Although the majority of South Korean artists primarily perform in Korean, several English tracks have broken the mold, captivating audiences far beyond the typical fanbase. Here's a rundown of English-language songs by South Korean artists that have sparked a buzz among the broader global audience.
Cupid – Twin Ver. – FIFTY FIFTY
"Cupid – Twin Ver." by the rookie K-pop girl group FIFTY FIFTY has recently taken the world by storm, captivating even non-K-pop fans worldwide. The song's infectious melody and catchy lyrics have transcended boundaries, instantly resonating with listeners from diverse backgrounds.
MONEY – LISA
One of Lisa's solo tracks, "MONEY," took the internet by storm and went viral worldwide. With its infectious beat and catchy lyrics, "MONEY" quickly became a sensation. The song's energetic and confident vibe and Lisa's undeniable charisma and dance moves have undoubtedly contributed to its widespread appeal.
Dynamite, Butter, and Permission to Dance – BTS
BTS's English-language tracks "Dynamite," "Butter," and "Permission to Dance" captivated audiences worldwide. With its retro-inspired sound and infectious energy, "Dynamite" became an instant hit.
Released in 2021, "Butter" showcased BTS's unparalleled artistry and charisma, appealing to both fans and non-fans. "Permission to Dance" struck a chord with listeners, spreading a message of joy, resilience, and unity.
Ice Cream – BLACKPINK
Collaborations between K-pop acts and international artists have significantly expanded the genre's global reach. "Ice Cream" by BLACKPINK featuring Selena Gomez exemplifies this trend. The song's playful lyrics, infectious melody, and delightful music video captivated a broad audience and went viral among non-fans.
The Feels – TWICE
TWICE proved their global appeal with their first full English single, "The Feels.” The song became a viral sensation, earning praise for its addictive sound and energetic performances. TWICE's ability to even captivate non-fans demonstrates their enduring appeal.
Way Back Home – SHAUN
“Way Back Home” is a hit digital single by Shaun that went viral among both fans and non-fans. In December 2018, an edited version of the song created by Dutch DJ Sam Feldt, with British singer Conor Maynard lending his vocals to the English lyrics, was released, and it spread like wildfire through social media platforms.
English songs by South Korean artists have undoubtedly played a vital role in breaking down barriers and gaining attention from non-fans worldwide. These songs have transcended language barriers and captured the hearts of diverse audiences.
How about "Nobody" by Wonder Girls? The internet seemed young at the time so idk if took the "internet by storm" by AllKPop's standards but it certainly made noise here in the U.S. back in 2009. Heck, my mom was even listening to the song bc she thought it was a Motown song.