Compiling this playlist has been quite the journey. While curating these tracks, it became clear that 2005 was a standout year, particularly for the ballads that resonate so deeply. The sheer volume of exceptional songs from this era meant expanding the usual Top 50 to a Top 100. This extensive compilation, a labor of love spanning two months, is something I’m incredibly proud of, though it wasn’t without its challenges.
In the final stretch before sharing this list, a frustrating setback occurred – fourteen songs were unexpectedly removed within a week. A frantic search ensued to recover them, but unfortunately, only twelve could be restored. However, this unexpected detour led to a beneficial outcome. Diving back into the music of 2005, I unearthed three additional gems that had initially been overlooked, enriching the playlist even further. I genuinely believe 2005 stands out as my favorite classic year in K-Pop to explore so far, and this experience has only heightened my anticipation for delving into 2004 and earlier years.
As a helpful note, as always, it’s worth mentioning that Spotify may not feature every track. Therefore, I recommend checking out the YouTube playlist first to experience the complete collection. Also, please be aware that some videos are sourced from unofficial channels or later performances to ensure the playlist is as comprehensive and high-quality as possible.
Don’t forget to stay updated with my Best Of playlists for 2024, which compile all the monthly selections and will be available soon. For access to last year’s playlists and previous Top 100 lists, along with other musical discoveries, visit my Intro To K-Pop page. Additionally, join my Discord community for early access to monthly playlists and to engage in discussions about K-Pop and various other topics with myself and fellow music enthusiasts.
