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

A Goose’s DreamInsooni

[Official Audio] 인순이(Insooni) – 거위의 꿈 Goose’s Dream (Original)

As a leading R&B diva representing South Korea, Insooni has been active at the forefront for many years.

Since her debut in 1978, she has continued to captivate many people with her overwhelming vocal prowess.

Among her signature songs that offer courage during graduation season is Goose’s Dream (거위의 꿈).

It’s a 2007 remake of Carnival’s 1997 release and garnered a huge response at the time.

The song carries a message of overcoming harsh realities by likening oneself to a goose trying to fly despite its heavy body.

The powerful vocals and dramatic melody come together to give listeners a strong push forward.

Known as well for taking first place on music shows over idol groups, this piece is a standout.

Consider keeping it as a charm when you spread your wings into a new world.

졸업J.Y. Park

졸업

J.Y.

Park has long been at the forefront of the Korean music scene.

On his 1998 album “Even After Ten Years..

(십년이 지나도..),” there’s a ballad that’s perfect for graduation season.

The track features composition by Bang Si-hyuk, who would later become a global hitmaker.

It portrays the bittersweet feelings of trying to accept a parting with a smile in order to move on to a new path.

Many may relate to the lyrics, which pair an adult’s resolve to end a relationship beautifully with tears that can’t be held back.

It’s a song that gently accompanies you when you’re standing at a crossroads in life and feeling the loneliness of leaving someone important.

Immerse yourself in its memorable melody, and take that first step forward.

Dear DREAMNCT DREAM

Dear DREAM

NCT DREAM is a boy group under SM Entertainment.

Among their songs, one that portrays the strong bond between the members is “Dear DREAM.” It’s a moving track in which the members weave their words like letters to Mark, who was set to leave the group due to the graduation system at the time.

Its warm message—“Memories become strength for the future”—gently envelops the sadness of parting.

The song was included on the mini-album “We Go Up,” released in September 2018.

Lyrics written by four members, including Mark, resonate with an honest, down-to-earth sincerity.

This song, which stands close to the ache of parting from dear friends, is perfect as background music for graduation season.

Be sure to listen to this ballad that feels like a page out of youth.

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.

Time of Our LifeDAY6

DAY6 “Time of Our Life(한 페이지가 될 수 있게)” M/V

This work carries a passionate message that seeks to etch the brilliant moments of youth into our hearts as “a page in life.” It was released as the title track of South Korean powerhouse band DAY6’s mini-album “The Book of Us: Gravity,” unveiled in July 2019.

Characterized by an exhilarating pop-rock sound, the track features driving drum beats intertwined beautifully with keyboard tones.

The members themselves handled the songwriting and composition, and you can feel an energy that strongly propels those about to embark on a new world.

It’s a landmark number in their career, earning them their first-ever win on a music program.

Be sure to give it a listen on your way home after graduation, when your heart is brimming with hope for the future.

Campfire (캠프파이어)SEVENTEEN

Campfire (캠프파이어)

“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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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.