[Korea] A ballad-style friendship song. A roundup of classic K-pop masterpieces
Among K-pop songs, what kind do you like?
There are tracks that captivate with intense dance and rap, as well as upbeat, catchy pop numbers—but surprisingly, many people also enjoy ballads.
In this article, we’ll focus on introducing ballad-style songs specifically from K-pop’s friendship-themed tracks.
These are all wonderful songs that gently sing about friendship and the bonds between companions, so be sure to read the lyrics while you listen.
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[Korea] A ballad-style friendship song. A roundup of K-pop masterpieces (91–100)
힘들 때마다 생각나는 친구오현란
This is a song included on Oh Hyun-ran’s solo debut album, “Oh Hyun-ran 1st Album,” released in 1998, when she was a member of the vocal group Page.
It’s a gentle ballad with a mood that also resonates with Japanese songs.
The title carries the meaning of “a friend I always think of in difficult times.” It’s a comforting, enveloping track that makes you long for the time spent with friends and brings calm when you think of those moments.
Hyun-ran’s beautiful vocals deepen the emotion even further.
Please give it a listen when you’re going through tough times.
너의 얘길 들어줄게yunmire (yun · mire)
Yoonmirae’s “I’ll Listen to You” was also used as part of the soundtrack for the drama “Who Are You: School 2015.” When you’re going through a hard time, having a friend who listens without saying anything can really be a lifesaver.
Give it a listen when you want to cheer up a friend or when you’re struggling and can’t find the energy yourself.
My Song And…윤하 Younha
Isn’t it wonderful to have a friend who makes you feel like everything will be okay, no matter what happens? Someone you can laugh with over silly things and simply feel happy just being together.
“My Song and…” is a track that sings about unwavering love for such a friend.
It was released on Younha’s 2008 album “Someday,” and she’s well known for the hit song “Event Horizon.” Originally written for her fans, the song’s deep affection is truly moving.
With its gentle band ensemble, romantic lyrics, and emotionally stirring resonance, it feels like a song that speaks for eternal bonds and friendship.
LetterIjinsei (I Jinson)
Lee Jin-sung of Monday Kiz sings “Letter,” a sad yet beautiful song filled with feelings for a friend he can no longer meet.
Listening to this song makes me want to see my friend.
It might be a good idea to express your daily gratitude to a dear friend.
GoneI Chansopu
The title track from his first solo mini-album, MARK, released in 2018.
At first glance it feels like a love song, but you could also interpret it as overcoming loneliness and negative emotions by holding someone in your heart.
Apink’s Chorong, a fellow 91-liner who’s shy but close with him, makes a friendly cameo in the music video, and you can feel their bond.
Changsub, who handles vocals in BTOB, delivers such gentle yet powerful singing that it almost brings you to tears.
We, From The First (친구, 그 오랜시간)jeong seunghwan (chon·sunfuan)
Jeong Seung-hwan, known as the “Prince of Ballads,” is famous for OSTs like Day & Night from Start-Up: Door of Dreams.
The lead track We, From The First from his 2021 EP Five Words Left Unsaid is a must-listen for anyone craving a supreme ballad.
The lyrics—crafted by Jeong himself along with labelmate Yoo Hee-yeol and hit lyricist Kim Eana—depict the emotions of harboring special feelings for a friend, and the ache of swallowing those feelings tightens the chest.
With its graceful sound and Jeong Seung-hwan’s expressive vocals, it’s sure to amplify your longing.
친구해(BeMyFriend)주헌(JOOHEON) from MONSTA X
A friendship song by MONSTA X’s two rappers, Joohoney and I.M.
If you’re a K-pop fan, you’ll probably recognize the meaning of the title “Chingu-e” right away.
Chingu means “friend,” after all.
It carries the sense of “let’s be friends,” with a party vibe that says, forget the complicated stuff—let’s just have fun together.
The casual, everyday feel—like in Western music videos—also suits the mood of the song really well.
친구야 사랑해한스밴드
A friendship song by a Hans band that was mainly active in the 1990s with a lineup of three sisters.
Set to a relaxed band sound, it conveys simple, heartfelt feelings toward a beloved friend.
Rather than being in the present tense, the lyrics feel more like looking back on memories with old friends—perhaps recalling student days when bonds deepened through the occasional argument.
All things considered, the fun memories remain so vivid, don’t they? Despite the bright vocals, there’s a faint hint of poignancy, but a friendship song like this can be nice once in a while.
Don’t think you’re alone.Kimu Bogyon
Kim Bo-kyung’s “Don’t Think You’re Alone” was also used as an OST for the drama School 2013.
When I listen to this song in tough times, the faces of friends who always support me come to mind.
Kim Bo-kyung’s vocal prowess is also noteworthy.
If I’m S, Can You Be My N?TWS
This friendship song from Korea’s rising stars, TWS, captures the power of magnetism with exquisite nuance.
Its funky rhythm and synth tones create a breezy summer vibe and evoke the brilliance of youth.
Featured on the album “SUMMER BEAT!”, it was just released in June 2024.
The lyrics resonate by embracing differences and showing how they can deepen relationships.
TWS debuted in January 2024 and has already won Best New Artist at the Asia Star Entertainer Awards.
When you want to express gratitude to a friend—something you might not usually say—give this track a listen.