K-pop is no stranger to delivering heart-wrenching, empowering, or even fun breakup anthems. Over the years, several K-pop artists have ventured into releasing English-language tracks, many of which are unforgettable breakup songs. These releases not only highlight the artists' versatility but also allow international fans to connect more deeply with the lyrics and emotions expressed in these songs.
Below are ten English-language breakup songs by K-pop artists that perfectly capture the rollercoaster of emotions associated with heartbreak.
GONE – ROSÉ
"GONE" by Rosé is a powerful English-language track about betrayal and the pain of a lost love. With lyrics like, "I just wanna be the one, but to you, we're already done," Rosé expresses the emotional aftermath of a breakup and the lingering sadness that comes with it.
Anymore – SOMI
"Anymore" by SOMI is a hauntingly beautiful breakup song featuring lines such as, "For now, I’ll be stuck in this beautiful nightmare, til you come back, I’ll be standing right here." This track offers a different, more emotional side of SOMI compared to her usual upbeat releases, highlighting her versatility as an artist.
ONE DAY – MONSTA X
MONSTA X's "One Day" is an English-language track that explores the emotional aftermath of a relationship that couldn’t survive. The repeated lines, "Maybe I’ll, maybe I’ll see you one day," reflect the yearning for reconciliation, capturing the melancholy of heartbreak.
Congratulations – DAY6
DAY6's debut hit "Congratulations" is an unforgettable breakup anthem that blends pop-rock elements with emotional lyrics. The song was later released in English in 2018, showcasing the band's ability to connect with international fans.
You Were Beautiful – DAY6
"You Were Beautiful" by DAY6 has become known as South Korea's national breakup anthem. The English version of the song, released in 2018, repeats the phrase "You were beautiful," underscoring the bittersweet memories of a past relationship.
Don't Let Me Go – LAY ZHANG
EXO’s Lay Zhang released the English-language breakup track “Don’t Let Me Go” in 2018, highlighting his versatility as both a singer and songwriter. The repeated line "Don't let me go" serves as the emotional centerpiece of the song, making it a heartfelt plea to hold on to love.
Other People – AMBER
Amber Liu’s "Other People" delves into the complexities of heartbreak with its repeated refrain, "I’m replacing you, replacing you, replacing you with other people." The song highlights Amber's artistry outside her work with f(x), inviting listeners to reflect on the emotional journey of moving on from a broken relationship.
2 MINUS 1 – SEVENTEEN
"2 MINUS 1" by SEVENTEEN's Joshua and Vernon is a pop-infused track that narrates the emotional aftermath of a breakup, where someone who once felt irreplaceable is no longer needed. The song stands out for its catchy chorus and relatable themes of heartache and letting go.
Can't get you out of my mind – DREAMCATCHER
Dreamcatcher's "Can't get you out of my mind" is an emotional B-side track that explores the haunting feeling of being unable to move on after a breakup. The song perfectly conveys the lingering pain of heartbreak in a way that resonates with fans worldwide.
The Happiest Girl – BLACKPINK
BLACKPINK's "The Happiest Girl" from their album "Born Pink" is a raw, emotional ballad entirely in English. The song reflects on trying to find happiness after a painful breakup, making it a powerful addition to the group's diverse discography.
These English-language breakup songs by K-pop artists resonate deeply with listeners across the globe, showcasing the genre’s ability to convey universal emotions. What’s your favorite K-pop breakup song in English?