Cover Blackpink’s Jennie covering Zion.T’s ‘Snow’ and Sia’s ‘Snowman’ for Christmas (Photo: YouTube)
Blackpink’s Jennie covering Zion.T’s ‘Snow’ and Sia’s ‘Snowman’ for Christmas (Photo: YouTube)
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The festive season brings out the musical creativity in K-pop idols, with many contributing their Christmas songs or putting unique spins on holiday classics
There’s no denying that Christmas releases have become an integral part of the K-pop industry’s annual calendar. Whether you’re a long-time K-pop fan or new to the genre the tradition of K-pop Christmas songs, be it original compositions or creative covers, continues to grow every year.
Read more: 13 K-pop collaborations you need to know about: From Rosé and Bruno Mars to Jungkook and Usher
From solo releases to group performances, these Christmas releases offer a festive gateway, showcase the versatility of K-pop artists and spread holiday joy across cultural boundaries.
1. Exo
Above A live performance of ‘First Snow’ by Exo in 2023
One of the most notable Christmas releases comes from Exo, who made it a tradition to release winter-themed albums. Their song First Snow from their 2013 winter special album Miracles in December has become a seasonal favourite among fans. The group continued this tradition with other Christmas releases like December, 2014 and For Life.
2. IU
Above A live performance of ‘Merry Christmas in Advance’ by IU in 2010
IU, often called “Nation’s Little Sister”, released Merry Christmas in Advance in 2010, demonstrating her gift for emotional delivery even early in her career. The song captures both the excitement and melancholy that can accompany the holiday season.
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3. Blackpink’s Jennie
Above In the studio with Blackpink’s Jennie
In 2023, Blackpink’s Jennie rang in Christmas Eve and surprised Blinks with a special video of herself covering the above cover of Zion.T’s Snow and Sia’s Snowman. On her Instagram story, she announced, “I prepared two winter songs that I like. I hope you all have a warm end of the year. Merry Christmas.”
4. BTS’ V and Bing Crosby
Above ‘White Christmas’ by BTS’ V and Bing Crosby
Since its release in 1942, White Christmas has become a timeless holiday classic cherished by generations. White Christmas with BTS’ V revives one of the best-selling singles of all time, bringing two global icons: BTS’ V, 21st-century pop icons, and the legendary Bing Crosby, together for an era-bridging collaboration.
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BTS’ V continues Crosby’s legacy of iconic holiday duets—marking 47 years since Crosby’s last cross-generational collaboration with David Bowie in 1977.
5. Girls’ Generation
Above A live performance of Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want for Christmas is You’ by Girls’ Generation in 2011
Girls’ Generation has performed various Christmas songs throughout their career, including a memorable rendition of Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas is You during their concert tours. Their harmonies and festive energy make these performances particularly special and heart-warming.
6. Enhypen
Above A live performance of Enhypen’s ‘Upper Side Dreamin’ in 2021
Enhypen performed Upper Side Dreamin in a CDTV Live! Live! Christmas Special in 2021, adding to the newer generation’s contribution to K-pop Christmas music. The song combines their characteristic sound with seasonal themes, demonstrating how younger groups are putting their own stamp on the tradition.
Read more: Owning every look: Enhypen’s Heeseung and his most stylish moments
7. Blackpink’s Rosé
Above A live cover performance of Wham!’s ‘Last Christmas’ by Blackpink’s Rosé on BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge in 2024
Blackpink’s Rosé delivered a heartfelt rendition of Wham!’s beloved holiday classic Last Christmas during her appearance on BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge. The K-pop star brought her distinctive vocal style to the festive favourite, offering an intimate performance that paid homage to the original while adding her own artistic interpretation.
The original version by Wham!, first released in December 1984, remains one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time, with George Michael’s iconic vocals defining the holiday season for generations.
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Lainey was the Digital Director of Tatler Malaysia. When not whiling away the hours watching documentaries, the latest K-drama, or reruns of Friends, she can be found indulging her wanderlust by stalking travel platforms or feeding her obsession with music. She loves animals, running, all things social media, a good conversation over coffee or soju or wine (often rambling on if nobody pulls the brakes on her), and is an avid fan of bursting-at-the-seams laughter.
