[K-POP] Korea’s graduation song: a message that speaks straight to the heart [2026]

[K-POP] Korea’s graduation song: a message that speaks straight to the heart [2026]

Last updated:2026/1/3

[K-POP] Korea’s graduation song: a message that speaks straight to the heart [2026]

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

At the milestone of graduation, there is music that gently nudges you forward.Did you know that Korea’s music scene is full of heartwarming graduation songs and season-perfect anthems for those embarking on a new chapter?Beyond dazzling dance numbers and powerful tracks, message songs written in down-to-earth language are also a major draw.Lyrics and melodies that embrace complex emotions—farewells tinged with loneliness, hope for the future, bonds with friends—reach straight into the listener’s heart.In this article, we’ve gathered songs that are perfect for the graduation season and beloved in Korea, not limited to K-pop.If you’re looking for a song to give to someone special, we hope this helps you find the perfect one!

[K-POP] Korean graduation songs. Messages that reach straight to the heart [2026] (1–10)

Last BellTWS

TWS (투어스) ‘마지막 축제’ Official MV

Last BellTWS

Tuas is a six-member group that debuted in January 2024 under the banner of “Boyhood Pop,” which expresses the emotions of youth.

Among their songs, the one you’ll want to hear during the winter graduation season is “Last Festival.” It’s a fresh, sophisticated reinterpretation of a classic released in 1993 by Seo Taiji and Boys.

The song carries a bittersweet yet warm story about preparing a “last festival” for a friend who’s about to graduate.

Layering synth sounds with their refreshing vocals, it beautifully conveys both the excitement of a new beginning and the sadness of parting.

The track topped Japan’s Oricon charts.

Let its message—one that turns the final moments with dear friends into beautiful memories—bring you comfort.

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Season of MemoriesGFRIEND

GFRIEND (여자친구) ‘우리의 다정한 계절 속에’ OFFICIAL MV

Season of MemoriesGFRIEND

GFRIEND, a Korean girl group that has created numerous classics with their pure aura and powerful dance, released the title track included on their album “Season of Memories,” unveiled in January 2025 to mark their 10th debut anniversary.

Blending a lyrical, memory-evoking melody with a dance beat, the song unfolds dramatically with the voices of the six members reuniting for the first time in about four years.

With the seasons they spent together held close to their hearts, the lyrics portray a resolve to step into the future, gently encouraging those standing at the milestone of graduation.

Its warm message, affirming an unchanging bond, is sure to bring tears.

Listen to it when parting with a dear friend or believing in a reunion someday—you’ll feel a sense of hope.

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Campfire (캠프파이어)SEVENTEEN

Campfire (캠프파이어)

Campfire (캠프파이어)SEVENTEEN

“Campfire (캠프파이어),” included on SEVENTEEN’s second album TEEN, AGE, is a fan favorite.

The song is a masterpiece that likens the memories made together—gathered in a circle—to a campfire.

Ranging from a beautiful melodic section to a punchy rap part, it’s a highly polished ballad that’s perfect for graduation season.

As a moving ballad, it pairs wonderfully with their track “울고 싶지 않아 (Don’t Wanna Cry)”—be sure to listen to them together!

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GraduationKim Dong Ryul

졸업

GraduationKim Dong Ryul

Kim Dong-ryul, long cherished in the Korean music scene as a “ballad craftsman.” Are you familiar with the duo Exhibition (Jeollamhoe), in which he performed alongside Seo Dong-wook? Their 1997 EP “Graduation” features a title track of the same name, “Graduation.” It begins with a quiet piano melody and expands into a grand orchestral arrangement, characterized by its dramatic structure.

Many will relate to the lyrics that capture the complex mix of anxiety and hope at the milestone of graduation.

Created as a work to conclude their activities as a duo, it carries a poignant sense of parting that tugs at the heart.

Give it a listen as a message to friends embarking on a new chapter.

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GraduationNCT DREAM

[NCT DREAM – Graduation] Comeback Stage | #엠카운트다운 EP.778 | Mnet 221229 방송

GraduationNCT DREAM

A heartwarming song by the male idol group NCT DREAM.

This piece is included on their December 2022 album, Candy.

Set to a gentle melody, it tenderly weaves feelings of graduation.

Incorporating elements of R&B, the sound is ethereal, and the members’ vocals convey real emotion.

While it lingers on the sadness of parting, it also expresses a resolve to take a new step forward.

It’s a song you’ll want to play not only at graduation ceremonies but at life’s milestones.

As you look back on cherished memories, you’re sure to feel hope for the future.

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