. Loud, proud, and totally unforgettable, “Fantastic Baby” redefined what a K-pop banger could be.
10. “DNA” – BTS (2017)
“DNA,” released in September 2017, marked a seismic shift for BTS both musically and globally. The song fused high-energy EDM with electric guitars and pop-rock sensibilities, offering a futuristic soundscape that was both fresh and emotionally stirring. Lyrically, “DNA” speaks of love as a cosmic force—something destined, written into one’s very being. It was the group’s boldest sonic experiment to date and the first single from their groundbreaking Love Yourself era. From the whistling intro to the explosive chorus, the track brims with confidence and ambition. Its vibrant, kaleidoscopic music video showcased some of BTS’s most complex choreography and visual storytelling, earning millions of views in record time. Importantly, “DNA” debuted on the Billboard Hot 100, signaling BTS’s arrival as a serious contender in the global pop scene. It was a defining moment in their journey—proof that their message of love and self-acceptance could transcend borders and languages. “DNA” didn’t just connect fans to BTS—it connected BTS to the world.
11. “As If It’s Your Last” – BLACKPINK (2017)
Released in June 2017, BLACKPINK’s “As If It’s Your Last” is a euphoric, genre-bending track that radiates energy, romance, and youth. Departing from their usual edgy, high-intensity sound, the group embraced a more colorful, upbeat vibe that blended synth-pop with reggae and dance elements. The result is a song bursting with charm and urgency, urging listeners to love fearlessly and live in the moment. Its infectious chorus, “As if it’s your last night, love,” became an instant singalong sensation, while the vibrant visuals added a dreamlike quality to the experience. With a music video drenched in neon and pink, and choreography that’s both flirty and dynamic, the track quickly became a concert favorite. International fans embraced it, and its success helped further establish BLACKPINK as K-pop’s global girl group. “As If It’s Your Last” also hinted at their versatility, proving they could master a softer, brighter aesthetic without losing their edge. It’s a celebration of now—an irresistible call to dance, love, and feel everything deeply, just in case it’s the last chance to do so.
12. “Likey” – TWICE (2017)
TWICE’s “Likey,” released in October 2017, is an energetic, synth-pop track that perfectly captures the digital-age tension between image and authenticity. On the surface, it’s irresistibly bubbly—with a sparkling beat, catchy chorus, and playful visuals shot on location in Vancouver. But dig a little deeper, and the song reveals a more introspective message about seeking approval in a world dominated by social media. “Likey” dives into the emotional rollercoaster of curating the perfect online persona, from capturing the right angles to masking true feelings behind smiles and filters. Despite its heavy theme, the track is light, fun, and full of the charm that TWICE is known for. The group’s bright personalities and impeccable choreography elevate the song into a full-blown pop experience. Its viral success was bolstered by the “Likey” dance, which quickly became a favorite among fans and influencers alike. “Likey” solidified TWICE’s position at the top of the K-pop game and showcased their ability to blend social commentary with addictive pop perfection. It’s a feel-good anthem with depth—a song that mirrors both the highs and the hidden insecurities of a connected generation.
13. “Sorry, Sorry” – Super Junior (2009)
When Super Junior released “Sorry, Sorry” in March 2009, they changed the trajectory of K-pop forever. With its hypnotic synth hook, polished R&B-inspired beat, and irresistibly smooth choreography, the song became an instant classic. It wasn’t just a hit—it was a full-blown cultural wave. The sleek, black-and-white visuals and synchronized group dance became the blueprint for countless K-pop acts that followed. “Sorry, Sorry” didn’t just dominate charts in South Korea—it swept across Asia, catapulting Super Junior to international superstardom. The track’s repetitive chorus and stylish aesthetic made it impossible to ignore and easy to love. It helped define the second generation of K-pop and set a new gold standard for boy group production and performance. The choreography alone sparked thousands of covers and dance tributes, making it one of the first viral dance challenges in K-pop history. More than a decade later, “Sorry, Sorry” still holds up as a genre-defining anthem. It’s not just remembered for its success, but for the doors it opened—setting the stage for K-pop’s global expansion and laying the foundation for the mega-groups that followed.
14. “I Am the Best” – 2NE1 (2011)
With “I Am the Best,” released in June 2011, 2NE1 flipped the script on what it meant to be a K-pop girl group. Brash, bold, and fiercely self-assured, the song radiates confidence from the very first beat. Set to an aggressive electro-house instrumental with metallic synths and pounding rhythms, the track is a full-on declaration of power and independence. The lyrics are a strut in sonic form—unapologetically boastful, full of swagger, and meant to be shouted from rooftops. The futuristic, armor-clad music video amplified the message with style, showing the members smashing glass, strutting in haute couture, and exuding pure dominance. “I Am the Best” wasn’t just a hit—it became a movement. It redefined the image of women in K-pop and inspired a generation of artists to embrace their boldest, most authentic selves. Years later, the song gained renewed popularity through commercials and playlists, proving its staying power across cultures and generations. “I Am the Best” is more than just a bop—it’s a battle cry, an anthem of self-worth, and a shining example of 2NE1’s trailblazing legacy.
15. “Flower” – Jisoo (BLACKPINK) (2023)
Jisoo’s solo debut with “Flower” in March 2023 was a graceful yet powerful statement of individuality. Breaking away from BLACKPINK’s high-energy anthems, “Flower” embraced a softer, more poetic sound that let Jisoo’s unique artistry bloom. The song blends traditional Korean musical elements with minimalist pop production, creating an elegant, melancholic atmosphere. Lyrically, it tells the story of love fading and self-growth in the aftermath—a theme Jisoo delivers with subtle emotion and heartfelt restraint. Her voice is delicate but compelling, capturing both fragility and strength. The choreography, which mimics the blooming and withering of a flower, became a viral sensation on social media, further enhancing the song’s emotional resonance. Visually, the music video was a masterpiece of fashion and symbolism, reinforcing Jisoo’s image as a multifaceted artist. “Flower” not only showcased her vocal and emotional range but also proved her ability to stand alone as a solo performer. It was a reminder that strength can be quiet, beauty can be somber, and even in heartbreak, there is room for grace. Jisoo’s “Flower” is a solo debut that blossomed with meaning, artistry, and depth.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
