This year, Korea Creative Content Agency’s rookie development program MUSE ON has announced their newest batch of indie artists to its roster. The latest lineup features musicians in diverse genres, from pop songstresses to new-gen rock bands to an alternative R&B artist collective. With distinctive musical colors that stand out in the thriving independent music scene, these ten rising acts offer fresh, ear-catching tunes that will get you hooked in no time.
Photo: HWINA, The Shepherd Bois
While these newcomers boast their signature, individual sounds, their music is far from unfamiliar. These artists easily resonate with global favorites—with sonic sensibilities closely resembling artists from our everyday playlists. Below, we pair well-loved international acts with MUSE ON’s picks—get to know these K-indie musicians more and find your best music match!
If you love Laufey…
Listen to: Milena (Pop, Jazz)
Photo: Milena
Fans of Laufey will certainly take delight in Milena’s similar classical- and jazz-inflected sound, laced with an enchanting, emotive pop flair. Both are mood-makers who take you to their movie-like music wonderland—earnest and heartfelt to the core. Milena’s vocal prowess and musicality in itself easily captivate audiences, but her lyrics carry such weight that stir something from deep within. Hop aboard and get lost in her music, starting from fan favorites like ‘Night Train’ and ‘Oh Rosy’.
If you like beabadoobee…
Listen to: KIM PUREUM (Folk, Pop, Indie)
Photo: KIM PUREUM
KIM PUREUM’s songs are imbued with a cinematic quality—much like beabadoobee’s way of bringing listeners inside a music video set through sound. Their works are youthful and relatable, yet full of yearning that easily resonate with today’s young crowd. Still in her teens, KIM PUREUM is brimming with potential, juggling her singer-songwriter duties with acting, which allows her to further explore these crafts. Her talent is unmistakable—play ‘Love Is You’ and ‘Good Night’ to start.
If you like IU…
Listen to: Jang kiki (Pop)
Photo: Jang Kiki
Vocally, Jang kiki’s resemblance to IU is unmistakable—sweet and airy, yet expressive and upbeat. She reveals that the K-pop idol mainly influenced her music. But the indie darling weaves pop sensibilities with her own DNA—a constant exploration through touches of various genres in each release. She wishes to share her stories through her music, which leaves vivid afterimages and lingering emotions. Must-listen tracks include ‘Forever’ and ‘Tomato Marinade’.
If you like Carly Rae Jepsen…
Listen to: Hwina (Synth pop, R&B)
Photo: Hwina
Retro pop music will never be old-fashioned—reason Carly Rae Jepsen is a timeless muse. Similarly, Hwina’s 80s disco-synth sound carries a perennial appeal, impossibly irresistible to not dance along to. With roots in R&B, the indie singer also dabbles in a variety of other genres to further experiment on her sound. Bright, charming, and fresh, Hwina reinvents the pop genre her way. Her singles ‘No, Not This Way’ and ‘Noise Cancelling’ are proof.
If you love The 1975…
Listen to: Tejong (Synth rock, Brit pop, Modern rock, Folk ballad)
Photo: Tejong
Soloist Tejong is an all-rounder—he even earned the moniker “Verse Master” when he appeared in a singing competition in the past for his excellent stylistic range. But as an artist who sings about love and loss, listeners of The 1975 will find similar themes and sonic textures in his music—after all, the British pop rock band is admittedly one of his inspirations. Tracks like ‘alien’ and ‘A First Step’ will pull you into his universe.
If you like Commodores…
Listen to: The Shepherd Bois (Alternative rock)
Photo: The Shepherd Bois
The Shepherd Bois first gained attention with their youthful band sound. As they continued making music, the alt-rock quintet began incorporating their individual musical sensibilities, creating their distinct sonic identity. The result: a fun play on contemporary rhythms with funky vintage textures that feel like a rewind to the past. Like a nod to funk and soul group Commodores, The Shepherd Bois draws inspiration not only from their old-school aesthetics but also from wistful and endearing stories of love—just listen to ‘Riding on Cloud’ and ‘Fence’, for starters.
If you like Vaundy…
Listen to: can’t be blue (R&B)
Photo: can’t be blue
Just like genre-bending Japanese pop artist Vaundy, can’t be blue’s diverse, tasteful aesthetics make them highly appealing. Heavily influenced by Japanese rock and pop sounds, the rising boy band steals the show with catchy intros and memorable melodies. While anchored in R&B, their expansive sonic spectrum allows them to jump from one genre to another, producing original yet trendy sounds. Stand out tracks include ‘take it anymore’ and ‘사랑이라 했던 말 속에서 (Sarangira haettdeon mal sookeseo)’.
If you like AC/DC…
Listen to: TheyNeverChange (Modern rock)
Photo: TheyNeverChange
Hard rock enthusiasts will find a new favorite in TheyNeverChange. Close to AC/DC’s hard-hitting rock ‘n’ roll sound with a more contemporary, youthful flair, the trio makes music about the constants in this ever-changing world. You’ll find these stories in their songs like ‘Quantum Physics’ and ‘Dancing in The Light’—highly energetic tracks meant to inspire and uplift their generation.
If you like OK Go…
Listen to: SIMILE LAND (Alternative rock, Funk)
Photo: SIMILE LAND
A band as quirky as OK Go, SIMILE LAND’s steady popularity can be attributed to their unique character. Visuals-wise, these two acts are not afraid of the unconventional—injecting their own creative genius, embracing individuality. The alt-rock quintet infuses funk in their music style, combining beats and grooves that are effortlessly original. Get started with ‘Hoo! ha..’ and ‘나락 (narak)’ and discover SIMILE LAND’s addictive discography.
If you like Brockhampton…
Listen to: 0WAVE (R&B)
Photo: 0WAVE
0WAVE, like Brockhampton, is an artist collective with R&B sensibilities that blends their roots with other genres. Known for their boundary-crossing sound, the five-member group has put out records that showcase their dynamic sonic range—listen, for instance, to ‘take me for granted’ and ‘bite’. They’re also known for their honest storytelling, earning them a following not only in Korea but also across Southeast Asia.
