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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K-pop that touches the heart: Masterpiece ballads by Korean female artists (11–20)
Flower Tea (꽃차)OH MY GIRL
It’s pretty rare for idols to perform with just vocals, without dance or choreography.
The song “Flower Tea (꽃차)” is the opening track on OH MY GIRL’s seventh mini album “NONSTOP,” released in 2020.
With lyrics like “I’ll stay by your side even on cold days, and I’ll bring you flower tea,” it tells a bittersweet yet heartwarming story.
While there are plenty of Japanese translations of the lyrics online, this is a song that resonates deeply even when listened to in the original Korean.
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.
Because I am a woman (여자이니까 )BEN
Ben, a singer renowned as the Queen of Ballads and noted for her work on OSTs such as Hotel Del Luna, released Because I Am a Woman in 2021.
It’s a remake of the classic hit originally released by the band K.I.S.S in 1991.
While the original has a certain warmth to its mood, this remake highlights the poignancy with its lyrical melody and Ben’s deeply expressive vocals.
Partings are always painful, and the more you love, the more you feel the ache.
The song captures that tender, aching heart so intensely it tightens your chest.
A ballad resonating with a deep, embracing love—utterly moving.
Foreveraespa
Debuting in 2020, aespa—a girls’ group known for their striking near-futuristic style using avatars—released this winter ballad in 2021.
It’s a remake of a song from SM Entertainment’s 2000 album “Winter Vacation In SMTOWN.com,” originally by senior SM artist and prolific composer Yoo Young-jin, who also handled the new arrangement himself.
Beyond the beautiful acoustic guitar and strings, the sweet melody and the members’ lovely vocals are utterly enchanting.
Its slightly retro feel is charming, and it’s packed with the best of K-pop’s pure-love storytelling.
Meaning “forever,” this song would suit a wedding, and it’s a highly recommended ballad overflowing with a soothing warmth that gently comforts a tired heart.
Longing For The One I LostHYNN
A heart-stirring love ballad that weaves together melancholy and hope.
It’s a definitive track released in December 2024 by the highly skilled singer-songwriter Hynn (Park Hye-won).
The song gives voice to lingering feelings and regrets for a lost lover, along with a poignant wish to meet again.
Hynn’s powerful yet delicate vocals beautifully capture the pain and nostalgia of heartbreak.
Another highlight is that Young K of the popular band DAY6 penned the lyrics.
With emotionally rich vocals and relatable lyrics, this song is sure to leave a deep impression on listeners.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to reflect on a past relationship or renew your feelings for someone special.
Why not let yourself be carried away by Hynn’s soulful voice?
Beautiful WomanLee Ye Joon
Singer Lee Ye-jun will release a new song in January 2025.
It’s a poignant ballad about deep sorrow and regret after losing a loved one.
The arrangement is simple yet emotionally powerful, highlighting Lee Ye-jun’s clear, resonant vocals.
Moments of parting and the plea to be loved once more are expressed through a beautiful harmony of piano and strings.
It’s the perfect song for healing the pain of heartbreak or reflecting on someone precious.
Soul-stirring K-pop: Masterful ballads by Korean female artists (21–30)
Eternal LightJINSOL
JINSOL, formerly a member of APRIL and now active as a singer-songwriter—pronounced Jin-sol.
Building on the well-regarded vocal skills she showcased during her group days, she creates works that project her own emotions.
Her new song is Eternal Light, released in February 2026 as her 4th digital single, an R&B ballad that evokes the end of winter.
Centered on themes of an undying light and love, its strong, message-driven appeal comes from her direct involvement in writing and composing.
The gentle piano intertwined with her warm voice resonates with a vow to stay by your side even in the storm.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to alone late at night, recommended for those who enjoy calm ballads.