[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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- [Solo Singer Special] K-POP & Korean Male Solo Artists
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[Supreme Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the heart. Korean Ballads (191–200)
Like A DreamMINNIE
A sentimental ballad that poignantly and beautifully captures dreamlike moments.
Minnie, the main vocalist of the girl group (G)I-DLE, weaves delicate vocals that vividly convey both the ache of lost love and the hope of reunion.
With the gentle yet powerful expressiveness unique to the Thai-born singer, she delivers emotion that resonates even if you don’t understand the words.
Released in May 2024 as part of the OST for the Korean drama “Lovely Runner,” this piece evokes the lingering memory of a former love with a dreamlike sensibility, stirring viewers’ emotions.
Wrapped in a calm melody and translucent vocals, it’s the perfect song for when you want to immerse yourself in memories of someone dear.
Bashfulness(부끄럼)MeloMance
A sweet, wistful ballad by the Korean indie-folk duo MeloMance that evokes the arrival of spring.
It paints the bewilderment and bashfulness of being in love, capturing the flustered thrill of locking eyes with someone you like.
The melody and piano arrangement, perfect for a quiet spring afternoon, are marked by sincere and delicate emotional expression.
Released in October 2015 and included on the compilation album “bright #4,” this romantic track is one you’ll find yourself wanting to revisit during the season of new encounters.
You’ll likely relate to the lyrics, which express inner emotional turmoil and the frustrating inability to take the first step.
I love youPOSITION
A cover of Yutaka Ozaki’s classic song “I LOVE YOU.” It captures love from a perspective different from Ozaki’s original world.
In the Korean version, the lover has passed away, and the song longs for their memory.
The sorrowful yet beautiful strings—reminiscent of a Korean drama OST—are simply outstanding.
It’s the kind of song that soothes a broken heart when you’re going through a breakup.
LingeringRYEOWOOK
A ballad whose gentle piano melody and Ryeowook’s soft vocals sink deep into the heart.
Hailing from Korea, Ryeowook is a powerhouse singer known as the main vocalist of SUPER JUNIOR.
This work is a poignant love song that looks back on memories with a precious person against the backdrop of a snow-covered cityscape.
While wrapped in the chill of winter, its delicate lyrics portray the enduring presence of a beloved who remains warm in one’s heart.
Released in December 2023, the song pairs a heartwarming melody perfect for the season with Ryeowook’s shining vocal prowess, showcasing his three-octave range.
Recommended for those who have experienced a breakup or for moments when you want to remember someone dear.
[Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the heart. Korean Ballads (201–210)
빈칸 KindSHINee
A slow ballad that gives you goosebumps with the beauty of SHINee’s harmonies.
They’re amazing at dance tracks, but their expression in ballads is incredibly captivating too! This is the closing number of Don’t Call Me, their first album in two and a half years following their military service.
Minho’s sexy low notes, Key’s reassuring tone, Taemin’s delicacy, and Onew’s high notes and falsetto are all breathtakingly beautiful.
The lyrics, which feel like words left in a blank space, carry gratitude for those who supported you through hard times and really strike a chord.
It might make you think of someone you can’t forget.
It’s a warm song that conveys not only romance and friendship, but a deeper sense of appreciation.
Over U, GoodbyeSeeun x J (STAYC)
Si-eun and J from STAYC, performing as a unit, present a heartrending folk ballad that begins with a delicate guitar melody.
Depicting the pain of parting and the journey of growth, the song resonates with a determination to move forward—“I won’t cry anymore”—even as it nostalgically looks back on beautiful memories of the past.
It was released as a surprise on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024.
Saeun’s dreamy vocals and J’s husky voice blend beautifully, creating a track that gently comforts anyone nursing a broken heart.
A gift following the success of their first world tour, TEENFRESH, it’s a ballad perfect for listening alone on a quiet winter night.
세 번의 날갯짓을 약속해Whee In
A ballad resonating with a message of love from Wheein, also known as a member of MAMAMOO.
The title translates to “The Third Promise of the Butterfly,” and it was released in February 2025.
It was created together with Park Woo-sang, who has also worked on MAMAMOO’s songs.
The lyrics evoke a deep sense of embrace for a loved one, and Wheein’s delicate vocals are deeply moving.
Recommended for when you’re thinking of someone important or want to calm your heart.
You’ll be wrapped in a soothing comfort.