[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)
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.
Goodbye NowTOMORROW X TOGETHER
A heart-touching Korean ballad that delicately portrays the bittersweet moment of parting.
It’s a cover of a song originally released by the band 015B in 1991, and it was also featured on the OST of the webtoon Love Revolution.
The five members’ refreshing vocals and nuanced emotional expression beautifully capture both the sorrow of farewell and the hope of meeting again.
The message—“Goodbye is not a permanent parting, but a promise to meet again”—is deeply moving.
It’s sure to gently embrace your feelings when you’re going through a breakup or a farewell with someone important.
HARU HARUBIGBANG
As a monster group that YG is proud of, BIGBANG has had a huge impact in Japan as well and has led the K-pop scene with overwhelming charisma.
“HARU HARU” is a ballad with an MV that’s guaranteed to make you cry.
Released in 2008 on the mini album “Stand Up,” it captivates listeners so strongly that even people who aren’t very familiar with BIGBANG often say they love this song, with the Japanese lyrics also being a highlight.
The flowing melody crafted by DAISHI DANCE and G-DRAGON will completely break your tear ducts, too.
It’s an unfading masterpiece that makes you acutely feel the pain of loving one person and the preciousness of everyday life.
Five NightSBGB
Se-byeok Gongban, also known as Yoake Kobo, is an indie acoustic female duo.
They’ve contributed to OSTs such as “My Boyfriend Is a Househusband” and “100 Days My Prince.” This is the title track from their album “Five Night,” released in February 2020.
The gentle melody and calm vocals are wonderful and incredibly soothing.
If you like soft, mellow songs, please give it a listen.
It’s a very comfortable ballad that you’ll want to hear before going to sleep.
ButterflyBTS
With their dedication and love for music—paired with an approachable charm—BTS now captivates attention around the world.
“Butterfly” is a 2015 track included on the album The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, Pt.
2 from the Hwa Yang Yeon Hwa (The Most Beautiful Moment in Life) series, and it’s a ballad that perfectly fits the concept of portraying life’s beauty.
There are moments when, the more fun and happiness we feel, a sudden fear creeps in that it might all just be a dream.
Centered on Jungkook’s high-toned vocals, the song draws you even deeper into its world.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to closely and savor each lyric.
잊지 말아요Baek Ji Young
Many people might feel tears welling up when they listen to “Don’t Forget” (잊지말아요), don’t you think? It’s a smash hit as part of the OST for the drama IRIS by Baek Ji-young, a singer who represents the Korean ballad scene.
The lyrics sing of timeless feelings for a loved one that never fade with time.
And Baek Ji-young’s vocals beautifully express that world, resonating with a lingering tone as if her voice were a single instrument.
It’s a masterpiece that gently seeps into your heart without you having to think about anything.
[Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the soul. Korean Ballads (21–30)
Because I am a woman (여자이니까 )BEN
Ben, a singer who has garnered attention for OSTs such as Hotel Del Luna and is often hailed as the Queen of Ballads, released Because I Am a Woman in 2021.
It’s a remake of the classic hit originally released in 1991 by the band K.I.S.S.
While the original carries a certain warmth in its mood, this remake highlights a sense of poignancy through its lyrical melody and Ben’s emotionally rich vocals.
Parting is painful at any time, and the deeper the love, the greater the suffering.
The song captures these heartfelt emotions of love in a way that tightens the chest.
It’s a moving ballad that resonates with deep, embracing love—bring on the tears.