K-pop has become a global phenomenon, making its presence felt not just in the music industry but also in the world of film.
Here’s a look at ten notable K-pop tracks that have appeared in popular movies, highlighting the genre’s worldwide impact and versatility.
1. “Rising Sun” by TVXQ
Featured in: Fast & Furious (2009)
This explosive track from TVXQ opened Fast & Furious, bringing high energy to the film’s action-packed opening. Released in 2005, “Rising Sun” helped solidify TVXQ’s place in K-pop history.
2. “Nobody” by Wonder Girls
Featured in: Penguins of Madagascar (2014)
“Nobody” made its way into this animated movie, adding a fun and lively touch. It was a major milestone for the Wonder Girls, showcasing K-pop’s growing influence in Hollywood.
3. “Fantastic” by RM (feat. Mandy Ventrice)
Featured in: Justice League (2017)
RM’s solo track “Fantastic” was featured in Justice League, bringing an upbeat vibe to the superhero movie. The song’s dynamic energy helped elevate RM’s solo career beyond BTS.
4. “Dynamite” by BTS
Featured in: Clifford: The Big Red Dog (2021)
BTS’s first all-English hit “Dynamite” was included in Clifford: The Big Red Dog, spreading positive energy throughout the family film. Its catchy beat resonated with both kids and adults alike.
5. “Kill This Love” by BLACKPINK
Featured in: To All The Boys I Loved Before 2 (2020)
BLACKPINK’s powerful anthem “Kill This Love” was featured in the sequel to To All the Boys I Loved Before, intensifying key emotional moments in the romantic comedy.
6. “Fantastic Baby” by BIGBANG
Featured in: Pitch Perfect 2 (2015)
BIGBANG’s “Fantastic Baby” appeared in the Pitch Perfect 2 trailer, helping introduce K-pop to a wider American audience while adding an energetic flair to the musical comedy.
7. “How You Like That?” by BLACKPINK
Featured in: Hotel Transylvania: Transformania (2022)
BLACKPINK’s “How You Like That?” brought its energetic beats to Hotel Transylvania: Transformania, aligning perfectly with the movie’s adventurous and whimsical spirit.
8. “Friends” by Jimin & V (BTS)
Featured in: Eternals (2021)
This heartfelt track from BTS, about friendship and loyalty, was featured in Eternals, reflecting the complex relationships between the Marvel characters.
9. “Zimzalabim” by Red Velvet
Featured in: Trolls World Tour (2020)
Red Velvet’s “Zimzalabim” brought a vibrant energy to Trolls World Tour, fitting the colorful, whimsical tone of the animated movie.
10. “Gee” by Girls’ Generation
Featured in: To All The Boys Always and Forever (2021)
Girls’ Generation’s iconic “Gee” added a touch of nostalgia to To All the Boys Always and Forever, bringing joy to K-pop fans and new listeners alike in this romantic comedy.
These songs not only highlight K-pop’s expanding reach across the globe but also show how the genre can enhance cinematic storytelling with its diverse sounds and emotional depth.
