Starship Entertainment / SM Entertainment
Bop-filled? Always giving? There are so many ways that we could describe the musical gift that was 2023. As the year draws to a close, the time has come to appreciate the music that has been released in the second half of the year, too. We appreciated the offerings of the first half of the year and they have held us down as we navigated the soundtrack-needing moments of life this year.
If you're curious about our selection of the top K-Pop songs by girl groups from the 1st half of 2023. You can read about them in our previous article. Our list included songs by (G)I-DLE, FIFTY FIFTY, NewJeans, H1-KEY, IVE, aespa, tripleS, LE SSERAFIM, Dreamcatcher, PURPLE KISS, SECRET NUMBER, Billlie, STAYC, and VIVIZ.
Here is a list of the top 13 K-Pop songs by girl groups in the second half of 2023.
Note: This list is in no particular order. It is not a ranking.
1. aespa - 'Better Things'
aespa may have 'Better Things' to do with their time but we had nothing more important to do this year than stream this song. Not only were the girls serving mermaid realness, but the song is the ultimate uplifting track that can change the tone of your day. It has a calm but addictive quality that transports you to another world through the compelling melody filled with a catchy cowbell undertone. The break and climax of the song are also perfection.
2. IVE - 'Either Way'
IVE had yet another phenomenal year with repeatedly superior music releases. Whilst it was difficult to choose one of their many bops to include in this list, we had to give 'Either Way' its flowers. From the empowering message delivered through a somber tone, to the relatable lyrics that feel like a pat on the back reminding you that you're doing just fine. The song feels like a hug at the end of a long day.
3. NewJeans - 'Super Shy'
NewJeans did it again, releasing another bop and earworm that has you subconsciously doing the dance moves when you least expect it. 'Super Shy' is a fun anthem that will surely form some of the core memories of K-Pop fans for years to come. The members' daydream vocals and the summer fresh melody makes this a new essential on the playlist of K-Pop lovers.
4. Red Velvet - 'Chill Kill'
Red Velvet has received so much well-deserved praise for its 'Chill Kill' release. The song is true to its title. It is both the chill song one can play on a loop forever on end and also kills you with its captivating aura. There's something about 'Chill Kill' that makes you fall into the simultaneously eerie but upbeat harmonies. The members' velvety voices and the stunning song composition make this one of the best releases of the year for sure.
5. STAYC - 'Bubble'
If happiness could be portrayed in the form of a song, 'Bubble' would be it. The song feels like a trip to Disney land or the feeling of blowing out birthday candles. STAYC naturally delivered their upbeat energy, perfectly encapsulated into this dance track. The hopeful track fills you with an optimistic energy that instantly puts a skip in your step and brightens your day.
6. LE SSERAFIM - 'Perfect Night'
Despite being a collaboration track with OVERWATCH, 'Perfect Night' is not a game. It's the perfect anthem for a night out that makes you feel alive. The songs subtle but groovy melody matched with the honey vocals of the girls makes for the perfect listen. Honestly, we could use a lot of adjectives to describe the song but there's clearly a reason that 'perfect' is in the title.
7. BBGIRLS -'LEMONADE'
'Lemonade' was one of the songs released this year that made you feel like falling in love. This summer anthem is more than sweet and mixes nostalgia with all things fun. The reinvention of BBGIRLS truly stood out thanks to this bop. They've provided yet another compulsory road trip/beach trip playlist song to the masses and we couldn't be happier with the offering.
8. NMIXX - 'Rollercoaster'
NMIXX took us on a 'Rollercoaster' ride with this release. Pun intended. However, this rollercoaster is different. Instead of going down, this song only goes up as it gets better with every second. There's a calming but rejuvenating element to this song that energizes but chills you out at the same time. It's a song that would be perfect to listen to at any given point or time in the day.
9. H1-KEY - 'SEOUL (Such a Beautiful City)'
H1-KEY have always been known for being lyrical queens as their songs are always filled with profound lyricism. 'SEOUL (Such a Beautiful City)' is no different. Not only do the lyrics remind one of what a beautiful and promising city Seoul is, but it also has an empowering melody that makes you feel the possibility of hope. This song sounds like a dream just like it makes you want to chase them.
10. tripleS LOVElution - 'Girls' Capitalism'
tripleS LOVElution invites us into their Mad Money Club for Sad Girls in 'Girls' Capitalism' and we take a lot of valuable lessons away from it. For example, "Don't cry, be rich," along with, "Dance when you feel ugly," are only two of the important lessons that they teach us. With these wise tidbits and the song's powerful message of self-love, tripleS LOVElution has delivered a song that serves as a valuable reminder - and an utter jam, of course.
11. KISS OF LIFE - 'Bad News'
We have 'Bad News' for you all... You can only listen to this amazing song once at a time. We know it's a shame but the good news is that you can listen to it on repeat! Which is what it urges you to do. 'Bad News' is serving the baddest vibes in the best sense. Whilst the KISS OF LIFE members show off their charisma and powerful vocals, we get a surge of confidence about being the best versions of ourselves and not minding the opinions of others. What better listening experience could you ask for?
12. Billlie - 'BYOB (bring your own best friend)'
Billlie has once again delivered a song that sounds like floating on cloud nine. Not only that but it has one of the most adorable messages. Much like the music video, this song could easily serve as the soundtrack to the cutest memories with your bestie. In fact, the more that you listen to Billlie's heartwarming vocals, the more it feels like they're bringing you along into the world of the song to be their best friend.
13. EL7Z UP - 'Cheeky'
Last, but definitely not least, 'Cheeky' made us wonder how it's possible for a project girl group composed of members from different groups to have such harmonious vibes that they feel like a group that has trained together for years. We have to give a shoutout to the genre-blending in this song - the Swan Lake-esque moment was simply beautiful. This goes for every verse in the song, too. 'Cheeky' was perfectly balanced between sassy, fun, and sweet.
Which K-Pop girl group song was your favorite in the second half of 2023? Let us know or leave your favorite lyric in the comments!
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