The key to any anime original soundtrack is a killer opening that gets the viewers amped up to watch the show. Depending on the show these themes can vary in genre and style for each show the music is trying to cater to. Over the years, multiple K-pop singers and groups have contributed to the long list of anime themes that become fan favorites. Some notable opening songs that are my favorites include “We Are” by TVXQ (One Piece) and ” Masayume Chasing” by BoA (Fairy Tail). Here are five K-pop songs that I think would make great anime openings.
Chase Me by Dreamcatcher
You don’t hear too much Rock in the K-Pop genre, so Dreamcatcher’s look and sound is something that really stands out among the crowd. “Chase Me” is an upbeat rock song with a heavy guitar melody giving the song an overall aggressive sound paired with lighter vocals. This would make a great theme for a thriller or dark fantasy anime because of its edgy vibe.
My Pace by Stray Kids
When I think of anime openings, I also think of high-power anthem songs that get the viewer hyped up for each new episode. One K-Pop group that comes to mind when I think of “hype” music is Stray Kids which has a great catalog of loud and catchy dance tracks. “My Pace” is a mashup of pop and hip-hop with strong electronic elements. It’s fitting for an action anime about a hero who is coming into his own as the lyrics are about overcoming anxiety and gaining self-confidence.
Triangle by Lovelyz
Lovelyz is a girl group that has a softer, feminine concept and this track matches the group perfectly. “Triangle” is a bubbly pop song that talks about the feelings of falling in love and confessing your feelings. Because of its lighthearted sound and lyrics, I think this song would be fitting for a romance anime. I can just imagine the montage of flowers and characters going across this screen with the song playing in the background.
Growing Up by Minseo
I love slice-of-life anime and how each show portrays the struggles of coming of age and transitioning into adulthood. I especially love shows that tackle navigating through adulthood as we never stop growing. “Growing Up” is a sweet ballad with a lovely guitar sound. The lyrics talk about the struggles of finding which path to choose in life and learning from past mistakes. A fitting song for a slice-of-life anime.
Something by TVXQ
I love to watch mystery-themed anime shows all the time. When I think of a show with a super sleuth or amateur investigator, I think of a jazzy opening song. This is probably because I have listened to that jazzy tune that plays in the background of Case Closed OST too many times to count. I think “Something” is a fun theme for a mystery anime with the brassy horns throughout the melody. It’s such a funky song that incorporates a good blend of swing styles with modern dance-pop.
What K-Pop tracks do you think would make a good K-Pop opening? Let us know in the comments or through our socials.
