2022 has been an incredible year for K-Pop, with big names returning for much-awaited comebacks, reunions, exciting debuts, further global expansion, and so on and so forth. In the midst of everything that was popular, there were some amazing songs that might have slipped under your radar. From excellent production to choreography, music videos, and more - there were several factors that made them some of the best songs of the year and they definitely deserve much more love and appreciation.

So, without further ado, here are 10 K-Pop songs that you should have listened to in 2022 but probably missed!

Note: This list is not a ranking, but you can vote for your favorite song in the poll at the end of the article. As this is a poll for readers to vote and share their opinions on whenever they find this article, it will not be closed, and no result article will be published.

The Rose - 'Childhood'

Story: As raw and real as it gets, "Childhood' by The Rose is an ode to life as it was - innocent, pure, and unadulterated before we abandoned our inner child. Despite the bleakness of the world we live in, The Rose insists that we soothe this inner child, console and heal them, and the time to do that is now. All of us have been hurt in different ways in life, but if you strip your inhibitions and take a look at your authentic self, you cannot help but wish to return to your true essence. While this is a universally resonant message, it holds even deeper significance for the group, especially since it is their story of how in spite of the endless difficulties they faced, the members stuck together for their dream and made things happen. As The Rose start their new musical journey, 'Childhood' is an initiation to set them on the right path, a declaration of the values they have and will always hold dear. Read our complete analysis of the lyrics and M/V of 'Childhood' here.

Sonic Merits: 'Childhood' is one of those songs that musically reflect their theme. It is compelling yet simple, powerful yet soft, passionate yet gentle. The acoustic guitar beautifully underlines the golden vocals of the song, giving wind to the heightening intensity. It is the personality of the song that takes center stage rather than any ornamental production and that is exactly what sends the message so strongly across. It almost brings us to tears - listening to the members' voices after such a long wait, especially considering that The Rose is easily one of the most brilliant bands in the Korean entertainment industry. We cannot wait for more of where that came from.

N.Flying - 'I Like You'

Story: No matter how heartbroken you are, love always finds a way, and that is what N.Flying is here to tell us. 'I Like You' is the story of a new flame who reminds our protagonists of their old love. Right when they were getting over them, a new person showed up who not only resembled their former lovers but also brought those familiar romantic feelings back with a vengeance. The music video portrays the members trying their hardest to hold their feelings back, albeit in vain and the ultimate acceptance of impending doom is both liberating and cathartic at once!

Sonic Merits: When it comes to rock, N.Flying has a unique flair that is truly inimitable. From the youthful flourishes of their signature style to the summery freshness of the instrumental, everything about this song makes us want to run outside and dance the night away. Perhaps the motif of rain in the sun that appears in the music video best represents the duality of the song itself. The vocals are bright, energetic, and full-throated and the guitar adds an addictive touch to an already catchy song. 'I Like You' is undoubtedly the complete package.

Golden Child - ‘Replay’

Story: 'Replay' is a proposal to turn back time and return to the sweet old love a separated couple once had in their relationship. Each day without the beloved is painfully long and dreadful, filled with regrets and memories. However, our protagonist has had enough of sulking around. This time, he is determined to rewind their timeline and fix things so that he doesn't lose the love of his life - the only one who truly understood him. All he needs is one last chance to change it all.

Sonic Merits: From the moment this song opens, 'Replay' is a burst of unstoppable energy and intensity. It is unpredictable yet carefully structured, with the spotlight being shone on both the vocals and rap. 'Replay' also features one of the finest anti-drops of 2022 K-Pop, and it is every bit as satisfying as the high notes that follow. This song is a masterpiece and definitely lives up to its name because the "replay" button is as good as broken from the number of times we've played this on repeat.

tripleS AAA - 'Generation'

Story: The youth often face reservations from adults about how their generation is widely different from the ones that came before. Instead of expressing the feeling of resentment against them, tripleS AAA shows off their pride with 'Generation'. The story follows 4 young girls who have a colorful life outside of school that they have built for themselves - complete with TikTok dances, umpteen selfies, live streaming, and more. No matter how much this generation is judged for being chaotic and decadent, the young know exactly what they're doing and they're having fun while at it too!

Sonic Merits: Adding on to K-Pop's legacy of iconic "la la la"s, 'Generation' represents the spirit of the youth who embrace themselves and their differences with bold confidence and utter joy. 'Generation' falls perfectly in line with the predominant girl group sonic aesthetic but adds a rare edge to the same. The instrumental is a vibrant mix of genres - a touch of alt-rock, a sprinkle of funk, and so much more. Together, they create an unforgettable melody that fans will not be able to get out of their heads.

Despite the controversy surrounding the "disbandment" of AAA after the subunit failed to reach the 100k album sales quota, Modhaus CEO Jaden Jeong has assured fans that they will be able to see more from the members very soon. In particular, as fans' votes determine the group's activities and subunits, an AAA comeback is also not ruled out entirely.

TAN - 'DU DU DU' (Korean Ver.)

Story: 'DU DU DU' is a celebration of the senses. It follows the fateful encounter between two people who are irresistibly drawn to each other. There's a push and pull, a sense of chase between them, as our protagonists go from smug to nervous and back again. TAN is turning the allure on for this song and they're determined to put the object of their affection under their spell.

