[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 popular songs that color the story: Best masterpieces (121–130)
Dream HighIU, Kim Soo Hyun,Taecyeon, Eunjung, Suzy, Wooyoung
It’s the OST from the 2011 school drama “Dream High.” Same title, right? It’s a masterpiece co-produced by Bae Yong-joon and Park Jin-young, who is also TWICE’s producer.
Just like the drama, the soundtrack is star-studded, featuring members like miss A’s Suzy, 2PM’s Taecyeon, T-ARA’s Eunjung, and 2PM’s Wooyoung! It’s such a great set of songs—I really want you to listen to it at least once!
Waikiki WonderlandUlala Session
Set in a guesthouse, this story portrays the love and dreams of six men and women.
It stars Kim Jae-hyun from Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People, Lee Yi-kyung and Han Yoon-ah from Mirror of the Witch, and Son Seung-won from Age of Youth, among other fresh young actors who deliver passionate performances.
It joyfully sings of the lively, chaotic everyday lives of young people.
첫눈이 온다구요이정석
The song “첫눈이 온다구요” by Lee Jong-seok, which was featured in the drama Reply 1988, has been gaining renewed attention.
It also became an even bigger topic after Park Bo-gum showcased a performance of it on his YouTube channel.
It’s a snow-themed love song with a soothing, laid-back sound that’s sure to heal your heart.
Be sure to check out both the original version and Park Bo-gum’s performance.
His rendition is arranged with a Christmas carol touch.
Don’t you know (모르시나요)Davichi
The OST from the drama IRIS II is characterized by a deeply resonant melancholy.
Released in February 2013 by the Korean female duo Davichi, it’s a ballad that powerfully conveys the ache of unrequited love.
The exquisite harmonies woven by Lee Hae-ri and Kang Min-kyung delicately express the pain of lost love.
It received high acclaim, including a nomination for Best OST at the Mnet Asian Music Awards.
Featured in key scenes of the drama, it was remade by ZO ZAZZ and became a massive hit in Korea in January 2025.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak or cleanse your heart.
Eternal LoveMichael Learns to Rock
Michael Learns to Rock is a pop and soft rock band formed in Denmark in 1988.
They have received numerous awards in countries around the world, including Germany and Singapore.
This track was released in 2015 and was used in the Korean TV drama ‘Healer.’
Don’t ForgetBaek Ji Young, Jang Ji Eun
A romance-suspense starring Lee Byung-hun and Kim Tae-hee.
The protagonist, a soldier, falls for a beautiful student who is the heroine.
His best friend also falls for her, forming a love triangle.
But due to betrayal within the military, the protagonist, his best friend, and even the heroine end up becoming enemies.
“Don’t Forget” sings about the pain of not being able to easily become mutual lovers.
A Little BraverNew Empire
New Empire was an Australian rock band active from 2005 to 2015.
They were also known for supporting tours by acts like Good Charlotte and Owl City.
This track is featured on their 2014 album “In A Breath” and was used in the Korean TV drama “Uncontrollably Fond.”
stand by meSHINee
A song that begins with the sweet voice of Onew, SHINee’s leader who is hugely popular in both Japan and Korea, and Jonghyun, whose voice is just as sweet as the leader’s.
This song has not only Korean lyrics but also a Japanese-lyrics version, so it’s fun to listen to and compare the Korean and Japanese versions.
San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)Scott McKenzie
A track produced by John Phillips of The Mamas & the Papas.
It became the unofficial theme song of the Monterey International Pop Music Festival held near San Francisco.
It is used in the Korean TV drama The Innocent Man.
Ode To My FamilyThe Cranberries
A beautifully emotional track released in 1994 by The Cranberries.
It was inspired by lead vocalist Dolores O’Riordan’s struggle with her parents and Irish traditions after deciding to become a rock star.
It was featured in the Korean TV drama “Dear My Friends.”