The thumbnail image of K-pop girl group triple S’ new single, “Christmas Alone” / Courtesy of Modhaus
With Christmas only weeks away, Korea’s music scene is easing into its annual wave of festive releases. Seasonal songs have always had a strong foothold in the K-pop market, and this year’s lineup includes fresh collaborations and reimagined classics that are already shaping the country’s winter soundtrack.
From remade global hits to nostalgic favorites rising on the charts again, these K-pop selections will keep your holidays sounding both familiar and fresh.
One of the season’s standout releases comes from boy group ENHYPEN, who recently reinterpreted pop star Justin Bieber’s holiday single, “Mistletoe.” The project was produced as a collaboration between the group’s label Belift Lab and Apple Music, with ENHYPEN’s version premiering exclusively on the platform on Nov. 11.
The jacket image of boy band ENHYPEN’s new winter release, “Mistletoe,” a remake of Canadian pop star Justin Bieber’s 2011 hit / Courtesy of Belift Lab
The original “Mistletoe” was released in 2011, when a then-teenage Justin Bieber was dominating global charts. The track reached No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and quickly cemented itself as one of the most recognizable contemporary Christmas pop singles. ENHYPEN’s remake honors that nostalgic familiarity while introducing new listeners to the group’s style.
Another late-November release comes from tripleS, the 24-member girl group that unveiled “Christmas Alone” on Nov. 24, along with a themed performance clip. The track blends Jersey club rhythms with electropop, while also incorporating seasonal touches like sleigh bell sound effects and chimes. The result is a track that feels both contemporary and comfortingly warm, effectively capturing the Christmas spirit.
Girl group NMIXX / Courtesy of JYP Entertainment
Beyond new releases, several K-pop winter hits are also experiencing their annual resurgence. Last year’s “Funky Glitter Christmas” from JYP Entertainment girl group NMIXX has returned to winter playlists. Released in 2024, the dance-pop track blends sparkly synths and a playful rhythm that aligns naturally with the festive season.
A different shade of winter comes from V of K-pop juggernaut BTS and ballad star Park Hyo-shin, whose 2024 collaboration “Winter Ahead” offers a quieter and more introspective take on the season. The song reflects V’s well-documented love of jazz, with brushed drums, upright bass and soft piano creating a warm, intimate atmosphere. While not a traditional Christmas song, it has become a cold-weather favorite for fans looking for a more serene addition to their holiday listening.
Another notable classic is EXO’s “The First Snow,” originally released in 2013. The midtempo pop track evokes the quietness of early winter with its gentle instrumentation and sentimental lyrics, helping the track repeatedly reenter streaming charts in recent years. Its resurgence has been driven largely by short-form video challenges and renewed interest from younger listeners drawn to its nostalgic pull.
Girl group TWICE continues to hold a place in the winter canon with “Merry & Happy,” a bright, melodic single that captures the excitement and sweetness of the holiday season. Although the group’s “Heart Shaker” is often cited as the group’s major year-end hit, “Merry & Happy” has also built its own legacy as an upbeat seasonal staple due to its celebratory energy.
Other longtime fan favorites include girl group Lovelyz’s “Twinkle.” The song regularly reenters public playlists every December thanks to its sparkling arrangement and warm storybook charm.
Rounding out the list is Girls’ Generation vocalist Taeyeon’s “This Christmas,” the title track from her 2017 winter album “This Christmas — Winter is Coming.” Known for its orchestral arrangement and Taeyeon’s emotive vocals, the song has remained a significant seasonal release among K-pop soloists. The album itself is one of the few full-length holiday projects by a major idol singer in recent years, giving it a distinct place within Korea’s festive discography.