[Korean Drama OSTs] Classic Popular Songs That Color the Story: Best Masterpieces
A considerable amount of time has passed since Korean dramas first made their way to Japan.
Starting with the spread sparked by Winter Sonata in 2003, and further propelled by the K-POP boom, people have grown more familiar with K-Culture!
Nowadays, it seems to be loved by many people regardless of gender or generation.
Korean dramas, whose popularity keeps rising, produce countless masterpieces every year!
In this article, we’ve researched a wide range of OSTs—from relatively new tracks to popular classics and timeless favorites—covering theme songs and insert songs from Korean dramas.
We hope you’ll look back on fond memories and discover some wonderful OSTs.
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[Korean Drama OSTs] Classic fan-favorite songs that color the story: Best Masterpieces (111–120)
LOVELyn, HanHae
A romance drama depicting a love between an AI and a human.
Seo Kang-joon, known for Cheese in the Trap and Entourage, stars in the lead role.
Hanhae, the rapper from PHANTOM, took part in this track, resulting in a sweet medium-tempo R&B ballad.
Along with the drama’s popularity, the song also reached No.
1 on major Korean download sites.
Every time I see Seo Kang-joon’s sincere, refreshing gaze, my heart flutters!
쿵쿵쿵（Thumping）Kimu Minsun
A light, medium-tempo track from the 2015 drama She Was Pretty’s OST.
It mirrors the feelings of the protagonist, Ji Sung-joon, who wakes up thinking of his lover but feels insecure when he looks in the mirror and thinks he looks unattractive.
The title would be something like “Doki Doki Doki” in Japanese, charmingly likening a racing heartbeat to music.
Kim Min-seung’s sprightly vocals also give the song a warm, comforting feel.
Leave it all behindWonstein
A medium-tempo ballad released in September 2024 by Korean rapper and singer-songwriter Wonstein.
It was produced as part of the OST for the drama “Mr.
Perfect Next Door.” Featuring poetic lyrics that capture the quiet emotions of the night and a sentimental vocal delivery, the song is grounded in an acoustic sound while its emotive melody resonates deeply.
It carries a powerful message about letting go of the burdens of the past and moving forward into the future.
An inspiring track that soothes the heart—perfect for when life wears you down or when you’re ready to take a new step.
Don’t run awayMotte
A track that stands out for singer-songwriter Motteu’s delicate guitar melodies.
Released in September 2018 as part of the web drama A-TEEN’s OST, this piece was written and composed by Motte, gently singing of both the anxieties and hopes of love.
With a clear, transparent vocal tone and a simple yet resonant melodic line, it gradually conveys sincere feelings toward the other person.
The acoustic guitar–centered arrangement is pleasant and naturally captures emotional nuances.
It’s a perfect song for contemplative nights or moments when you want to spend time in calm.
GOLucy
This song was released as the first OST for the fantasy human drama “High School Return of a Gangster,” which is based on a web novel.
The vocalist is Choi Sang-yeop, frontman of the band LUCY, known for their distinctive violin-driven sound.
It exudes the radiant atmosphere characteristic of LUCY, with an upbeat band sound, refreshing melody, and soaring high-tone vocals that lift your spirits.
Somewhere in This UniverseSEUNGKWAN
Sungkwan’s latest song, following a string of unique releases, is a gem of a ballad produced as part of the OST for the Korean drama “Because the Stars Gossip.” Released on February 1, 2025, it plays a key role in enhancing the show’s atmosphere.
Set against the vast expanse of space, the piece captures the emotions of a protagonist searching for their beloved.
Sungkwan’s clear, soaring high notes and rich vocal power convey the poignant feelings beautifully.
He is, of course, also active as a member of SEVENTEEN.
When you want to feel the depth of love for someone dear, this song is sure to resonate with your heart.
HeartIU
Lee Ji-eun, who performs under the name IU, is a South Korean singer-songwriter and actress active since 2008.
This track was released in 2015 and reached No.
1 on the Korean charts.
It was used in the 2015 South Korean television drama The Producers.
April Come She WillSimon&Garfunkel
A folk-rock track released in 1965 by Simon & Garfunkel, produced by Paul Simon.
The track was featured in the 1967 romantic comedy film The Graduate and the Korean television drama Love Rain.
Happy HappySong Bo-Ram
“Happy Happy,” sung by Son Boram.
This track was used in the TV drama “My Girl,” which aired from 2005 to 2006 and won an SBS Drama Award.
The show follows a romance between a cool chaebol heir and a cute swindler.
Passionate to meYounha
Younha is a South Korean singer-songwriter who has been active since 2004.
Also known for her work in Japan, she has won awards including the Mnet Asian Music Awards.
This track was used in the Korean TV drama “Pinocchio.”