With the release of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Mandarin pop and hip-hop music have seen a rise in interest. Let’s take a look at some amazing Mandopop tracks released by artists who have a connection with South Korea.

“飛天 (Flying Apsaras)” by LAY

LAY of EXO recently released his new digital EP titled 東 (EAST). The EP contains four new songs giving an ode to the beautiful culture of China and the fantastical lore of the region. The album’s opener “飛天 (Flying Apsaras)” is a cinematic track performed entirely in Mandarin and tells the story of apsaras, a type of female spirit of the clouds often depicted in ancient murals. Watch the dance practice video for the song below and read our recap of the EP here.

“Pull Up” by PANTHEPACK

A project group consisting of Chinese pop-rap artists Karencici, J.Sheon, ICE, and Jackson Wang of GOT7, PANTHEPACK is the latest sensation in Mandopop music. The team recently released their debut album The Pack, and through the 10 tracks, the team showed their versatility. “Pull Up” was promoted as one of the singles from the album, and was accompanied by a colorful music video set in an amusement park. The track bounces between Mandarin and English and is a perfect starter song for new fans.

“寂寞号登机口 (Silent Boarding Gate)” by Jun of SEVENTEEN

In a series of songs released by performance team members of SEVENTEEN, member Jun chose a beautiful ballad as his solo release. Performed entirely in Mandarin, “寂寞号登机口 (Silent Boarding Gate)” tells the heartfelt story of how happier times are just around the corner when Jun is with his loved one. The song uses the metaphor of a quiet boarding gate at an airport and seeing clouds fade away to give way to the sun. Watch the adorable music video for the song below!

“曙光 (First Light of Dawn)” by Handong of Dreamcatcher

Many listeners might be surprised by this fact, but Handong of Dreamcatcher made her solo debut. The singer released the EDM-influenced track “曙光 (First Light of Dawn)” in fall of 2020. While the song is not available internationally, the track was quite popular on Chinese music platforms. Co-written by Handong herself, the track’s lyrics talk about the fleeting nature of fame and how important it is to hold onto the memories you have formed.