Artists turn heartbreak into art, and K-pop is no exception. These emotionally charged tracks, adorned with poetic lyrics and powerful vocals, convey raw feelings that deeply resonate with listeners, drawing them into a deeply personal experience. Without ever enduring it, these songs give you a taste of heartbreak’s sting.
Here are some soul-stirring breakup songs by K-pop artists that tug at the heartstrings:
Untitled, 2014 [G-DRAGON]
G-Dragon’s ballad hit "Untitled, 2014," which left VIPs in tears, is a masterpiece of heartbreak. With beautifully poetic lyrics and a haunting melody, the song strikes a deep chord with listeners, evoking a sense of heartache.
BEAST [On Rainy Days]
“On Rainy Days” is one of the biggest ballad hits by BEAST. With heartbroken lyrics, soft melody, and vocals of the members, the song struck a chord with the listeners immediately.
GOODBYE ROAD [IKON]
With a discography rich in emotional breakup songs, iKON masterfully crafts poetic lyrics that deliver the heartbreak experience. "GOODBYE ROAD" stands out as one of those tracks, certain to bring tears to listeners' eyes.
Fine [TAEYEON]
Taeyeon has mastered the art of expressing vulnerability, and “Fine” is one of her most poignant heartbroken tracks. This song encapsulates the chaos of post-breakup emotions.
MISSING YOU [2NE1]
In contrast to their signature bold, fierce tracks that dominated the charts, 2NE1 showcased a softer, more vulnerable side through their ballad hit “MISSING YOU” that tugged at Blackjacks' heartstrings.
ONE DAY [MONSTA X]
MONSTA X delivers a heartfelt portrayal of post-breakup raw emotions in their English-language song "ONE DAY," beautifully conveying the heartbreak that resonates with Monbebe.
IF YOU [BIGBANG]
What truly sets BIGBANG apart is their ability to craft lyrics that connect on a deeply emotional level. "IF YOU" has become anthems of heartbreak, with poignant lyrics, moving melodies, and heartfelt vocals.
Only One [BoA]
SM’s iconic soloist BoA delivers a stellar performance with her ballad pop song “Only One.” The lyrics bid farewell to the former lover and state, ‘Even though it hurts, you’re the only one.’
Gone [ROSÉ]
ROSÉ demonstrates her exceptional vocal talent in her English-language solo hit “Gone,” a poignant soft rock ballad about a past lover who has left her heartbroken.
Like a Flowing Wind [DAY6]
DAY6 is known for their heartbroken songs, and “Like a Flowing Wind” stands out with its lyrics: ‘Like the flowing wind, I won’t be able to catch you; through the gap of my five fingers, you escaped.’
EYES, NOSE, LIPS [TAEYANG]
Taeyang’s superhit solo track “EYES, NOSE, LIPS” remains timelessly popular, touching hearts with its heartfelt lyrics, his compelling voice, and the solid piano melody that accompanies the song.
One Of These Nights [Red Velvet]
Red Velvet's vocal prowess shines in their R&B ballad "One of These Nights," a poignant track inspired by the Korean folk tale of Jingnyeo and Gyeonu, which is rooted in the Chilseok festival.
Habit [SEVENTEEN]
SEVENTEEN’s vocal team sings about the habit of calling ex, with lyrics like, 'I've realized it's become a habit, reaching out to you without even thinking' in their song “Habit.”
Miracles in December [EXO]
“Miracles in December” by EXO is a popular K-pop heartbroken ballad steeped in sorrow and regret. The track’s moving piano-driven melody highlights the anguish of realizing one’s mistakes too late.
Don’t Leave [T-ARA]
Prepare for heartbreak with T-ARA’s “Don’t Leave,” featuring lyrics like ‘If I hide my tears in the falling rain, can all of our memories be hidden? If I erase your name that I long for, can all of your face be erased?’
Whether you’re searching for comfort, catharsis, or simply a song to cry to, these tracks offer solace to those navigating the pain of heartbreak.