K-pop to listen to in winter: beautiful Korean songs that touch the heart

First WinterSUNG SI KYUNG, IU

[MV] SUNG SI KYUNG(성시경), IU(아이유) _ First Winter (첫 겨울이니까)

This digital single, released in December 2019, drew attention as their first collaboration in about nine years.

Sung by Sung Si-kyung, one of Korea’s leading ballad singers, and IU, beloved across generations, the song centers on the theme of lovers experiencing their first winter together.

Rather than flashy climaxes, it’s marked by a gentle, conversational melody and quiet strings, with the duo’s warm vocals slowly seeping into a chilled heart.

Coupled with the Christmas imagery in the lyrics, it’s a track you’ll want to play on snowy nights or when you wish to spend a quiet moment with someone special.

It quickly climbed the charts upon release and was even nominated at the MAMA music awards, winning wide acclaim.

A top recommendation if you’re looking for a tender winter ballad!

I’m all earsTaeyeon

TAEYEON 태연 ‘겨울나무 (I’m all ears)’ Special Video

A deeply moving ballad sung by Taeyeon, the main vocalist of Girls’ Generation.

It was included as the closing track on the album “This Christmas – Winter is Coming,” released in the winter of 2017.

The lyrics are truly warm, as if gently listening to someone’s pain and assuring them, “I’ll stay by your side through the night.” It overflows with a kindness that feels like wrapping a shivering body in a blanket.

There may be no flashy production, but Taeyeon’s delicate vocals—so nuanced you can almost hear her breathing—stand out, and every listen brings you close to tears.

About a month after its release, a special video for the song was also unveiled.

On nights when you’re going through something hard, or when you just want someone to listen, play this softly.

It will surely make your heart feel lighter.

DoughnutTwice

TWICE 「Doughnut」 Music Video

A beautiful, soul-stirring ballad you’ll want to listen to in freezing cold weather.

Released as TWICE’s 9th Japanese single in December 2021, this work is their first Japan-original song to feature a ballad as the lead track.

It likens the hollow in a heart without a loved one to a donut hole, portraying a sweet yet aching sense of loss with elegance.

Different from their usual bright and energetic style, the members’ delicate, mature vocals truly resonate.

Its warm melody and slightly wistful lyrics gently keep you company through the bitter cold.

It’s the perfect song for a snowy night or quiet time alone.

For anyone carrying a sorrowful love in their heart, I hope you’ll be wrapped in these tender voices.

12월 24일 (D.ear Cover)IU

IU (아이유) – 12월 24일 (D.ear Cover)

The original song is by D.ear.

IU’s warm vocal style and the relaxed tempo of the jazz arrangement are distinctive.

On Christmas Eve, the narrator looks back on past Christmases.

Memories and feelings about the lover they were dating at the time come flooding back.

The glow of candles, the lover’s expressions and gestures—all of it remains vivid even now.

Though there were difficult times when they were in love, there’s a gentle resolve to cherish everything, all of it together.

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KIIRASMASKIIRAS

KIIRAS(키라스) “KIIRASMAS” (Lyric video)

KIIRAS is a girl group that debuted in May 2025.

Comprising members from Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea, this multinational group has been drawing attention for being executive-produced by R&B singer-songwriter SAAY.

Their Christmas song released in December marks the group’s first seasonal track.

In a complete shift from the powerful concepts showcased on their debut EP “Kill Ma Bo$$” and single album “Bang Bang!”, this one is a warm, pop-inflected carol.

The harmonies, which make the most of each of the six members’ distinct vocal tones, capture the sparkle of winter and are heartwarming just to listen to.

It’s the perfect song to enhance the year-end holiday mood or to play as background music while spending time with someone special.