K-pop has completely reshaped the global music scene, and nowhere is this more evident than on YouTube. The platform became the stage where South Korea’s biggest stars showcased jaw-dropping music videos, turning them into worldwide cultural moments. These videos didn’t just entertain; they shattered records, made history, and proved that K-pop is a global powerhouse.
Let’s take a closer look at ten iconic K-pop songs that left their mark by smashing YouTube records and winning millions of hearts around the world.
1. Gangnam Style by Psy (2012)
Back in 2012, PSY’s Gangnam Style became a worldwide sensation. With its quirky horse-dance moves and addictive beat, it was the first YouTube video ever to reach one billion views, a milestone that no one thought was possible at the time.
The video poked fun at Seoul’s luxurious Gangnam district, blending humor with unforgettable choreography. It inspired endless parodies and dance covers, making it the first truly global viral hit from Korea. Gangnam Style proved to the world that a non-English song could dominate global charts and helped open the door for future K-pop artists.
2. Dynamite by BTS (2020)
When BTS released Dynamite in August 2020, it was clear they were aiming for worldwide appeal. As their first English-language single, it quickly became a global anthem. The music video racked up more than 100 million views in just 24 hours, setting a new YouTube record.
Its cheerful retro vibe, disco influences, and feel-good energy brought joy during a challenging time. Today, the video has over 1.9 billion views, proving that BTS can connect with fans everywhere regardless of language.
3. How You Like That by BLACKPINK (2020)
BLACKPINK shook the internet in June 2020 with How You Like That. The video premiered to 1.65 million viewers watching live, setting a new record. It also became the fastest video to hit 100 million views just 32 hours after release.
With its futuristic sets, bold fashion, and powerful choreography, How You Like That showcased BLACKPINK’s unmatched stage presence. It’s a perfect example of how the group combines music with striking visuals to create a cultural moment.
4. Boy With Luv by BTS (feat. Halsey) (2019)
Released in April 2019, Boy With Luv was one of BTS’s first major collaborations with a Western artist. Featuring American singer Halsey, the video hit nearly 74 million views in its first 24 hours, a record at the time.
Its pastel aesthetic, playful energy, and heartfelt lyrics about love made it an instant fan favorite. The success of this track pushed BTS even further into the global spotlight and solidified their reputation as cultural bridge-builders in the music world.
5. Kill This Love by BLACKPINK (2019)
BLACKPINK returned in April 2019 with Kill This Love, a visually intense music video packed with cinematic warzone imagery and fierce choreography. It rocketed to 100 million views in just 1.66 days, setting another YouTube record.
The song’s bold message about ending toxic relationships, paired with its explosive brass and hip-hop beats, made it an anthem of empowerment. This release showed that BLACKPINK was not just a girl group, but a global phenomenon.
6. Butter by BTS (2021)
If Dynamite set the stage, Butter took things to the next level. Released in May 2021, the video reached nearly 4 million live viewers during its premiere, another record for YouTube. Within 24 hours, it had 108 million views, surpassing even their previous records.
Smooth, colorful, and effortlessly fun, Butter highlighted BTS’s charisma and ability to consistently reinvent themselves. It proved that their global dominance wasn’t slowing down anytime soon.
7. Ddu-Du Ddu-Du by BLACKPINK (2018)
BLACKPINK’s Ddu-Du Ddu-Du remains their most-watched video to date, surpassing 2.3 billion views. Released in 2018, it blended hip-hop beats with sleek pop elements and featured the group’s signature bold visuals.
The video’s striking imagery and addictive hook made it a viral hit, and it became the first K-pop girl group video to cross two billion views, a massive milestone that cemented BLACKPINK’s place in history.
8. Pink Venom by BLACKPINK (2022)
In 2022, BLACKPINK proved once again why they dominate YouTube with Pink Venom. The video quickly reached 100 million views, ranking among the fastest K-pop videos ever to do so.
What made it stand out was its mix of hip-hop, trap, and even traditional Korean instruments. Paired with daring fashion and cinematic sets, Pink Venom reflected the group’s creative range and their ability to set global trends.
9. Money by LISA (BLACKPINK) (2021)
Lisa’s solo debut Money in 2021 was another YouTube triumph. The performance video surpassed one billion views, making her one of the first female K-pop soloists to achieve such a milestone.
Her magnetic stage presence and the song’s addictive beat made it a global favorite, proving that BLACKPINK members could shine individually just as brightly as they do together.
10. BANG BANG BANG by BIGBANG (2015)
Before BTS and BLACKPINK dominated YouTube, BIGBANG was already paving the way. Their 2015 hit BANG BANG BANG has over 1.5 billion views, thanks to its explosive visuals and high-energy sound.
The track remains one of K-pop’s most iconic anthems, still played at parties, festivals, and concerts around the world. BIGBANG’s success showed early on how powerful K-pop could be on the global stage.
Conclusion
These ten songs didn’t just set YouTube records; they reshaped the global music industry. Each release represents a moment when K-pop proved its power to connect with people everywhere, transcending language and culture.
From PSY’s viral Gangnam Style to BTS and BLACKPINK’s record-breaking streaks, these videos are more than just music; they’re cultural milestones. They inspire new artists, energize fandoms, and continue to push K-pop into new heights on the global stage.
