K-pop and Korean songs that deeply resonate when you're sad
When we’re alive, everyone experiences waves of sadness from time to time, don’t we?
The way it’s portrayed may differ from country to country, but the feeling itself is something we all share, isn’t it?
This time, we’ve picked out K-POP and Korean songs that sing about sadness.
Everyone senses things a little differently, but I think these songs will especially resonate when you’re feeling down.
Sudden partings or breakups between lovers are truly painful, aren’t they?
Melodies steeped in melancholy and vocals overflowing with emotion will surely stay close to your heart.
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K-pop and Korean songs that really hit home when you're sad (1–10)
IF YOUBIGBANG
One of BIGBANG’s classic songs.
It might also be well-known as a breakup song.
The lyrics express deep regret toward the lover who lost patience and left, and toward oneself for not being able to do anything—very heartbreaking.
G-DRAGON’s singing makes your chest tighten.
If you could, you’d want to start over; this song stays close to that feeling.
Farewell TaxiKim Young-woo
Among Kim Young-woo’s highly acclaimed songs as a vocalist, “이별택시” is praised as a masterpiece.
The title means “Breakup Taxi,” and the song portrays a man who has parted with his lover in the rain, gets into a taxi, and—through tears—asks the driver where he should go.
It’s a heartbreaking breakup song that conveys the sorrow and desolation of losing a loved one.
Only now; just now at lastKim Dong-ryul
Kim Dong-ryul’s “이제서야,” notable for his soft, memorable voice, means “Only Now.” It’s a poignant song that expresses the feeling of realizing, only after a breakup, the pain of parting and the regret that follows.
Those who regret breaking up with a lover will likely resonate deeply when they listen to this song.
K-pop and Korean songs that truly resonate when you're feeling sad (11–20)
Love done alone (Honjaman Haneun Sarang)GUMMY
Kommie is a female singer whose standout feature is her exceptional vocal ability, even among artists of her generation.
Gummy’s “혼자만 하는 사랑” (A One-Sided Love) is an unrequited love song that depicts someone whose beloved loves someone else, leaving them to do nothing but watch and love alone.
You loved me, didn’t you?Lyn
Lyn’s “사랑했잖아” has a title that means “You loved me, didn’t you?” It’s a sad breakup song that sings of the regret of not being able to devote oneself even after noticing a lover’s changing feelings—despite their having once said they loved you—and the pain of being abandoned and hurt.
SWIMBTS
A highly anticipated comeback track by BTS, the global group with massive worldwide popularity.
It’s the title track of their 5th album “ARIRANG,” which began streaming in March 2026, and has been garnering major buzz.
Inspired by traditional Korean folk music, it carries a profound message that likens moving forward through the flow of life to swimming.
The music video featuring actress Lili Reinhart surpassed 71 million views in about a week after its release! With a mellow sound that signals a new chapter for the group as they reunite after military service, it’s perfect for moments when you want to take a fresh step forward.
Be sure to check out the remix versions too, each showcasing their individual styles.
Pyeonji (letter)Kim Kwang-jin
Kim Kwang Jin’s “Letter” features lyrics like a letter to a former lover, conveying gratitude to a cherished person and a wish for them to meet someone wonderful and find happiness.
The gentle vocals resonate deeply with the heart.