[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)
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.”
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.
What IfPLAVE
This is the OST for the drama “My Heli” by the Korean virtual boy group PLAVE.
It’s a ballad that portrays a heartrending love, released in October 2024.
The feelings of “what if I had chosen a different path,” woven into the melody, really resonate.
With PLAVE’s characteristically sensitive and expressive delivery, it matches the drama’s world perfectly.
The gentle vocals that seem to embrace universal emotions—such as anxiety about the future and the struggles of making choices—are especially striking.
It’s an emotional track you’ll want to listen to while thinking of someone important to you.
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.
[Korean Drama OST] Classic popular songs that color the story, Best Masterpieces (131–140)
SummerLIZ (IVE)
An insert song for the drama “Love on a Single-Log Bridge,” sung by IVE’s Liz as her first solo OST.
It begins with gentle piano tones, and Liz’s clear, transparent vocals sink deep into the heart.
The lyrics, depicting a love that remains unchanged across time, perfectly match the drama’s worldview.
Released on December 15, 2024, this work showcases her appeal not only as a member of IVE but also as a solo artist.
It’s a recommended track for those nursing a bittersweet love or looking to reflect on memories with someone precious.
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.”