14 K-Pop Jams That'll Make You Want To Dance Like No One's Watching

Thank you, 2016, for giving us so many songs that make us want to tap our feet, head-bang, or bust a move. Personally, my playlist tends to be two-thirds indie/folk and ballads, but when I hit a good beat it’s nice to get some spring in my step. Plus, they can be a great energy-booster when I feel like a puddle. So here is a playlist of some 2016 bops we hope perk you up and make you want to rock out or dance around your room like no one’s watching.

BEAST may have morphed into a ballad and R&B group but the first track off their latest album was a fun throwback to earlier bops. When this track comes on in a store or cafe I can’t help but nod my head along.

EXO had lots of great beats this year. It’s EXO; are we surprised? But combined with Yoo Jae Suk? That’s a song I can jump on board with, and it’s super catchy! You can make up your own moves or take a crack at one of the easiest EXO dances to learn.

While the rumors of an S.E.S reunion persist, we have fresh songs from BADA to enjoy while we wait for confirmation. Watch the MV at your own risk though. You might get a little dizzy.

What’s a dance party without some head-banging? Maybe that’s just one of my rules, but this rock song will be sure to appeal to those of us like a good band thrown on our playlist.

This B-track off Park Jimin’s recent album is a catchy dance-track that features Day6’s Young K. Her vocals kill and the chorus includes some great shout lines we can raise a hand to and jump.

If you haven’t been keeping up with SM Station, you’ve missed out on some great dance tracks. BoA also released this fun song and it’s great to dance to.

Akdong Musician moves. We move. You move. Now everybody move to this boppy track brought to us by YG’s most lovable siblings.

After a long hiatus, Crayon Pop came back to grace us with another great beat. We’re so happy they’re back!

The ladies of SM have been on a roll this year. If you like Taeyeon’s addictive dance track, definitely check out Luna’s (F(x)) and Tiffany’s (SNSD) as well.

Jay Park’s been keeping it pretty mid-tempo R&B/hip hop these days, but when he breaks out a dance track they’re always a jam. Thanks, Jay Park!

Seriously, I couldn’t be more grateful for the existence of SM Station. Great collabs, Chen finally got a solo, and f(x) released this catchy dance track.

This B-track off HyunA’s recent album may not have as much attitude as her main track “How’s This?” but give it a listen and break out your HyunA-fierceness (Yeah, I just made up that phrase).

Let’s step into our time machines and return to the late ’90s, early 2000s when punk bands like Simple Plan were all the rage. I found you a new band to add to that list. You’re welcome.

Meet YG, the company that brings us random phrases that get stuck in our head. BLACKPINK made a splash with this debut song. I may not be able to dance like these girls, but in those first few beats I can show off my mad snapping skills.

What are your favorite dance beats from this year? When you need to break out a groove, even just to de-stress a little, what do you blast? Make some recommendations or let us know in the comments below! It’s a Soompi dance party!

heytoto currently teaches ELL in Seoul, and when she isn’t waiting in line for something, can be found drinking a latte.