Song lyrics are like poetry. They have phenomenal artistic value but require an understanding of the original material to be translated without losing their intended meaning. Here you’ll find a collection of our original translations to some of the most poetic Korean songs, based on each contributor’s interpretation of the lyrics.
The ultimate song to cheer yourself up when you feel let down. Sung mostly in the first person narrative, it sounds like you are patting yourself on the back and getting yourself back up on your feet through this inner voice that is both strong and consoling.
Yi Sung-yol’s rugged voice accompanied by just a piano brings out the emotions of anxiety, loneliness, and longing for another.
Even without knowing the meaning behind the lyrics, you can feel the sense of deep dejection in the artist’s voice – from the opening line, you know this is not a song with a ‘happily ever after’ ending.
A song of heartache, originally from the 2006 Korean movie ‘Radio Star,’ that continues to live on through the years by various artists.
Park Hyo-shin lends his voice and words through ‘Dream’ to those who want to be honest with ourselves about our vulnerabilities, our hopes, and our dreams.
Written and composed by You Hee-yeol under the name ‘Toy,’ this beloved song on a person’s heartache after a breakup is simple but relatable, honest but not hurtful.
A timeless rainy day song by veteran group Epik High, featuring solo artist Younha.
A consolation to anyone who is suffering and feels like they’re suffering alone.
A song on the pattern of love and heartbreak and how a relationship you think is special is just one out of many like it.
Simple lyrics telling a very visual story, accompanied by groovy and dynamic sounds that accentuates Colde’s laid-back vocals.
In his album’s third track Firecrackers and Stars, Kim Jin-ho uses the metaphors to describe how two types of people both shine in their own ways but are not satisfied with where they are and look towards each other in envy.
A song for those who are going through an existential crisis – feeling somewhat lost, afraid, and perhaps even confused.
In his uncomplicated and poignant way, Lee Juck’s lyrics to ‘Lies, lies, lies’ speaks from the perspective of someone that realizes they’ve been abandoned by the person they love the most.
A soft rock song with melody and rhymes that keep repeating throughout the song, just like the feelings described in the lyrics about everyday being the same as the next when you miss a person so much.
This 2013 song by veteran South Korean band Jaurim seems to evoke a sense of poignancy about reminiscing on memories from our twenties – the sweetness of youth with a tinge of regret as an older self.
In her 2016 solo album, Kim Yoon Ah released River (강), a song written on the 2014 sinking of the Sewol Ferry that claimed over 300 lives.
An original soundtrack to 2020 Korean drama ‘Itaewon Class,’ a song for using the chip on your shoulder to boost your self-esteem and motivation.
A theme song to the main character in Korean drama Itaewon Class, reflecting on the struggles of his past but hanging on to the desire for a better future.
A 2019 single from the collaboration of local and international music talents.
An enchanting song depicting a snowy winter spent in the warmth of a loved one.
A widely-recognized romantic song with simple but poetic lyrics by singer-songwriter Lee Juck.
One of the beloved and emotional songs by Park Hyo Shin, representing the artist’s personal struggles in the most poetic and cathartic way.
A poetic and cathartic song from Park Hyo Shin’s collaboration with composer and music director Jung Jae Il (Parasite, Okja).
