In 2021, many quiet artists also released tracks that went under everyone’s radar. Let’s take a look at some of the coolest indie picks from Korean music in 2021. 

“Lighthouse” - Ha Hyunsang

Singer-songwriter under WAKEONE, Ha Hyunsang is the vocalist and guitarist of the boy band Hoppipolla. Besides OSTs from successful hit dramas, Ha Hyunsang also released his first mini-album this year. “Lighthouse” is a rock ballad and the lead single from his EP, Calibrate. The strong instrumentation paired with his vocals conveys the song’s emotional message.

“Seoul Cyborg” - youra

“Seoul Cyborg” by youra is a lofi track released on her single album Pacemaker. The simple, mellow track talks about how her music makes her seem to be a different person but she isn’t. Tackling depression and anxiety, “Seoul Cyborg” flows like a letter to herself.

“One more night” - DEMIAN

An all-English track by Sony Music Korea’s rookie soloist DEMIAN, “One more night” is the B-side from his 2021 single album. The track is a soft piano ballad about the end of a relationship. The song is meant to provide closure and comfort to the two individuals who are now going their separate ways.

“Fightman” - SUMIN ft. sokodomo

An interesting mix of hard rap and dream pop, “Fightman” carries as an alternative song. SUMIN flexes her hazy vocals as well as deep raps joined by rising Korean hip-hop artist sokodomo. The production of the song makes it very unique.

“Drama” - BLOO

A melodic rap song infused with indie rock instrumentation, “Drama” marked the return of BLOO and kicked off the promotion for his 2021 album BLOO IN WONDERLAND 2. The repetitive lyrics convey the emotional message of the song about a couple told from the perspective of one side and recalls the good memories the two created.

“Lustre” - Jiwoo

A jazzy smooth track with lofi lounge vibes, “Lustre” is the lead single from Jiwoo’s album Esprit. The album tackles the mundane nature of our life and the track is specifically about finding the hazy shine and light in the mundane.