Sonic Merits: TAN gives the K-Pop rookies a lesson on how to sound like veterans with 'DU DU DU'. Oozing machismo and power, perfectly aligned with the show that birthed them - "Wild Idol", 'DU DU DU' is carried by a current of EDM and house and embellished with the smoothest vocal-rap balance. The rap, in particular, prioritizes a unique flow rather than speed and this creative choice is what transforms the song altogether. The constant momentum of the song translates to a pulse that drives the enchantment further. These young men are really putting the "W" in "Wild".

E'LAST - ‘Creature’

Story: At first glance, 'Creature' gives off the impression that it is a song about toxic relationships. However, if fan theories and symbolism are anything to go by, 'Creature' is a vampire-werewolf tale as old as time. Now, granted, that is indeed also a toxic relationship where both parties are constantly mired in a circle of pain but it does make it a hundred times better when it features our favorite mythical beasts. The message at the end of the day is that your true self, that you've pushed down deep inside, will always prevail, no matter how much you try to suppress it. When it does, you will be reborn.

Sonic Merits: One of the most interestingly structured K-Pop songs of 2022, 'Creature' has a melody attractive enough to intoxicate you. It is inventive and refreshing but also has a classic, timeless touch to it - much like the 2nd and 3rd generation K-Pop songs we still play on repeat. The chorus is extraordinarily novel, and its strange appeal is perfectly on brand with the title of the song. 'Creature' brings out something primal in E'LAST, and that is reflected precisely in both the lyrics and the composition of the song. In addition, the signature E'LAST orchestral is fantastic, as always.

OnlyOneOf - ‘Skinz’

Story: A revolutionary K-Pop legend in the making, OnlyOneOf imbues their music with the deepest significance and social relevance. With 'Skinz', OnlyOneOf emphasizes that skin is, after all, skin deep. Regardless of one's skin colour, their race, nationality, ethnicity, and so on, what truly matters is the person inside. The song is a petition to throw away our pretensions and falsehood and embrace not only our own real self but also that of others.

Sonic Merits: OnlyOneOf has always been known for their fearlessly experimental approach to music. They're not your regular K-Pop boy group and OnlyOneOf have taken it upon themselves to keep up this reputation. 'Skinz' is unlike anything we've heard this year, and it sticks with you before you even know it. There's order in the chaos OnlyOneOf is unleashing with this song and that is what keeps it from being discordant. The breathy whispers form the core of the song, the rap gives it conviction, and the vocals lend drive and grit. OnlyOneOf is unwaveringly dedicated to their musical identity and we love to see it.

JAMIE - ‘Pity Party’

Story: 'Pity Party' is the story of a good girl gone bad. Once sweet and innocent, JAMIE is now a goth queen who lives for the drama. The pain she has experienced in life has given her a hard exterior, so now she's a heartbreaker, often dubbed toxic and indifferent. However, she knows that no matter how many times people try to knock her down, she will rise like a phoenix. She takes pride in her twisted worldview and will stop at nothing to get what she wants.

Sonic Merits: When it comes to vocals, JAMIE is incomparable, and 'Pity Party' proves once again that her spunk can be molded into whatever shape she desires. This time, JAMIE goes the disco-pop way in an English language track that screams radio hit. However, it is also technically immaculate, complete with melismas, riffs, and runs. With all the different vocal textures, tones, and colours, this song sounds like an entire girl group would be behind it but it's a one-woman show that will blow your mind. If you've been looking for the perfect party song for New Year's Eve, blasting JAMIE's 'Pity Party' might just be your best bet!

Cherry Bullet - ‘Love In Space’

Story: Much like the title suggests, 'Love In Space' explores the feeling of familiarity when you finally meet your soulmate. The moment you cross paths with them, a whole new world opens up and you wonder how you've lived without them for so long. It is almost as if you've met and loved before in an alternate universe and are meeting again for the n^th lifetime. This also comes with the reassurance that you'll meet again, perhaps in another world, but even then, you'll be head over heels in love with each other.

Sonic Merits: Combining futurism and nostalgia all at once, 'Love In Space' sounds like it could belong rightfully in both the 1980s and the 2080s. Living up to the group's name, this song runs like a bullet. It is breathless and fierce, unstoppable and exhilarating. The dreamy synthwave forms an ideal foundation for the iconic vocals that have lasting power like no other. 'Love In Space' is a brilliant interpretation of mainstream genres and holds the potential to be a global mega-hit. Cherry Bullet is only getting started and it will certainly be interesting to see where the group's sound goes next.

SuRan - ‘Diamonds’ ft. NCT’s TaeYong

Story: 'Diamonds' is a song about SuRan's promise to always be there for her fans. Her music can be your respite and she will always hold her hand out if you need it. The world becomes a more beautiful place when you live your life doing what you love and SuRan wants to be a part of that everlasting happiness. The fantasy world she creates with her art will shield you from any and all sadness and you can always count on her to pull you out of a slump. All you need to do is believe in yourself because SuRan and TaeYong believe in you.

Sonic Merits: Blending city-pop with ethereal R&B, 'Diamonds' is a dazzling showcase of expert artistry. SuRan's sublime voice gives way to TaeYong's crystal clear rap tone, coalescing to form the most aurally splendid masterpiece, and their harmonization is simply out of this world. This song must be what astral projection feels like because our souls officially ascend the moment this song starts to play. 'Diamonds' is a mature condensation of the Y2K spirit and definitely deserves anthemic status.

Which other 2022 K-Pop song would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments section down below!