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

FloweringLucy

[MV] LUCY _ Flowering(개화)

LUCY is a four-member South Korean band known for their unique lineup that incorporates the sound of the violin into a band setting.

“Flowering,” included on their single album DEAR.

released in May 2020, showcases a refreshing and radiant performance that heralds the arrival of spring, driven by exhilarating string melodies.

The lyrics liken buds blooming to the start of a new chapter in life, making it perfect for the graduation season when many embark on fresh beginnings.

After some time had passed since its release, the song drew renewed attention on music charts in April 2024 and has since become a spring staple.

In this season where anxiety and anticipation mingle, you can feel a gentle, encouraging warmth.

Give it a listen when you need the courage to take a new step forward.

Graduation Day (졸업하는 날)IU

[Japanese Translation / Lyrics Video / K-POP] IU (아이유) / Graduation Day (졸업하는 날) Congratulations on your graduation!!

IU, a leading female singer from Korea.

Her song ‘Graduation Day (졸업하는 날)’ features lyrics that positively push through the loneliness of graduation.

When it comes to graduation songs, many people might first think of ballads, but this track is a rare, refreshing mid-tempo piece.

With an acoustic flavor and a pace that isn’t too upbeat, its tone might fit your state of mind perfectly.

Along with her hit song ‘Good Day,’ it’s highly recommended for graduation season!

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Give LoveAKMU (Akdong Musician)

Akdong Musician(AKMU) – GIVE LOVE M/V

AKMU is a Korean duo made up of real-life siblings.

Among their songs, this piece stands out for its unique perspective inspired by a smartphone game.

It captures the frustration of unrequited love—when the person you like just won’t notice you—through a lively rhythm and an approachable melody.

Many listeners may find the persistent, undaunted approach overlapping with bittersweet memories of their youth.

Included on their debut album PLAY, released in April 2014, it also drew attention for its music video filmed in Okinawa.

Emerging after their success on the SBS program K-POP STAR, this track can be considered a cornerstone of their beginnings.

Give it a listen when you need courage to dive into a new environment.

TimelessSG WANNABE

Timeless

In the Korean music scene of the 2000s, SG Wannabe was the male vocal group that sparked a ballad boom with their overwhelming vocal prowess.

The song that marked their debut and continues to be loved to this day is this very track.

Set to a medium-tempo, emotive melody, it portrays a heartrending, helpless cry at the moment of parting.

The earnest message for the one who is leaving and the dramatic harmonies woven by the three members are sure to bring listeners to tears.

Included on the 2004 album “SG Wanna Be+,” the song resurfaced on the music charts in 2021—17 years after its release—creating buzz with a “reverse run” phenomenon.

It’s a piece that will move your heart, especially in the season when farewells and new beginnings intersect—be sure to give it a listen.

RoughGFRIEND

여자친구 GFRIEND – 시간을 달려서(ROUGH) M/V

GFRIEND is a six-member group that established their unique style of “power innocence,” combining pure, clean visuals with flawlessly synchronized, powerful dance.

Their song “Rough,” the title track of their 2016 mini-album Snowflake, is beloved by many.

The driving strings and lyrical melody intertwine to create a poignant yet beautifully dramatic soundscape.

The lyrics portray a girl’s feelings as she graduates from school, wishing to grow up quickly so she can be closer to the one she loves—words that resonate deeply during the season of farewells.

A masterpiece that became a social phenomenon at the time, it won 15 trophies on music shows.

Give it a listen when you need courage to step into a new world or when you want to look back on precious memories.

TurbulenceATEEZ

ATEEZ(에이티즈) – ‘야간비행 (Turbulence)’ Official MV

When it comes to a song that likens the restlessness of youth and the anxiety of an unseen future to a night flight, it has to be “Turbulence.” ATEEZ, a group that captivates the world with overwhelming performance power, delicately sings of inner conflict.

Featuring an emotional, grand rock sound that expresses a heart tossed about like it’s caught in turbulence, the track resonates with those who struggle with a reality that won’t move as they wish, yet still try to find meaning in continuing to fly.

Included on the 2021 album “ZERO : FEVER EPILOGUE,” it’s a song that gently accompanies anyone standing at the major milestone of graduation and hesitating to take a step toward the future.

Give it a listen—this is a track that will grant you the courage to believe in yourself, even in the dark.

GraduationBroccoli, You Too?

[MV] 브로콜리너마저 (Broccoli, you too?) – 졸업 (Graduation)

In South Korea’s indie scene, Broccoli, You Too? is a band that delicately captures everyday emotions in their lyrics.

This enduringly beloved work, one of their signature pieces, candidly portrays the vague anxiety and loneliness felt at the milestone of graduation.

With understated band arrangements and Yoon Deok-won’s vocals, it poignantly expresses the feelings of young people facing not only a hopeful future but also harsh realities.

Released in October 2010 as the title track of the album “Graduation” (졸업), it received high acclaim, including winning Best Modern Rock Song at the Korean Music Awards.

It will resonate with those who, buffeted by society’s rough waters, still wish to remember the people who matter to them.

When you find yourself at a crossroads, feeling uneasy at night, lend an ear to these words that quietly stay by your side.