[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 touches the heart. Korean Ballads (131–140)
Not AloneBOYS PLANET
An emotional mid-tempo ballad that sings, “We’re not alone, because you and I are here.” The song was born from BOYS PLANET, the male-version audition program of Girls Planet 999 that formed Kep1er, and it was performed in the final battle.
The lyrics, reflecting the journey so far and the bond with teammates, are deeply moving.
Fresh, gentle vocals color the message—warm like spring, a heartfelt song that slowly resonates.
어디에도M.C The Max
M.C THE MAX is a band that, in its early days, was produced by YOSHIKI and even received songs from Japanese artists.
This is a ballad they released in 2016 about the pain of heartbreak.
The lyrics, which overlay falling snow with a wistful emotional state, are superb and quietly resonate in the heart.
It seems quite difficult to sing well, but it’s said to be a familiar number for Korean men.
According to TJ Communication, it was the most sung song in 2016.
Since then, it has remained a long-loved karaoke classic.
number one girlROSÉ
Through this work, Rosé delicately expresses her inner emotions.
It’s a ballad themed around the longing for love, and it resonates deeply.
Released in November 2024, the song is included on her first solo full-length album, “rosie,” which came out in December.
The track was produced by Bruno Mars, with Rosé herself participating in both the songwriting and composition.
In the music video, her subtle expressions stand out against the backdrop of Seoul’s nightscape.
It’s especially recommended for those who have experienced heartbreak or are seeking to discover their own self-worth.
KazeYounha
The ballad “Kaze,” wrapped in the gentle tones of acoustic guitar and orchestra.
This track is by Younha, the artist whose “Event Horizon” continued to be a massive hit in her home country even in 2023.
It’s a Korean re-arrangement of a song included on her second full-length Japanese album, “Under the Same Sky,” released in 2010, and it was made public in May 2023.
The lyrics, which seem to sing of the passage of time and regret, quietly resonate, giving a sense of cleansing alongside Younha’s refreshingly clear vocals.
A fragile yet soothing masterpiece of a ballad—be sure to give it a listen.
Even for a momentSon Shigyon, Naul
Singer Sung Si-kyung, who is also active as an MC on variety and music shows, released this song, “Even for a moment,” in 2023 featuring Naul from the Korean R&B group Brown Eyed Soul.
It showcases choral work where the beautiful voices of these two artists—both overwhelmingly popular as ballad singers in Korea—intertwine.
It’s an emotional ballad that powerfully yet poignantly sings of continuing to cherish a lover, even after parting with the person they loved more than anyone else.
Miss You방예담(BANG YEDAM)
A piano ballad delivered by former TREASURE member Bang Yedam.
It was pre-released from his first mini album, “ONLY ONE,” which came out in November 2023.
This breakup song captures the feelings right before parting, echoing the loneliness and sentimentality of autumn and winter.
The bittersweet ache of losing someone irreplaceable is made even more resonant by Yedam’s deep expressive power.
I highly recommend listening along with the music video, where you can see Yedam playing the piano.
It’s incredibly beautiful and draws you in instantly.
Last ChanceSo Soo Bin
A ballad released in April 2024 by Seo Subin, a singer-songwriter from South Korea.
It was produced as part of the OST for the tvN drama “Queen of Tears.” Carried by a graceful, piano-centered sound, its heartrending melody and lyrics resonate deeply.
It delicately portrays a longing for lost love and the desire to close the distance with a beloved once more.
Subin’s emotionally rich vocals heighten the song’s impact, evoking a tightness in the chest with the wish to “keep living in your heart.” It’s a song for those who have lost a lover or experienced a farewell with someone precious.