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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] Ballad-style friendship songs. A collection of K-pop masterpieces (41–50)

그리워하다 (Missing You)BTOB

BTOB(비투비) – ‘그리워하다’ Official Music Video
그리워하다 (Missing You)BTOB

When it comes to ballads, BTOB is the first group that comes to mind.

Their 2017 hit masterpiece “Missing You” sings of a heartrending love set to a sublime melody.

The lyrics, which portray the emptiness of an unchanging reality despite the passage of time and the struggle of getting by while unable to forget, sink in deeply.

The contrast between the aching sadness conveyed by the vocal line and the sense of frustration expressed through the rap is also incredibly moving.

And then, in the latter half, the unison creates a feeling of release, opening the door to different interpretations—overall, it’s truly a beautiful ballad.

FOR YOUBTS

BTS ‘FOR YOU’ Official MV
FOR YOUBTS

This Japanese version of the song released by BTS in 2015 expresses feelings toward someone precious who is far away.

Whether it’s a long-distance relationship or friends separated due to work or family circumstances, don’t we all have at least one or two people we wish we could see and spend time with every day but can’t? Even when apart, we remain connected at heart—this song carries that beautiful message.

FriendsBTS

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘Friends (친구)’ MV
FriendsBTS

A masterpiece that Jimin took part in writing and composing, which was completed together with producer Bang Si-hyuk from its once-unfinished form.

It sings about the friendship between Jimin and V, who moved up to Seoul and attended the same school, and were very close.

The two of them are beloved as the unit “95s.” With lyrics about memories with friends, it’s a song that makes you feel the future—vowing to spend even more intense time together than before, even while clashing at times.

The passionate, wish-filled delivery in the chorus is especially powerful!

remembrance candyBilllie

Billlie | ‘기억사탕’ M/V
remembrance candyBilllie

This is the new song by the seven-member Korean girl group Billlie.

It was released as the title track of their mini album “appendix: Of All We Have Lost” in October 2024.

The lyrics, written by IU, are striking for their depiction of nostalgia and the fragility of memory.

Fragments of memories are likened to candy, expressing how they linger in the heart with a blend of sweetness and bitterness.

You can feel the resolve to look forward even while reflecting on the past.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you feel like revisiting memories with someone dear.

This is their first new album in about a year and a half, and it also marks the members’ return.

It’s said to be imbued with the joy of reuniting with fans.

First loveBolbbalgan4

[Japanese Subtitles] BOL4 – #First Love (#First Love)
First loveBolbbalgan4

This is one of the popular songs by the Korean folk duo BOL4 (Bolbbalgan4).

It’s a gentle, sweet winter song, and its lyrics—singing about a faint, lingering affection for a childhood first love—resonate with many women.

It’s a ballad that many can relate to.