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[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.

[Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the heart. Korean Ballads (201–210)

I WillHa Dong Qn

Isn’t getting caught up in past events something that happens to everyone, at least to some degree? This song is one that gently stays by your side in those moments.

It’s a poignant track by Ha Dong-kyun, a highly skilled Korean ballad singer.

Released in April 2021, this work is a remake of a song by the group 7Dayz, with whom he debuted in 2002—revived after 22 years.

It portrays the feeling of being unable to forget a lost love and being trapped in the pain it brings.

The lyrics, woven with his rich, resonant voice, are sure to strike a chord.

It’s a recommended listen for anyone carrying the pain of heartbreak or wanting to dwell on feelings for someone dear.

Like the day we first metPakuyonha

Park Yong-ha / Like the Day We First Met
Like the day we first metPakuyonha

The theme song of the Korean drama “All In.” It’s sung by Park Yong-ha, who appeared in “Winter Sonata” and was popular in Japan.

It shines a spotlight on the drama’s male and female leads.

They want to be together but cannot.

The man has circumstances that keep him from staying by her side, and the woman, though it pains her, watches over him from afar.

Various problems stand in their way.

Even so, they secretly wish to be together when everything is finally resolved.

My Everythingshōjo jidai

A ballad that expresses a vow of love, passionately sung by Girls’ Generation.

This piece is a remake of a song by The Grace (Cheon Sang Ji Hee), and its delicate blend of piano and strings resonates deeply.

The lyrics carry the message “You are my everything,” pledging eternal love and gratitude to a cherished person, while the members’ mature, beautiful harmonies are truly moving.

Released in February 2025 as part of an album commemorating the 30th anniversary of SM Entertainment’s founding, the song has received high praise from many fans.

It’s perfect as wedding background music, and it’s also a wonderful choice when you want to convey your feelings to someone special or add color to a meaningful moment.

DEARESTTōhōshinki

Tohoshinki / “DEAREST” Music Video (Full Version)
DEARESTTōhōshinki

The ballad by TVXQ that portrays a love transcending life and death has deeply moved listeners.

One of the gems on their 20th-anniversary album “ZONE” tenderly sings of the happiness of feeling a bond with a loved one, and of moving forward with hope even while reflecting on the fragility of life.

Set against a classical arrangement rich with piano and strings, the voices of Yunho and Changmin resonate beautifully, drawing listeners into a world full of emotion.

Released in November 2024, the song’s music video also depicts a timeless bond of love through the story of a grandfather and a young girl.

When facing heartbreak or a turning point in life, this song is sure to be by your side.

Pray임한별, 에스페로

[MV] Lim Hanbyeol(임한별), Espero(에스페로) _ Pray(기도)
Pray임한별, 에스페로

A warm, heartfelt song released in February 2024.

Lim Han-byul’s gentle voice and Espero’s harmonies resonate as if staying close to your heart.

The collaboration between Lim Han-byul, known for drama OSTs like Goblin, and the rising star group Espero, who debuted in 2022, became a hot topic.

The lyrics, which depict the challenges faced by high school baseball players, are infused with an unyielding spirit that truly stirs the heart.

It’s also striking how the forward-looking attitude is expressed through the metaphor of a dragonfly.

This is the perfect track for moments when you’re trying to overcome setbacks or when you want to cheer someone on.

Try to rememberSung Si-kyung

This is a cover of the song of the same name by The Brothers Four.

It’s a gentle, warm love song that looks back on young love.

The season in the memories is from autumn into winter.

The depictions of nature are beautiful and evoke a sense of nostalgia.

A love nurtured in a kind world continues to warm the heart even when you look back on it as an adult.

It makes you want to experience a love that feels like this!

You Are My SpringHWANG CHI YEUL(황치열)

[MV] HWANG CHI YEUL(황치열) _ You Are My Spring(나의 봄날)
You Are My SpringHWANG CHI YEUL(황치열)

Singer Hwang Chi-yeul released his first single album Chiyeol in 2007 and drew attention with its title track Only Once.

His song You Are My Spring is a natural, approachable piano ballad that also resonates with Japanese pop sensibilities.

The beautiful piano tones blend exquisitely with his gentle voice, creating a tender, soothing, and emotional atmosphere.

His relaxed vibrato is especially calming, so try playing it during leisurely moments on your day off.