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

Smile Good ByeJUNGWOO

[푸바오와 할부지 OST Part.1] 정우 (JUNGWOO) – 이젠 웃으며, 안녕 (Smile Good Bye) MV

Jungwoo, who is active as a member of NCT, delivers a ballad for the soundtrack of the film “Fu Bao and Grandfather.” The touching work portrays the farewell between Fu Bao—the first panda in South Korea to be successfully bred naturally—and the “grandfather” who cared for her.

Released on March 23, 2024, Jungwoo’s gentle vocals resonate with tender poignancy.

The lyrics, filled with gratitude and well-wishes for Fu Bao as she returns to China, convey the bond between animals and humans.

In the music video, you can see Jungwoo singing in the studio along with adorable footage of Fu Bao.

It’s a song that leaves a warm afterglow, offering comfort to anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.

Lonely Stars (Korean Ver.)SEUNGKWAN

Lonely Stars (Korean Ver.)

This is a song released in March 2024 by Seungkwan, the main vocalist of the popular Korean idol group SEVENTEEN.

It was produced as part of the soundtrack for the game ASTRA: Knights of Veda.

Centered on themes of loneliness and heartache, the piece portrays a deep bond through which two people can feel each other’s presence even when they’re far apart.

Seungkwan’s beautiful, emotionally expressive voice enhances the song’s appeal even more.

Its hopeful message—that no matter how far apart we are, our hearts remain connected—is sure to be encouraging.

Like stars in the night sky, it’s a track that makes you feel that even from a distance, we can shine for one another.

Don’t be the love that goes byMonday Kiz

[MV] Monday Kiz(먼데이 키즈) _ Don’t be the love that goes by(스쳐가는 인연이 되지 마요)

Monday Kiz, a powerhouse Korean vocal unit, has released a gem of a ballad where sorrow and beauty harmonize.

Since their formation in 2005, they’ve been known for numerous classic albums like El Condor Pasa and Inside Story, and here they sing of the transience of love that has passed.

Lee Jin-sung’s clear, transparent vocals blend with elegant piano and string arrangements to create a deeply moving piece.

This song is recommended for those who wish to empathize with the end of a romance or lingering feelings, and for anyone seeking to soothe the emotions hidden deep in their heart.

Why did I end up falling in love with you?Tōhōshinki

Tohoshinki / Why Did I Fall in Love with You?

This song, which could be called one of TVXQ’s signature tracks, is a heartrending love ballad.

I think even people who aren’t interested in K-pop have probably heard it at least once.

The lyrics, depicting a man and woman drifting past each other, are truly heart-wrenching.

When it comes to a tear-jerking love ballad from a male perspective, this is the one that comes to mind.

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Pray임한별, 에스페로

[MV] Lim Hanbyeol(임한별), Espero(에스페로) _ Pray(기도)

It’s a medium-tempo ballad filled with heartfelt emotion.

South Korea’s highly skilled artist Lim Han-byul and the crossover group Espero collaborated on this track.

Released in February 2024, it resonated deeply with many music fans.

Composed by the renowned Cho Young-soo, the song beautifully fuses Lim Han-byul’s moving vocals with Espero’s harmonies.

The lyrics, portraying high school baseball players on the verge of defeat as they try to face forward, are especially striking.

Carrying a message of perseverance and hope, this piece is perfect for moments when you need courage or a boost of encouragement.

Snowfall at NightD.O

도경수 Doh Kyung Soo ‘밤에 내린 눈 (Snowfall at Night)’ MV

A winter ballad that portrays warm emotions and memories of love resonating on a quiet, snowy night.

Created by D.O., known as the main vocalist of EXO, this piece rides on gentle melodies woven by piano and acoustic guitar, singing of nostalgic memories and the joy of reunion.

D.O.’s richly expressive and delicate voice has the power to transcend language barriers and touch the heart.

Released on January 17, 2025, this song is a winter gift.

When you seek warmth in the cold season or wish to reflect on memories with someone dear, please give it a listen.

D.O.’s tender voice will settle softly in your heart like falling snow.

I Remember (yours)Paul Kim

폴킴 (Paul Kim) ‘난 기억해 (yours)’ | MV

This is a song that truly sinks in, with Paul Kim’s voice gently wrapping around a mellow melody.

The Korean singer-songwriter released it in January 2025.

The lyrics weave themes of past love and memories of those we’ve lost, filled with bittersweet longing and nostalgia.

It delicately portrays self-sacrificial love for a former partner and the wish for their happiness, resonating deeply with listeners.

The music video is also out, letting you immerse yourself even more in the song’s world.

Give it a listen when you’re feeling lonely or craving a gentle voice in your ear.