[K-POP] Korean 'yami' songs that fit a blue mood
K-pop captivates us with its powerful dance and outstanding vocal prowess.
At the same time, I feel that K-pop uniquely shines through songs with dark concepts or a melancholic atmosphere.
There’s also a subtle elegance that invites multiple, indirect interpretations.
So I’ve decided to spotlight some Korean “yami” songs—tracks that dwell in darker emotions.
When you’re going through sadness, hardship, or a streak of bad days, it’s natural to feel low.
There’s something called the “matching effect,” which suggests that listening to music with a similar mood can cleanse the heart.
Sometimes, it might be nice to relax and spend time with masterpieces that fit your blue feelings.
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[K-POP] Korean “yami” songs that fit a blue mood (21–30)
WHY, WHY, WHYSUMIN
Sumin, a South Korean singer-songwriter, delivers a track where wistfulness intertwines with an R&B rhythm.
Released in July 2024, the song explores the complex emotions within human relationships, expressing missed connections, misunderstandings, and heartache.
Sumin’s soft yet powerful vocals blend exquisitely with producer Slom’s modern beats, offering listeners a fresh experience.
As a song that stands beside those struggling with love or friendship, it’s sure to resonate with many.
LOST!RM
A soul-stirring track that deftly captures contrasting emotions.
Released in May 2024 from Right Place, Wrong Person, the second solo album by RM from South Korea, also known as the leader of BTS.
The song stands out with its heavy beat and melodic hook, carrying a positive message that even if you feel lost, you can find hope together with your companions.
The lyrics reflect personal doubts and anxieties, resonating with many listeners.
The music video, created in collaboration with a French director, has also drawn attention.
It’s the kind of song that can cleanse your heart when you’re feeling blue.
[K-POP] Korean “yami” songs that fit a blue mood (31–40)
To My YouthBOL4
A delicate ballad like a letter to one’s past self.
It’s a track included on the music duo BOL4’s mini album “Red Diary Page.1,” released in September 2017.
The gentle timbre of the guitar and Ahn Jiyoung’s translucent vocals carefully weave together the loneliness and anxiety of youth, and at times even feelings of self-denial.
Portraying, step by step, the heart’s shift toward facing forward through conflict and forgiveness, this piece was also featured on the audition program “PRODUCE X 101,” deeply moving many viewers.
When you’re feeling low or on the verge of losing yourself, this is a song that will stay close to your heart.
tokkiCIKI
CIKI wears two hats as a singer-songwriter and music producer.
His track “tokki” is an ennui-tinged number highlighted by his mellow vocals.
Rather than the poppy dance tunes common in K-pop, it features a chill-out sound that’s perfect for late-night listening.
Wrapped in an overall dark atmosphere, the song has an addictive quality that grows on you with every listen.
The sweet guitar tones that drift throughout are also a must-hear!
I’m Unhappyaespa
When you’re scrolling through social media, doesn’t it sometimes feel like everyone around you is shining a little too brightly? This is a song I want you to listen to in those moments.
Included on the 3rd mini album “MY WORLD,” it enchants with a chill-out style and dreamy vocals and melody.
The lyrics hit especially hard when you feel caught up in SNS, capturing that blue mood where everything around you seems to sparkle while you feel a distance in your heart.
It’s a companion not only for when you want to sink into that feeling, but also for when you think, just maybe, it’s time to change something.
Sick(아프다)ZICO, Sojin (GIRL’S DAY)
As the leader of Block B, Zico not only writes lyrics and composes music, but is highly skilled as both a rapper and a producer, earning respect at home and abroad.
His track “SICK,” released in 2015, was also included on the soundtrack of the Korean drama “Mask.” Featuring Sojin, formerly of the K-pop idol group Girl’s Day, the song is a beautiful piece where Zico’s smooth rap and Sojin’s gorgeous vocals weave over a mellow track centered on piano and acoustic guitar.
As the title suggests, however, the lyrics earnestly express the pain and anguish of love.
The contrast between the sound and the lyrics is intriguing—be sure to read the lyrics in translation!
Take a NapAirman
A lyrical melody that seeks salvation in quiet sleep.
This gentle number is woven by Airman, an emotional singer-songwriter from Korea.
Released in March 2018, it pairs the tender tones of piano with vocals that seep into the heart, accompanying a weary soul.
It delicately portrays the feeling of drifting into sleep as if escaping the loneliness and anxiety of everyday life, making it something you’ll want to listen to alongside the stillness of night.
Included on Airman’s own concept album, “Morning Diaries EP.1,” this piece offers a soft nudge of comfort late at night or whenever you want to unwind.