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[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.

[Korea] A ballad-style friendship song. A roundup of K-pop masterpieces (91–100)

힘들 때마다 생각나는 친구오현란

오현란 – 힘들 때마다 생각나는 친구
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)

윤미래 너의 얘길 들어줄게 (가사 첨부)
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)

먼데이 키즈(Monday Kiz) 이진성(Lee Jin Sung) – Letter M/V
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

이창섭(LEE CHANGSUB) – ‘Gone’ Official Music Video
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)

[MV] Jung Seung Hwan(정승환) _ We, From The First(친구, 그 오랜시간)
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

[MIXTAPE] 주헌(JOOHEON) X I.M – 친구해(BeMyFriend)
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.