Although Korean artists expanded into the Japanese market at least since the 1980s when trot singer Cho Yongpil established a large fanbase in Japan, nowadays, these releases are seen as a treat. Below are just a few of our favorite B-sides from Japanese releases.

“I Like It! Pt.2 - Ano Bashode” by BTS

The second part of track “I Like It” from their debut single album 2 Cool 4 Skool, “I Like It! Pt.2 - Ano Bashode” was released on their debut Japanese album, Wake Up, and continues with the same upbeat tempo heard in “I Like It.” If you’re nostalgic for the early days of BTS, we highly recommend giving this track a listen.

“Aitai-tai” by Red Velvet

Red Velvet released their debut Japanese mini-album, #Cookie Jar, on July 4, 2018 featuring three re-recordings of Korean tracks and six original Japanese tracks, including “Aitai-tai.” Playing into their bubblegum pop sound with a hint of jazz flavor, “Aitai-tai” is super catchy.

“Say Hello” by DAY6

If rock is more your flavor, then say hello to “Say Hello” by DAY6 off of their debut Japanese album, UNLOCK, released October 17, 2018. The B-side fits their pop-rock sound perfectly and you’ll find yourself bopping around from the opening beat. 

“Kitchen Beat” by NCT 127

While “Wakey-Wakey” was a perfect title track for NCT 127’s full-length Japanese album Awaken, “Kitchen Beat” is peak NCT 127. The track fits the group’s edgy sound and we can’t argue with the chorus line “I’m the king of the beat.” NCT 127 are truly masters of great beats.

“Exclusive” by TAEMIN

“Exclusive” was first released in 2019 on TAEMIN’s third Japanese mini-album, FAMOUS, but many may be more familiar with the Korean release on 2020’s Never Gonna Dance Again : Act 2. No matter what language you listen to “Exclusive” in, it’s still got TAEMIN’s signature flavor all over it.

“Better” by ATEEZ

Known for releasing songs of comfort for their fans, ATEEZ did that yet again on their second Japanese release, TREASURE EP.Map To Answer. While a majority of the album is remixes of Korean tracks and a Japanese version of “Answer,” “Better” is a soft yet upbeat track reminding ATINY that things will get better and they’ll be walking along that path with them.

“Scorpion” by TWICE

TWICE had a big year in 2020, releasing a slew of new tracks for Onces to enjoy, but Japanese B-side “Scorpion” from the BETTER single album may be one of the most surprising. Released shortly after their second full-length album, Eyes wide open, “Scorpion” is yet another shift in sound for the girl group and we love it.