June 29, 2012 10:00 PM | by 
KPOP is well-known for its hit tracks with catchy tunes that immediately get stuck in your head after a few listens. The most popular method to create a catchy track used in KPOP is by putting in repetitive lyrics which are easy to remember, especially for international fans who don’t understand the Korean language. Some songs are catchier than others, so I’ve compiled a list of the 10 catchiest songs that have been released in this first half of 2012. Check it out!
Legendary idol Shinhwa made their long-awaited comeback in the music scene with their 10th album “The Return” and the title track “Venus.” The pop-electro song is composed by Andrew Nelson who is known for his work with pop queen Britney Spears, while the lyrics is written by Shinhwa member Lee Minwoo. Both the sound as well as the lyrics combined make a catchy and addictive chorus.
9. Dal Shabet - “Mr. Bang Bang”
Dal Shabet has recently made their comeback with a fierce new album and the title song “Mr. Bang Bang,” which has a bright and cheerful melody. The catchy chorus immediately hooked me the first time I listened to it. I’m not surprised though as Dal Shabet as well as most of their songs are produced by the duo E-Tribe, who are also known for their catchy produced hits like T-ara’s “Ya Ya Ya” and SNSD’s “Gee.” Notice how they all have repetitive lyrics.
The lovely group Wonder Girls made their return with their mini-album “Wonder Party” and the title track “Like This,” which was produced and composed by J.Y. Park. The exciting tune with a unique electronic sound and hip-hop beats showcases the girls’ powerful energy and charisma and it makes listeners want to get up to dance and sing along to it.
7. Big Bang - “Fantastic Baby”
Big Bang proved that they are Asia’s top hip-hop boy group with their comeback early this year. Their track “Fantastic Baby” which boasts some powerful and addicting beats instantly captivated me and I’m sure I’m not the only one. The whole song including the chorus and T.O.P’s “Boom Shakalaka” part makes it one of the catchiest songs of this year. With the help of member G-Dragon, it is yet again another great job by their main producer Teddy.
f(x)’s “Electric Shock” comes with their trademark heavy trance sound. Produced by dutch songwriting team Future Presidents, the hook-heavy pop single is catchy and addictive with its repetitive English lyrics that easily gets stuck in your head.
JJ Project’s debut with “Bounce” is much praised by KPOP fans as the skilled duo offered energetic live performances along with an addictive song. I definitely was captivated by the song which always makes me want to move along to the beat. Props to J.Y. Park who created the song to give the duo a good start as rookies.
A Pink made their comeback with their new album ‘Une Annee’ and the title track “Hush,” a flirty and girly song with a catchy upbeat melody. It showcases a more mature side of the girls, sending a message of encouragement to those who dream of a sweet love story. Just like the other songs, “Hush” also has addicting repetitive lyrics.
Idol group U-Kiss came back with the release of their sixth mini album “DORADORA.” The title song is a powerful dance track with a funky beat and a bit of dubstep. I still wonder why the group is so underrated as they never won any weekly award even with such a good song and its charismatic beat.
T-ara’s “Lovey Dovey” has a unique sound as a disco pop dance anthem featuring quirky cowbell tune which you can rarely find in the KPOP scene. The sound is both catchy and addictive. Combined with its shuffle choreography, this song makes you want to get up to dance and sing along to it.
SNSD’s sub-unit TaeTiSeo made their debut with “Twinkle,” a medium tempo dance track that features a ’70s/’80s vibe with a catchy melody. It doesn’t only get to showcase the powerful vocals of the three members, but also manages to hook the listeners even without much repetitive lyrics.
Which catchy song is your favorite?