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!
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Heartfelt K-pop: Iconic Ballads by Korean Female Artists (1–10)
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!
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.
I Will Go To You Like The First Snow AileeAilee
This song by Ailee is part of the OST for the hugely popular drama Goblin, starring Gong Yoo.
It’s a wistful and romantic piece.
It conveys the hope of meeting once more the lover who changed your world when you met them.
The title phrase “first snow” is especially striking.
The expression about wanting to go see the person who taught you your first feelings, and to become, like the first snow, the first of something for them too, is heart-fluttering.
K-pop that touches the heart: Masterpiece ballads by Korean female artists (11–20)
BREATHELee Hi
Debuting with YG Entertainment at 17, Lee Hi is, above all, an artist with outstanding vocal ability! The title “한숨” means “sigh.” This is a song you’ll want to listen to when things aren’t going well, when you’re tired, or when you’re going through tough times.
Or a song you’ll want someone to hear.
It’s a gentle song that watches over you even in those sigh-filled moments.
I’m Fine Thank YouLadies’ Code
Did you all know the girl group called Ladies’ Code? They were a talented group, but they never quite got a major hit.
Then, before they could break through, a tragedy occurred: members RiSe and EunB died in a traffic accident while traveling.
This song is filled with feelings of farewell and remembrance for the two of them.
I think it’s rare for an idol song to make the words “goodbye” and “thank you” resonate so deeply in the heart.
Love wins allIU
An emotionally stirring ballad that begins with delicate piano and gradually unfolds into majestic strings.
Released in January 2024 by IU, a beloved Korean singer, the song features lyrics written by IU and composition/arrangement by Seo Dong-hwan.
With her clear, soaring voice, she skillfully conveys shifting emotions, and the key change near the end brings the feelings to a powerful climax that resonates deeply.
The music video, featuring BTS’s V, drew attention for its short-film-like quality, telling a story through the pair’s expressions and gestures without any dialogue.
It’s a perfect track for moments when you feel worn out by daily life or want to reflect on someone special.
You won’t forget meKIM CHAEHYUN
Kim Chaehyun, who enchants as Kep1er’s main vocalist with her clear, crystalline voice.
This work, released in December 2025 as her first solo single, showcases a different side from her group activities and lets her individuality shine.
It’s a ballad built on a band sound, carefully conveying the complex emotions that linger after a breakup—feelings of loss and lingering attachment.
Chaehyun’s delicate yet resolute vocals draw you in, expressing a heart-wrenching poignancy.
Produced as part of a collaborative project involving Dreamus Company and others, it also sparked buzz with behind-the-scenes footage revealing the recording process.
It’s a track that seems to melt into the cold air of winter, best enjoyed alone on a quiet night.