K-pop Songs for Beginners: 20 Best First K-pop Songs

The easiest way into K-pop: pick a group and play 4–5 of its hits. Below are five songs each from BTS, BLACKPINK, TWICE and Stray Kids, with one line on why each works.

Every group sounds different. The song you replay most usually points to the fandom that suits you. Groups are listed A to Z.

BLACKPINK (fandom: BLINK)

• DDU-DU DDU-DU: their best-known, hard-hitting track.
• How You Like That: strong beat, a perfect first song.
• Kill This Love: big drums, big sound.
• Pink Venom: a modern beat mixed with a traditional Korean instrument.
• Shut Down: swagger over a classical music sample.

BTS (fandom: ARMY)

• Dynamite: fully in English, upbeat disco. The easiest start.
• Butter: smooth, catchy and in English.
• Boy With Luv: light, sweet pop.
• DNA: energetic and danceable.
• Spring Day: an emotional song many ARMY hold dear.

Stray Kids (fandom: STAY)

• God's Menu: fast, powerful and different.
• Back Door: groovy and fun.
• Thunderous: high energy with a traditional Korean feel.
• MANIAC: a catchy hook with lots of energy.
• S-Class: bold and experimental.

TWICE (fandom: ONCE)

• TT: their iconic, cute hit.
• What is Love?: bright, upbeat pop.
• Fancy: a more mature, colourful sound.
• Feel Special: a warm, uplifting message.
• The Feels: an English song, an easy start.

What to do after listening

• Learn the members' names of the group you liked most.
• Pick your favourite member. That's your bias.
• Ask fans of that group for more recommendations in the Fandom Hub.

This page lists song titles only, no lyrics. Please listen on trusted music apps.

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