- By Srishti Pandey
- Thu, 22 Aug 2024 07:40 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
10 Most Popular Kpop Songs of 2024 So Far: As we find ourselves already eight months into 2024, the statement "time flies" couldn't be more accurate. The year has been marked by a shift in the Kpop landscape, with some of the biggest names like BTS and BLACKPINK stepping back from major group activities. This change has allowed rising Kpop groups such as Stray Kids, SEVENTEEN, ENHYPEN and ATEEZ to expand their global reach, achieving significant success both overseas and in domestic markets. Meanwhile, girl groups like aespa, NewJeans, LE SSERAFIM and BABYMONSTER have made their mark with promising releases, outshining some of the earlier-debuted legends like TWICE.
Among the standout tracks of the year, TWICE Nayeon's ABCD, BTS RM's Right Place, Wrong Person and the highly-anticipated collaboration between Zico and Jennie titled SPOT! have generated significant buzz. However, let's look at some of the most popular Kpop songs of 2024 so far. These tracks have not only topped various domestic and international charts but have also become viral sensations on platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok, capturing the hearts of Kpop fans worldwide.
1. BTS Jimin’s Who
Jimin’s solo track Who from his second solo album MUSE has captivated listeners with its melody and introspective lyrics. The song showcases Jimin's vocal range, blending soft, airy tones with powerful high notes. The emotional depth of Who resonates with fans, as it explores themes of finding "the one" who we'll end up being with. Its popularity is evident, with the track topping charts in South Korea and making waves internationally, particularly in the US and Japan. The song could serve as an anthem for the hopeless romantics out there, who ask, "Who is my heart waiting for?"
‘WHO’ by JIMIN reaches a new peak of #1 on US Spotify with 2.1 million streams. pic.twitter.com/KVOyE3XMTR
— Pop Base (@PopBase) August 20, 2024
2. BLACKPINK Lisa’s Rockstar
Lisa's Rockstar is a bold, energetic anthem that highlights her charismatic stage presence and rap prowess. The track combines a gritty beat with catchy hooks, making it a favourite among fans and critics alike. The music video, with its visually stunning aesthetics and powerful choreography, has gone viral, further cementing Lisa’s status as a global superstar. Rockstar has dominated international charts and has been nominated in four categories for the 2024 Video Music Awards (VMAs). The categories are Best Kpop, Best Editing, Best Art Direction and Best Choreography. The song received special praise for being filmed in Thailand, which is Lisa's home country.
3. ILLIT’s Magnetic
ILLIT, a rookie Kpop group, has taken the industry by storm with their debut track Magnetic. The song features a blend of electronic beats and smooth vocals, creating an addictive rhythm that keeps listeners coming back for more. Magnetic has gained significant traction on social media, with its choreography becoming a trend on platforms like TikTok. The song has performed well on domestic charts and has gained recognition internationally.
4. Kiss of Life’s Sticky
Sticky by Kiss of Life is a refreshing pop track that has quickly become a summer anthem. The song's bright, catchy melody and playful lyrics have made it a hit among younger audiences. The group’s vibrant energy is on full display in the music video, which has garnered millions of views. The lyrics "How long before we fall in love?" may imply the group asking how long it will take for their fans to start liking them. The catchy song has garnered significant attention on social media, particularly through its alluring dance challenges. SEVENTEEN Mingyu's playful dance to Sticky has gone viral recently.
-star mingyu sticky terbaik pokonya 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/PM6cVftQIt
— Starfess || CEK PINNED UNTUK KIRIM MENFESS (@starfess) July 27, 2024
5. LE SSERAFIM’s Smart
LE SSERAFIM continues to impress with their track Smart, a sophisticated pop song that combines sleek production with confident vocals. The lyrics, which speak about making smart choices and self-empowerment, have resonated with fans. The song's polished sound and stylish music video have contributed to its widespread popularity, making it a top contender on both domestic and international charts. Smart has got some impressive lyrics: "Work hard in secret like clockwork, tap-tap I get/I planned that, don't be mad/Keep it on the low/No, this time I won't be the loser, loser (That loser)". It also went viral in February when it was released for its especially sensual choreography and catchy tunes.
6. BABYMONSTER’s LIKE THAT
Like That is BABYMONSTER's first English song, which is co-written by the American singer Charlie Puth. The group was gifted the song by Puth after member Ahyeon's version of Puth's 2016 song Dangerously went viral before the group's debut in 2024. With no music video, the song has still managed to be popular with its performance video alone gaining more than 120 million views on YouTube within two months of its release. The song is addictive with its choreography and powerful rap parts. BABYMONSTER is YG Entertainment's first girl group after the globally renowned BLACKPINK's debut in 2016.
7. aespa’s Supernova
aespa’s Supernova is a futuristic track that perfectly aligns with the group’s AI-driven concept. The song features a blend of synth-pop and EDM elements, creating a sound that is both innovative and addictive. Supernova has been praised for its cutting-edge production and the group’s strong vocal performances. The track has topped charts in South Korea and has also seen significant success in the US and Europe. The member's (Karina, Winter, Giselle, Ningning) stunning visuals in the song's music video are something else.
8. Stray Kids’ Chk Chk Boom
Stray Kids' July release Chk Chk Boom is a high-energy track that showcases the group’s signature blend of rap and vocal prowess. The song’s intense beat and dynamic arrangement make it a standout in their discography. Chk Chk Boom has been a hit on streaming platforms, particularly in Western markets, where the group continues to grow their fanbase. The song's choreography has also become a trend on social media, adding to its widespread appeal.
9. NewJeans’ Supernatural
NewJeans’ Supernatural is a dreamy, ethereal track that highlights the group’s unique vocal colour and musical style. The song’s lush production and mesmerizing melody have made it a favourite among fans (BUNNIES). Supernatural has performed well on domestic charts and is also gaining popularity in international markets, particularly in Southeast Asia. The song's lyrics in English and Korean make it a perfect choice for your next karaoke night with your friends. NewJeans do not disappoint as just like their previous songs, Supernatural also has two music videos (Part 1 & Part 2).
Part 1:
Part 2:
10. ENHYPEN’s XO (Only If You Say Yes)
ENHYPEN’s XO (Only If You Say Yes) is a romantic track that showcases the group’s versatility. The song’s smooth R&B vibes and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with fans, making it one of their most popular releases to date. The group's fans (ENGENE) went crazy after the song's lyrics, "Can I kiss you? Can I hug you?"
These ten tracks have defined the Kpop scene in 2024 so far, each bringing something unique to the table. As the year progresses, it will be exciting to see how these songs continue to impact the Kpop genre.