K-pop and Korean love songs: Love songs that really capture the Korean view of romance

OST (Feat.CHANMINA)ASH ISLAND

ASH ISLAND – ‘OST (Feat.CHANMINA)’ M/V

This work is characterized by its warm melody and lyrics that resonate with the heart.

Released in July 2024 by Korean rapper Ash Island, the track features a collaboration with Japanese rapper Chanmina.

The lyrics, which depict the story of the two like a scene from a movie, are striking and beautifully express both a special encounter and the preciousness of everyday life.

Blending pop rock and hip-hop, the sound pairs Ash Island’s distinctive rap with Chanmina’s powerful vocals to create a unique charm.

It’s recommended for those who want to look back on memories with a lover or savor time spent with someone special.

I Will Stay With YouGUMMY

[MV] GUMMY(거미) _ I Will Stay With You(나를 보며 살아갈 수 있도록)

A gentle love ballad, “I Will Stay With You,” featured on the OST of the popular medical drama series Dr.

Romantic 3.

Sung by Kimmii, renowned as the queen of ballads infused with R&B, it was released in May 2023.

This song expresses feelings for a special person who serves as an emotional anchor amid busy days.

Its tender lyrics, imbued with both delicate emotions and a sense of warmth and embrace, gradually resonate with the listener.

It’s also recommended as a song to dedicate to a loved one.

Dumb DumbRed Velvet

Red Velvet 레드벨벳 ‘Dumb Dumb’ MV

Red Velvet is a five-member girl group.

Among the many great songs they’ve released, one particularly addictive track is “Dumb Dumb.” The song’s defining feature is its chorus, which repeats the word “Dumb.” As the song progresses, the speed of the repetition quickens and slows down, so even though it’s a chorus, it feels like part of the melody.

Be sure to check the meaning of the word and the lyrics as well—you’ll understand the reason for the repetition and the message behind it.

Whenever, WhereverRoy Kim

[MV] Roy Kim(로이킴) _ Whenever, Wherever(그대가 있는 곳, 언제 어디든) (MY DEMON(마이데몬) OST Pt. 2)

An emotionally moving love ballad sung by Roy Kim.

This song was released in 2023 as part of the OST for the Netflix fantasy romance drama “My Demon.” Its straightforward devotion to a loved one strikes straight to the heart, leaving you with a sense of cleansing.

The message of love—that our hearts are together—slips in gently with a soft resonance.

Coupled with Roy Kim’s wonderful, soothing vocals, it wraps you in a calm warmth.

Not only did it elevate the drama, but it’s also a song you can listen to while thinking of someone special to you.

첫눈이 온다구요이정석

열린음악회 – 이정석 – 첫눈이 온다구요.20190202

The song “첫눈이 온다구요” by Lee Jong-seok, which was featured in the drama Reply 1988, has been gaining renewed attention.

It also became an even bigger topic after Park Bo-gum showcased a performance of it on his YouTube channel.

It’s a snow-themed love song with a soothing, laid-back sound that’s sure to heal your heart.

Be sure to check out both the original version and Park Bo-gum’s performance.

His rendition is arranged with a Christmas carol touch.

Late Night Walk10cm

[MV] 10CM / 너랑 밤새고 싶어 (Late Night Walk)

A new song released in April 2024 by Kwon Jung-yeol—better known as 10cm—who is popular in Korean pop music.

With lyrics themed around a nighttime walk, it evokes the atmosphere of a quiet night.

The fluttering feelings under the starry sky and the scenes of asking the other person questions are especially striking.

Featuring an acoustic sound and a simple yet pleasant melody, this work conveys the beauty of stepping away from everyday life to savor the serenity of the night.

It feels like a track that offers a brief escape from the bustle of daily life—perfect for spending a cozy time with a lover or friends.

It also communicates the importance of facing yourself in the stillness of night, so even when you listen alone, it will surely bring you peace.

Just BetterACE

에이스(A.C.E) ‘Just Better’ Lyric Video (Recording Sketch)

The five-member Korean idol group A.

C.

E’s song centers on the feeling of confident love.

Set to a catchy pop melody, it conveys the desire to “make your life even better.” Released in September 2024, the track drew attention as their first project after completing military service.

The members’ vocals, which express powerful emotions, paired with a sophisticated beat, are especially compelling.

With lyrics that emphasize the importance of believing in yourself, it’s a song that can encourage those struggling with love.

Brimming with positive energy, this work is perfect for when you want to feel upbeat and forward-looking.