Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through the pulsating beats and captivating melodies of the K-pop universe as we dive into the realm of the top 20 greatest K-pop songs ever made. But before we delve into this musical odyssey, don’t forget to hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications, ensuring you’re always in the loop for our latest content drops.
20. “DNA” (BTS) Our adventure begins with the electrifying “DNA” by BTS, released in 2017. This EDM and pop fusion masterpiece catapulted BTS into international stardom, earning accolades for its production, sound, and the band’s musical direction. With over 1.5 billion views on YouTube, “DNA” is a pulsating introduction to the world of K-pop excellence.
19. “Nobody” (Wonder Girls) Next up, we have Wonder Girls’ enchanting love ballad, “Nobody.” This timeless track, released in 2008, swiftly captured hearts worldwide, topping charts and even becoming the first Korean song to grace the US Billboard Hot 100. “Nobody” is not just a song; it’s a phenomenon that etched Wonder Girls into K-pop history.
18. “Sorry, Sorry” (Super Junior) The K-pop boy band Super Junior takes the 18th spot with their iconic hit, “Sorry, Sorry.” A comeback sensation for the group, this song dominated charts and dance floors alike. Its cultural impact is undeniable, with the infectious dance routine becoming a sensation and earning “Sorry, Sorry” a well-deserved place in the K-pop hall of fame.
17. “Crazy” (4Minute) 4Minute storms in at 17 with “Crazy,” a 2015 release that blends hip-hop and trap, showcasing the group’s signature sound. Recognized by Billboard as one of the best K-pop songs of the 2010s, “Crazy” is a testament to 4Minute’s commercial prowess, selling over 660,000 units in South Korea.
16. “Flower” (Jisoo) Jisoo’s solo debut, “Flower,” blooms at 16, fusing dance, pop, and trap with traditional Korean melodies. This mid-tempo masterpiece achieved international success, topping charts across various countries and marking Jisoo’s ascent as a solo artist.
15. “Dalla Dalla” (Itzy) “It’z Different” with Itzy’s debut single, “Dalla Dalla,” claiming the 15th spot. Empowering and embracing individuality, this 2019 anthem made history with over 17.1 million views in 24 hours, setting a record for the most-viewed debut music video by a K-pop group.
14. “Fake Love” (BTS) BTS returns with “Fake Love,” a grunge-infused gem from their third album, “Love Yourself: Tear.” With relatable lyrics and a catchy melody, “Fake Love” soared to the top of charts, debuting at number one on the Gaon Digital Charts and securing a place in the hearts of K-pop enthusiasts.
13. “Kill This Love” (BlackPink) BlackPink’s anthem of liberation, “Kill This Love,” storms in at 13. Released in 2019, this electropop sensation conquered global charts, earning the group their first entry into the top 50 on the US Billboard Hot 100. With over 1.9 billion views on YouTube, “Kill This Love” is a visual and auditory spectacle.
12. “Eleven” (Ive) Ive’s debut track, “Eleven,” claims the 12th spot, achieving remarkable success on the Gaon Digital Chart and K-Pop Hot 100. Insider magazine hailed it as one of the best debut songs in K-pop, solidifying Ive’s place as a rising force in the industry.
11. “I Need U” (BTS) BTS’s breakthrough hit, “I Need U,” takes the 11th spot, marking a pivotal moment in the group’s journey to international stardom. With its gold and silver certifications, this song defined the 2010s and introduced BTS to the global stage.
10. “Love Dive” (Ive) Ive’s hauntingly beautiful “Love Dive” secures the 10th spot, captivating audiences with its dark electropop vibes. Garnering awards and accolades, including the MAMA Award for Song of The Year, “Love Dive” cements Ive’s status as a powerhouse in the K-pop scene.
9. “Cupid” (Fifty Fifty) Fifty Fifty’s “Cupid” takes flight at the 9th spot, delivering a dose of K-pop, disco-pop, synth-pop, and bubblegum magic. Going viral on TikTok, this track catapulted Fifty Fifty onto the international stage, becoming the fastest Korean act to debut on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart.
8. “I Am The Best” (2NE1) At number 8, 2NE1’s “I Am The Best” reigns supreme as an electro-house and electro-pop anthem that exudes self-confidence and narcissism. With widespread acclaim, chart-topping success, and multiple awards, this 2011 release solidifies 2NE1’s position as K-pop royalty.
7. “Fantastic Baby” (Big Bang) Big Bang makes a dynamic entry at 7 with “Fantastic Baby,” a sonic explosion released in 2012. Recognized by Rolling Stone and Billboard as one of the greatest boy band songs, “Fantastic Baby” transcends boundaries, contributing significantly to K-pop’s global outreach.
6. “Bang Bang Bang” (Big Bang) Big Bang secures the 6th spot with “Bang Bang Bang,” a 2015 hit that emerged as one of the group’s most successful songs. Winning Song of the Year at the 2015 Mnet Asian Music Awards, this anthem showcases Big Bang’s prowess, boasting over five million sales across Asia.
5. “Butter” (BTS) BTS’s irresistible charm continues with “Butter,” claiming the 5th spot. This chart-topping sensation not only dominated international charts but also earned critical acclaim for its catchy lyrics and tune. With a remix featuring Megan Thee Stallion, “Butter” remains a K-pop classic.
4. “Boy With Luv” (BTS) BTS secures another spot in the top 5 with “Boy With Luv,” a 2019 release that set records for online music video views. With a Platinum certification from the RIAA and a historic streak of music show wins, “Boy With Luv” remains a testament to BTS’s unrivaled influence.
3. “Ddu-Du Ddu-Du” (BlackPink) BlackPink asserts dominance at the 3rd spot with “Ddu-Du Ddu-Du,” a 2018 sensation from their EP “Square Up.” Blending rap, trap, and bubblegum pop, this chart-topping hit garnered global acclaim, earning certifications and accolades across continents.
2. “Gangnam Style” (Psy) In the runner-up position, we have the global phenomenon that transcended borders – “Gangnam Style” by Psy. This 2012 release became a cultural icon, storming charts worldwide and becoming the first YouTube video to reach a billion views. Psy’s infectious dance and catchy beats made “Gangnam Style” a historic moment in K-pop history.
1. “Dynamite” (BTS) Taking the crown as the greatest K-pop song ever is BTS’s “Dynamite.” Released in 2020 amid a global pandemic, “Dynamite” emerged as a beacon of joy, earning BTS their first Grammy nomination and making history by topping the Billboard Hot 100. With 1.7 billion views on YouTube, “Dynamite” encapsulates the essence of K-pop excellence.
And there you have it – a mesmerizing journey through the top 20 greatest K-pop songs that have left an indelible mark on the global music scene. Which of these songs is your absolute favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and until next time, keep the K-pop vibes alive! Bye for now, and see you in the next video.
