[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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[The Finest Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the heart. Korean Ballads (11–20)
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.
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.
12 Hours (12시간)ASTRO
A track included on ASTRO’s May 2020 release, the album “GATEWAY,” from the refreshingly cool boy group.
It’s a poignant number that portrays the feelings in the 12 hours after a breakup.
Yet it isn’t overly sad—ASTRO’s gentle vocals somehow wrap you in a calm, soothing mood.
Even after breaking up, it doesn’t change the fact that the person is still precious to you.
The song also touches on the fear of forgetting those feelings, making it a piece that many listeners—regardless of gender—can relate to.
안부 (Miracle)WENDY X MeloMance
“Anbu (Miracle),” released in 2023 by Wendy—active as a member of the idol group Red Velvet—and the male duo MeloMance, is a moving song whose touching story depicts the moment of reunion with a beloved person after being apart.
The conversational interplay between the male and female vocal parts evokes the image of two people conveying their feelings to each other.
It’s a ballad that celebrates the joy of meeting one’s destined person once again after overcoming various hardships.
Why not listen to the beautiful piano sound that carries their emotional vocals?
Expiration dateSEVENTEEN
Do emotions have an expiration date? That question stirs the heart in this ballad.
The Japanese melodies woven by the boy group SEVENTEEN resonate beyond language barriers.
Set to a beautiful interplay of strings and guitar, the song delicately portrays the lingering warmth in a room after a loved one is gone, and the everyday moments when one can still feel their presence even when alone.
Released in November 2024 as the theme song for NHK’s late-night drama “Will My Future Self Knock Some Sense Into Me?!,” the piece was written and composed by member Woozi, offering a deep reflection on the fragility and permanence of emotion.
In the music video, created as a sequel to “Now -Even If the World Ends Tomorrow-,” the members’ expressions as they immerse themselves in past memories aboard a spaceship are striking.
When you reflect on your relationship with someone precious, your heart will surely be moved, too.