K-POP and Korean tear-jerker songs: tracks that deeply resonate and bring you to tears
When it comes to Korean songs and K-pop, there are so many deeply moving, tear-jerking tracks.
Ballads are especially popular among Koreans.
Here, we’ve carefully selected Korean songs that are so touching they might bring you to tears.
From heartbreak anthems to encouraging tunes and songs about bonds, there are many different kinds of tearful tracks.
The moments that tug at your heartstrings differ from person to person, but we’ve focused on the “tearjerker” points—so be sure to soak them in while reading the bilingual lyrics.
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K-POP and Korean tearjerker songs: tracks that deeply resonate and bring tears (21–30)
Best Of MeBTS
A track that intoxicates with its exquisitely polished melody line and visuals that feel like a coming-of-age film, so moving it tightens your chest.
Occasional images of a lunar eclipse evoke the moon, which can only reveal its presence when lit by the sun.
Two people who once overlapped drift apart, and the plea—“You’re precious to me, so please don’t go”—grips the heart.
The song was provided by The Chainsmokers, the songwriter-producer duo behind a monster hit with 400 million views on YouTube.
한숨 (BREATHE)Lee Hi
A moving ballad by Lee Hi, who debuted as a sensational rookie with overwhelming vocal prowess.
It’s also known for having lyrics penned by SHINee’s Jonghyun.
When I think that each word—so genuinely comforting to the weary—was spun from his own delicate heart and personal struggles, I am left speechless.
The song was performed in his memory at the 32nd Golden Disc Awards.
STAYStray Kids
Released in March 2026 to mark the 8th anniversary of their debut, this is a warm ballad dedicated to the fandom.
While Stray Kids are often associated with hard-hitting beats, this track layers a band sound with piano melodies, resulting in an emotionally rich number full of warmth and embrace.
Seungmin and Han were involved in its production, infusing it with hope for the future—like being each other’s guiding lights in the darkness.
It’s packed with touches that will make longtime fans who have supported them feel deeply moved.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want something that gently warms the heart, or when you want to savor it while thinking of someone special.
Their sincere gratitude shines through, making you want to support them even more!
SmileJ Rabbit
The song that soothes me when I’m having a tough day or feeling down is ‘웃으며 넘길래 (Smile).’ It’s by the female duo J Rabbit—vocalist Jung Hae-sun and instrumentalist Jung Da-woon—and is included on their 2012 album ‘Looking Around.’ It’s the kind of song that gently stays close to the feelings you’re holding in your heart, saying, “There are days like that,” and it moves me to tears.
The piano melody also slips right into those sentimental emotions.
People often say, “Smile especially when times are hard,” and this warm track truly gives you that strength.
Through the NightIU
IU’s ‘Through the Night’ is a song I want you to listen to on nights when your heart overflows with love for someone.
IU’s clear voice pairs perfectly with the honest, sweet lyrics, creating a bittersweet yet warm and gentle masterpiece.
You might even find yourself wanting to fall in love as you listen.
As time goes byPark Boram
A track included on singer Park Boram’s EP “The Last Song,” released to commemorate her 10th anniversary since debut.
It’s a gem of a ballad that tugs at the hearts of ballad fans.
The poignant lyrics about the passage of time and parting, paired with piano melodies and her emotionally rich vocals, resonate deeply.
Released in August 2024, this song is a rearrangement of the piece she performed in the finals of a 2010 audition program.
Coming out after Park Boram’s sudden passing, it has deeply moved her fans.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to reminisce about someone dear.
헤어지자 말해요(Let’s Say Goodbye)박재정(Parc Jae Jung)
Park Jae-jung, whose voice blends gentleness with power, is loved by many.
Among the songs he sings, the heartbreak ballad “헤어지자 말해요 (Let’s Say Goodbye)” is especially known for making listeners cry.
As the title suggests, it portrays a man who wishes the woman would be the one to bring up the breakup, and a woman who tries to do so but hesitates.
However, if you listen closely, you can tell that deep down they don’t really want to part—that’s the part that brings tears.
