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

It Was LoveOnestar(임한별)

[MV] Onestar(임한별) _ It Was Love(이별하고 나서야 깨달았어)

Korean singer-songwriter OneStar, also known as Lim Han-byul, has released a moving ballad that portrays the aching heart of a man.

Released in May 2024, the song features striking lyrics about recalling a former lover and realizing he was truly in love, suffused with regret for someone precious he has lost.

Lim Han-byul’s delicate vocals are sure to resonate with listeners.

Known as an OST singer and a master of ballads, OneStar showcases his signature strengths in this work as well.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who has experienced both the joys and sorrows of love.

Lean On MePark Hyung Sik

박형식(Park Hyung Sik) – 내게 기대 (Lean On Me) (닥터슬럼프 OST) Doctor Slump OST Part 6

This is a song distinguished by a melody and vocals that feel as if they’re gently by your side.

Released in March 2024 as part of the OST for the drama “Doctor Slump,” it features the warm, tender voice of Park Hyung-sik from South Korea.

The lyrics emphasize the importance of supporting one another, something many listeners will surely relate to.

Set to a beautiful piano- and guitar-driven arrangement, the song seems to invite you to take the hand of the one you love and walk forward together.

When you find yourself at a crossroads in life, this piece is likely to give you courage.

Park Hyung-sik is also active as an actor and starred in “Strong Girl Bong-soon” in 2017.

PleasePark won

[Special Clip] 박원 – 부디 (viewfinder ver.)

This is a moving song that portrays the bittersweet struggles of love.

Released in July 2024 by Korean singer-songwriter Park Won, the track delicately explores themes of self-sacrifice and farewell.

Its melody, woven with tenderness and poignancy, is sure to leave a deep impression on listeners.

It was also featured as an insert song in the popular Korean drama Snowdrop, adding even more emotion to its scenes.

Expressing the complex feelings of deciding to let go for the sake of a loved one, this song resonates with anyone experiencing the pain and conflict of love.

T.B.HQWER

QWER ‘고민중독’ Official MV

A K-pop track that sings about a cute crush.

It’s by QWER, a four-member Korean girl band, included on their first mini-album MANITO released in April 2024.

Set to an uptempo, J-pop-flavored rock sound, it expresses feelings that can’t quite be put honestly into words.

The irresistibly danceable rhythm and catchy melody are part of its charm.

Listeners will likely relate to the frustration of not being able to say “I like you.” It’s a perfect song for teen and twenty-something women wrestling with love.

The sprightly drum-and-bass beat, accented by guitar, stirs the listener’s heart.

Love 119RIIZE

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘Love 119’ MV

A sweet number by RISE that captures the pounding heart and the mystery of love.

Its piano melodies and rhythm brimming with a strong beat are striking, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

The lyrics are captivating, comparing the intense emotions of falling in love to an emergency.

Released in January 2024, the song also drew attention for its music video themed around youth and first love.

Perfect for those who want to relive the flutter and bittersweet feelings of romance.

Please enjoy this heart‑pounding love song by a seven‑member Korean boy group.

One KissRIIZE

RIIZE 라이즈 ‘One Kiss’ MV

A sweet love song by RIIZE that entrusts the encounter with a destined lover to a single kiss.

Set to an addictive rhythm and melody, the vow of eternal love is expressed with striking directness.

Featured on their first mini-album “RIIZING,” released in April 2024, the track also comes with a music video filmed in Lisbon, Portugal, brimming with a romantic atmosphere.

It’s a song packed with the charm of RIIZE, a seven-member boy group from Korea.

Perfect for ending a happy day spent with someone special—and recommended for anyone who wants to savor the feeling of being in love.

Happy EndRothy

로시(Rothy) – ‘Happy End’ Official MV

It’s a sweet love song where cuteness and bittersweetness coexist.

Released in June 2024 by Korean solo singer ROSÉ, it’s her first new track in about seven months.

With a rhythmic melody and a soft, airy vibe, ROSÉ’s gentle vocals resonate pleasantly.

Pop sensibilities and deep emotional expression blend beautifully, wrapping listeners in warmth.

Retro touches add a curious charm that mixes nostalgia with freshness.

A perfect song for drives or strolls.

The slightly wistful lyrics, which tickle the heart of someone in love, are also a highlight.