[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.
- K-pop that touches the heart: masterful ballads by Korean male artists
- K-pop that touches the heart: iconic ballads by Korean female artists
- Tearjerker K-pop ballads: Korean songs that will make you cry
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- A poignant, heart-touching K-pop song. A bittersweet track that resonates with many different emotions.
- [Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces. A Collection of Unfading Classics and the Latest Songs [2026]
- Korean karaoke songs: beloved tunes from popular ballads to K-pop
- [Korean Oldies · Genre-Free] Songs from Korea you’ll want to listen to now—nostalgic Korean tracks
- [Korean popular music] Popular trot songs. Masterpieces by trot singers.
- Cute K-pop and Korean songs: heartwarming, energizing, and heart-throbbing tunes
- [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 touches the soul. Korean Ballads (171–180)
Farewell EverydaySOYOU
A former member of the idol group SISTAR, who were active in the 2010s, she is now pursuing a solo career.
Her new song is titled “Farewell Everyday,” a classic, straight-down-the-line ballad.
Rather than a crystal-clear tone, her appeal lies in a slightly husky, whispery voice—and you can fully enjoy that captivating whisper-voice in the soaring chorus, the song’s highlight.
It also shares many similarities with Japanese ballads, so be sure to give it a listen.
Take It SlowTIOT
A five-member boy group, TIOT, released this ballad in November 2024.
It offers comfort and encouragement to those worn out by hectic everyday life.
The rich strings and refreshing vocals blend beautifully, resonating with listeners.
Its message—“there’s no need to rush”—comes through gently in the relaxed tempo.
This is their third digital single, and the modern album cover also stands out.
It’s a track where the members’ excellent vocal abilities shine within a calm atmosphere.
Perfect for a night when you want to take things slow.
소주 한 잔imu chanjon
Lim Chang-jung, a popular actor and singer who was especially active from the 1990s through the 2000s.
His 2003 release “A Glass of Soju” is a ballad that conveys the aching feelings of lingering attachment to a lover.
It’s a long-loved classic that has been covered by K-pop idols, including Yunho of TVXQ.
Lim Chang-jung’s emotive vocals resonate gently in this song, giving it a charm that makes you want to sing it alone, carefully and quietly.
There are many masterpieces themed around alcohol, and perhaps in Korea they evoke strong empathy and amplify sentimental emotions.
Why did I end up falling in love with you?Tōhōshinki
TVXQ, who are also focusing on activities in Japan, have a signature song called “Why Did I Fall in Love with You?” It drew major attention, including winning a Japan Record Award, so many people are likely familiar with it.
The lyrics depict, from a male perspective, a love for the woman who left him.
A key point is how the title phrase is subtly changed step by step to delve deeper into his feelings.
By the way, the song also has a cappella and remix versions.
They offer a different vibe, so give them a listen.
Brave김종완(of NELL)
It was featured in Part 1 of the courtroom human drama Extraordinary Attorney Woo, which became a massive hit in 2022.
The hitmaker Noh Young-sim, who also worked on other parts, wrote and composed the song, and Kim Jong-wan of the rock band NELL performs it.
Along with the appeal of an individual, it also feels like it sings about the important things you come to realize while spending time together.
It gently resonates as if speaking for the feelings of Woo Young-woo’s colleagues, drawing you in with its deeply expressive vocals.