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!
- [Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the soul. Korean Ballads
- Tearjerker K-pop ballads: Korean songs that will make you cry
- An emotional Korean song. A gently moving, sensitive masterpiece.
- [Touching the Heart] Timeless Ballad Masterpieces. A Collection of Unfading Classics and the Latest Songs [2026]
- A poignant, heart-touching K-pop song. A bittersweet track that resonates with many different emotions.
- [Korean Oldies · Genre-Free] Songs from Korea you’ll want to listen to now—nostalgic Korean tracks
- [For when you want to cry] A ballad love song. A heartbreaking love song.
- [Introduction to Male Korean Artists] A Collection of K-POP Groups, Singers, and Bands
- Stylish K-pop and Korean songs. Songs with a nice vibe.
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- [Touching the Heart] A Collection of Recommended Ballads for Men
- [Korean popular music] Popular trot songs. Masterpieces by trot singers.
- Popular K-pop and Korean songs that brighten up YouTube Shorts
K-pop that touches the heart: Classic ballads by Korean male artists (41–50)
Let you go(이별은 늘 그렇게) (Duet. Jeong Eun Ji(정은지))Ho Gaku (heogak)
This is a song released in 2019 by Huh Gak and Jung Eun-ji, who had collaborated several times before.
I’ve heard they’re close in private life as well, and that Jung Eun-ji even did this song without a fee! Their vocal collaboration is truly beautiful, so please give it a listen.
By the way, it’s a very heart-wrenching breakup song, so it might just bring you to tears.
K-POP That Touches the Heart: Masterful Ballads by Korean Male Artists (51–60)
La Mar임현식
Released in February 2024 by Hyunsik Im from South Korea, the title track of the album “The Young Man and the Deep Sea” explores themes tied to the deep sea, portraying inner conflict and loneliness while striving to find hope—an especially striking aspect.
With elements of rock balladry, it features an emotionally rich sound that reflects Im’s unique sensibility.
Centered on self-reflection and the courage to face hardships, it’s a song that will move many listeners.
Though he’s well-known as a member of BTOB, he also stands out as a formidable solo artist.
Give it a listen on contemplative nights or when you want to delve deeper into self-discovery.
Don’t Forget(잊어버리지마) (Feat. Taeyeon(태연))Crush
When it comes to Korean R&B, this person comes to mind: Crush.
His feel and sweet vocals are captivating, and he’s extremely popular.
This song features Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon and was released in 2016.
The sentimental wish to not be forgotten even if the day comes when we can no longer be together really tugs at the heartstrings.
I think many people can relate to the anxiety that even in happiness, a day of parting may eventually come.
With various experiences, you come to understand that kind of anxiety.
My DestinySEUNGMIN
A ballad that begins with a dreamlike piano resonance, gracefully colored by strings.
Sung by Stray Kids’ main vocalist, Seungmin, and released in March 2025.
His honeyed voice melds with the gentle tones, creating a soothing feeling as if being drawn into the vortex of fate.
Featured as part of the OST for the drama “Potato Research Institute,” it evocatively portrays the romance between the two protagonists.
Seungmin has previously contributed to OSTs for dramas such as “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” and “Love in Contract,” and this track stands as a gem of a love song.
With its calmly companionable melody, it’s perfect for moments when you want to listen alone and reflect.
Don`t you know(PROD.ROCOBERRY)ZO ZAZZ
An unconventional genius who burst onto the Korean music scene.
Debuting in January 2025, this track has drawn attention for his powerful, emotive ballad vocals that carry the original song.
The grand orchestral soundscape interwoven with his rich, husky voice creates a world steeped in poignancy, evoking the sorrow of parting from someone dear.
Arranged by Ahn Young-min and performed by a 50-piece orchestra, the expansive sound blends seamlessly with his vocal prowess.
Originally known as a Davichi song from the drama IRIS 2’s OST, this version offers a fresh, male-perspective interpretation.
It has surpassed 5 million views on YouTube and is gaining traction on domestic rebound charts.
Highly recommended for those who love ballads that resonate deep in the heart.
PhotographCHEN
Chen, who serves as the main vocalist of EXO and is also active as a solo artist.
This is a ballad included on his third mini-album, Last Scene, released in 2022.
As the title Photograph suggests, the song evokes autumn scenes and seeps into hearts worn down by life.
It might even overlap with the love a parent feels for a child.
Perfect for the sentimental autumn season, it brings tears together with Chen’s warm, embracing vocals.
The lyrics are filled with gentle words, so give it a listen whenever you feel stuck.
In My DreamSUPER JUNIOR
SUPER JUNIOR, a group whose members have each long led the Korean entertainment scene as individuals as well, released this song on their 4th album, BONAMANA, in 2010.
It’s a ballad that chronicles the feelings after a breakup.
The narrator dreams of peacefully drifting into sleep and spending happy moments there, only to wake and find their lover no longer by their side—overflowing with that kind of poignant sorrow.
The wish to simply fall into an eternal sleep seeps into the hollow left in the heart by lost love.
Their vocal performances, too, draw you in and make you empathize, as if being gently wrapped in the emotion.