K-pop that touches the heart: iconic ballads by Korean female artists
What kind of songs move you? When you hear those pure, soaring high notes that only a clear, expansive female vocal can deliver, it feels like your heart is being cleansed—a sensation that gently seeps in.
In particular, many Korean singers have a passionate, emotionally rich singing style that really shakes you to your core.
Among them, we’ve carefully selected standout ballads by female vocalists! From intimate, everyday-friendly tracks to grand, sweeping pieces that only ballads can offer… you’re sure to be moved!
Heartfelt K-pop: Iconic Ballads by Korean Female Artists (1–10)
Either Wayive
Since their debut, the girl group IVE has continued to captivate people—not only through records and accolades, but in so many other ways as well.
This song is one of the three title tracks that were pre-released from their first EP, ‘I’VE MINE,’ which came out in October 2023.
I’m sure some listeners were shocked when they first heard it.
It’s a message song that stands in stark contrast to their past work, which has showcased glamorous charm and powerful styles, yet you can still feel IVE’s core shining through.
The deeper you empathize, the more it resonates—a ballad whose gentle words offer comfort, perfectly suited to the present moment.
To My YouthBolbbalgan4
Korean singer Bolbbalgan4.
Her name is read as Porupalgan Sachungi, and in Japan she’s also known as Akahoppo Shishunki (Red Cheek Puberty).
Her song “To My Youth” is a poignant ballad looking back on a youth that wasn’t loved by those around her.
The original is in Korean, but there’s also a Japanese version titled “To My Adolescence” (Watashi no Shishunki e).
Her crystal-clear voice amplifies the sorrowful lyrics many times over, making them all the more compelling.
If you listen to this song while reading the lyrics, your tension will melt away—and the tears won’t stop.
if（만약에）Taeyeon
When it comes to indispensable K-pop girl groups, Girls’ Generation is a must.
And at the core of the group is, of course, Taeyeon, the lead vocalist.
This song is one of Taeyeon’s solo tracks, and it’s truly moving.
As the title “If (만약에)” suggests, when we’re in love, the word “if” often pops into our heads.
“What if I do this and he leaves me—wouldn’t that be heartbreaking?” We often think like that, don’t we? Isn’t this a song with so many relatable moments?
Don’t forget me (잊지 말아요)Beku Chiyon
Debuting in 1999, when it comes to ballads in Korea, many people would probably name Baek Ji-young.
She has performed numerous OSTs and has many hits.
This song is from the soundtrack of the popular drama IRIS.
It’s filled with messages to someone you loved but ended up parting ways with.
The part near the end where she wishes for them to come back is heartbreakingly moving.
DOWNPOURI.O.I
This is “소나기,” meaning “Shower,” the final single by I.O.I, the time-limited group formed in season 1 of the audition program Produce 101.
It’s a song about the sadness of parting, but just as a sudden shower soon stops and the sky clears, it carries a message to fans that we’ll be able to meet again soon.
It’s a lovely expression, isn’t it? SEVENTEEN’s Woozi took part in writing and composing the song.
Sour GrapesLE SSERAFIM
LE SSERAFIM made a striking debut in 2022.
The group is composed of five members with rich diversity: two Japanese, two Korean, and one Korean-American.
Their individuality shines through in Sour Grapes, a track that skillfully blends elements of ballad and dance-pop.
The song is included as the closing track on their first mini-album, FEARLESS, and features soothing vocal work that could lull you to sleep right after finishing the album.
HurtNewJeans
NewJeans is a five-member girl group.
Their song “Hurt” is a ballad included on their first mini-album, New Jeans, released in 2022.
Unusually for them, this track has an R&B flavor, and the way the chorus comes in evokes Mariah Carey’s “Honey.” Notably, the production highlights the vocals, creating an immersive feel—as if you’re at karaoke with them!