Runners' Top Track is Blackpink's 'Halt'

As the running craze continues in South Korea, with people jogging in parks and along riverbanks, music plays a crucial role for many. A recent analysis by KT Genie Music, based on user data from its running music service, reveals that K-pop dance songs with fast rhythms and strong beats are the top choices for runners.

Topping the 'Genie Running Top 50' chart for June and July was Blackpink's 2022 hit 'Halt,' known for its powerful beat and repetitive chorus. Another Blackpink track, 'Shut Down,' also made it to the 16th spot. Following 'Halt' at number two was Bruno Mars' 2011 song 'Runaway Baby,' a punk and pop-rock fusion that remains popular for running despite its age. Other tracks in the top 10 included Cortez's 'Fashion' at third, Jennie's solo song 'Mantra' at fourth, and Block B's 'Her' at fifth, showcasing the enduring appeal of older hits.

The analysis highlighted the dominance of K-pop, with girl groups featuring prominently. Out of the top 10 songs, four were by K-pop girl groups, three were international pop songs, two by boy groups, and one by a female solo artist. Beyond the top 10, K-pop continued its strong performance, with 28 K-pop songs appearing in the top 50, including tracks by ITZY, BTS, ATEEZ, SEVENTEEN, and Jennie.

The preference for fast-paced music like K-pop among runners is supported by scientific reasoning. Research published in the American Psychological Association's 'Psychological Bulletin' in 2020 found that listening to music can enhance exercise performance and positive emotions. A 2006 study in the 'Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology' further indicated that fast-tempo music increases running speed and exercise intensity. Kim Jeong-wook, head of Genie Music's service planning division, anticipates that music platforms will continue to evolve, offering more personalized services for runners by analyzing usage patterns through wearable devices.

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In the future, music platforms will continue to evolve, offering more personalized services for runners by analyzing usage patterns through wearable devices.