[Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the soul. Korean Ballads
When you think of K-POP, many movement-starting idol songs come to mind, but in Korea, ballads are even more popular than in Japan and are loved by a wide range of generations, regardless of age or gender.
The emotionally rich singing style of Korean artists can really move you, even if you don’t understand the lyrics.
We’ll be picking out lots of wonderful ballads—not only by idols, but also by solo singers and musicians!
Be sure to find a favorite ballad that resonates with your heart.
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[Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that resonates with the soul. Korean Ballads (1–10)
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.
Day By Day조이(JOY)
Joy, a member of Red Velvet who also shines in various solo activities, truly captivates.
“Day By Day” is a track from her 2021 album HELLO, which marked her solo debut.
It’s a cover of a song originally released in 1999 by the female duo As One.
The lyrics, overflowing with pure feelings and heartfelt gratitude, are deeply moving.
And the biggest highlight is Joy’s delicate, beautiful vocals! She conveys the song’s warm atmosphere so well that it’s enough to bring you to tears.
Her performance on Yoo Hee-yeol’s Sketchbook is also deeply touching—please give it a listen.
It’s the very definition of a superb ballad.
헤어지자 말해요(Let’s Say Goodbye)박재정(Parc Jae Jung)
Park Jae-jung, whose voice blends gentleness with power, is loved by many.
Among the songs he sings, the heartbreak ballad “헤어지자 말해요 (Let’s Say Goodbye)” is especially known for making listeners cry.
As the title suggests, it portrays a man who wishes the woman would be the one to bring up the breakup, and a woman who tries to do so but hesitates.
However, if you listen closely, you can tell that deep down they don’t really want to part—that’s the part that brings tears.
[The Finest Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the heart. Korean Ballads (11–20)
First WinterNEW!SUNG SI KYUNG, IU
This digital single, released in December 2019, drew attention as their first collaboration in about nine years.
Sung by Sung Si-kyung, one of Korea’s leading ballad singers, and IU, beloved across generations, the song centers on the theme of lovers experiencing their first winter together.
Rather than flashy climaxes, it’s marked by a gentle, conversational melody and quiet strings, with the duo’s warm vocals slowly seeping into a chilled heart.
Coupled with the Christmas imagery in the lyrics, it’s a track you’ll want to play on snowy nights or when you wish to spend a quiet moment with someone special.
It quickly climbed the charts upon release and was even nominated at the MAMA music awards, winning wide acclaim.
A top recommendation if you’re looking for a tender winter ballad!
I’m all earsNEW!Taeyeon
A deeply moving ballad sung by Taeyeon, the main vocalist of Girls’ Generation.
It was included as the closing track on the album “This Christmas – Winter is Coming,” released in the winter of 2017.
The lyrics are truly warm, as if gently listening to someone’s pain and assuring them, “I’ll stay by your side through the night.” It overflows with a kindness that feels like wrapping a shivering body in a blanket.
There may be no flashy production, but Taeyeon’s delicate vocals—so nuanced you can almost hear her breathing—stand out, and every listen brings you close to tears.
About a month after its release, a special video for the song was also unveiled.
On nights when you’re going through something hard, or when you just want someone to listen, play this softly.
It will surely make your heart feel lighter.
심D.K.
DECEMBER is an R&B duo that debuted in 2009 with the mini-album “Dear My Lover.” One of its members, DK, is a popular singer who has participated in soundtracks for dramas such as “Hyena,” “Risky Romance,” and “Suits.” His song “Heart (심)” is a poignant ballad that soothes with a gentle voice, with an especially satisfying swell in the chorus.
His overwhelming vocal prowess—belting high notes powerfully with vibrato without tightening his throat—is truly remarkable.
Heavenly fateLEE CHANGSUB
A ballad released by Lee Changsub in February 2024 as part of the soundtrack for the webtoon “Tennyo Gaiden.” As the lead vocalist of BTOB, he offers this song to commemorate his 12th debut anniversary.
Carried by a beautiful melody woven from strings and vocals, it richly conveys the ache of pursuing lost love and the heartfelt wish for a loved one’s happiness.
The lyrics, which sing of the pain of parting and an eternal love, are sure to resonate deeply.
It’s a recommended track for anyone troubled by love or holding deep feelings for someone special.