- By Srishti Pandey
- Sun, 16 Feb 2025 07:56 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Kpop today might be all about catchy beats, global collaborations and record-breaking achievements, but there's something undeniably special about the classics that paved the way for today's success. From soulful ballads to high-energy tracks, the golden era of Kpop gave us timeless hits that still make fans nostalgic. If you're missing the old-school Kpop vibes, here are 10 iconic songs by artists like Psy, Fin.K.L, BIGBANG, BoA and others that will instantly transport you back in time.
1. Haru Haru – BIGBANG (2008)
When it comes to Kpop classics, BIGBANG's Haru Haru is an emotional rollercoaster that never gets old. Released in 2008 as part of their Stand Up EP, the song tells a heartbreaking story of lost love, accompanied by a powerful music video that became a staple of second-generation Kpop. G-Dragon's raw lyrics, Taeyang's soulful vocals and T.O.P's commanding rap combined with a melancholic piano melody made Haru Haru a fan favorite across the globe.
2. Now – Fin.K.L (2000)
Fin.K.L was one of the most popular girl groups of the late '90s and early 2000s, and their hit Now showcases why. The track, with its infectious chorus and upbeat tempo, talks about living in the moment and embracing one's true feelings. Lee Hyori's charismatic performance and the group's dynamic synergy made Now a massive success, solidifying Fin.K.L's position as one of K-pop's pioneering girl groups.
3. It's Raining – RAIN (2004)
RAIN took the world by storm with It's Raining, a track that showcased his unmatched charisma and impressive dance skills. Released in 2004, the song blends hip-hop, R&B and pop, creating an irresistible groove that had fans across Asia captivated. The accompanying choreography became iconic, turning RAIN into a global star and one of the first Kpop artists to achieve international recognition.
4. Only One – BoA (2012)
BoA, often dubbed the Queen of Kpop, released Only One in 2012, showcasing her artistic versatility. The mid-tempo pop track, written and composed by BoA herself, features heartfelt lyrics about being someone's irreplaceable love. Its contemporary choreography, particularly the dance break with male partners, made the song a standout hit and proved BoA's enduring relevance in the ever-changing Kpop landscape.
5. Champion – Psy (2002)
Before Gangnam Style became a global sensation, Psy was already known for his energetic performances, thanks to hits like Champion. Released in 2002 during the World Cup craze in South Korea, the song quickly became an anthem of unity and excitement. Its catchy hook, playful lyrics, and upbeat rhythm still make it a go-to track for parties and sports events.
6. So Hot – Wonder Girls (2008)
Wonder Girls took the industry by storm with Tell Me, but it was So Hot that solidified their status as trendsetters. Released in 2008, the song humorously addresses the challenges of being "too popular" and blends retro beats with playful lyrics. Its catchy chorus and fun music video sparked multiple dance covers, making So Hot a defining track of the second-gen girl group era.
7. Be Natural – S.E.S (2000)
S.E.S, one of Kpop's first successful girl groups, delivered sophistication with Be Natural. The 2000 release combined smooth R&B melodies with jazzy undertones, showcasing the group's vocal prowess. Years later, Red Velvet covered the song, introducing it to a new generation of fans while preserving the nostalgic charm of the original.
8. Mr. – KARA (2009)
KARA's Mr. became an instant hit thanks to its infectious rhythm and the group's iconic "butt dance." Released in 2009, the track was a game-changer for the group, especially in Japan, where it catapulted them to immense popularity. Its playful lyrics and upbeat vibe make Mr. a quintessential example of fun, feel-good K-pop.
9. Heartbeat – 2PM (2009)
2PM brought a new level of intensity to Kpop with Heartbeat. Known for its dramatic choreography, including the famous synchronized "heartbeat" move, the song captures the emotional turmoil of heartbreak. The group's powerful performance and JYP Entertainment's creative production made Heartbeat a standout track of 2009.
10. So Cool – SISTAR (2011)
SISTAR was synonymous with summer anthems and So Cool is no exception. Released in 2011, the song's lively beats and bold lyrics made it a favorite on dance floors. The track marked SISTAR's rise as the ultimate "summer queens" of Kpop, setting the stage for more seasonal hits like Loving U and Touch My Body.
Revisiting these classic tracks reminds us why Kpop became a global phenomenon in the first place. Whether you're new to the genre or a seasoned fan, these songs are the perfect playlist to relive the magic of old-school Kpop.
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