As part of my efforts to start loving and respecting my Asian culture, KPOP has become my newest and most addicting obsession, Many are unaware, but Hallyu, or the "Korean wave," has made its mark practically everywhere, especially China, so not only is it not unusual to see Korean artists topping Chinese music charts, several of those Korean artists have begun transcribing and recording those hit singles in Chinese as well. While it's easy to be turned off from KPOP simply because you're unable to understand the lyrics, that's not really what music's all about, right?
After all, American music is popularized in every nook and cranny of the world, yet most populations most likely don't even understand the English lyrics. Being Chinese-American, even though I do usually lean toward the Chinese versions of KPOP songs, the majority of my favorites actually are in Korean, and what attracts me to a song isn't necessarily its message, but rather that rare initial feeling everyone's experienced when they hear an infectious melody sung by a fresh and striking voice.
Basically, it's all music.
It might not be for everyone, but please give it a chance, and make sure to have fun with it! Here are some popular KPOP songs perfect for dancing to in your room, driving with the windows down, or just enjoying these warm summer nights while they last:
1. 썸타 Lil' Something // CHEN ft. HEIZE
This song features Chen, or Kim Jongdae, who is said to be "one of the most promising young male idols" since 2010 (based on a vocal analysis) and is one of my personal favorite vocalists in all of KPOP. Backed by a funky disco-esque bassline and accompanied by newbie rapper HEIZE, "Lil' Something" is sure to make it onto your happy playlist. Also, the music video is cute AF.
2. Call Me Baby // EXO
Originally a twelve-piece boy group divided into two sub-groups, EXO's popularity has only grown since their debut in 2012 and is now arguably the biggest and most successful KPOP groups in history. This award-winning single holds a special place in my heart as it was the first song and music video to draw me into the world of KPOP and Korean culture. This song allows each member their own moment to shine and features sharp, fast-paced choreography as well as a catchy chorus with an N'Sync vibe that's ideal for jamming out to at a summer party.
3. 뱅뱅뱅 Bang Bang Bang // BIG BANG
Big Bang is known for being one of the very few boy groups who have achieved long-term success, and they have become a role model for new and growing KPOP groups. Having international appeal, Big Bang is perfect for those who have never been exposed to KPOP. "Bang Bang Bang" is the kind of song you would hear people fist-pumping to at 3 am inside a gay club, the kind of song that can only be described by the word "lit." My favorite part is rapper T.O.P.'s verse because it gets me hyped every single time it comes on and is sure to do the same to you.
4. Free Somebody // LUNA
Released as her solo debut single, "Free Somebody" finally shines a spotlight on girl group f(X)'s main vocalist Luna. This song is unique for taking on an EDM instrumental and presents a music video combining neon pastel visuals and beautiful animations, as well as an incredibly strong choreography. Luna's been a favorite lately, and if you're into this track, I recommend listening to her newest single "Keep On Doin'." Both are bound to get you dancing once the chorus drops.
5. Fly // GOT7
Althought this group is one of the newer boy groups, GOT7 has already achieved international success. With seven members from not only Korea, but also China, Thailand, and America, GOT7's newest hit "Fly" has a modern American hip hop feel and lyrics that highlight how great it is to wake up everyday and feel like the sun is shining just for you. Not to mention, GOT7's dancing never disappoints, and "Fly" features one of my top three favorite choreographies. With a hook that draws you in and visually appealing special effects to make you stay, "Fly" is ideal for those summer drives with the windows down and the music blasting.
6. 4 Walls // F(X)
7. Tell Me (What Is Love) // D.O. & YOO YOUNG JIN
D.O., or Do Kyungsoo, is incredibly unique in the KPOP industry, as most idols have voices solely suitable for ballads or pop songs; D.O. is one of the very few who can properly sing soul or R&B. Collaborating with prominent R&B producer and artist Yoo Young Jin, D.O.'s solo single "Tell Me What Is Love" features flawless vocal runs and emotional lyrics expressing regret for losing one's love. Though the music video is quite mellow, the song is perfect for easy listening and the occasional cry.
8. Lucky One // EXO
KPOP has been riding the EDM wave recently, and EXO's "Lucky One" is no exception. With a strong and groovy disco stomp introduction, touches of rhythm guitar, and a flute-like synth, "Lucky One" is a great example of balancing electronic and organic sounds. The song is just a really strong pop hit, so clever that they even managed to rhyme "lover" and "clover."
9. 일곱 번째 감각 The 7th Sense // NCT U
SM Entertainment, Korea's largest talent-agency, announced the debut of NCT earlier this year, a group that will introduce an unlimited number of members and an unlimited number of sub-groups based in different countries, the first one being main unit NCT U. "The 7th Sense" has a haunting, heavy feeling akin to The Weekend with lyrics that contemplate the border between being awake and being in a dream state. Their video is visually stunning, showing off stimulating special effects and double exposure shots. Try jamming out to this on a late night drive under the city lights, and keep a keen eye out for the surprises this group'll be bringing in the next few years!
10. Why // TAEYEON
Taeyeon is renowned for her vocal ability; voted as KPOP's best vocalist by 40 industry officials, she is known as the OST, or Original Soundtrack, Queen in Korea, having recorded dozens of singles for television dramas and movies, so you know any solo song from her is going to be a hit. Her "Why" music video shows her thriving in the California summer scene, and her song is laced with an infectious bounce that's amazing for dancing by the poolside on a hot sunny day.
11. 니가 하면 If You Do // GOT7
In my opinion, GOT7's "If You Do" is one of the cleanest, most put-together music videos in the past few years. The concept, which begins as a voicemail conversation between an angry boyfriend and a selfish girlfriend and later becomes a narrative of the boyfriend's thoughts, is so well done with each of the members expressing their frustration in their own setting. Inspired by Michael Jackson, the choreography is also in my top three for its intricacy and difficult footwork. It's creative, timeless, and a perfect song to relate to when you're not feeling so great.
12. My Lady (Chinese Version) // EXO
One of EXO's lesser known tracks, "My Lady," specifically the Chinese version, will forever be my personal favorite KPOP song. It is reminiscent of EXO's Chinese sub-group EXO-M before three of the members separated, and allows every member their very own time to shine. The vocals are beyond on point, and the lyrics poetically pronounce a man's insistence to become more than friends, not to mention the live performance is known for their uber-sexual dance moves that fit the song's uber-sexual message.
