The K-pop industry was filled with numerous music releases from both soloists and idol groups in 2021. And now that a new year has come, it's the perfect time to look back over the past 12 months and uncover some hidden gems that didn't gain much attention. So, here's a list of the underrated K-pop songs released in 2021, from overshadowed group tracks to singles and B-sides that deserve more.
Here are Some of the Underrated K-pop Songs Released in 2021 That You Won't Want to Miss
Ailee's "Make Up Your Mind"
"Make Up Your Mind" is one of the B-side songs in Ailee's third studio album "Amy," which was released in October. Despite the literal meaning of the title, the track is actually soothing and features a chill beat that highlights the soloist's incredible voice. It is an ideal song to listen to during a lazy day.
UP10TION's "SPIN OFF"
UP10TION made their first comeback in 2021 with their second studio album, "Connection," which features 10 songs including "SPIN OFF" (which serves as the title track). "SPIN OFF" boasts epic and high chorus will no doubt get stuck in someone's mind after listening to it.
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Ha Sung Woon's "Sneakers"
Former WANNA ONE member Ha Sung Woon releases great music that makes it hard to keep track, and one of his best works is "Sneakers." This airy and bright track is no doubt a mood-lifter, mainly owing to the youthful energy that Ha Sung Woon brings through his amazing vocals.
Babylon's "Alone" with Lee Hyori
Another underrated K-pop song released in 2021 by a soloist is Babylon's "Alone" featuring Lee Hyori. It is an acoustic ballad that serves as the title song of his second studio album "Hardy."
This vocal-centered track, which Lee Hyori wrote, composed and produced, begins with a haunting electric guitar interlude and ends with remarkable harmonies from Babylon.
woo!ah!'s "Purple"
woo!ah! is one of the new girl groups that debuted in 2020 alongside aespa and STAYC. In 2021, the quintet released their third single album "Wish," where "Purple" serves as the title track.
Just from its first beats, anyone can quickly tell that woo!ah!'s "Purple" is a bright and unique song. You will surely find yourself singing and listening to this quirky track on repeat after hearing it for the first time.
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Kim Jae Hwan's "I Wouldn't Look For You"
Kim Jae Hwan's music releases are constantly strong, yet other artists often overshadow him. One of his understated works is "I Wouldn't Look For You," which is the title song of his third mini-album "Change."
"I Wouldn't Look For You" is about a couple promising to end ties for good. Through his emotional singing, Kim portrays the pain of a person trying to move on while enduring the mixed emotions after a breakup.
Dreamcatcher's "BEcause"
Although Dreamcatcher boasts one of K-pop's most diverse choreography, the seven-member girl group often flies under people's radars. Since their debut, Dreamcatcher continues to explore the elements of rock, alt-rock and nu-metal, and one example of their works is "BEcause" from their special album "Summer Holiday."
Filled with elements of rock, Dreamcatcher's "BEcause" explores horror and eeriness, both of which are signature characteristics of the girl group's songs and music videos.
SF9's "Tear Drop"
SF9, a nine-member boy group under FNC Entertainment, expanded their fandom after competing in Mnet's "Kingdom: The Legendary War" from April to June 2021. Their first release after the finale of the program is their ninth mini-album "TURN OVER," which features the title song "Tear Drop."
"Tear Drop" is described as a sensual and suave track mourning about an ended relationship that can be felt through the soft yet powerful vocals of SF9.
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BAE173's "Loved You"
"Loved You" is BAE173's follow-up to their debut song "Crush on U," which came out in November 2020. It is arguably a stronger release from the band yet it has kept a lower profile since its release.
BAE173's "Loved You" possesses a catchy instrumental refrain and the wistful vocals of the rookie group, which includes two former X1 members. One of the main points of the song is when the instrumental fade out in the second-to-last refrain, leaving only the members' raw vocals.
A.C.E's "Higher"
"Higher" is an interesting song by A.C.E as the ethereal verses in the song are quite different from the explosive chorus. Despite this, the group impressively manages to smoothly transition from one element to another. This characteristic makes the powerful rhythm of the chorus stand out even more.
If you know any other underrated K-pop songs released in 2021 that deserve more listeners, comment them down below.
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Written by Mhaliya Scott
