Before K-pop became the global sensation we know today, the groundwork was laid by the first-generation K-pop artists from the late 1980s to early 2000s. This era of K-pop was marked by iconic rivalries among groups, catchy melodies, choreographed performances, visually appealing aesthetics, and iconic hits.
Here are some of the timeless first-generation hits that defined the sound of that era.
COME BACK HOME – SEO TAIJI AND BOYS
“Come Back Home” by Seo Taiji and Boys is one of the most iconic first-generation hits. They are often credited as the originators of modern K-pop. With "Comeback Home," they introduced the "Gangsta Rap" style to Korea in the mid-1990s. Check yout YG's founder Yang Hyun Suk with his smooth moves in the video.
Bonus Seo Taiji and Boys MV:
CANDY – H.O.T.
The legendary SM boy group, H.O.T. brought youthful energy and boyish charm to the forefront with their timeless hit "Candy.”
DREAMS COME TRUE – S.E.S.
S.E.S., the popular SM girl group, perfectly encapsulated the group's elegant and feminine image with their hit track “Dreams Come True.”
PERFECT MAN – SHINHWA
One of the longest-running K-pop groups, SHINHWA, solidified their status as a leading first-generation K-pop act with their timeless hit “Perfect Man.”
To My Boyfriend – FIN.K.L
Fin.K.L dominated the era of the first-generation of K-pop with hits like “To My Boyfriend,” which expressed the innocence and excitement of first love.
COMING OF AGE CEREMONY – PARK JI YOON
Park Ji Yoon’s iconic anthem “Coming of age ceremony” captivated the listeners with its beats and groundbreaking choreography.
LIES – g.o.d
“Lies,” the iconic hit by g.o.d left a lasting impact with its lyrics and the member’s soulful harmonies that brought the emotions to life.
COUPLE – SECHSKIES
SECHSKIES hit track “Couple” is an emotional anthem for couples in love, and it remains a fan favorite till date.
INVITATION – UHM JUNG HWA
“Invitation" by the popular first-generation soloist Uhm Jung Hwa is one of the most iconic songs of her career, solidifying her status as the OG K-pop’s diva.
NO. 1 – BoA
In an industry dominated by groups, BoA rose as one of the first-generation successful female soloists. Her iconic hit “No.1” propelled her to become a superstar in the Japanese market.
DON’T LEAVE ME – J.Y. PARK
"Don't Leave Me" by J.Y. Park, popularly known as JYP, showcased his talent not just as a producer but also as a singer and performer.
10 MINUTES – LEE HYORI
Lee Hyori launched her solo career with the iconic track “10 Minutes.” Her charismatic delivery and undeniable stage presence made the song an instant hit.
AS I TOLD YOU – KIM SUNG JAE
Kim Sung Jae's solo hit “As I Told You” became iconic for its catchy beats, strong vocals, and stylish choreography.
I REALLY LIKE YOU – JEWELRY
"I Really Like You" by Jewelry is a vibrant pop track that hooked the listeners instantly with its catchy melodies and showcased the group's playful charm.
HOT – 1TYM
"HOT" by YG Entertainment's first-generation boy group 1TYM is an electrifying hip-hop track that captures the group's signature blend of rap and R&B.
JINUSEAN - TELL ME
"Tell Me" is a hit song by Jinusean, another first-generation YG Entertainment duo. Look at how young Uhm Jung Hwa looks!
HYUN JIN YOUNG - YOU INSIDE MY UNCLEAR MEMORY
Many people like to point to Seo Taiji and Boys as the origin of K-pop but I think it's Hyun Jin Young. He debuted two years before Seo Taiji and Boys and had some hits like "You Inside My Unclear Memory." Trivia Fact: As he debuted in 1990, did you know that Hyun Jin Young was SM Entertainment's very first artist?
LEE SEUNG CHUL - WANDERING
Lee Seung Chul is a legendary artist now but before his legendary status he was dropping gems like "Wandering" back in the late 80s and early 90s.
DEUX - TURN AROUND LOOK AT ME
You think K-pop choreography involves a lot of movement now but check out how Deux danced 31 years ago, back in 1993. These are true work outs! RIP Kim Sung Jae.
SHIM SHIN - ONE AND ONLY YOU
One of the earliest heartthrobs in Korean music. His song "One and Only You" will forever be a classic.
LEE HUN WOO - DREAM
Lee Hyun Woo had it all. The looks, the talent, and a hit song in "Dream."
These hits are more than just catchy tunes; they represent the early spirit of K-pop. Tell us about your favorite first-generation hits.
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