I'm in the United States, and whenever I visit the mall or my local Starbucks, I often hear K-pop playing. It's clear that K-pop is everywhere now! While many locals can easily recognize a K-pop hit, here are 5 popular songs that locals might not realize come from K-pop artists.
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“Way Back Home” by Shaun: Although initially released years ago, "Way Back Home" gained massive popularity after going viral, with many covers contributing to its fame. Surprisingly, a lot of listeners are unaware that this catchy pop tune is sung by Korean artist Shaun. Its light and upbeat vibe make it an instant addition to any playlist.
“Cupid” by FIFTY FIFTY: Most listeners might be familiar with the English version of this song, but it's originally performed by the talented Korean girl group FIFTY FIFTY. There’s also a Korean version, which is just as addictive and fun, showcasing the group’s versatility.
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“Touch” by KATSEYE: Despite the group members being non-Korean, KATSEYE is technically considered a K-Pop group due to HYBE’s production partnership with Geffen Records. This track brings a fresh, international flavor to the genre while staying true to its K-Pop roots.
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“Hold On Tight” by aespa: As part of the "Tetris" soundtrack, this song is an unexpected masterpiece by aespa. The group explores a deeper vocal range, creating an eerie and atmospheric vibe that perfectly fits the soundtrack's theme. It would be exciting to hear more songs like this from aespa in the future, don’t you agree?
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“Bang Bang Bang” by Big Bang: A K-Pop classic, "Bang Bang Bang" by Big Bang is a song that resonated with both K-Pop fans and celebrities worldwide. The song’s fame only grew when a remix version went viral, further solidifying its status as a global hit. Both the original and remix versions are a must-listen!