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)
Spring Snow10cm
A song wrapped in the bittersweet emotion of 10CM, a popular Korean pop artist.
Released in May 2024, it was also featured on the soundtrack of the drama “Lovely Runner.” Kwon Jeong-yeol’s gentle vocals and delicate arrangement leave a strong impression, while the lyrics—overlapping the arrival of spring with a fragile love—soak into the heart.
The enchanting worldview likens the story of lovers reunited after a long time to spring snow.
It’s a track that leaves a warm yet wistful afterglow, as if rekindling memories with someone dear.
Way HomeKim Soo Hyun
A moving love ballad that truly resonates.
Released in April 2024, it’s part of the OST for “Queen of Tears.” South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun lends his vocals, and the poignant melody, warmed by gentle harmonies, slowly seeps into the heart.
It carries a nostalgic atmosphere—reflecting on beautiful memories of the past while conveying a hope to reclaim a lost love.
This song leaves a deep impression, perfect for underscoring the drama’s emotional climax.
Ideal for moments when you want to feel the bond with someone special.
StarOnestar
A romance drama starring EXO’s Sehun, Cho Jun-young, and Jang Yeo-bin, All That We Loved.
This is a medium-tempo ballad featured on its OST.
The song is by Onestar, also known as Lim Han-byul, a member of Monday Kiz and, in recent years, known as a master on the show Girls Planet 999, which produced Kep1er.
With lyrics that depict memories, it creates a moving atmosphere that evokes a sense of beautiful eternity.
It’s a track that may gently accompany and ease feelings of pain.
사랑은 늘 도망가Imu Yon’un
A medium-tempo ballad featured on the 2021 drama “Young Lady and Gentleman” soundtrack.
Lim Young-woong, who shot to fame by winning the audition show “Mr.
Trot,” handled and covered his first-ever OST with this song, which became a massive hit.
The original is by Lee Moon-se.
It’s a masterpiece that gently sings of the sentimental feeling that love always slips away.
You’ll be drawn in by its one-of-a-kind lyrics, and it’s nice to listen to at a relaxed pace.
It’s also popular among older listeners, so it’s a great choice for family karaoke.
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.