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

CLOCKMJ

MJ 엠제이 – ‘12시 25분 (CLOCK)’ Lyric Video

MJ, the main vocalist of the boy group ASTRO, loved for his refreshing singing voice.

This work is a special single released in December 2025.

It’s an ambitious piece that samples the well-known children’s song “Grandfather’s Clock,” with MJ himself participating in the lyrics.

Blending an analog, wintry-night sentiment with a modern pop sound, it wraps the listener in warmth.

It’s lovely how it reflects on time gone by while carrying a message about taking a new step forward.

MJ’s gentle, conversational vocals are especially striking, giving the sense that a frozen heart is slowly thawing.

Spend a peaceful moment with this song that stays close to you in the cold season.

UniverseEXO(엑소)

EXO 엑소 ‘Universe’ MV

A track included on the 2017 winter album.

It’s a rock ballad that feels like the journey to find a lover is the universe itself.

Instead of limiting the lyrics to “he” or “she,” it uses “I” and “you,” allowing for a broader interpretation—another lovely touch.

The sweeping chorus that rises from the gentle verses is deeply moving.

There’s also a Chinese version titled “為心導航” (Guiding the Heart).

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ReplayASC2NT

어센트(ASC2NT) Digital Single ‘Replay’ MV

ASC2NT is a boy group that includes former members who were active as Daikoku Danji.

Their digital single released in December 2025 marks the beginning of their “Four Seasons” series, with a track themed around winter.

After a breakup, the world keeps moving while time stands still only within oneself…

This R&B number captures those recurring memories and emotions.

The raw word choices—penned in part by members Leon and Kyle—match the chill of winter’s air and tug at the heart.

The delicate melody line also shines, making it a song you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.

It’s sure to gently accompany you when you want to linger in the afterglow of a finished love or when you’re feeling wistful.

Backseat PromisesKANG DANIEL

강다니엘(KANGDANIEL) – Backseat Promises Track Video

After his activities with Wanna One, Kang Daniel has been showcasing a wide range of expressions as a solo artist.

This is the title track from his special album “PULSEPHASE,” released in December 2025.

It’s a dance-pop song with a buoyant beat and gentle melody that feels just right for the slightly chilly season.

The lyrics portray a mature mindset—choosing not to cling to past heat or infatuation, but to acknowledge their afterglow and move forward.

Notably, he was deeply involved in the songwriting and composition, and the track is written entirely in English.

With its sophisticated mood that makes you want to listen during a nighttime drive, it’s recommended for moments when you want to think alone or spend some calm, quiet time.

Winter Breath10cm

[MV] 10CM _ Winter Breath(입김)

“Winter Breath,” which perfectly matches the crisp chill of the season.

It’s a song released by 10cm, also well-known for drama OSTs, in December 2020.

It portrays the hollow sense of loss and the emptiness that follows heartbreak, offering comfort when you’re hurt or feeling melancholy.

Even with so many things you need to do, you can’t help but keep remembering—such bittersweetness.

Perhaps it’s the mood of the lyrics, but 10cm is truly masterful at expressing lingering resonance.

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