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 Deeply Resonate When You're Sad (51–60)
HurtAli
Ali, who has worked on numerous OSTs, wrote “Hurt” specifically for the drama Rooftop Prince.
Its theme is “heartache.” The song depicts the protagonist’s sorrow and despair as he feels a good period of his life has come to an end.
Although the content is quite heartrending, it’s noteworthy that the lyrics close with a hint of hope.
Whether you’ve seen the drama or not, be sure to check it out.
It’s also recommended if you like ballads built on a simple sound.
Do Men Cry?Davichi
“Do Men Cry (남자도 우나요)” is a song in which the pain of heartbreak resonates alongside Davichi’s outstanding vocals.
Released in 2012 as the first installment of composer Shin In-soo’s 20th-anniversary project “The S,” it portrays the lingering feelings that remain after a breakup.
The song conveys the inability to put on a brave face or instantly erase memories—sentiments many people can likely relate to.
Although it’s written from a female perspective, the lyrics of the first verse in particular give the impression that men often feel this way too, making the song one that can comfort listeners from various backgrounds.
ExcuseKwon Jin Ah
A ballad that delicately sketches an excuse for love.
It’s a song delivered in February 2025 by Korean singer-songwriter Kwon Jin Ah.
The complex emotions that surface when facing a cooling romance resonate with the quiet, piano-centered arrangement.
The pleading lyrics reveal a heart tormented by the gap between cherished memories and present reality.
Kwon Jin Ah’s expressive vocals further heighten the sense of longing, making this a song that stays close to your heart as you confront the end of a relationship.
Beautiful WomanLee Ye Joon
A new release from South Korean singer Lee Ye-jun in January 2025.
It’s a poignant ballad that sings of deep sorrow and regret after losing a loved one.
The arrangement is simple yet emotionally powerful, and Lee Ye-jun’s clear, crystalline vocals are striking.
Moments of parting and the wish to be loved once more are expressed through the beautiful harmony of piano and strings.
It’s the perfect song for soothing the pain of heartbreak or reflecting on someone dear to you.
Red MoonMIYEON
Since her debut, Miyeon has been a standout Korean vocalist, serving as the main singer of (G)I-DLE.
This work fantastically depicts someone being irresistibly drawn to another, as if guided by a red moon, and falling into a fated love.
Released in February 2025 as an OST for the webtoon “Guaireoksin,” it delicately weaves feelings of romance through a clear, translucent voice while effectively contrasting stillness and passion.
Its mysterious atmosphere and dramatic development are captivating, making it perfect for a nighttime drive.
Broken HeartMONSTAX
A heartbreak ballad by MONSTA X that vividly captures lingering feelings and a profound sense of loss after a breakup.
This moving track, included on their September 2015 mini-album “RUSH,” portrays the ache of being the only one still trapped in memories while the other person has already moved on—an unrequited, bittersweet longing powerfully conveyed through the members’ emotive vocals.
The song showcases a delicate side of a group best known for their strong beats and high-energy performances.
The album “RUSH” reached No.
6 on the Gaon Chart and sold over 30,000 copies.
Thanks in part to this achievement, they won the Next Generation Asian Artist Award at the 2015 Mnet Asian Music Awards.
Give it a listen when you want to face the pain of heartbreak or when you’re wrestling with unresolved feelings.
Don’t say GoodbyeV.O.S
“Why won’t you say goodbye…” The heartbreak song that captures this feeling, “Don’t say Goodbye,” was originally released in 2011 by DAVICHI, one of South Korea’s leading female duos.
The male vocal group V.O.S has covered the song, releasing their remake on April 30, 2023.
With V.O.S’s exceptional vocal skills and soaring voices, the emotions hit you straight on.
Their delicately powerful performance is sure to let the feelings you’ve been holding back overflow.
CrybabyZia
The song released by solo singer Jia in November 2024 is a ballad that delicately portrays the pain of heartbreak and self-loathing.
Blending piano melodies with orchestration, it highlights Jia’s rich, resonant vocals.
It captures the protagonist’s shifting emotions and loneliness as they self-mockingly call themselves a “crybaby,” leaving a powerful impression on listeners.
With deeply introspective lyrics and a sophisticated arrangement, this track is perfect for anyone who’s experienced heartbreak or is seeking a song that truly moves the heart.
Why did I end up falling in love with you?Tōhōshinki
TVXQ are also focusing on their activities in Japan.
One of their signature songs is “Why Did I Fall in Love with You?” It drew major attention, including winning the Japan Record Award, so many people likely know it.
The lyrics portray, from a male perspective, love for the woman who left him.
A key point is how the title phrase is gradually altered as the song delves deeper into his emotions.
By the way, there are also a cappella and remixed versions of the track.
They have a different vibe, so give them a listen.
To My AdolescenceAka-hoho Shishunki
A Korean-born singer active mainly in Korea and Japan, BOL4 (Bolbbalgan4), released “To My Youth” in 2019.
The song expresses the helpless feelings experienced during one’s youth and portrays the act of facing those overwhelming emotions.
Set to a clear, piano-centered sound, her emotional vocals convey a wide range of feelings.
On TikTok, it’s frequently used in videos themed around school life and romance.
It’s a gentle ballad that offers comfort in moments of anxiety—whether about friendships, love, or the future.
Give this song a listen to experience a track that captures the unique confusion of adolescence.
