Iconic First-Gen K-pop songs
We wouldn’t have the likes of IVE and ATEEZ today if we didn’t first have the first generation of K-Pop. Here are eight iconic songs that paved the way to make K-Pop what it is today.
Lee Hyori. Image: DSP Media.
What is the first generation of K-Pop?
Before we dive into the best first generation K-Pop songs, we first have to answer the question: What is the first generation?
First of all, K-Pop generations are the different eras that the genre has gone through as the industry has changed over time. The generations have their own trends or fashion, and they are often defined by a handful of groups which are the most popular at the time.
H.O.T. Image: SM Entertainment.
The first generation of K-Pop started in the 1990s and ended in the early 2000s. The boy group H.O.T is widely considered to be the first ever K-Pop idol group and it kicked off the first generation. H.O.T’s predecessors, Seo Taiji and Boys were heavily influenced by American Hip Hop, and H.O.T equally incorporated baggy fashion, coordinated outfits and choreographed dance moves into their performances.
Their catchy more pop-based tunes became immensely popular, thus setting the foundations for what K-Pop is today.
1. “Candy” by H.O.T (1996)
Released in 1996 as a part of H.O.T’s debut album, “Candy” put the group on the map. It’s a fun and upbeat bubblegum pop song that was an instant hit in South Korea.
Not only that but its legacy has lasted for over 25 years, as NCT DREAM released their own version of the song in 2022. H.O.T’s colourful garments and accessories also established the trend of coordinated outfits in K-Pop.
2. “10 Minutes” by Lee Hyori (2003)
Lee Hyori debuted in the first generation group Fin.K.L in 1998 and was immensely popular as a part of the group. What shot her into long-lasting stardom, however, was her debut solo single “10 minutes.”
It’s a hip-hop and RnB number which became a huge hit as soon as it was released. Thanks to her hit song, Lee Hyori is widely regarded as one of K-Pop’s original ‘it girls’ and she and her song remain popular to this day.
3. “Perfect Man'“ by Shinhwa (2002)
I don’t think any first generation K-Pop song is as well known as “Perfect Man.” You can’t help but move your body to its iconic rhythm.
BTS’s cover of “Perfect Man” from 2015 has over 140 million views on YouTube and is one of the most legendary covers in K-Pop — it’s still drawing new fans to this day. Shinhwa themselves have not disbanded and, since they debuted in 1998, they remain one of the longest running idol groups in K-Pop.
4. “Dreams Come True” by S.E.S (1998)
“Dreams Come True” is a super catchy song which uses an 80s inspired synth beat. Released in 1998 as a part of S.E.S’s second studio album, the song is an absolute K-Pop classic.
In 2021 aespa released their own version of “Dreams Come True” as a part of SM’s remastering project, introducing the song to a whole new generation of K-pop fans.
5. “Couple” by Sech Kies (1998)
Sechs Kies debuted in 1997, not long after the big success of H.O.T, and during the years both groups were active there were rumours that the two successful groups had a large rivalry. Their respective fandoms definitely demonstrated a heated rivalry on behalf of their favourite group, apparently often physically fighting one another.
The vibe of “Couple” definitely shows an opposite vibe to the heated fans. It’s a timeless, sweet and nostalgic love song.
6. “Coming of age ceremony” by Parl Ji-yoon (2000)
“Coming of age ceremony” is one of the most recognisable performances from a female solo artist. The dance has been covered endlessly and remains a classic fanservice song for K-Pop groups.
BTS’ Jimin and Jung Kook covered “Coming of age ceremony” in 2016 and brought the hit to the attention of many fans. The legacy of this sensual hit is undeniable and will continue to last into the future.
7. “Lies” by g.o.d (2000)
Another iconic first generation K-Pop boy group is g.o.d, maybe lesser known internationally they were extremely popular in South Korea.
Their album Chapter 3, whose title track is “Lies”, went on to sell over one million copies. “Lies” became a clear 00s hit, with a smooth RnB beat and iconic rap verses.
8. “No.1” by BoA (2002)
One of the original leaders of the Hallyu wave, in Japan especially, BoA earned the nickname ‘Queen of K-Pop’ thanks to her immense success as a solo artist.
“No.1” was released in 2002 and is a dance pop track which incorporates elements from europop. BoA’s legacy in the K-Pop industry is legendary and it’s no surprise to see that she is an absolute veteran of the genre. It’s hard to find a girl group nowadays who isn’t somewhat inspired by BoA.
These songs still stand the test of time today. Do you have a favourite? Let us know in the comments below.
Edited by Chelsea Cheetham.