The Best K-Pop Songs Released in 2024

Music is what connects us. Across cultures, through communities, even one person to another, a single song can strengthen our bonds forever. Think of sharing earbuds with someone, wires tangling together from where they’re plugged into the iPod. And yeah, that’s an outdated reference — but it’s what sharing your favorite song with your favorite person feels like. Every. Single. Time.

Thankfully, there’s no shortage of new music and new favorite songs to hear throughout the year. That’s especially true for K-pop. A booming behemoth of an industry, K-pop drops are almost nonstop thanks to hundreds of talented idol groups and soloists. Throughout 2024, there were limitless releases to feast your eyes and ears on. We’ve rounded up 13 of the absolute best from ATEEZ, ITZY, and more.

---

“Ice On My Teeth” – ATEEZ

Of course, ATEEZ gets the first shout out. Their new album, GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2 literally just dropped. The lead single, “Ice On My Teeth,” is already in every ATINY’s on-repeat playlist. This banger is dripping with ego in the best way possible. Like, are you a little insecure about your life, passions, or actions? Just pop this on and you’ll remember that you’re a rockstar with a shining future. This track is literally on fire. We can’t get enough of it — odds are you can’t, either.

---

“Love wins all” – IU

“Love wins all” is gentle and gorgeous. IU’s high range and lilting vocals are perfectly suited to the song’s message about enduring romance amid destruction. Atmospheric and melodic, “Love wins all” reminds fans to be courageous in the dark and to fight against loneliness with all your heart. The hauntingly beautiful music video also features V from BTS. Flexing his acting chops alongside IU, the pair will certainly make you shed tears before the credits roll.

---

“LOST!” – RM

Speaking of BTS solo projects, BTS’ leader RM dazzled ARMY with another record-breaking addition to his solo repertoire. From his second studio album Right Place, Wrong Person, “LOST!” is an artistic and surreal exploration of individuality and identity. The song highlights the brilliant lyricism that put him on the music map. Plus, his experimental vocals and natural rap flow are shining as bright as ever.

---

“Sugar Rush” – BIBI

Sweet like candy, with a sour bite underneath, “Sugar Rush” is absolutely one of BIBI’s best releases. Disguised as simply a sexy pop song, the lyrics reveal almost a self-love anthem as the singer reminds everyone how hot and untouchable she is. She doesn’t need a lover to satisfy her needs. And you better not get handsy! The music video also has a touch of horror that’s been prevalent in a lot of BIBI’s concepts. You know we can’t get enough of pastel gore here.

---

“Boyfriend” – POW

The emo to K-pop pipeline is real and thriving. “Boyfriend” by POW is a cover/remix of Avril Lavigne’s “Girlfriend.” Mixing English and Korean lyrics, “Boyfriend” keeps the original beat (and some lyrics) but is easily enhanced by the boys’ charisma and bright vocals. POW have jumped onto the K-pop scene with a perfect teen crush vibe. “Boyfriend” solidifies this concept while putting POW higher on the map toward greatness.

---

“Imaginary Friend” – ITZY

K-pop groups have a beautiful tradition of writing songs to comfort and reach out to their fans. ITZY’s beautiful “Imaginary Friend” can be interpreted as such, or it can take on an almost ghost story quality. Whatever you hear in the lyrics, you’ll enjoy because “Imaginary Friend” is slow yet powerful, sensual yet spooky. The choreography also spotlights the girls’ strength as a group with sinuous, flexible moves that you can’t peel your eyes away from.

---

“Chk Chk Boom” – Stray Kids

If you ever need a confidence boost, listen to Stray Kids. Seriously. The raw power and energy emanating from their songs is pretty unmatched. “Chk Chk Boom,” from ATE, makes you feel like you can do parkour. The influence of Spanish lyrics and beats is like a shot of liquid fire through the entire thing. Plus, the song is just plain fun. That’s aided by a cameo appearance by Ryan Reynolds (as Deadpool) and Hugh Jackman (as Wolverine), promoting the Marvel film while hyping up their K-pop faves.

---

“1-800-hot-n-fun” – Le Sserafim

Bring on the party songs! “1-800-hot-n-fun” already hooks you with that playful title. Then you actually listen to it and you cannot get it out of your head! The repetitive nature captures the essence of swinging around the room dancing with all your girls in the early hours of the morning. Le Sserafim’s latest release is bursting with energy and those satisfyingly whiny vocals. Blast this — and the rest of their album, Crazy — while you’re doing your makeup and you’ll see exactly what we mean.

---

“Deja Vu” – TOMORROW X TOGETHER

TOMORROW X TOGETHER can’t miss. And with not one but two releases this year, it’s difficult to pick a single best. But we have to give it to “Deja Vu,” which is like a love letter to new and old MOA alike. The music video extends their lore into this new, dreamy era and also features some of the group’s best choreography to date. Yes, of course we’re referencing that hip move. Ultimately, though, “Deja Vu” touches you to your core, putting light and love right into your soul upon your first and hundredth listen alike.

---

“Touch” – KATSEYE

“Touch” was all over TikTok this year, and for good reason. You can dance, show off your outfit, and just plain have a great time listening to this candy-coated bass and drums extravaganza. From their first extended play, “Touch” is a pop anthem about female independence. KATSEYE reminds their fans to move on and move up in the world, away from annoying lovers who hold you back.

---

“SAD SONG” – P1Harmony

A relatively new group, P1Harmony continues to astound with each new release. “SAD SONG” includes all of their signature strength. With a beat you can feel in your bones, and one of the most unique rappers in the industry flowing over it, you know this has to be good. Although the lyrics themselves speak to emptiness and loneliness, it’s disguised by the almost appealing anger the boys inject into every line. Make sure you’re watching out for P1Harmony if you aren’t already!

---

“Red Rover” – YUQI

YUQI’s low register is mesmerizing. Her solo debut makes excellent use of this killing point, seeping into her vocals and rap alike. “Red Rover” puts her range front and center, letting her belt and vocal fry to her heart’s delight. These lyrics also showcase a well-earned confidence and dismissal of all her haters. So, you need a villain in your story? YUQI wears the label proudly while climbing the charts.

---

“Nightwalker” – TEN

This was a spooky season must-listen! Just the right amount of creepy and cool, TEN’s “Nightwalker” expresses his vocal range over a beat you absolutely have to dance to. Of course, that’s always the point with TEN’s music since he is undoubtedly one of the best dancers in the industry. “Nightwalker” itself is also an exciting, unsettling introduction to his solo album, setting the tone for an unforgettable musical ride.

---

What was your favorite 2024 K-pop release? Share your picks at side.show/geekgroup or in the Sideshow Social Network. And as always, don’t forget to Let Your Geek Sideshow!