K-pop that touches the heart: masterful ballads by Korean male artists
What kind of songs move you?
When you hear a male vocalist who effortlessly moves from deep lows to falsetto, with a voice that wraps around you, it brings a soothing sense of comfort that sinks right in.
Many Korean singers, in particular, have a passionate, emotionally rich style that truly grips the heart.
Among them, we’ve carefully selected standout ballads by male vocalists!
From intimate songs that feel close to everyday life to ballads with a grand, expansive scale—you’re sure to be deeply moved, to the point of holding back tears!
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K-pop That Touches the Heart: Masterful Ballads by Korean Male Artists (71–80)
About all loveLee MinHyuk
Lee Minhyuk, who is active as a singer and actor, serves as the rapper of the idol group BTOB and also appears in Korean dramas and variety shows.
In 2023, he released a song titled “About all love.” The track carries a message of gratitude for the presence of a beloved partner and family.
Built around a simple arrangement of piano and vocals, it conveys warmth and compassion through his gentle, heartfelt singing.
It’s a ballad that radiates love in its lyrics, melody, and performance.
어디에도M.C The Max
In their early days, the band M.C THE MAX received songs from Japanese artists and even had production by YOSHIKI.
This is a ballad released in 2016 that sings about the pain of heartbreak.
The lyrics, which mirror the scene of snow piling up with bittersweet emotions, are excellent and gently resonate in the heart.
It seems quite difficult to pull off at karaoke, but it’s said to be a familiar number for Korean men.
According to TJ Communication, it was the most-sung song in 2016 and has become a long-loved karaoke staple.
HERO (From the Film ″Firefighters″)Park Hyo Shin
A gem of a ballad by Park Hyo-shin.
His duet with BTS’s V, “Winter Ahead,” also made waves.
This song was written as the theme for the film “Firefighter,” released in December 2024.
Park Hyo-shin was involved in every step—lyrics, composition, and arrangement—marking his first new release in five years.
It carries a message for those who quietly express love out of sight and devote themselves without fanfare.
Park Hyo-shin’s powerful vocals and distinctive timbre truly stand out.
Perfectly in harmony with the film’s profound message, it leaves a deep impression on listeners.
The lyrics, which convey a wish for everyday safety, are perfect for anyone thinking of someone dear.
K-POP That Touches the Heart: Masterpiece Ballads by Korean Male Artists (81–90)
소주 한 잔imu chanjon
Lim Chang-jung, a popular actor and singer who was especially active from the 1990s through the 2000s.
His 2003 release “A Glass of Soju” is a ballad that conveys the aching feelings of lingering attachment to a lover.
It’s a long-loved classic that has been covered by K-pop idols, including Yunho of TVXQ.
Lim Chang-jung’s emotive vocals resonate gently in this song, giving it a charm that makes you want to sing it alone, carefully and quietly.
There are many masterpieces themed around alcohol, and perhaps in Korea they evoke strong empathy and amplify sentimental emotions.
다시 사랑한다면 (니글니글 버터플라이)김필
The original song is by female singer Do Won-kyung from 2001.
This is a cover version by male singer-songwriter Kim Feel, who has worked on various OSTs including Itaewon Class.
His performance on King of Mask Singer drew attention and became popular.
It’s a heartrending love song about how the more two people think of each other, the more it leads to a sorrowful end.
Kim Feel’s resonant voice lingers beautifully, leaving a deep impression.
It has remained high on karaoke charts.
Ballads that stir the emotions like this are truly hugely popular in Korea, and you can really feel their appeal.
Sing the spring(봄을 노래하다)40
A warm melody that evokes the breath of spring and captures the moment when love begins to blossom, this is a 2013 April release by Korean singer-songwriter Forty.
The music video featuring actress BESTie’s Hyeryeong is also memorable.
Forty’s gentle vocals nestle close to the listener’s heart.
The lyrics tenderly wrap around the feelings of someone in love, and the delicate emotional expression is captivating.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while thinking of someone special as the spring breeze blows.
With the arrival of a new season, it’s sure to warm your heart.
EternityDK(DECEMBER)
A song released in March 2024 by DK, a singer-songwriter from South Korea.
It’s tied in as part of the OST for the film “The Last 10 Years” and is a remake of the title track from Choi Jinyoung’s first album.
This ballad showcases DK’s powerful vocals, drawing listeners in with a voice where longing and passion intertwine.
It’s a song that resonates with those bearing the pain of heartbreak and feelings they can’t let go.
As a new challenge for him, formerly active as December, it’s likely to attract attention.
It’s perfect for listening alone on a quiet night, and also makes a thoughtful gift to convey your feelings to someone special.