K-POP and Korean tear-jerker songs: tracks that deeply resonate and bring you to tears

How can I love the heartbreak, You’re The One I Love악동뮤지션 (AKMU)

AKMU – ‘어떻게 이별까지 사랑하겠어, 널 사랑하는 거지(How can I love the heartbreak, you`re the one I love)’ M/V

Akdong Musician’s tearjerker.

It portrays lovers on the verge of breaking up.

From the man’s point of view, you can tell he doesn’t really want to part with her.

The song is set on a nighttime sidewalk—only streetlights shine; everything else is pitch-black.

The darkness of the night brings out the couple’s loneliness and sorrow.

There’s no sudden, dramatic swell like in classic sob songs, but the quiet delivery only deepens the sadness.

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GoneBANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON

방용국&정대현&유영재&문종업 (BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON) – Gone [Music Video]

A gem of a ballad by Bang Yongguk, Jung Daehyun, Yoo Youngjae, and Moon Jongup, formerly of the boy group B.A.P.

Included on the EP “CURTAIN CALL,” released in August 2024, this track marks their return to the music scene after roughly six years.

It features a sentimental melody and polished arrangement that highlight the members’ matured vocal prowess.

The song conveys nostalgia and hope for lost time and relationships.

Its lyrics—filled with memories of beautiful days and a resolve for new beginnings—are deeply moving.

A song that gently stays by the side of anyone who has experienced a separation from someone dear.

혼술하고 싶은 밤 Lonely nightBEN

Lonely night (혼술하고 싶은 밤)

A song released in December 2020 by Ben, the queen of ballads.

“혼술” means “drinking alone,” and it’s a ballad that stays close to feelings of loneliness and lingering anxiety.

During the pandemic, when it was hard to meet people freely, and in the grind of getting through each day, sometimes you just feel like drinking alone, right? The lyrics feel as if they’re speaking directly to you, and the melody tugs at your heartstrings.

Please take your time and listen.

Ben’s voice seeps deep into your core, and if you play it when you’re worn out, you might just find yourself bursting into tears.

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By Your SideCrush

[essential; With Artist] Crush(크러쉬) – By Your Side

This is a medium-tempo number by R&B singer-songwriter Crush that sings of a sweet, wistful love.

Released in April 2024, the track is the first song in NHN Bugs’ project “essential; With Artist.” Its heartfelt message—overcoming life’s loneliness and anxiety through the bond with a loved one—lingers deeply.

Wrapped in Crush’s gentle vocals, it’s a song that lets you savor the small joys of everyday life.

It’s perfect for when you want to deepen your connection with a partner or someone special, or when you’re seeking soothing, healing sounds.

Nameless (With Jang HyeJin)HUI

후이(HUI) – ‘잡초 (With 장혜진)’ Special Clip

A heartrending ballad that tugs at the heart, this duet features Hui from South Korea and powerhouse singer Jang Hye-jin.

The gentle melody pairs exquisitely with emotional piano, delivering a song of empathy for those who go unrecognized in society, centered on the theme of “nameless existence.” Released in October 2024, this work stands as a new signature piece in Hui’s solo career, who is also active as the leader of PENTAGON.

Its autumnal vibe makes it perfect for the season, and it’s recommended when you’re looking for a warm, comforting message.

Glowing LightHYNN

HYNN(박혜원) ‘가장 찬란한 빛으로 쏟아지는 Glowing Light’ Official MV

HYNN, the songstress, released a track in June 2024 that gently stirs the heart.

This moving song, which makes you feel that light can be found even in the darkness, speaks to the importance of always facing forward.

Created to reflect HYNN’s own experiences and emotions, it delivers a message of holding on to hope even in difficult times.

Her resonant vocals and the beautiful melody leave a strong impression, drawing significant attention immediately after its release.

It’s a piece especially meant for those who want to keep moving forward without giving up, no matter what.

Smile Good ByeJUNGWOO

[푸바오와 할부지 OST Part.1] 정우 (JUNGWOO) – 이젠 웃으며, 안녕 (Smile Good Bye) MV

A heartrending song that will move you to tears.

Sung by NCT’s Jungwoo, this heartwarming ballad portrays the farewell between Fu Bao—the first giant panda born in Korea through natural breeding—and the “grandpa” who cared for her.

Released in March 2024, it drew attention as the theme song for the variety show “Fu Bao and Grandpa.” Jungwoo’s gentle vocals tenderly envelop the sorrow and gratitude of the two as they part ways.

Celebrating the bond between animals and humans, the song will resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced a farewell to someone dear.

The music video also features the adorable Fu Bao.

A touching piece that leaves a calm, lingering afterglow.