[J-Pop] A Collection of Unrequited Love Songs That Stay Close to Your Heart

That’s not fair…arekunn

That's not fair... / Ale-kun [Official Music Video]

Are-kun’s song, which beautifully portrays aching love and suffering, has deeply moved many listeners.

While harboring intense feelings for the other person, the work delicately weaves the complex emotions of a woman swayed by ambiguous behavior.

Released in August 2021 as an advance track from the album “Breath,” it was also chosen as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “BREAKOUT” in September, allowing it to resonate with an even wider audience.

Confused and hurt by the other person’s vague kindness, yet unable to suppress her feelings—this piece offers heartfelt empathy and comfort to anyone who bears the pain of an unrequited love.

You let me do as I please, and yet…arekunn

You’re the one who let me fall for you / Arekun [Official Music Video]

A heart-wrenching love song by Are-kun that delicately portrays the feelings of a woman suffering from complex emotions after being led on and ultimately betrayed.

The protagonist falls in love and rides an emotional roller coaster in response to the other person’s behavior, while gradually sensing the loneliness of a cooling relationship.

Released in September 2020 and included on the album “Breath,” the song gained traction primarily on social media and drew widespread empathy.

It’s a resonant track that offers comfort to anyone who’s been strung along by suggestive behavior or is struggling with their feelings for someone they care about.

Leading someone on is a serious offense!arekunn

Teasing Is a Serious Crime! / Are-kun [Official Music Video]

This song is a love ballad that portrays a woman’s feelings as she falls for a man who gives her mixed signals.

It’s sung by Arekun, known for hits like “Baka.” and “You Made Me Fall for You.” Beyond the straightforward cry of the heart—“Please fall in love with me!!”—many listeners will relate to the lyric that echoes the title: “Mixed signals are a crime!!” If you’re currently nursing a crush, especially on someone who keeps sending mixed signals, this is a must-listen.

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You know what,are-kun &『yuika’}

You know. / Are-kun & “Yuika” [MV]

A refreshing melody that evokes the feeling of spring and lyrics that capture the innocence of first love make a lasting impression! This is a duet song by Are-kun and Yuika.

Created solely through exchanges on social media, the track was born from a fateful encounter where they met in person for the first time at the recording session.

It vividly portrays the frustrating emotions of two people who have feelings for each other but can’t quite express them honestly.

Released in April 2022, the song gained attention for its youthfully nostalgic music video, in which a high school boy and girl share their feelings as cherry blossoms flutter around them.

It’s recommended not only for those experiencing unrequited love, but also for anyone looking to start a new romance with the arrival of spring.

Act like an adult.suisou gurashi

Suisougurashi “Pretending to Be Grown-Up.” Official Music Video

A bittersweet love song that portrays the complex emotions of a woman who goes to meet someone on the last train at midnight.

Released by Suisougurashi in March 2022, the song delicately captures the feelings of a woman swept up in an adult romance.

Set to jazzy sounds and a catchy melody, it vividly depicts her inner conflict as she keeps the relationship going by hiding her true self to suit the other person’s convenience.

With a clear, translucent vocal, it expresses a woman wavering between her straightforward affection and the anxiety of losing her sense of self.

A song that offers comfort to those hurting from unrequited love or heartbreak.

Where Love Is Headedsutopuri

Where Love Will Go / Strawberry Prince Music Video

How about a song that contemplates the outcome of love? It’s a track by the entertainment group Strawberry Prince (SutoPuri), released as a digital single in November 2024.

The lyrics and composition were created by Mao and Yuya from the rock band SID.

The lyrics, which depict unrequited feelings and inner conflict, are especially moving for younger listeners.

If you’re experiencing a crush right now, you’ll surely relate.

Be sure to listen closely and savor it!

Chu of addictivesurii

Addictive Chu / Surii

A wistful love song by Surii, released in July 2023, where electronic sounds intertwine with a catchy melody.

It portrays the wavering emotions between the desire to monopolize the one you love and clear-headed judgment, skillfully weaving in playful wordplay.

While pop in style, the tune carries a hint of sadness that deeply resonates with listeners.

It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to those who feel the precariousness and instability of being in love, or who find themselves overwhelmed by feelings that are too strong for someone dear to them.