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 Resonates with the Heart: Masterpiece Ballads by Korean Male Artists (11–20)
Rhapsody of SadnessLim Jae Hyun
When it comes to poignant ballads, Im Jae-hyun—often considered the very embodiment among Korean male singers—comes to mind.
Released in December 2023, this song delicately portrays the pain of heartbreak and personal growth.
While reflecting on a past relationship, it sings of the resolve to take a new step forward, resonating deeply with listeners.
Jae-hyun’s clear, transparent vocals weave the story with rich emotion.
Earning a long run on the Melon chart, the song has garnered widespread empathy.
For those who have experienced parting with someone dear, it offers gentle comfort.
365 DaysLEE CHANGSUB
A deeply moving ballad sung by Lee Changsub, the main vocalist of BTOB.
Released in December 2025, this track is a collaborative piece with the film “Even If This Love Disappears from the World Tonight.” The original song, released by singer Ailee in 2011, is a classic that likens the pain of parting to the passage of time.
It conveys the desperate feeling of wanting to forget but being unable to, and Changsub’s delicate yet powerful voice intertwines with the lyrics’ worldview to striking effect.
The arrangement is emotionally crafted to mirror the film’s story, making it an irresistible choice for those who want to linger in the afterglow of the narrative.
As the cold deepens, it’s also a song that gently stays by your side when you want to quietly heal your heart.
I Miss You So MuchHwang Karam (황가람)
A poignant ballad by Korean solo artist Hwang Garam, crafted in February 2025.
Its heart-tremblingly beautiful melody and lyrics that weave together the pain of a breakup and a wish for reunion gently permeate the soul.
A remake of a song originally released by Yoo Hye-joon in 2015, it showcases Hwang Garam’s rich, resonant vocals, which vividly convey a powerful longing for a former lover.
Set against an evening cityscape swept by a cold wind, this work paints loneliness and lingering attachment, making it a song that stays by your side at love’s end.
It will resonate softly with anyone who has experienced parting from someone dear.
Go for a Walk(산책)Sung Si Kyung(성시경)
A singer who commands overwhelming support for ballads, Sung Si-kyung released this heartrending love ballad in June 2024.
It came out as a remake track for producer Shim Hyun-bo’s 25th-anniversary project, “About Love.” Originally sung from a woman’s perspective by Park Ki-young, this version shifts to a man’s point of view, suffusing the song with deep emotion.
It evokes memories and scenes with someone dear to you, from ordinary days to moments of drifting apart.
Be sure to pay attention to the music video as well, whose visual storytelling conveys a sense of connection even amid heartbreak.
좋니yun jonshin
A heartbreak song full of lingering regrets, released in 2017 and a long-running hit by Yoon Jong-shin, who’s also active as a producer.
It’s often cited as one of his signature tracks.
The poignant lyrics convey the intensity—one might say the depth—of his feelings.
Lines wishing that someone would suffer a little before finding happiness also communicate that sentiment.
The climactic, emotionally explosive final chorus is the song’s highlight, overflowing with the kind of immersion that is the true essence of a ballad.
헤어지자 말해요(Let’s Say Goodbye)박재정
Park Jae-jung, also known as a member of MSG Wannabe, wields his powerful vocals—strong enough to win a competition show—as his greatest weapon.
A perfect showcase of his charm is “헤어지자 말해요 (Let’s Say Goodbye).” The song portrays the sorrow of a breakup from a male perspective: he reminisces about her and desperately wishes to start over, yet it remains out of reach.
Also noteworthy is his versatile singing, seamlessly shifting from low to high notes and from whispery tones to passionate delivery.
K-pop that touches the heart: Iconic ballads by Korean male artists (21–30)
Flower in the DesertWoody
Woody debuted in 2011 as a member of the boy idol group N-Train.
In 2019, he made a big breakthrough with his solo track “If This Song Plays in the Club.” Although he’s a singer-songwriter skilled in hip-hop, WoodyFlower in the Desert is a highly recommended, easy-to-listen pop ballad.
He has exceptional vocal ability and handles even the difficult parts with effortless poise! Why not experience his extraordinary talent for yourself?
