[K-POP] Korean songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke: classic crowd-pleasers

plot twistTWS

TWS (투어스) ‘첫 만남은 계획대로 되지 않아’ Official MV

TWS’s debut track is shaking up the Korean music scene.

It’s a song from their album Sparkling Blue, released in January 2024.

The pop sound, infused with synths, captures the nervous excitement and flutter of a first encounter.

The bridge highlights the beauty of meeting someone new, showcasing a youthful sensibility.

It’s guaranteed to be a hit in karaoke, with its lively rhythm and catchy melody.

Even right after their debut, they’ve already grabbed attention by winning five music show trophies.

It’s the perfect song for singing with friends or for when you’re thrilled about new beginnings.

Deja VuDreamcatcher

Dreamcatcher(드림캐쳐) ‘데자부 (Deja Vu)’ MV

A heartrending rock ballad that lets you feel the shadow of love.

Unlike typical up-tempo K-pop, it features a calm atmosphere.

The image is of a foggy forest where you and your beloved are trapped.

Even while feeling the pain of loving, the song declares you could never be separated from him.

It builds into a rock sound toward the end, so let’s gradually raise the energy.

무조건박상철

[HIT] 가요무대-박상철(Park Sangcheol) – 무조건.20141208

It’s a Korean enka-style trot song released by Park Sang-chul in 2005.

It’s super rhythmic, catchy, and really addictive! The lyrics sing about feelings for a loved one being unconditional, and you can catch a glimpse of a charming side, too.

It makes you want to hum along, and I’m sure it creates a fun atmosphere! In fact, Crazy Ken Band even did a cover in Japan.

In 2020, parody versions of the song were popular as well.

Overall, it’s bright and upbeat—a track that lifts your spirits even during tough times.

SUNRISEGFRIEND

[MV] GFRIEND(여자친구) _ Sunrise(해야)

A romantic song with a touch of poignancy.

The melody is beautiful and gradually builds.

Even those not used to singing Korean songs will find it easy to catch the notes and rhythm.

At first, the feeling of being in love is modest, but it gradually swells until it feels like it might burst at the end.

If you pour your emotions into it with this image in mind, you’ll be able to step into the world of the song.

GalaxyBolbbalgan4

[피크닉라이브소풍] 볼빨간사춘기 – 우주를 줄게(Bolbbalgan4 – Galaxy) l S2 EP.112 (ENG)

In Japan, it’s also been released under the title “I’ll Give You the Universe.” It’s a heartwarming, medium-tempo track in true Bolbbalgan4 fashion.

The lyrics express a desire to be together, overflowing with a lovely vibe—great for couples to enjoy or to duet with a friend.

It’s very catchy and relaxed, so it’s easy to sing even in the original Korean.

Highly recommended for those who aren’t confident singers! The pleasant melody turns the moment you start singing into something special.

LOVE TRAINGOT7

GOT7 『LOVE TRAIN』MV Short Ver.

Upbeat rock-pop.

It combines super self-assured rap, high-energy vocals, and a stylish chorus.

Think of it as a “love-struck rapid train”: not as fast as an express, but not as leisurely as a local.

As the longing grows, the speed picks up.

Imagine you’re that train and sing with a groovy, pumped-up vibe.

SomedayIU

아이유 someday

IU is a singer-songwriter who could be called the original “Nation’s Little Sister.” Her down-to-earth lyrics and straightforward, unpretentious sound are beloved by people of all ages, making her truly a national diva of Korea.

In Japan, the closest image might be Aimyon—what do you think? The song “Someday” is mid-tempo and sung as if savoring each word, so I think it’s a good practice piece for those not yet used to singing in Korean.

The positive lyrics—“May the me who stumbled stand up again”—are also great! IU is also active in charity work, and in 2019 she was selected by Forbes as one of the “30 Asia’s Heroes of Philanthropy.”