2024 saw a plethora of smash hits from many K-Pop artists, from rookies to industry veterans. As we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome 2025, team POP TOKKI compiled a list of some of the best tracks that hit our headphones this year.
“Supernova” – aespa
Released in May, aespa took over the K-pop internet space with the hyper-pop hit “Supernova.” With its catchy hook, synth-heavy instrumental, and blend of pop, hip-hop, and electronic genres, the song’s formula set it up for success. The cherry on top is the skillful use of Afrika Bambaataa & Soulsonic Force’s 1982 song “Planet Rock” by renowned producer Dem Jointz in the bridge, which keeps listeners waiting for the iconic notes to fall. At the 2024 MAMA Awards, the quartet took home the Song of the Year and Best Female Dance Performance awards, demonstrating the song’s noteworthy influence this year.
“Killin’ It” – P1Harmony
The title track of P1Harmony’s first studio album, “Killin’ It,” is a catchy hip-hop track that pays homage to the 90s hip-hop while at the same time showcasing the unique music color of P1Harmony. The track is a continuation of the group’s “hero” worldview as the lyrics illustrate P1Harmony’s confidence and aspiration to save the world through music as an unsung hero, asking people to check out their true color as they are superstars who are literally “Killin’ It.” The song elevates P1Harmony’s swaggy and mischievous image with its attitude-driven lyrics and catchy TR-808-style bass sound. In fact, the song marked a major turning point in P1Harmony’s musical career by helping them win first place at their first music show since their 2020 debut.
“DASH” – NIMXX
When “DASH” was released earlier this year, NMIXX stunned the world. This hip-hop and R&B-influenced track discusses a strong desire for freedom, taking risks, and pushing past boundaries. The lyrics express the determination to break barriers and chase after a dream without hesitation. The catchy and addictive chorus will replay in your head for days. “DASH” gave the JYP Entertainment girl group first place on music shows since their 2023 release, “Love Me Like This.”
“Ice On My Teeth” – ATEEZ
Earning their second No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200, ATEEZ released “Ice On My Teeth” alongside their 11th EP, ‘Golden Hour Pt. 2,’ on Nov 15. The song has an irresistibly dark and alluring vibe with a whirlwind of pulsating beats and dramatic crescendos. Bringing a bold addition to their ever-evolving artistry. The choreography accompanying “Ice on My Teeth” has gone viral, solidifying the track’s impact. With its quick-climbing global music charts and debuting in the top 10 on multiple platforms, ATEEZ’s continued growth as a worldwide powerhouse is highlighted.
“Sticky” – Kiss of Life
This Kiss of Life single dominated 2024 summer playlists across platforms. “Sticky” was a bop that earned the rookie girl group their first win on a music show in July, when they earned first place on THE SHOW CHOICE! The song also went viral for its rejuvenating melody, memorable lyrics, alluring music video and charming choreography. “Sticky” debuted on the Billboard Global 200 chart at #87.
“Maestro” – SEVENTEEN
As the lead single from their album ’17 is Right Here,’ “Maestro” exemplifies the group’s musical versatility and performance prowess, even though there was some controversy regarding the song and music video, which was later clarified by SEVENTEEN themselves. Gaining 46 million views in the first two weeks, the “Maestro” music video. It occurs in a dystopian world where the group confronts AI attempts to replicate their artistry, ultimately asserting the irreplaceable value of human creativity. Who is the real maestro?
“Really Like You” – Gyubin
Gyubin’s “Really Like You” debuted on Jan. 14, introducing her as a fresh voice in the music scene with her first digital single. The music video, filmed against the lush and picturesque backdrop of Phuket, Thailand, perfectly complements the song’s playfulness and vibrant energy theme. This song transitions from a long, cold winter to a blossoming spring. With lyrics combined with nostalgic energy, this debut makes it a great start to her career and a great start to the beginning of the year.
“Neuron” – j-hope
“Neuron,” from j-hope’s highly successful album ‘Hope on the Street,’ features a blend of hip-hop and experimental sound, incorporating intricate beats with a smooth flow. In “Neuron,” j-hope focuses on self-reflection, the complexities of his inner world, and the overwhelming pace of his thoughts and emotions. This track not only gave listeners a sense of nostalgia but also fully mapped out j-hope’s career, showcasing his growth and his ability to make music that touches the hearts of many worldwide.
