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 (41–50)
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.
K-pop and Korean Songs That Deeply Resonate When You're Sad (51–60)
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.
Yesterday You Left Me10cm
This is a heartbreak song by 10cm, a hugely popular musician known for approachable yet sophisticated musicality.
It’s included on their 2021 release, The 3rd EP.
The song portrays those inexpressible emotions after being dumped and the feeling of not being able to do anything.
The steady, uniform groove and Kwon Jung-yeol’s languid vocals flow into an empty heart.
The way the lyrics try to convince themselves—saying this was for the best, or maybe they didn’t really like the other person that much—only makes it all the more poignant.
Empty HeadASH ISLAND
A track released in 2019 by ASH ISLAND, a popular emo rapper who won the Rookie of the Year award at the Korean Hip Hop Awards 2020.
Rather than simply being unable to stop surrendering to alcohol, the song portrays a state of mind that feels inescapable.
When you can’t think about anything else and nothing seems to help, this kind of deep worldview can feel comforting.
You can feel the pent-up emotions with no outlet and the anguished cries that verge on madness.
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.
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.