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: Masterpiece Ballads by Korean Male Artists (81–90)
Miss You방예담(BANG YEDAM)
A piano ballad delivered by former TREASURE member Bang Yedam.
It was pre-released from his first mini album, “ONLY ONE,” which came out in November 2023.
This breakup song captures the feelings right before parting, echoing the loneliness and sentimentality of autumn and winter.
The bittersweet ache of losing someone irreplaceable is made even more resonant by Yedam’s deep expressive power.
I highly recommend listening along with the music video, where you can see Yedam playing the piano.
It’s incredibly beautiful and draws you in instantly.
향기이석훈(LEESEOKHOON)
The lead track included on the fourth mini-album, “Untitled.” Released by Lee Seok Hoon of SG WANNABE, also known as Trainer Seok Hoon from the audition program “BOYS PLANET.” It’s a breakup song that vividly paints a scene.
The lyrics, layering lingering scents with unsevered feelings, resonate poignantly alongside Seok Hoon’s gently affecting vocals.
Though sentimental, it also carries a subtle warmth that hints at a future ahead—a deeply resonant ballad with rich emotional depth.
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.
It’s Love(사랑인걸)Huh Gak(허각)
A master of tear-jerking ballads, South Korean singer Huh Gak spins a heartrending breakup song.
Released in July 2024, it voices feelings for someone that won’t fade even as the days pass.
It captures relatable emotions—the way words of love can trigger pain and the longing to hold someone again.
With a runtime exceeding eight minutes, the track’s structure highlights its deep emotional expression.
True to Huh Gak’s reputation for acclaimed drama OSTs, this work seeps into the heart alongside its visuals.
It’s a song that will quietly stay by your side on nights when you want to soothe the ache of heartbreak.