Top 20 Songs Of 2023 So Far? KMA Committee Member Shares His Picks

Internationally recognized music critic and KMA selection committee member, Kim Doheon, has revealed his handpicked selection of the best K-Pop songs of the first half of 2023. This comprehensive compilation promises an eclectic mix of high-energy beats, intricate harmonies, and deep lyrical stories from Korea’s most beloved artists.

NCT 127 | SM Entertainment

1. SHINee’s Onew

Kim started his list with a masterpiece, “Paradise,” from the album Circle.

2. TWICE

Following up, Kim picks TWICE’s chart-topper “GOT THE THRILLS” from their album Ready To Be.

3. NCT 127

NCT 127 secures a spot on the list with “DJ” from their album Ay-Yo.

4. SEVENTEEN BSS

The sub-unit SEVENTEEN BSS stands out with “Fighting” from their first single album  SECOND WIND.

5. SHINee

Making their second appearance, SHINee confirms their steady appeal with “Identity” from their album HARD.

6. Suzy

Suzy’s OST “R.U.N” for HYBE’s latest survival show R U Next? takes the sixth spot.

7. MONSTA X

MONSTA X is on the list with their heart-pumping track “LONE RANGER” from their album REASON.

8. Stray Kids

Stray Kids get a nod with their infectious “GET LIT” from the album 5-STAR.

9. BOYNEXTDOOR

Rookie group BOYNEXTDOOR’s “Serenade” from WHO! proves they are a promising addition to the K-Pop scene.

10. SEVENTEEN

SEVENTEEN secures their spot on the list with “F*ck My Life” from FML.

11. (G)I-DLE

(G)I-DLE earns a place with their compelling “Allergy” from I feel.

12. WOODZ

Soloist WOODZ impresses with his hit single “ABYSS.”

13. H1-KEY

H1-KEY debuts on the list with their fresh track “Rose Blossom” from their first mini album of the same name.

14. aespa

aespa has made the cut with their innovative “I’m Unhappy” from their 3rd mini album MY WORLD.

15. NewJeans

Rookie band NewJeans makes it to the list with their song “OMG” from their single album of the same name.

16. STAYC

Girl group STAYC has been recognized for their track “Poppy (Korean  Ver).”

17. XG

XG has made an appearance with their tune “LEFT RIGHT” from SHOOTING STAR.

18. Billlie

Billlie earned their place with “EUNOIA” from the album the Billage of perception: chapter three.

19. IVE

IVE have been acknowledged for their captivating “I AM” from their album I’ve IVE.

20. NCT DOJAEJUNG

Rounding out the list, NCT DOJAEJUNG lands a spot with their song “Perfume” from the album Perfume.