Essential korean hip-hop listening

The albums that define korean hip-hop.

Our picks for where to start with korean hip-hop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The korean hip-hop essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

Map of the Soul: Persona

BTS

Map of the Soul: Persona

A vibrant blend of K-pop and hip-hop, pulsating with infectious energy and introspective lyrics that invite self-exploration.

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Love Yourself: Tear

BTS

Love Yourself: Tear

A poignant blend of introspective lyrics and dynamic production, merging K-pop with deep emotional resonance.

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Waterfall

B.I

Waterfall

A seamless fusion of introspective lyricism and atmospheric production, blending K-pop with elements of R&B and hip-hop.

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Cosmos

B.I

Cosmos

A vibrant blend of contemporary R&B and hip-hop, infused with introspective lyrics and catchy melodies that explore personal growth.

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Take Off

iKon

Take Off

A vibrant fusion of catchy hooks and rhythmic beats, embodying the energetic essence of contemporary K-pop.

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New Kids: Continue

iKon

New Kids: Continue

A vibrant mix of catchy melodies and urban beats that captures the youthful energy and emotional struggles of modern life.

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Agust D

Suga

Agust D

A raw blend of introspective lyrics and hard-hitting beats that showcases Suga's duality as both a rapper and a vulnerable storyteller.

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Love.

JAY B

Love.

A sultry blend of smooth R&B and contemporary K-pop, infused with personal reflections on love and connection.

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D-Day

Suga

D-Day

A dynamic blend of introspective lyrics and innovative production that showcases Suga's artistry and versatility in K-pop and hip-hop.

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Nuna

Jessi

Nuna

A vibrant fusion of K-pop and hip-hop, driven by catchy hooks and confident lyricism that commands attention.

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Black Out

Park Chan-yeol

Black Out

An electrifying blend of K-pop and hip-hop that pulses with contemporary R&B influences and introspective lyricism.

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Sexual Perceptions

Giriboy

Sexual Perceptions

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Lilac

Loptimist

Lilac

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22 Channels – 2 Pieces of Identity

Loptimist

22 Channels – 2 Pieces of Identity

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Boyhood

Changmo

Boyhood

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One Time for Your Mind

1TYM

One Time for Your Mind

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Third Time for yo' Mind

1TYM

Third Time for yo' Mind

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By decade

Where Korean hip-hop landed in each era.