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 Truly Resonate When You’re Sad (21–30)
Don’t go, don’t go (kajima kajima)Brown Eyes
Brown Eyes is a leading South Korean R&B male duo.
“Gajima Gajima” is a song that expresses a man’s aching plea to a lover who has disappeared from his side, begging her not to go and to come back to him once more.
ConfidenceONEW
A magical song that gives you the power to believe in yourself! It’s a solo work by Onew, the leader of the popular group SHINee.
Released ahead of the July 2025 album “PERCENT,” it plays an important role in presenting the album’s world.
An uplifting anthem that declares, “There’s no single right answer—faith opens the way!” set to a rhythmic pop sound.
The drama-style music video, filmed in Los Angeles, is also moving, depicting a protagonist who overcomes failure and rises again.
It’s perfect for those moments when you’re hesitating to take on a challenge! Listen to this track that fills you with the courage to say, “I can do it!” and take that first new step forward!
K-pop/Korean songs that really hit home when you’re feeling sad (31–40)
No Sad Song For My Broken HeartK.will
This is a song released in June 2024 by the accomplished Korean vocalist K.will.
It’s a poignant ballad themed around the pain of heartbreak and overcoming it, and is included on the album “All The Way.” K.will’s delicate vocals resonate deeply, conveying the sorrow of parting while carrying a hopeful message.
The music video features Seo In-guk and Ahn Jae-hyun, unfolding an emotional storyline.
The gentle arrangement highlights K.will’s warm yet powerful voice.
It’s a track that stands beside those dealing with heartbreak or emotional scars, offering empathy and comfort.
Farewell for now!JO YURI
Cho Yuri, who served as the main vocalist of IZ*ONE and is now flourishing as an actress, delivers a pop-rock track that portrays the bittersweet emotions of saying goodbye to a past love on her mini-album Episode 25, set for release in July 2025.
Having contributed to the lyrics herself, she rides a rich band sound with a powerful vocal performance that feels like brushing away tears.
Even as she sings of parting, her undimmed passion for the future grips the heart.
The suggestive title has prompted speculation that it hints at a brief hiatus from her singing career to focus on acting.
It’s a song that stays close to anyone who wants to turn sorrow into strength and take a bold step forward.
DEARESTTōhōshinki
The ballad by TVXQ that portrays a love transcending life and death has deeply moved listeners.
One of the gems on their 20th-anniversary album “ZONE” tenderly sings of the happiness of feeling a bond with a loved one, and of moving forward with hope even while reflecting on the fragility of life.
Set against a classical arrangement rich with piano and strings, the voices of Yunho and Changmin resonate beautifully, drawing listeners into a world full of emotion.
Released in November 2024, the song’s music video also depicts a timeless bond of love through the story of a grandfather and a young girl.
When facing heartbreak or a turning point in life, this song is sure to be by your side.
Don’t you know (모르시나요)Davichi
The OST from the drama IRIS II is characterized by a deeply resonant melancholy.
Released in February 2013 by the Korean female duo Davichi, it’s a ballad that powerfully conveys the ache of unrequited love.
The exquisite harmonies woven by Lee Hae-ri and Kang Min-kyung delicately express the pain of lost love.
It received high acclaim, including a nomination for Best OST at the Mnet Asian Music Awards.
Featured in key scenes of the drama, it was remade by ZO ZAZZ and became a massive hit in Korea in January 2025.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak or cleanse your heart.
Neul (Nureu)BoA
BoA, who is also active in Japan, released the song “Neul” in Korea.
It carries a somewhat sorrowful feeling, expressing the desire to finally convey a long-unspoken love to someone after a breakup.
The other person is presumably a lover, but you can also listen to it as if it were about family or friends.
It’s a song that evokes love in that broad, inclusive sense.