[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 the Heart Directly [2026] (41–50)

Start OverGaho

[LIVE] 가호(Gaho) – 시작(Start Over) [음악노들 온 에어]

Start OverGaho

“Start Over,” which was used as the ending theme for the Korean drama Itaewon Class—a major hit in Japan—features vocals by Gaho, a Korean singer who is also active as a producer.

The intro, beginning with a grand drum performance, hints at the start of a new story.

It depicts someone who, like the show’s protagonist, faces any challenge head-on.

This heroic song cheers on students moving forward toward their dreams and goals.

At graduation, a time of new beginnings, take a moment to listen to the passionate band performance and vocals.

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졸업사진 (Graduation Picture)김진호 (Kim Jinho)

김진호 (Kim Jinho) – 졸업사진 (Graduation Picture) MV

졸업사진 (Graduation Picture)김진호 (Kim Jinho)

Kim Jin-ho, who is also active as a member of the vocal group SG Wannabe, has been expanding his career not only as a singer but also as an actor.

In 2017, he released the song “졸업사진 (Graduation Picture).” Carried by a melody centered on beautiful strings and piano, his gentle voice resonates throughout.

Many listeners will relate to the lyrics that evoke memories of days spent at school with dear friends.

It’s a graduation song that makes you want to preserve the moments of laughing and crying together, like photographs, from your school days.

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In conclusion

There are many Korean graduation songs that sing of hope for new beginnings and the bonds between friends. Melodies that resonate beyond language barriers will make the special moment of graduation even more vivid. Whether as a song to give to someone important or as an anthem to encourage yourself forward, be sure to find a favorite track.