K-pop has the glitz, glamour, and dancing pretty idols. But there is more to Korean music than the idols who can dance and rap. Rock bands have been a part of Korean culture for a long time, and the music has evolved into softer, more American/British pop-like numbers. Others continue producing alternative pop tracks that you either love or hate. Whatever your preferred style of music, these Korean bands are worth adding to your streaming rotation.
1. The Rose
Debuting in 2017 with the gorgeous ‘Sorry’, The Rose consists of Kim Woosung (or Sammy) on vocals and guitar, Park Dojoon (or Leo) on vocals, guitar, and keyboard, Lee Hajoon (or Dylan) on drums, and Lee Taegyeom (or Jeff) on bass. Hajoon and Taegyeom are also on sub-vocals. Originally called Windfall, the quartet cites Coldplay and The Script as its inspiration. Their last studio album, ‘DUAL’, featured an alternative, catchy lead track called ‘Back To Me’ that became viral on short-form content.
2. DAY6
DAY6 was a bit of an aberration from JYP Entertainment, which gave us TWICE and Stray Kids. However, the now 5-member band has a permanent place in our hearts for its unique style, elaborate numbers, and yearning music. Their first song, ‘Congratulations’, came out 10 years ago, and the pop band has since delivered hits like ‘Zombie’, ‘You Were Beautiful’, and most recently, ‘Welcome To The Show’.
3. CNBLUE
One of the seniormost Korean bands on this list, CNBLUE, has been around and making music for more than 15 years now. Their debut Korean single, ‘I’m A Loner’, is considered a classic to date. Some of their other memorable tracks include ‘Cinderella’, ‘Can’t Stop’, and the new ‘Killer Joy’, whose live vocal challenge has been doing the rounds.
4. Xdinary Heroes
JYP Entertainment‘s next Korean band debuted in 2021, this time with a pop-punk sound, dramatically different from K-pop. Its debut single, ‘Happy Death Day,’ cemented Xdinary Heroes’ arrival on the K-rock music scene, and it has only gone upwards since. Although its variety show appearances and TikTok dance participation threaten the rockstar image, the band happily situates itself in this in-between space. Check out its last release, ‘ICU’, below.
5. HYUKOH
From the popular to the indie, HYUKOH rose as if from nowhere with its unique sound. They first came to prominence on Infinite Challenge, when they performed ‘Wonderful Barn’ with the show host Jeong Hyeong Don. Although the band has only two studio albums out, their style is fresh and will stay with you. HYUKOH’s collaboration album with Sunset Rollercoaster yielded the cool track below.
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Whether you prefer a more pop-like sound or are a fan of indie music, these 5 Korean bands have you sorted. Check them out now!
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