Top 10 K-Pop Songs of 2020 You Should Hear Once Ranked by IZM Critc
1. "Dolphin" - Oh My Girl
Oh My Girl's "Dolphin" was praised for the girl's high-quality vocals are for the lively, innocent, and exciting lyrics that resonated with the listeners. The song was praised by both male and female fans, both young and old, and both K-pop fans and non-K-pop fans!
2. "eight (prod. & feat. SUGA of BTS)" - IU
"eight" tells the story of two 28 years old and their distinct personalities, taking refuge in past memories. The song was praised for its impressive lyrics, which could only be pulled off by two amazing songwriters, IU and Suga. "eight" was praised as 2020's "Healing Song of the Year" due to it's calming and nostalgic quality.
3. "Aloha" - Cho Jung Suk
Cho Jung Suk's "Aloha" was praised for his amazing vocals and his accurate pronunciation and clear diction, making it easy to understand. Even elementary school students can listen and sing the song easily due to how simple it is to understand! Cho Jung Suk perfectly digested the lyrics of the song, impressing listeners.
4. "Any Song" - Zico
This list would be incomplete with "Any Song". The song and the challenge was a huge hit not only in South Korea but in the United Kingdom and the United States. Due to the involvement of numerous celebrities in the "Any Song" challenge, the song achieved huge success. Zico was praised for his amazing production skills and the trendy and energetic beat of the song.
5. "Lovesick Girls" - BLACKPINK
BLACKPINK has raised the standard of what it means to be a K-pop group. The group has collaborated with Selena Gomez, Cardi B, and Lady Gaga. Their new album, "THE ALBUM", was highly successful worldwide. Their latest comeback, "Lovesick Girls", impressed people with its meaningful lyrics which members Jennie and Jisoo helped write. The song is reminiscent of 2000s teen pop, but BLACKPINK makes it more special by adding their unique color.
6. "Meteor" - Changmo
"Meteor" was one of the biggest songs in South Korea. Hip-hop definitely saw a rise this year, and Changmo's song was especially praised as he raps his personal, autobiographical story. Changmo was also praised for his beat-making and production skills, as the rapper himself produced the hit song.
7. "Start Over" - Gaho
"Start Over" is part of the OST for the popular drama "Itaewon Class". The song was praised for its pure message, encouraging people to reach for the brighter tomorrow by never giving up and starting over until they succeed. The song was a source of hope and comfort to the listeners, the song was like a warm embrace in this difficult year.
8. "Zombie" - DAY6
2020 was a difficult year for everyone. It was especially difficult in South Korea, due to the rise in coronavirus cases and typhoons in the country. A lot of people felt that they were exhausted both in mind and heart - which is exactly what DAY6's "Zombie" talks about. The song was gloomy, yet it somehow matched the mood of people during these dark times. Because of the situation in the country, "Zombie" was praised as a song that people can relate to. It makes people feel as if they are not alone.
9. "Acrobat" - Gwangil Jo
"Acrobat" is a song about confidence and reaching for your goals with no one being able to stop you. The song is strong, intense, almost rageful in its pride. Gwangil Jo is praise for his rap skills, his hard-hitting lyrics, and his confidence as a rapper. Despite being a newcomer to the industry, Gwangil Jo has proved himself as a forced to be reckoned with in the industry.
10. "Tiger is Coming" - Leenalchi
"Tiger is Coming" was praised for being a beautiful blend of beath Eastern and Western styles of music. The music video showed a colorful scene reminiscent of the Joseon Dynasty, a beautiful nod to South Korea's history. The song was praised by those who love Korean classical music, as it shows how music has progressed and developed while still promoting love for culture within the South Korean youth.
Did your favorite song make the list?