[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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- K-pop that touches the heart: iconic ballads by Korean female artists
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- [Solo Singer Special] K-POP & Korean Male Solo Artists
- [For when you want to cry] A ballad love song. A heartbreaking love song.
[Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that resonates with the soul. Korean Ballads (141–150)
Things that I couldn’t sayNoel
One of the signature songs by the hugely popular Korean group NOEL, this track recalls a woman the singer once dated.
It’s a ballad brimming with poignancy, with lyrics that straightforwardly express a man’s sincere wish for her happiness now—even though he couldn’t make her happy himself.
With a smileShin Ye Young
Shin Yeyeon’s heartwarming ballad is so moving it might just bring you to tears.
Released in July 2024, this song gently celebrates everyday happiness and the importance of a smile.
True to the Korean artist’s style, it shines with delicate emotional expression and refined arrangement.
Its light, lively rhythm and melody resonate as if nestling close to the listener’s heart.
Inspired by memories with friends and family, the warmth truly comes through.
Featured in drama and film soundtracks, it’s a track beloved across generations.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to feel calm, or for a quiet evening spent with someone special.
DREAMBABYMONSTER
BABYMONSTER is a girl group born from the documentary program “Last Evaluation.” Their pre-debut song is “DREAM.” It portrays sleepless nights filled with worries and a strong determination to face hardships.
Though it starts as a gentle ballad, it gradually builds in power, and in the latter half there’s even a call-and-response section.
It’s a song that can gently lift your spirits when you’re feeling down.
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.