[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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[South Korea] A collection of K-pop masterpieces: ballad-style friendship songs (21–30)
Lean On MeSEVENTEEN
A work by SEVENTEEN’s Hip-hop Team that carries heartfelt sentiments delivered through a warm, comforting melody.
Centered on the theme of friendship and mutual support, this track was included on the December 2016 album “Going Seventeen.” In Japan, a Japanese version was featured on the May 2018 mini-album “WE MAKE YOU,” and it has won the love of many fans.
With a gentle beat seamlessly fused with melodious rap, the song overflows with warmth toward one’s friends.
It’s the perfect track to share with a dear friend when you want to say, “Even if we’re apart, our hearts are close.”
PRETTY BOYSYENA
A track where funky rhythms and refreshing melodies resonate pleasantly.
Featured on Yena’s solo debut mini-album “SMiLEY,” this song is a warm piece filled with feelings for a dear friend.
Released in January 2022, the lyrics warn against a dangerous love born from jealousy.
The honest care for a friend blends beautifully with the dance-pop sound, resulting in a charming song that makes your heart dance every time you listen.
It’s perfect for humming along with friends, or for keeping you company when your partner is prioritizing their romantic relationship.
TwilightASTRO
The number released by the boy group ASTRO in February 2025 leaves a strong impression with its theme of the “moon,” spending time alone in darkness, regaining its brilliance upon meeting the “sun.” ASTRO weaves a story in warm vocals about overcoming past hardships and lonely times, finding light through their encounter with fans.
Commemorating the ninth anniversary of their debut, this work conveys the members’ friendship and gratitude to their fans through a gentle melodic line.
In their self-produced content “Star Light Dining Table,” you can also see the members reminiscing about memories from their trainee days to the present, revealing a strong bond of mutual support.
Its tender, resonant melodies are perfect for moments when you want to savor the bonds with those you hold dear.
Goodbye NowTOMORROW X TOGETHER
A heart-touching Korean ballad that delicately portrays the bittersweet moment of parting.
It’s a cover of a song originally released by the band 015B in 1991, and it was also featured on the OST of the webtoon Love Revolution.
The five members’ refreshing vocals and nuanced emotional expression beautifully capture both the sorrow of farewell and the hope of meeting again.
The message—“Goodbye is not a permanent parting, but a promise to meet again”—is deeply moving.
It’s sure to gently embrace your feelings when you’re going through a breakup or a farewell with someone important.
EncircledSEVENTEEN
A supreme mid-tempo number that delicately portrays the bond between the members and their fans.
Colored by a bright melody and SEVENTEEN’s warm vocals, this work is a heartfelt message song that earnestly conveys their gratitude to fans.
Released as they approached the final show of their 2025 February world tour “Right Here,” it gently sings of nine years of thanks and love.
The member-penned lyrics resonate warmly, like a love letter to their fans.
The vocal work, which softly cradles bittersweet emotions, is truly the essence of who they are.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to feel an unwavering bond or deepen your feelings for someone dear.
BYOB (bring your own best friend)Billlie
Billlie is a girl group that made their Japan debut in 2023.
Active across platforms like YouTube and Instagram, they sing “BYOB (bring your own best friend),” a song that carries a straightforward message to friends.
BYOB is widely known overseas as an initialism used on party invitations.
By replacing the last “B” with “best friend,” the song conveys the message, “Bring your best friend to the party.” It’s K-pop with an urban vibe, featuring airy, expanding synth tones.
BLOSSOMENHYPEN
‘BLOSSOM’ is a song about the bond with ENGENE.
Included on their third Japanese single, ‘Yui -YOU-‘, it’s their first Japanese-language ballad.
With an encouraging tempo and lyrics, it conveys the message that even time apart can deepen precious feelings—something many might relate to with friends as well.
Phrases expressing ‘connections and ties of fate’ that link to the group’s name, along with ENHYPEN’s beautiful vocals, are truly moving.
It evokes a sense of friendship that reassures us of a future where we continue walking together.
