There are many Korean songs and K-pop tracks that stay close to those bittersweet feelings.
Whether it’s a gently sung melody or a delivery rich with emotion, they draw you deeper into the world of the song.
There are also many ballads that truly tighten your chest and make your heart ache as you listen.
Not just “sadness,” but nostalgia, memories of days that won’t return, and a tender kind of poignancy—here are some ‘setsuna’ songs that capture a range of emotions.
Please listen while reflecting on your own circumstances.
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Heart-piercing, wistful K-pop songs. “Setsuna” tracks that resonate with a range of emotions (1–10)
SceneryV
“Scenery” is a solo song by V from the Korean male idol group BTS.
It’s a ballad about thinking of someone you love while gazing at the scenery reflected in your eyes.
The piano, and the clear, soaring high notes in the chorus, evoke a tender sorrow that feels like your heart is being squeezed.
Those experiencing a bittersweet love may even be moved to tears.
Sweet NightV
This is an OST from the 2020 smash-hit drama Itaewon Class.
It became a global sensation not only in Korea but especially across the U.S.
and Europe! It’s a pop number with beautiful acoustic resonance, and its relaxed melody makes you want to surrender yourself to a soothing, swaying feeling.
Taehyung himself handled the lyrics and composition, and you can really sense V’s vibe and the charm of his gentle vocals shining through.
This sweet track is also highly recommended as a song to listen to before bed in your daily routine to make you feel happy!
Haru HaruBIGBANG
A classic hit by BIGBANG released in 2008.
Emotions that feel like they’re about to burst.
The poignant melody, perfectly matched with the piano, and the build-up in the latter half of the chorus make it impossible to listen without tears.
Take your time with the heart-wrenching lyrics and the MV that deepens your emotional immersion as well.
It’s a masterpiece that deserves to be known by many, beyond the genre of K-pop.
It’s a song you’ll want to keep listening to forever.
Stay With Me찬열, 펀치 (CHANYEOL, PUNCH)
The heartbreakingly beautiful classic “Stay With Me” is part of the soundtrack for the drama Goblin.
Released in 2016, this medium-tempo number grips your heart with lyrics that portray the feelings of Goblin and Eun-tak.
The angelic vocals of Punch—often called the fairy of OSTs—and EXO’s Chanyeol’s clear, composed low-tone rap make it resonate even more deeply.
The balance between them is nothing short of divine.
Love often comes with many obstacles… this is a wistful song we hope you’ll listen to in those moments.
Through the NightIU
A love song sung over a gentle acoustic sound.
It’s included on IU’s classic 2017 album Palette.
The lyrics read like a letter, portraying the ache and longing that come precisely from being in love.
Listen during a calm night and you’ll feel warmth tinged with a little sadness.
You can’t put all your feelings for the person you love into words, but you know they’re undeniably there.
It will resonate especially if you’re in a long-distance relationship.
A song that makes you want to say, “Sweet dreams.”
How can I love the heartbreak, you`re the one I loveAKMU (Akdong Musician)
AKMU is a talented brother-sister duo.
This is the lead track from their album “SAILING.” It was also nominated for Best Group Vocal Performance at the 2019 MAMA.
The song deals with the theme of parting—the moment that draws closer day by day.
They sing that they can’t love all the way up to that very moment, but they earnestly want to keep loving only the one who is precious to them.
twinJENNIE
A work that sings about friendship with a distinctly soulful sensibility.
It’s an acoustic, heart-soothing number included on BLACKPINK’s Jennie’s solo debut album, “Ruby.” With delicate emotional expression, it beautifully conveys feelings for a cherished friend with whom there’s a deep bond.
Released in March 2025, the album “Ruby” became a pivotal work marking a musical turning point for her.
Set against the gentle tones of acoustic guitar, her clear voice and heartfelt message resonate profoundly.
Many fans were moved by the way she sings with such emotion—tears in her eyes as she looks back on memories with her best friend.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to feel the bond with a dear friend or when you want to express gratitude that’s hard to say out loud.