If you’ve been around K-pop long enough, or maybe even if you’re just getting into it, you’ll find that certain songs never seem to fade away. They stay with us, pulling us back to the early days of the K-pop phenomenon. Kpop 1st Gen Songs and their idols didn’t just perform; they created timeless pieces that have remained in our hearts. These tracks have not only survived the test of time but have influenced generations of K-pop artists to this day.
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit 8 irreplaceable 1st gen K-pop songs that continue to dominate the nostalgia of fans and inspire today’s artists alike.
Best Kpop 1st gen songs
Perfect Man by Shinhwa
You can’t talk about iconic K-pop songs without mentioning Shinhwa’s “Perfect Man.” The sheer energy of this song, with its addictive hook and powerful choreography, still has fans jamming out as if it just dropped yesterday. Released in 2002, the song marked a turning point for Shinhwa, showing off a more mature and charismatic side of the group.
The choreography? Flawless. The vocals? Impeccable. To this day, Shinhwa remains one of the longest-standing groups in K-pop history, and “Perfect Man” is still performed at their concerts, reminding us all why Shinhwa is legendary. It’s one of those songs that when you hear it, it pulls you back into the 2000s, and you can’t help but sing along. And seriously, who wouldn’t want to be someone’s “Perfect Man”?
10 Minutes by Lee Hyori
These days, “10 Minutes” has found its way back into our lives through viral clips on Instagram and TikTok, but make no mistake—this was never an unknown track. Back in 2003, Lee Hyori had the entire K-pop industry wrapped around her finger. The song became an instant hit and skyrocketed her to solo stardom. And honestly, is anyone surprised?
The song exudes confidence and sass, with Lee Hyori radiating star power in every performance. The beats? Infectious. The stage presence? Unmatched. This song essentially put Hyori on the map as a K-pop queen, and even now, it continues to inspire countless female idols who aspire to exude the same level of fierceness and charisma.
Rainism by Rain
There’s something about Rain’s “Rainism” that just hits differently. Maybe it’s the smooth choreography, the hypnotic beat, or just Rain himself being, well, Rain. Released in 2008, this track has lived on, with every second- and third-generation artist covering it at some point, paying homage to one of K-pop’s biggest trailblazers.
This song is not just a hit; it’s a cult classic. Even to this day, if you hear “I’m gonna be a bad boy…” you already know you’re in for a performance. Rain left an indelible mark with this song, making it one of those irreplaceable tracks that still get fans hyped today.
Eternal Love by Fin.K.L
Fin.K.L was one of the OG girl groups that dominated the K-pop scene in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, and “Eternal Love” is a song that perfectly encapsulates why they were beloved. The gentle melody and sentimental lyrics tug at the heartstrings, making this ballad one of the most iconic love songs from that era.
If you’re looking for a song that embodies the softer, more emotional side of first-gen K-pop, “Eternal Love” is the answer. The song still finds its way into modern K-pop, influencing the romantic ballads we see in today’s charts. It’s sweet, touching, and, above all, timeless.
No. 1 by BoA
Before there was an “international K-pop star” phenomenon, there was BoA, the undisputed queen who opened the doors to global K-pop. “No. 1” is the quintessential BoA track that set her apart from the rest, solidifying her as a superstar both in South Korea and Japan.
BoA’s powerful vocals and impressive dance moves made this song a smash hit when it was released in 2002, and it continues to be one of her most beloved tracks. No matter how much time passes, “No. 1” still gets us in our feelings, reminding us why BoA is, well, No. 1.
Candy by H.O.T.
One word: Candy. If you were a first-gen K-pop fan, you already know what this means. H.O.T.’s “Candy” wasn’t just a song—it was a cultural moment. Released in 1996, “Candy” defined the playful, fun side of K-pop, with its bright melodies, colourful outfits, and iconic choreography.
To this day, “Candy” remains an irreplaceable track that instantly evokes a sense of nostalgia for fans. The impact of this song can still be felt in the bubbly, cute concepts of modern K-pop groups. It’s the kind of song that you can’t help but smile to, even after all these years.
Couple by SechsKies
SechsKies was one of H.O.T.’s biggest rivals, and “Couple” was their response to the explosive boy band wave of the late ‘90s. Released in 1998, “Couple” is a romantic anthem that remains one of the most loved K-pop songs from that era.
With its catchy melody and sweet lyrics, this song is the perfect throwback track that still feels fresh today. Whether you’re reminiscing about first loves or just feeling nostalgic for simpler times, this song has an enduring charm that will never go out of style.
Yayaya by Baby V.O.X
Last but certainly not least, Baby V.O.X’s Yayaya was the song that solidified them as one of the top girl groups of their time. The track combines pop with a hint of R&B, bringing a fresh sound that set them apart in the late ‘90s and early 2000s.
“Yayaya” is one of those tracks that, even after all these years, feels like a party. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus made it an instant hit back then, and its legacy continues to live on. Baby V.O.X paved the way for future girl groups, proving that they could be just as strong and powerful as their male counterparts.
So there you have it—eight irreplaceable K-pop songs from the first generation that continue to influence, inspire, and dominate. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering these gems, these tracks remind us of the early days of K-pop and why it has become such a global phenomenon today.
Which of these classics do you still have on your playlist? Let us know in the comments below!
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