K-pop and Korean songs that deeply resonate when you're sad

Say My NameMIYEON

미연 (MIYEON) ‘Say My Name’ Official Music Video

In her solo activities in November 2025, Miyeon delivered a pop ballad steeped in the lingering afterglow of a farewell.

While she’s known for dynamic tracks with (G)I-DLE, this title song from her second solo mini-album, “MY, Lover,” layers a clear, pure vocal over the spacious interplay of delicate piano melodies and a rhythmic beat, richly portraying the call of a loved one that doesn’t fade even after parting.

The lingering memory of a name that echoes like reverb, and a sense of time that drifts between dreams and reality, are carefully woven together, conveying a moving stance of acceptance rather than actively trying to forget.

The beauty of her vocal delivery stands out against the understated accompaniment, precisely because it is stripped of excessive ornamentation.

It’s a song you’ll want to play on a long autumn night.

ArcadiaCHEN

첸 (CHEN) ‘Arcadia’ MV

Arcadia, the fifth mini album by Chen, the main vocalist of EXO, released in September 2025.

Its title track weaves a story about walking steadily toward one’s dreams, centered on themes of hope and perseverance.

Chen participated in writing the lyrics himself, embedding a universal message that one goal leads to another.

Layering synths and strings over a polished pop sound, the song captures subtle shifts of emotion while balancing stillness and dynamism.

His delicate yet powerful vocals resonate deeply, making it a track that gives you a push when you’re about to take on a new challenge.

To coincide with the album’s release, a solo concert was also held in Seoul in October.

LAST DANCEBIGBANG

BIGBANG – ‘LAST DANCE’ M/V

The sad song by the five-member male group BIGBANG, who enjoy immense popularity worldwide, is “LAST DANCE.” It feels sad not only from a fan’s perspective, but also because it was created as a song of bonds, filled with memories of their ten years of activities and a message to fans, ahead of the members’ enlistment and the group’s hiatus.

I’ll Never Love AgainWOODZ

[MV] WOODZ(우즈) _ I’ll Never Love Again

Having completed his military service, WOODZ makes a full-fledged return as a solo artist.

Featured on his digital single released in September 2025, this track is a love ballad with an introspective theme that reexamines the small routines of daily life from a fresh perspective.

The aching finality—like a letter going up in flames—and the protagonist’s struggle with the idea that they can never love the same way again are rendered on a grand scale through a dramatic, cinematic sound.

While rooted in pop, the song weaves in rock and alternative elements, showcasing his wide-ranging musicality.

The time he spent confronting himself during his service seems to lend the work added depth.

It’s a song that will resonate with everyone—pressing forward despite regret over a lost love.

Like rain, like musicKim Hyun-sik

Kim Hyun-sik – Like Music, Like Rain (1986)

Kim Hyun-sik was a South Korean singer who passed away in 1990 at the young age of 32.

“Like Music, Like Rain” (비처럼 음악처럼), released in 1986, is a heartrending classic that continues to be loved to this day, evoking memories of a lover who has left.

JonnieYoon Jong-shin

윤종신(YOON JONG SHIN) – 좋니(Like it) [세로 라이브]ㅣSERO LIVEㅣ딩고뮤직ㅣdingomusic

Yoon Jong-shin had been regarded more highly as a composer than as a singer, but his song “Like It” became a major hit in Korea in 2017.

It richly expresses the feelings of a clumsy man who truly loves his girlfriend but couldn’t bring himself to tell her.

Don`t you know(PROD.ROCOBERRY)ZO ZAZZ

[MV] ZO ZAZZ(조째즈) _ Don`t you know(PROD.ROCOBERRY)(모르시나요(PROD.로코베리))

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.