[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
- Stylish K-pop and Korean songs. Songs with a nice vibe.
- An emotional Korean song. A gently moving, sensitive masterpiece.
- 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 (31–40)
Divineshōjo jidai
A ballad included on the 2014 best album “THE BEST ~New Edition~.” From Jessica’s opening line, you’re instantly drawn into its world.
The lyrics, which linger on the pain of parting, are impossible to listen to without tears.
I can’t help but think of Jessica… Life often doesn’t go as planned, and time can pass while we remain at odds.
Even so, the unmistakable moments that once shone remain unchangeable proof.
In a world where neither the right answer nor the truth is clear, many SONEs were surely saved by the final line.
It’s a song packed with the feelings and history of the nine-member Girls’ Generation, who defined an era.
너의 이름을Wanna One
Wanna One, a temporary group formed through Produce 101, enjoyed tremendous popularity from the time the show aired all the way until their activities ended.
They’re a powerful group, but many members are also strong vocalists, so ballads like this are especially well-loved.
The final chorus, where the members sing together, is incredibly uplifting.
It really hits you with the tender yet heartbreaking feelings of a guy who, even after the breakup, still wants to cherish the girl he’s no longer with.
BeautifulCrush
When it comes to ballads, many people probably think of this song or have scenes from the drama come flooding back.
Released in 2016 as part of the Goblin OST, the hit song “Beautiful” gently seeps into the heart with its tender piano melody and Crush’s clear, pure vocals.
Its simple, relatable lyrics amplify the song’s beautiful world alongside its dreamy atmosphere.
It’s a masterpiece where the calm feeling of cherishing someone you love flows throughout.
Plant (화분)SEJEONG(세정)
The lead track from Sejeong, the main vocalist of gugudan, on her first solo mini-album released in 2020.
Sejeong’s richly expressive vocals color the song’s gently soothing melody.
The music video, filled with various hues, has a touch of romance and draws you into a world depicted from both the light and the shadow.
Don’t you ever find that a small word or a tiny moment can become a source of support? It’s a beautiful ballad that conveys a warm sense of hope.
Think of YouHA SUNG WOON
In Korea, even idol fans who keep it a secret are sometimes said to be doing “ordinary person cosplay.” This song was featured as an insert track in the romantic comedy drama Her Private Life, which portrays a woman like that.
The singer, Ha Sung-woon, was a member of Wanna One, a time-limited group formed through the audition program Produce 101.
It’s a ballad about unrequited love, and his gentle voice warms the heart.
[Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that truly resonates. Korean Ballads (41–50)
BREATHELee Hi
A soothing ballad for weary hearts.
The lyrics are written to help you relax as you take deep breaths.
When you’re feeling down and sighing, take a deep breath instead.
Exhale until the haze in your chest clears away.
There are times when you’re utterly exhausted and want to rest, but can’t.
Still, this song gently whispers that it’s okay to take a break sometimes.
It wraps around your hunched back with a deep sense of love and kindness.
I want to see you.Kim Bum Soo
This is Kim Bum-soo’s signature song, used as an insert track in the Korean drama “Stairway to Heaven,” which was also a hot topic in Japan.
Many people probably remember it from watching the show.
The lyrics match the drama’s storyline, and it’s a heartrending, tear-inducing ballad that makes the tears flow.