As Summer has ended, let's highlight 5th-generation contributions to summer K-pop. Fifth-generation K-pop has brought new and refreshing concepts that have us excited for new comebacks and learning new dances that are trending on social media. From loud upbeat songs to coming-of-age vibes, we were able to live out different versions of ourselves during the last couple of months.
'r u ok?' - ifeye
With ifeye’s debut on April 8th, 2025, under Hi-Hat Entertainment. Their first comeback was surely to have high energy with a little bit of spice. Their second EP Sweet Tang brought out one of summer’s funnest songs “r u ok” on social media that has one catchy chorus that goes “Arе you okay? 참을 수 있겠니 지루한 건 I don't need.” It begins with a Spanish opening that connects the meaning throughout the song, bringing a powerful girl crush vibe. Every song on this EP has its own unique vibe, bringing different emotions and concepts with each listen. ifeye’s “Sweet Tang” is available wherever you stream music.
'Style' - Hearts2Hearts
SM’s new girl group Hearts2Hearts came back with their summer single “Style.” This brought a cute and bubbly song about embracing your style while also being curious about the little things about your crush. Having this upbeat track is surely being added to everyone's dance playlist, bringing out the cute quirkiness of K-pop with the lyric “'Cause you're just my type and I like your style.” This is Hearts2Hearts second single, but it has gained a strong audience, having over 34.9 million plays on Spotify. The group dropped the pre-release track 'Pretty Please' from their upcoming EP album. Be sure to keep up to date with their activities because this is only the beginning for the group of girls.
'Little Too Late' - RE:WIND
It’s not a summer recap without a little summer angst. RE:WIND is officially here with their debut EP RE:MINISCE, which brings back Y2K vibes into music. The lyrics “Tell me again, baby think twice (Don't think I'll heal even in time, no)” opens the story of a person trying to fix a relationship that might not be saveable anymore. This four-and-a-half-minute song shows the teenage angst of love beginning and ending in the same way. RE:WIND came in strong with their debut EP and has a promising future ahead. Be sure to follow them on their social media platforms and music streaming.
[Exclusive Interview] RE:WIND 'RE:SET' their Dreams with Pre-release Song Ahead of Debut
'Poppop' - NCT WISH
Even though this came out in mid-April, 'Poppop' became everyone's summer song as its bubbly, cute lyrics became known to everyone. NCT WISH comes back with Poppop - The 2nd Mini Album - EP, full of fun, colorful songs with a bright outlook. “Ooh, I love it Uh, it's like a magic, so loveholic I want it 'bout to keep my heart beat knocking” became popular with the fandom and on social media for its iconic delivery. The entire song became popular, as it’s a fun listen, and catchy lyrics made the group more well-known. Be sure to be on the lookout for their 3rd mini album, Color, coming out September 1st.
Electric Heart - 8TURN
After concluding their world tour, 8TURN came back with their "Electric Heart: Born to Glow" single album. To officially end summer, a refreshing and youth-themed single brings a nostalgic vibe. The song's about an electrifying love that becomes overwhelming and reflects on your past and present selves. With meaningful lyrics and encouraging sounds, this song has garnered much praise from fans for their comeback. Be sure to check out 8TURN on music platforms and their stages for “Electric Heart.”
Cappuccino - NEWBEAT
If you're into louder music this summer, check out NEWBEAT. After concluding their official debut as a group at KCON, they released 'Cappuccino.' This was also performed on the KCON LA 2025 stages, where they got much attention for their captivating performance. 'Cappuccino' was a surprise to fans, and with their loud but fun sound, it resonated well. Seeing this song live was new and exciting. The choreography was intense, but interested fans to learn it after the performance. NEWBEAT is a group of unique colors that make a strong team. If you're looking for something new, then this is the group for you.