Preferred music genres in South Korea 2024

According to a survey conducted in South Korea in 2024, around 62 percent of respondents stated that one of their two favorite music genres was ballads. Other popular genres included dance/idol music (K-pop) and original soundtracks (OSTs) from movies and dramas. 

OSTs succeed alongside K-dramas hits

With K-dramas gaining popularity worldwide in recent years, OSTs have become one of the most popular music genres for South Koreans. OSTs are usually used during intense or memorable scenes. As a drama becomes more popular, the OSTs used tend to become almost as popular, reminding people of their favorite scenes. In the same year K-drama “Business Proposal” reached over 120 million views, one of the drama’s OST ranked third among bestselling OSTs. 

Trot, a beloved music style with a long history

Trot, known for its repetitive style and two-beat rhythm, is one of South Korea’s most popular music genres. The word was influenced by the foxtrot, a formerly popular style of dancing in the United States. However, Korean trot music developed separately, with ups and downs in popularity since the early 20th century. Nowadays, it is especially favored by the middle-aged generation, between 50 and 70 years old. Multiple songs by famous young trot artist Lim Young Woong, who won the trot singer competition program ‘Mr. Trot’, were ranked in the top three by South Koreans over the age of 40 in 2023.