K-pop that touches the heart: masterful ballads by Korean male artists

LingeringRYEOWOOK

RYEOWOOK 려욱 ‘마중 (Lingering)’ MV

A winter ballad filled with bittersweetness and warmth has been born.

It’s a solo song by Ryeowook, the main vocalist of SUPER JUNIOR.

Hailing from Korea, his clear, translucent voice gently envelops the memories of lovers walking through snow-covered streets.

Carried by soft piano melodies, precious memories with a loved one are beautifully painted.

Released in December 2023, this piece is perfect for the winter season.

Its animated music video also wonderfully captures a romantic worldview.

It’s a heartwarming song you’ll want to listen to with someone special—be sure to savor it.

ReturnI Sun-gi (I Seunggi)

Lee Seung Gi (이승기) – 되돌리다 Return (숲 Forest Mini Album)

When it comes to a beloved star in the Korean entertainment world who shines as a singer, actor, and variety show personality, Lee Seung-gi definitely comes to mind! This is a heartrending song that feels like you can hear the inner cries of a man who can’t forget the woman he parted with.

Were the times they spent together happy, or not? I imagine that the time spent pondering that question must be incredibly painful.

Let you go(이별은 늘 그렇게) (Duet. Jeong Eun Ji(정은지))Ho Gaku (heogak)

[MV] Huh Gak(허각) _ Let you go(이별은 늘 그렇게) (Duet. Jeong Eun Ji(정은지))

This is a song released in 2019 by Huh Gak and Jung Eun-ji, who had collaborated several times before.

I’ve heard they’re close in private life as well, and that Jung Eun-ji even did this song without a fee! Their vocal collaboration is truly beautiful, so please give it a listen.

By the way, it’s a very heart-wrenching breakup song, so it might just bring you to tears.

물론Huh Gak

허각(HUHGAK) – ‘물론’ MV

Huh Gak, one of Korea’s leading pop singers known for his emotionally rich vocals, released this as the third track in the remake project “TwoTone” on April 28, 2023.

The original song, a duet by R&B and ballad singer KCM and Zia from 2005, is beloved as a wedding congratulatory song.

It’s a gentle ballad that feels like it’s saying, “I’m always on your side.” Huh Gak’s warm, embracing voice stays close beside you.

It’s a heartwarming song that makes you feel like peaceful days will continue into the future.

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For your futureCHANSUNG(2PM)

CHANSUNG (2PM) / For Your Future (Official Music Video)

The drama theme song sung by 2PM’s Chansung is imbued with a bittersweet desire to rekindle a lost relationship from the past.

Released in December 2024, the track is tied to the Japanese drama “Jun Kissa Inyeon,” in which he stars, and strongly reflects the show’s worldview.

Chansung’s warm vocals feel almost like he’s speaking directly to you, resulting in a moving ballad.

It’s recommended for those who want to move forward after heartbreak and regret.

Enjoying it alongside the drama will bring an even deeper emotional experience.