The Evolution of K-Pop: Celebrating a Milestone
The year 2015 marked a transformative phase in the K-pop landscape, bridging the gap between the second- and third-generation artists. This period saw groundbreaking album releases and chart-topping hits that defined the genre during this vibrant time. Notably, BIGBANG’s celebrated albums, specifically M, A, D, and E, emerged alongside EXO’s remarkable achievement of becoming double million sellers, solidifying their legacy in the industry.
As we look back, it’s clear that the music released during this era continues to resonate with fans, with many tracks achieving timeless status even after a decade. In anticipation of their 10th anniversaries in 2025, let’s revisit some of the most impactful K-pop songs from 2015.
‘BANG BANG BANG’ – BIGBANG
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ips2mM7Zqw
Released in June 2015, “BANG BANG BANG”quickly soared to popularity, thanks to its infectious chorus and dynamic choreography, which inspired countless dance covers across social media platforms.
‘Call Me Baby’ – EXO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWfsla_Uh80
Following their previous hit “Growl,”EXO solidified their dominance in the music scene with the vibrant track “Call Me Baby,”earning an impressive 18 first-place victories within a single month.
‘Dope’ – BTS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVwAVbKYYeM
BTS’s “Dope,”released in April 2015, introduced the group to an expansive audience, driven by a viral music video that showcased their impressive choreography and charisma.
‘My House’ – 2PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2pFB1dCSo4
‘Mommae’ – Jay Park
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gx_mg-1WhWw
Jay Park’s “Mommae”made a significant impact in 2015 by reviving the R-19+ and seduction-themed genres, distinguishing his work amidst a sea of innocent concepts prevalent at the time.
‘Like Ooh-Aah’ – TWICE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rtV5esQT6I
Debuting with “Like Ooh-Aah,”TWICE captured the attention of fans with their delightful mix of cuteness and edginess, creating an anthemic sing-along experience.
‘Dumb Dumb’ – Red Velvet
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGdbaEDVWp0
‘4 Walls’ – f(X)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4j7Umwfx60Q
Breaking away from conventional themes, f(X)’s “4 Walls”introduced an experimental fusion of K-pop and Deep House, showcasing innovative choreography and a strong vocal performance.
‘SHAKE IT’ – SISTAR
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9-TIy7WPQI
SISTAR, known as the “Summer Queens,”made waves with “SHAKE IT,” a track that combined a catchy hook with vibrant beats, complemented by an eye-catching music video.
‘Crazy’ – 4Minute
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nCLBTmjJBY
“Crazy”showcased a winning blend of K-pop with hip-hop elements, a groundbreaking approach for a girl group at the time, praised for its exceptional production and the group’s performance prowess.
BONUS HITS:
- ‘Cinderella’ – CNBLUE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkY8I7s_TOA
- ‘Just Right’ – GOT7
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrdk3IGcau8
- ‘View’ – SHINee
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF53cptEE5k
- ‘Mansae’ – SEVENTEEN
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9M7k9ZV67c0
- ‘Chained Up’ – VIXX
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqzBrI76e4g
- ‘Okay Dokey’ – Mino, Zico
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IDknHU6cUI
- ‘Bad’ – INFINITE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1oTSAhdzNQ
- ‘Um Oh Ah Yeh’ – MAMAMOO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFuJAIMQjHk
- ‘Ah-Choo’ – Lovelyz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7qisJ_KuYI
- ‘Something’ – Girl’s Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVO5xTAbxm8
- ‘WiggleWiggle’ – HELLOVENUS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNOa-l7ciAs
- ‘Lion Heart’ – Girls’ Generation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVCubhQ454c
- ‘Only You’ – miss A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO9RzrhYR-I
- ‘Heart Attack’ – AOA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pBgMBBsv4k
- ‘Up & Down’ – EXID
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfXZ6ydgZyo
- ‘Me Gustas Tu’ – GFRIEND
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYHyAIFG3iI