While title tracks are typically the center of attention, winning awards and achieving Perfect All-Kills, some b-side hits outperformed the title tracks and went on to achieve the coveted PAK. A song attains a PAK when it rises to the top spot on all major South Korean music streaming platforms, including MelOn, Genie, Bugs, FLO, VIBE, and YouTube Music, as well as claiming the number one position on Instiz's real-time and weekly iChart.

Let’s dive into some of the b-side hits that became very popular captivating listeners and achieving the Perfect All-Kills.

2NE1 - I AM THE BEST

Though “I Am The Best” was released as a B-side track from 2NE1’s self-titled mini album, it went on to become one of K-pop’s most iconic anthems. The song’s powerful, defiant energy and catchy beat made it one of the standout tracks of the era. It quickly became a fan favourite and secured the PAK, solidifying 2NE1 as one of the most influential girl groups in K-pop history.

G- DRAGON - That XX

“That XX” from G-Dragon’s first mini album, “One of a Kind” is a slower, melancholic track dealing with heartbreak and betrayal. The song struck a chord, and despite being a B-side, it resonated deeply with listeners, achieving the coveted Perfect All-Kills and further cementing G-Dragon’s reputation as a musical icon.

BIGBANG - LOSER

“Loser” is an iconic hit from BIGBANG’s MADE album, but surprisingly it isn’t a title track. This standout B-side achieved the Perfect All-Kills and left an undeniable mark on the K-pop scene. The hit is one of BIGBANG’s most introspective songs, showing vulnerability and the struggles that resonate with the listeners.

BIGBANG - Let’s Not Fall In Love

Another B-side from BIGBANG’s “MADE” album, “Let’s Not Fall In Love” is a melancholic ballad that explores the uncertainty of love and relationships. The song's rich vocals and poignant lyrics made it a fan favourite and a huge hit in Korea, securing the coveted Perfect All-Kill.

IU - Through the Night

IU is the artist with the highest number of songs securing the Perfect All-Kills. Her B-side "Through the Night" from her ‘Palette’ album was a huge hit in Korea, achieving the PAK. The song's delicate, acoustic arrangement, paired with IU's soothing vocals, captured the hearts of fans.

NewJeans - Ditto

NewJeans’ “Ditto,” from their debut single album, ‘OMG’ became a popular hit. The track’s fresh, retro-inspired sound with a modern twist made it stand out from other K-pop releases. Its catchy hook and NewJeans’ youthful energy captured the hearts of fans, earning the group their first Perfect All-Kill and establishing them as one of K-pop’s most exciting new acts.

IVE - Kitsch

IVE swiftly rose to the top of the K-pop scene, becoming one of the most prominent fourth-generation groups. Along with (G)I-DLE, they hold the record for the highest number of songs with Perfect All-Kills in this generation. Even their B-side track "Kitsch" from the ‘I’VE IVE’ album scored the coveted PAK.

IU - Love wins all

IU made waves in 2024 with her b-side hit “Love Wins All” from the album ‘The Winning.’ The track’s calming melody and IU’s impeccable vocals resonated deeply with fans, earning the song a Perfect All-Kills shortly after its release.

(G)I-DLE - FATE

Released as part of their full album ‘2,’ (G)I-DLE’s “Fate” quickly became a fan favourite b-side. (G)I-DLE’s signature bold style, coupled with their captivating performance, helped the track achieve a Perfect All-Kill and reinforced the group's standing as one of K-pop’s most innovative acts.

DAY6 - HAPPY

DAY6 reached new heights in their career last year with success like never before. They achieved their first-ever Perfect All-Kill with the B-side track “Happy” from the album ‘Forever,’ “Happy” was a catchy yet emotional track that resonated with listeners, securing the coveted PAK.

These b-side hits prove that great music transcends the label of "title track.” What are your favorite B-side hits? Comment below!

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