
Not every great K-drama song starts out as an official OST. Sometimes, regular tracks by our favorite artists carry the same emotional punch, if not more. The right song can feel like it was written for a scene that hasn’t even been filmed yet, whether it’s heartbreak, first love, or a dramatic showdown. Here are some songs that could easily slide into a drama soundtrack and feel like they belonged there all along.
1. IU “Love Poem”
It’s eerily haunting yet beautiful, which captures the many emotions that run through when one goes through a heartbreak. Imagine this song slowly fading in an episode of a melodrama. It’s not just the tune, but also the lyrics that speak of offering comfort and solace to someone in pain that makes “Love Poem” a song that could double as an OST.
2. Girls’ Generation Taeyeon “Fine”
The raw emotions and vocals portrayed in “Fine” capture the bittersweet aftermath of a breakup. Exploring the lost love or characters who are struggling to move on while pretending to be okay is just another twist in a typical K-drama.
3. AKMU “Time and Fallen Leaves”
This song would fit perfectly in an autumn-based drama. The track feels cinematic, yet it also tugs at the emotions you feel when experiencing nostalgia. Portraying the themes of passing time or a fleeting romance. The guitar riff also adds a nice touch of calmness.
4. The Rose “Sorry”
This rock ballad is full of aching sincerity. Think of this song as the backtrack for a lovers’ quarrel or a painful confession. The intensity and rawness expressed through Woosung’s vocals would heighten the dramatic breakup scenes.
5. PHANTOM “Burning”
There’s always a character who is ambitious, obsessed, or living on the edge, and “Burning” is the perfect OST for scenes with characters like these.
6. EPEX “Youth2Youth”
Nothing to get you more motivated and feeling like you can conquer the world with just a dream, EPEX’s “Youth2Youth” is a hopeful anthem song that speaks directly to younger generations, thus making it a perfect OST for any coming-of-age drama.
7. Jay Park “Joah”
It’s funky, light, and sweet and is the perfect backtrack for a fun, comedic romance drama. The playful energy you feel upon listening to this song would pair so well with the blossoming love stories.
8. SHINee “Hello”
Need a fun yet tender song to further emulate the emotions of a cheerful confession? Look no further than SHINee’s “Hello.”
9. After School “ Because of You”
“Because of You” mixes in the joys and struggles of being in love. Its dramatic tone makes it a perfect song for any high-stakes melodramatic moment.
10. MBLAQ “This is War”
The orchestra and explosive intensity within this track are perfect for an intense drama battle scene. It’s fitting for a war drama or even makjang dramas where everyone is out for some revenge.
11. Epik High “Umbrella”
This song really encapsulates the feeling of walking through a rainy night; it’s moody and yet poetic, and creates a feeling of longing and loneliness, which one can feel in various dramas.
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