Unrequited love songs recommended for college students: classic and popular Japanese tracks

south orangeMINMI

MINMI south orange

When you’re in love, don’t you sometimes feel that timing is everything when it comes to taking action? I think everyone has experienced being out of sync, missing each other, or failing to get their feelings across at least once.

This song soulfully conveys the poignancy of unrequited love—those moments when you feel like you could finally say “I love you,” only to find the person isn’t there anymore.

Unrequited Love, FinallySKE48

On sale 2012/1/25 – 8th single ‘Unrequited Love Finally’ MV (special edit ver.)

It’s one of SKE48’s signature songs.

The music video drew a lot of attention, with a kiss scene, intense dance sequences, and even a car crash scene.

After this, there was a wave of departures, graduations, and transfers, and the lineup changed significantly.

I feel like it was the era when they were at their peak.

The song delivers its message exactly as is, distilled into the straightforward lyrics of the chorus.

Ah, geez.Saucy Dog

Saucy Dog “Ah, geez.” Music Video

This is a song by the three-piece band Saucy Dog that captures the delicate feelings of a woman with an unrequited crush.

It portrays her emotional ups and downs in response to the other person’s suggestive behavior, and the anxiety and self-loathing she falls into while waiting for a reply on LINE.

Featured in collaboration with Morinaga’s “DARS” and as the theme song for the drama “Dekinai Futari,” the track sings of a resolve to drown in love.

It’s a must-listen for high school students who can’t hold back their feelings for someone they like.

Why not listen to this song and find the courage to take a step forward?

Kasane AiSoala

Soala – Kasaneai [Official Music Video]

Soala’s translucent vocals gently embrace the feelings that pass each other by and the wish to reunite, delicately expressing subtle emotions.

Released in January 2025 as a track on the EP “Bluem,” the song is distinguished by its piano-centered, gentle sound and memorable melodic lines.

The music video—featuring model Ryoka Orita and actor Yusei Ito—has also garnered attention, spreading waves of empathy across social media.

It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who carries a “what if”—wondering how things might have been if you’d met in a different way.

Unrequited Love: LinariaSonar Pocket

Sonar Pocket “Unrequited Love. ~Linaria~” [MV Short]

They are a three-man group formed in 2005.

Sonar Pocket’s songs are also known for having lyrics that many young people in love can relate to.

This song might be the ultimate example of that.

You can feel how their feelings for the other person overflow so much that they just can’t keep quiet anymore.

The refreshing melody beautifully expresses those emotions.

I’ve fallen in love.YUTORI-SEDAI

YUTORI-SEDAI – I Fell in Love [Official Music Video]

A heartrending song that portrays an unstoppable longing, even while knowing you shouldn’t move forward.

It’s a rock track YUTORI-SEDAI delivers in July 2024.

With a sense of urgency like a racing heartbeat, it captures the emotional sway of not being able to suppress your feelings, even as you worry you might just be getting played.

The song was selected as the 50th anniversary commercial track for Aeon Topvalu, and the music video features Rio Kitano, a TikTok sensation.

It’s sure to resonate with anyone who can’t stop thinking about that special someone.

Being a little short is just right.YUTORI-SEDAI

YUTORI-SEDAI – Just Enough by Being a Little Short [Official Music Video]

The lyrics sweetly and poignantly portray a girl’s feelings of love—truly memorable! YUTORI-SEDAI’s song is a love anthem that stands by the hearts of high schoolers dealing with unrequited feelings.

Its unique take on romance—“love that’s a little lacking is just right”—has resonated with many.

Released in October 2023, the track became a viral hit on TikTok, and the music video featuring cast members from a popular dating show also drew attention.

It’s the perfect song for those in the midst of youth, to listen to while thinking of someone they like.

High school students struggling with love—why not listen to this song and find a bit of courage?