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.
- K-POP and Korean tear-jerker songs: tracks that deeply resonate and bring you to tears
- [K-POP] Korean 'yami' songs that fit a blue mood
- A poignant, heart-touching K-pop song. A bittersweet track that resonates with many different emotions.
- Tearjerker K-pop ballads: Korean songs that will make you cry
- [Exquisite Ballad Songs] K-pop that touches the soul. Korean Ballads
- [So touching it makes you cry] A heartbreakingly wistful and sad song that tightens your chest
- An emotional Korean song. A gently moving, sensitive masterpiece.
- [Tearjerker] Songs that make your heart tremble with tears & moving tracks with lyrics that touch the soul
- K-pop that touches the heart: iconic ballads by Korean female artists
- Stylish K-pop and Korean songs. Songs with a nice vibe.
- [Bereavement Song] To you whom I can no longer meet... Tear-jerking songs about death
- Songs to listen to when your heart is tired. Gentle Korean songs that softly stay by your side.NEW!
- Tickling your tear ducts! A collection of emotional and heartwarming K-pop tearjerker songs
K-pop and Korean songs that deeply resonate when you're feeling sad (61–70)
난 행복해Isora (I Sora)
Lee Sora is a highly skilled singer-songwriter who is beloved by many fans.
She is an impressive female vocalist known for her remarkable ability to convey emotion and the stable vocal technique that supports it.
Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is ‘난 행복해’ (I’m Happy).
Her husky voice creates a sense of melancholy, while her unwaveringly clear high notes leave a strong impression.
The melody strongly reflects elements of Korean pop, yet her vocals evoke a Western influence.
It’s a beautiful work that shines through that contrast.
Since it’s not (so)/Because they said it’s not (so)2AM
Formed by members with exceptional vocal abilities, the four-member male group 2AM’s “아니라기에” is a track that lets you fully savor their beautiful, soothing vocals.
It’s a song that pierces the heart with its straightforward, heartrending feelings—about emotions never felt before when first meeting the one you love, and the helpless confusion of hearing words of parting despite having promised to stay together.
DoorAria (tripleS)
A wistful ballad from ARIA, a unit of the 24-member group tripleS born from Korea’s MODHAUS.
It delicately portrays the pain of parting and the hope of reunion.
With Heize’s moving lyrics and KZ’s refined production, this track shines.
Included on the album “Structure of Sadness,” released in January 2024.
It’s a song that gently stays by your side on sleepless nights after a breakup or on rainy days.
Dahyun’s lead vocals resonate deeply.
EmptyCHEN
This is a poignant ballad by Chen, known as a powerhouse vocalist in the K-pop scene.
It’s included on his mini album “DOOR,” released in May 2024.
The lyrics portray the pain of heartbreak and a deep sense of loneliness, resonating over delicate piano tones and wistful strings.
Chen’s emotive vocals vividly capture the feelings of a protagonist with an empty heart.
The song was also featured on the soundtrack of the Korean drama Hero.
It’s a track that offers solace to those grieving the loss of someone dear.
HAPPYDAY6
A track included on Fourever, an EP by the Korean pop-rock band DAY6.
It centers on a sense of happiness deep within the heart and the quest to find it.
The lyrics portray a longing to be freed from everyday worries and stress, dreaming of moments of pure happiness, encouraging listeners to explore self-acceptance and the desire for joy.
Released in March 2024, the song features lyrics by Young K, with composition by Sungjin, Wonpil, and others.
It’s a piece you’ll find yourself wanting to play when you wish for inner peace amid the calm of everyday life.
ScentHa Hyun Sang
A medium-tempo ballad steeped in a wistful mood.
Ha Hyunsang’s gentle vocals and melody stay close to the heart.
Released in October 2024, this song portrays autumn farewells and delicate feelings, evoking nostalgia for times gone by and relationships that have changed.
Ha Hyunsang, a singer-songwriter from Korea, is also active as the vocalist of the band Hoppípolla.
Since his solo debut in 2018, he has released numerous works.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you’re feeling low or your heart feels unsettled.
GlassHwayobi
As soon as she debuted in South Korea, Fayeobi was hailed as a fearsome rookie thanks to her exceptional vocal ability.
“Glass,” sung by Fayeobi, is a track featured in the Korean drama Miss Ripley.
The song likens love to glass and tells the story of love that has been hurt.
Immerse yourself in a voice you won’t forget after just one listen.
Memories of you(너였나봐)IVY
Ivy’s “너였나봐,” featuring her powerful high-tone vocals, was used as an insert song in the Korean drama Incarnation of Money.
It’s a song that expresses the aching feelings for a lover—love so desperate that, no matter how painful or resentful it becomes, you don’t want to let go.
for me (feat.MRCH)JINJIN
A moving ballad by JinJin, a Korean rapper and songwriter.
The lyrics, which trace his experiences from trainee days to the present, are deeply touching.
Released in May 2024, the track conveys the importance of not giving up even in difficult times.
Its emotional melody and collaboration with MRCH create an exquisite harmony.
His experience as the leader of ASTRO lends the message powerful credibility.
When you feel lost in life, this song will surely give you courage.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to face themselves.
I hopeLEE MU JIN
This is a May 2024 release from rising star Lee Mujin, a new force in the Korean music scene who weaves bittersweet yet beautiful love stories.
It’s imbued with a strong belief in being reunited with a loved one, featuring delicate vocals and lyrics that touch the heart.
Many listeners will relate to the universal theme of hoping someone will return no matter how much time passes.
Recommended not only for those thinking of their lovers, but for anyone waiting for someone dear.
With a simple yet powerful melodic line, it’s a work that resonates deeply with the listener.