K-pop and Korean love songs: Love songs that really capture the Korean view of romance

Lonely (Feat. 태연)JONGHYUN

JONGHYUN 종현 ‘Lonely (Feat. 태연)’ MV

A solo song released by SHINee’s Jonghyun in 2017.

It was included as the title track of what became his final album, Story Op.2, featuring Taeyeon from Girls’ Generation.

Even when you’re together, you can sometimes feel a vague sense of unease, or wonder if being with you might be a burden… We all have those thoughts, don’t we? The more you care about someone, the more it can hurt; because they’re precious, your feelings deepen.

While this song portrays a blue, melancholy state of mind, it’s wrapped in the gentle vocals of the two artists.

It’s a track that might help you face your feelings slowly when you’re worn out by love.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

어떻게 이별까지 사랑하겠어, 널 사랑하는 거지악동뮤지션 (AKMU)

AKMU – ‘어떻게 이별까지 사랑하겠어, 널 사랑하는 거지(How can I love the heartbreak, you`re the one I love)’ M/V

This is the title track of their third full album, SAILING, which is filled with songs that Lee Chan-hyuk, the older brother, wrote about what he felt while at sea.

It’s a song about parting with a lover, and it’s so heartrending that I can’t listen without tears.

AKMU, the sibling pop duo known for dominating digital charts, has racked up numerous No.

1s with this track as well, and it looks like their upcoming records will draw a lot of attention too.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

조금 취했어 (Prod. 2soo)임재현

[MV] Lim Jae Hyun(임재현) _ I’m a little drunk(조금 취했어) (Prod. 2soo)

Im Jae-hyun’s sweeping ballad that made headlines by climbing back up the charts to reach No.

1 after “If Love Had Practice” is a mysterious release from an artist about whom little is known, yet his assured vocal prowess captivates listeners.

It’s a song that envisions an ex you long to see but can’t, and the lyrics are heartbreakingly poignant.

Listening to it in the same situation would make your chest tighten unbearably.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

LOVE DIVEive

IVE 아이브 ‘LOVE DIVE’ MV

IVE made a striking debut in 2021 amid great expectations.

This is the title track from their second release, LOVE DIVE.

Its lyrics capture that almost universal feeling in love—wanting to know more about the person you like—and give a boost to a romance that’s about to take off.

The dreamy mood, drifting through a range of emotions, feels like it could accompany all kinds of love stories.

IVE’s unique world, blending glamour with cool allure, draws you deep into your heart.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

Last night (Guitar by Park Juwon)JEONGHAN X WONWOO (SEVENTEEN)

JEONGHAN X WONWOO (SEVENTEEN) ‘어젯밤 (Guitar by 박주원)’ Official MV

A sweet and bittersweet love song from a unit born out of the popular Korean group SEVENTEEN, performed by Jeonghan and Wonwoo.

It’s included on their debut single album THIS MAN, released in June 2024.

The lyrics, which tell the story of a man who visits in dreams, create a mysterious atmosphere.

Set to a medium tempo, the track unfolds a dark, seductive world.

Park Juwon’s guitar further elevates the song’s appeal.

It’s a track that stirs a mature romantic sensibility—perfect for listening alone at night.

Recommended not only for SEVENTEEN fans but also for anyone who enjoys smooth, moody K-pop.