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: Iconic Ballads by Korean Male Artists (31–40)
편지 (The Letter)Kimu Gwanjin
This is a moving ballad by Kim Kwang-jin, a singer-songwriter highly acclaimed in Korea.
His warm, gentle voice and a simple yet heartfelt melody are truly captivating.
The piano and strings weave together with emotional richness, offering a calm yet deeply touching experience.
Included on his third album, “It’s Me,” released in 2000, this piece has been covered by many artists and remains beloved.
Its natural expression of feeling and universal themes enrich the song’s storytelling world.
It’s a track that quietly stays by your side when your heart wavers or when you’re thinking of someone—one I highly recommend you listen to.
Expiration dateSEVENTEEN
SEVENTEEN’s fourth Japanese single is a heartfelt ballad, rich in scale and lyrical depth that feels fit to be a theme song for a film.
Released in November 2024, the track was selected as the theme for NHK’s late-night drama “MIRAI no Watashi ni Bukkamasareru!” It’s exciting that it’s a Japanese-language song, too.
Resonating as a message to CARAT, this work beautifully conveys SEVENTEEN’s delicate emotional expression and its affinity with J-pop, leaving a deep impression.
Be sure to lend an ear to its warm message.
Thorn Tree (가시나무)Cho Sonmo (josengumo)
The singer of this song, Jo Sung-mo, was once called the “Nation’s Little Brother” in Korea and is a popular artist.
His calm, gentle voice really resonates in the heart.
I’ve heard this song was originally a Christian hymn in Korea that was remade.
Through the remake, it became a love song.
It’s a song that makes you realize the importance of a beloved partner as a source of comfort, even in difficult times.
모든 날, 모든 순간 (Every Day, Every Moment)폴킴
A slow ballad released by Paul Kim in 2018.
Featured on the soundtrack of the drama “The Third Charm,” it became a big hit and greatly expanded his recognition.
Even if you don’t know Paul Kim, you might know this song.
It’s a love song about staying by someone’s side.
Translating the title into Japanese gives “Subete no Hi, Subete no Shunkan” (“Every Day, Every Moment”), which truly feels imbued with heartfelt emotion.
It has been popular at karaoke for many years, offering a soothing sense of comfort.
It’s recommended not only for those who enjoy gentle, calming music, but also as a musical gift to someone special.
If you change your mind2AM
A heartrending love ballad from Korea has arrived.
The beautiful harmonies woven by the four members of 2AM strike straight to the heart.
You can’t help but relate to the lyrics, which overflow with feelings for the other person at the moment of parting.
Released on January 2, 2024, this song is a collaboration with producer Bang Si Hyuk.
It’s available on YouTube through Kakao Entertainment.
The voices of the members, including Jo Kwon, gently embrace the pain of heartbreak.
As a song that stays close to a bittersweet love, it’s sure to resonate with many people.