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

HUGTVXQ (also known as Tohoshinki; literally “Rising Gods of the East”)

TVXQ! 동방신기 ‘Hug (포옹)’ MV

A living legend who commands immense popularity, especially across Asia—TVXQ—released this debut track in 2004.

It’s an adorable song about not being able to contain your love for your partner.

That fresh, innocent vibe still makes your heart flutter even now.

With a light yet warm sound, it’s a classic medium-tempo ballad that also feels akin to Japanese pop.

The five-member harmony is just the best.

It’s a ballad, but not overly mellow, so it’s fun to sing together and a great pick for creating a good atmosphere!

Sorrow10cm

애상

“Aishō” by Shipsench is a number that expresses the bittersweet feeling of unrequited love.

The steady, metronome-like rhythm makes it easy to catch the tempo, so it’s a song that’s easy to sing at karaoke.

The melody and lyrics are very cute, and I highly recommend it.

BIM BAM BUMRocket Punch

[MV] Rocket Punch(로켓펀치) _ BIM BAM BUM(빔밤붐)

An up-tempo song with a dynamic expression of romance.

It sings about a swelling feeling of love that seems ready to soar into the night sky.

The sensation when love begins varies from person to person, doesn’t it? In this song, bells ring and the situation is as dramatic as a movie.

Put yourself in this scene and sing it—you’ll create the perfect mood!

RainPark Hye-kyung

Park Hye-kyung – Rain (2002)

Park Hye-kyung’s gentle singing voice really touches the heart, doesn’t it? “Rain” was released in 2002, but it remains a song loved by many even today.

With its calm tempo and easy-to-follow rhythm, it’s very easy to sing.

It’s recommended for those confident in their high notes.

좋다고 말해Bolbbalgan4

[M/V] 좋다고 말해 – 볼빨간사춘기

Bolbbalgan4 is pronounced ‘Bolbbalgan Sachunghi.

‘ Fans will know them well, and they’re also written as ‘Red Cheeked Puberty’ or ‘BOL4.

‘ Their wide-ranging sound—from classic K-pop to rock and acoustic folk—continues to captivate listeners.

The song ‘좋다고 말해 (Tell Me You Like Me)’ has qualities that resonate with mellow Japanese kayōkyoku.

It might be perfect for people who often sing songs in the vein of Kiroro or Ikimono-gakari.

The slower tempo is a nice bonus.

If you’ve never sung a Korean song before, start with this one!

가시Buzz

가시

BUZZ is a rock band that made its major debut in 2003.

Gash(i) was included on their second album, Effect, released in 2005.

Its title means “thorn,” and it’s a rock ballad overflowing with BUZZ’s signature emotion, depicting the pain of love.

Even as time passes, it remains a karaoke staple beloved by Korean men.

It’s perfect for when you want to let go of a broken heart.

The relaxed melody is also a highlight, and there’s no doubt you’ll feel the passion rise as you sing.

Mind Your Own BusinessAilee

[MV] Ailee(에일리) _ Mind Your Own Business(너나 잘해)

The girl-crush style of “Mind Your Own Business” is so cool.

It’s included as the title track of her first full album, Vivid, released in 2015.

When you think of Ailee, her outstanding vocal ability is definitely the big draw.

Her confident stage presence and powerful vocals are impressive, and this song lets those strengths shine to the fullest.

She brushes off a rocky relationship, saying, “I’m leaving, so do whatever you want.” The rhythm can be a bit tricky, but if you make it through, it’ll feel incredibly satisfying.

The repeating English phrases are sure to give you a refreshing kick, too!