Although time has passed for the third-gen era, the artists are still active on their promotions, excelling more than ever and becoming role models for current K-pop artists, as well as future generations.
The third-gen K-pop era is a memorable phase in K-pop, since it continued and expanded the path forged by the second-gen "Golden Era" on a global scale. Many releases became hits during the third-gen, which are all worth noting.
Here are 17 most iconic third-gen K-pop songs!
1. 'Growl' by EXO
EXO's "Growl" is not one to miss out when it comes to iconic third-gen K-pop songs. With its slick choreography and EXO's vocals, this track will forever be a fan favorite.
2. 'Red Flavor' by Red Velvet
"Red Flavor" is one of those songs you can't stop listening to, once you've started. Fueled by Red Velvet's stellar performance, together with its recognizable melody, this song is peak third-gen vibe during the year 2017.
3. 'Cheer Up' by TWICE
The impact of TWICE's "Cheer Up" is something that can't be taken down, not just for its bubblegum sound and iconic "Shy Shy Shy" phrase by member Sana, but for the impact it left towards audiences, and TWICE's flourishing career.
4. 'TT' by TWICE
When most people wondered how TWICE would overdo the effect "Cheer Up" made, the girl group showed no signs of stopping with their hit track "TT."
5. 'FIRE' by BTS
BTS's "Fire" is also a favorite pick across fandoms in the third-gen due to its pompous delivery and music!
6. 'Spring Day' by BTS
"Spring Day" is also one of third-gen's memorable gems and is a must-listen track!
7. 'Rough' by GFRIEND
GFRIEND's "Rough" is the pinnacle of the group's unique orchestral discography, which led it to become a favorite pick within the K-pop community, especially on domestic areas.
8. 'Me Gustas Tu' by GFRIEND
While GFRIEND is known for their distinctive music, they are also popular for releasing songs with no rap parts. "Me Gustas Tu" diverts into their innocent concept, while rocking out an energetic sound.
9. 'Navillera' by GFRIEND
GFRIEND's "Navillera" didn't just deliver a fast-paced track, but also trended for its dynamic choreography, which the group is also known for.
10. 'Just Right' by GOT7
If you want something light-hearted, then GOT7's iconic track "Just Right" is a right choice!
11. 'Don't Wanna Cry' by SEVENTEEN
SEVENTEEN's "Don't Wanna Cry" is so good, its melody will get stuck in your head and you'll be wanting to learn the choreo!
12. 'Bboom Bboom' by MOMOLAND
During 2018, almost all people around the world knew the viral craze "Bboom Bboom" plunged at the K-pop scene. This song is also MOMOLAND's breakout song, which propelled them into stardom, and placed them into the K-pop map!
13. 'Love Shot' by EXO
EXO's "Love Shot" is one of third gen's most distinguishable songs due to its legendary choreo and melodic track! Its impact is also obvious because of how many fans, trainees, and idols still dance to it.
14. 'Love Scenario' by iKON
In the course of the third-gen, iKON's "Love Scenario" is known for its lovely tune and fantastic rap verses.
15. 'DDU-DU-DDU-DU' by BLACKPINK
When it comes to streaming success, no one can do it like BLACKPINK. "DDU-DU-DDU-DU" is one of the tracks that defined the year 2018. The track was released on June 15, 2018, and as of June 13, 2023, the MV currently garners a total of 2,076,640,822 (billion) views on YouTube.
16. 'Dynamite' by BTS
The year 2020 was a difficult time for the world due to the COVID-19 outbreak. However, BTS offered K-pop fans a dopamine-inducing bop titled "Dynamite," which paid homage to the "King of Pop," Michael Jackson.
17. 'Psycho' by Red Velvet
2019 was a great year for K-pop, but Red Velvet managed to end it with a bang with the haunting R&B track "Psycho."
Which songs on the list are your favorites? Let us know in the comments below!
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