6 Addicting K-Pop Songs to Include on Your Holiday Playlist
We all know holiday hits like Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" and Ariana Grande's "Santa Tell Me." But did you know your favorite K-pop stars also have tracks that are equally addicting and festive?
Below, discover six of our favorite winter K-pop tracks, from Stray Kids to aespa. They're the perfect way to shake up any Christmas playlist!
'Candy' by NCT Dream
On the surface, NCT Dream's "Candy" sounds like a cheerful holiday tune with twinkling production, upbeat melodies and a colorful music video to match. Look at the lyrics, and you'll discover it's a ruthless break-up single (first penned by '90s trailblazers H.O.T.). Oh, well. We could use a bit of diversity in our Christmas stories anyway.
'Christmas EveL' by Stray Kids
Who says Christmas has to be bubblegum pop? On their holiday single, "Christmas EveL," K-pop octet Stray Kids stay true to their signature dark trap sound in this tale of winter anarchy: "Jack Frost coming for y'all, run, run," they warn in the pre-chorus.
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'Dynamite (Holiday Remix)' by BTS
BTS took the West by storm with their groovy single "Dynamite" in August 2020. But on their holiday remix, they prove it's not just a summer hit. With new sounds of sleigh bells and melodic a cappella bass lines, it's sure to keep you in a jolly mood all December.
'Jingle Bell Rock' by aespa
We didn't think "Jingle Bell Rock" could get any better until SM Entertainment quartet aespa dropped their cover. The girls transform the classic into a youthful hip-hop track, made vibrant by enthusiastic ad-libs and confident new rap verse. There's no way we won't be rocking around the Christmas tree to this ditty.
'Last Christmas' by HUH YUNJIN
We are so glad that Source Music found Huh Yunjin because she has some of the best vocals in K-pop. In 2022, the LE SSERAFIM member shined as a soloist with a cover of "Last Christmas." While faithful to the original record, she effortlessly flutters between soft vocals and powerful belts, offering a much more emotional take on the song.
'Lonely Christmas' by MONSTA X
Have you ever felt like people pushed you away during the holidays? MONSTA X has a song for you. On "Lonely Christmas," the boy group questions why their love interest mourns the absence of an ex. It's a reminder that the season isn't always smiles and joy—but that you'll never be alone in your feelings.
Are you curious about our other favorite K-pop songs? Read HERE for our favorite released from November 2023, including Jung Kook, P1Harmony and more.