Top 10 K-pop Hits of 2024 Recognized by Grammys: Featuring aespa’s ‘Supernova,’ Baekhyun’s ‘Pineapple Slice,’ and More

In a surprising turn of events, the prestigious Grammy Awards included not only title tracks but also notable b-sides in their annual top picks for the music industry’s elite. This year’s selection showcases the evolving landscape of music distribution, including the impact of platforms like TikTok on trending songs.

The list is organized chronologically, featuring popular tracks such as aespa’s “Supernova,”which secured the top position in major South Korean music charts, including MelOn Top 100. Another noteworthy mention is KISS OF LIFE’s “Igloo,”a b-side from their third mini-album, Lose Yourself, hailed for its captivating trap beats.

The Grammys remarked, “It’s the kind of song that requires a specific ‘cool girl’-ness to work,”highlighting the unique appeal of certain tracks within the current music scene.

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Other highlighted tracks include “Crazy”by LE SSERAFIM and “Shooting Star”by Kep1er, both contributing to the growing recognition of girl groups in the K-pop industry. Remarkably, RESCENE—a girl group that debuted earlier in 2024 and is often labeled as “nugu“for being underrated—made it to the Grammy’s list with their track “Love Attack.”

One enthusiastic netizen commented, “This is the most kpopiest [sic] song that has ever kpopied in a while and I just wish they would get more recognition for it,”reflecting the community’s yearning for broader acknowledgment of emerging talents.

The Grammy selection also featured songs from the rising fifth-generation boy groups, including RIIZE’s “Impossible”and ZEROBASEONE’s “Good So Bad,”both of which evoke nostalgia while conveying themes of hope and aspiration.

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Additionally, BOYNEXTDOOR’s “Dangerous”was noted for its themes of rebellion and the charismatic performances of its members. The list also celebrated individual artists, highlighting Taemin’s b-side “Crush,”which showcases his vocal prowess and artistry as described by the Grammys.

EXO’s Baekhyun made the cut as well with his single “Pineapple Slice,”a track that draws upon R&B sensibilities and emphasizes his distinctive vocal style. This further solidifies the influence of solo artists in the current music climate.