If you’re a rap fan and haven’t had the chance to discover Korean hip-hop yet, you’re missing out. Rappers from different categories (underground, indie, idol, label) offer some iconic tracks. doing. Some of them are also part of the aforementioned categories. A killer flow, impeccable wording, and a take-home message are the same recipes for excellence.
Ready to navigate this epic genre? Introducing a selection of epic Korean hip-hop tracks.
3RACHA – “Matryoshka”
Stray Kids’ fiery sub-unit consists of Bang Chan (CB97), Changbin (SPEARB), and Han (J.ONE), who speak for their lyrics. This trio raps about burying all their struggles while putting their growing successes front and center for all haters and skeptics to see. Regarding Russian dolls, they have stated that they have many challenges to keep improving themselves.
(G) I-DLE Jung So Yeon feat. Vivi & Lee Young Ji “Is this bad?”
Talk about a triple threat. Jeon Soyeon, BIBI, and Lee Young Ji put their intimidating skills to the test in this badass rap. Each rapper puts their jealous opponent back in place with a perfect flow, setting a record that they will last forever in the game.
Zico “Extreme”
Zico brings to life what constitutes a fragment of himself as an artist and as a human being in this stunning depiction. In a well-thought-out lyrical delivery, he fully acknowledges himself and the parts that may seem extreme to his prying eyes.
PSY feat. Jessie – “Ganji”
“GANJI” (swag) is what happens when two swaggering rappers join forces. On the one hand, PSY flaunts her demeanor as an idol/rapper/performer with her arrogant appreciation and teases about Jessi’s lyrical game.jump in, furious unnie She dodges herself by clapping as she confidently spits out a bar of Korean and English alternately.
WINNER’s Mino feat. BIGBANG’s Taeyang “Fear”
Who doesn’t know this spectacular live performance? Mino smashed both the stage and the audience with this sincere and heartbreaking look at how fear affects our lives. As he beautifully put it, the only way to overcome our fears is to experience them.
CL – “Hello Bitch”
From C to L! The best way to pay homage to the one and only CL is to feature this track, which simply encapsulates her essence as an artist. From her lyrical style to her stage presence, in addition to her performance touches, the rapper knows how to mark her territory and deliver her ultimate bop.
BTS – “DDAENG”
I don’t know about you, but this jam always makes me go “DDAENG!” every time i hear it. Each BTS rap line has its own distinct style, but when put together they harmonize on the plate with a touch of wordplay. “DDAENG” will humble those who hesitated about BTS’ talent and success.
Dynamic Duo feat. EXO’s Chen – “Sniff”
There’s nothing like an awakened artist. The Dynamic Duo is definitely on the list! Join Chen, Chaiza and Gaeko to speak to those struggling with depression, offering comfort and support with heartwarming comforting lyrics.
WIN Team B – “Climax”
How far will you go to make your dreams come true? Yesterday’s WIN Team B is today’s iKON, overcoming hardships like a champion. This track tackles failure, motivation, and perseverance as catalysts for achieving life goals.
Epic High – “Bleed”
If you’ve been reading Soompi for a while, you may have noticed that all my rap articles feature Epik High. The reason is simple, their music speaks to me every time. “Bleed” fits right in with their entire discography, as Tablo and Mithra Jin tell a musical journey back and forth between the past and present, set to DJ Tukutz’s soulful instrumentals. The narration conveys the core of Epik High’s career, their relationship with their fans, and their dedication to longevity in the hip-hop scene. This is the definition of timeless.
Special nod:
BewY “Scar”
Jay Park “All The Way Up”
Loco feat. Gray & DJ Punkin “RESPECT”
Simon Dominic – “Simon Dominic”
MFBTY feat. EE, RM of BTS, Dino-J – “Buckubuck”
What’s your favorite iconic Korean hip-hop track? Let us know in the comments below!
Esmee L.A lively Moroccan dreamer, writer, and Korean wave enthusiast. She recently published her debut poetry book, INFJ Doodles: A Journey to Healing, on her Amazon. Say hello to her on her Instagram!
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