“GPT” – STAYC
“GPT” is the epitome of girly pop. This bubbly song reminds listeners of a sunny day with friends. GPT refers to an unresponsive love interest, a parallel to the infamous online AI chatbot ChatGPT. The responses given by the bot are unpredictable, much like the interest in this song. Although the undertone is a bit disappointing, the upbeat tone of this song compensates for that. It’s fit for every season, setting, and moment! The curiosity surrounding this newfound love made a great pop song for StayC.
“Deja Vu” – TXT
As the title track for their album ‘minisode 3: TOMORROW,’ “Deja Vu” is top tier. As we’ve heard of many songs with this title, the song still contains a unique essence. The passion and dedication in this song transcend borders and create a great listen. Between outstanding lyricism, enchanting vocals, and bewitching performance, you’ll get déjà vu from listening to it so many times. “Deja Vu” is a timeless track that TXT fans will remember and love for ages.
“Shooting Star” – KEP1ER
“Shooting Star” by KEP1ER is a fun, high-energy K-pop track that’s all about chasing your dreams and having a good time while doing it. With catchy beats, bouncy synths, and super upbeat vocals, the song feels like a burst of positive energy. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to dance and sing along, with lyrics that capture that thrill of going after something big, like a shooting star racing through the sky. It’s playful, catchy, and full of feel-good vibes!
“Good So Bad” – ZEROBASEONE
“Good So Bad” by ZEROBASEONE is a super catchy, high-energy track about that turbulent mix of emotions you feel when something’s exciting and a little messy. The song has an upbeat vibe with fun beats, cool synths, and catchy vocals that make it impossible not to move along. It captures that feeling of being caught up in something that’s thrilling but not always perfect, and it does it in a super fun and easy way to vibe. It’s a song that gets you in the mood just to enjoy the ride.
“Supersonic” – fromis_9
“Supersonic” by fromis_9 is an energetic and vibrant track that blends catchy pop melodies with a dynamic, upbeat rhythm. The song gives off an exhilarating sense of freedom and excitement, showing the feeling of breaking free and soaring through life like a super sonic wave. “Supersonic” stands out as a fun, high-energy pop song that showcases fromis_9’s youthful spirit and musical versatility, which made it a super memorable song in 2024’s K-pop lineup.
“Plot Twist” – TWS
“Plot Twist” by TWS, the 5th-generation boy group, made a major impact on the K-pop scene this year, quickly becoming a fan favorite worldwide. The song’s catchy, playful vibe perfectly captures the excitement and uncertainty of first encounters. With its punchy beat, exhilarating instrumentals, and infectious synths, the track opens with an intro that instantly transports you back to the carefree energy of youth. It’s a thrilling, dynamic song that pulls you in from the very first note.
“TTYL” – Loossemble
Loossemble returned in Sep with “TTYL.” This fun and addictive song captures the playful spirit of the title that even led it to be listed as one of Billboard’s top 25 best K-pop songs of 2024. Despite the song’s climb in popularity, the group later announced their departure from their company on Nov 28. Some fans speculate that “TTYL” could be a lighthearted message, suggesting a temporary farewell rather than a permanent goodbye. Regardless, we can all agree that this song really had Loossemble go out with a bang. We wish nothing but the best for the girls and their future endeavors in 2025.
“CRAZY’ – LE SSERAFIM
LE SSERAFIM continues to break records with “Crazy,” a track highlighting their bold and daring artistry. Released as part of their latest album, the song has helped the group become the fastest K-pop girl group to achieve three albums in the Billboard 200 Top 10. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their playful side and break free from societal expectations, promoting self-expression and confidence. The song quickly became a fan favorite, receiving praise for its high-energy production and choreography. In addition to topping charts globally, the track has cemented LE SSERAFIM’s position as a rising force in the K-pop industry.
What was your favorite release of 2024? Let us know on Instagram and Twitter/X!
Featured Image Credit: Tay F for POP TOKKI
