[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 OST] Classic Popular Songs That Color the Story: Best Masterpieces (11–20)
괜찮아 (It’s okay)Jejun (KIM JAE JOONG)
An OST for the drama “The Eraser of Bad Memories,” sung by Jaejoong.
Released on September 14, 2024, the song blends delicate piano and guitar arrangements with Jaejoong’s richly varied vocals—often described as a seven-colored voice—creating a sound that resonates deeply.
The lyrics, which repeat the word “It’s okay,” deliver an encouraging message to those facing difficulties.
Mirroring the feelings of the drama’s protagonist, this track is perfect for anyone feeling worn out by daily life or looking to lift someone’s spirits.
With YouWINTER
A tender, sensibility-rich ballad that weaves a heartwarming love story.
Released in December 2023 as part of the OST for the drama “My Demon,” it’s sung by Winter of the popular Korean girl group aespa.
The aching vow of eternal love permeates the heart alongside her delicate vocals.
The feeling of “always be by my side, I want to hold you tight” is carried by gentle lyrics and melody.
Give it a listen when you want to feel the bond with a lover or someone dear.
Winter’s expressive singing will bring warmth even to a cold winter night.
BeautifulPunch
Punch, a South Korean singer-songwriter known for contributing to the OSTs of numerous acclaimed dramas, released this song in July 2024 as part of the soundtrack for the legal drama “Good Partner.” It’s a beautiful ballad with piano and string arrangements, and Punch’s emotive vocals resonate deeply.
The lyrics, which express gratitude toward a loved one and a sense of happiness, are perfect not only for those in love but also for moments when you want to convey your appreciation to someone.
During production, Punch reportedly rewatched scenes from the actual drama multiple times to convey the song’s emotions more authentically.
MeltingCHEEZE
A song featured in Part 1 of the romance drama Forecasting Love and Weather, starring Park Min-young and Song Kang, which portrays office romance and human relationships.
The track is by CHEEZE, an artist who has contributed to various OSTs.
Known for stylish and cute songs, this one also captures the fluttery feelings of a girl torn about whether to confess her feelings—it’ll make your heart skip a beat.
You can really feel the excitement of being in love! Vocalist Dalchong’s sweet and refreshing voice is also very pleasant.
All I do(그대만 떠올라)Roy Kim
This is an OST from Romance Is a Bonus Book starring actor Lee Jong Suk.
It’s a love story between an author who became an editor-in-chief at a young age and a once-popular copywriter who’s doing her best to make a comeback.
It’s a gentle ballad that I think anyone can relate to—one that makes the person you love come to mind in every moment of being in love.
Roy Kim’s delicate vocals really resonate.
The drama is available on Netflix, so if you’re interested, be sure to check it out!
ButterflyJ.UNA
This is the track featured in Part 4 of the romance drama Nevertheless, starring Han So-hee and Song Kang.
I’m sure many people became fans of the two through this drama.
It plays from the early episodes and is one of the most popular OSTs in the series.
The song is by J.UNA, a young singer-songwriter who grew up in Germany.
The melody has a Western pop feel, and the crisp tempo and vocals are very pleasing.
The lyrics, which seem to reflect the feelings of the protagonist Park Jae-eon, might pull you in as well, hinting at suspicion and the push-and-pull of romance.
Every Day, Every Moment)Paul Kim
A slow ballad released by Paul Kim in 2018.
It was featured on the soundtrack of the drama “The Beauty Inside” and became a big hit, greatly boosting his recognition.
Even if you don’t know Paul Kim, you might know this song.
A love song about staying by someone’s side.
Translating the title into Japanese gives “All Days, Every Moment,” which truly feels imbued with precious emotion.
It’s a long-loved song with a gentle warmth that lets you breathe easy.
Highly recommended not only for those who enjoy calm music but also as a musical gift to someone special.
Lean On MePark Hyung Sik
Park Hyung-sik’s “Lean On Me” is a moving message song that emphasizes the importance of supporting one another.
Released in March 2024 as part of the Doctor Slump OST, it also enhances the drama’s sense of immersion.
Park Hyung-sik’s gentle, resonant voice strikes a chord as an anthem for those facing difficult times.
Set to a beautiful melody centered on piano and guitar, it feels as if the song gently urges us to join hands with the ones we love and keep moving forward.
When you find yourself at a crossroads in life, this track will surely give you courage.
What are weHA SUNG WOON
The OST for the drama Love Next Door, released in September 2024.
Sung by Ha Sung Woon, a former member of Wanna One, this piece is a sweet yet bittersweet ballad that portrays a relationship shifting from childhood friends to lovers.
His clear, delicate vocals beautifully capture the nuanced emotions that sway between friendship and romance.
Featured during the drama’s highlight scenes, this song plays a key role in moving the audience.
Highly recommended for those who want to empathize with the feelings of being in love—it will surely deepen your feelings for someone special.
It’s youHenry
The song begins abruptly, with no intro.
The vocalist’s sweet voice and the gently, softly played piano tug at the heart.
From there it keeps accelerating, building up until the chorus reaches a fever pitch.
The breathy, strained high notes convey an intense sense of urgency.