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K-pop
K-pop anthems of democracy
Revisit some beloved K-pop songs that formed the soundtrack of protests during four months of political turmoil From former President Yoon Suk Yeol's sudden declaration of martial law the night of Dec. 3 to his removal by the Constitutional Court on April 4, many South Koreans spent those 122 days protesting, marching and calling for democracy. Amid the serious atmosphere at the demonstrations, one element stood out— the voluntary participation of younger generations and the powerful presence of
April 12, 2025 - 16:00:00
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K-pop
Welcome spring with heart-throbbing bands
With March having arrived, the weather is slowly getting warmer and the days are growing longer. Spring approaches, and the world seems to be awakening from a long winter slumber. To match this refreshing change, following are some energetic songs from exciting bands to wake you up and fill your days with vibrant energy. N.Flying - "Into You" N.Flying released "Into You," a track composed by leader Lee Seung-hyub, in June 2024 while two of the five bandmates were fulfilling their compulsory mili
March 8, 2025 - 16:00:00
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K-pop
Lucky charms for 2025
The new year is in full swing, many have bought planners, set goals and outlined their ambitions for the months ahead. If you’re already feeling anxious about how quickly January has passed, why not recharge for the remaining 11 months with songs brimming with positivity? Lee Chan-hyuk – '1 Trillion' Lee Chan-hyuk, a unique soloist and the producer of sibling duo AKMU, is known for relatable yet unique lyrics and creative songwriting. His song “1 Trillion” was inspired by a dream he had at 14, i
Feb. 1, 2025 - 16:00:00
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K-pop
Warm up your winter with tender melodies
As sidewalks freeze over, tree branches grow bare, and delicate snowflakes drift through the air, winter's chill is here. Embrace the season by enjoying winter-themed songs that capture its quiet beauty while offering warmth through heartfelt melodies and lyrics. "The Snowman" by Jung Seung-hwan One of Korea's most beloved young ballad singers, Jung Seung-hwan, evokes images of a snow-covered landscape with the fairytale-like melody of “The Snowman.” Released on Feb. 19, 2018, as a pre-release
Dec. 28, 2024 - 16:00:00
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weekender
Cozy songs to warm you up
As winter's chill sets in, cozy up with the soothing sounds of Zion. T's "Snow," a smooth and soulful track that perfectly captures the serene beauty of the season. For a more upbeat yet equally cozy vibe, NewJeans' "Ditto" brings a warm, dreamy atmosphere that pairs wonderfully with a hot drink by the fireplace. Lee Mujin’s "When It Snows" offers a soft, heartfelt melody that perfectly complements the peacefulness of a snowy day. These songs wi
Nov. 23, 2024 - 16:01:10
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Culture
Nostagic Korean ballads perfect for autumn
When temperatures drop and leaves begin to change color, many Koreans turn to Korean ballads, wallowing in the lonesome mood associated with falling leaves and the passing of the year close at hand. Numerous artists have continued the legacy of these nostalgia-evoking Korean ballads known for their soft vocals and sorrowful melodies. Sung Si-kyung -- 'On The Street' When talking about Korean ballads, singer Sung Si-kyung is almost always mentioned. His uniquely beautiful and expressi
Oct. 19, 2024 - 16:01:37
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weekender
Timeless songs to share with family on long Chuseok drives
With Chuseok beginning this weekend, long hours of driving in heavy traffic to visit family in people's hometowns await. Here are some timeless songs to listen to in the car that bridge generation gaps between parents and children. Lee Moon-sae’s “Sunset Glow” Released in 1988, this ballad by Lee Moon-sae, a Korean pop icon since his debut in 1978, remains a favorite. The song's enduring appeal is evident as it was also covered by legendary K-pop boy group Big Bang
Sept. 14, 2024 - 16:00:47
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Performance
Melodies of liberation
On Aug. 15, 1945, Korea achieved independence after 35 years of Japanese colonial rule. Many fought for the country’s liberation from the Japanese Empire, with many losing their lives. August seems to be a perfect time to reflect on the stories of those who endured tremendous hardships and their legacies in Korean music today. "Women’s March" sung by Ahn Ye-eun In 1919, after the nationwide March 1st Independence Movement, seven female independence activists — Yu Gwan
Aug. 10, 2024 - 16:00:40
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weekender
Songs to mellow out to on rainy days
The monsoon season is back, bringing heavy rains nationwide for the next few weeks. The gray clouds and humid air could be a downer for those who enjoy outdoor activities and the sun. But there are no better days to tune into melancholic ballad numbers to stay cozy and curled up on a couch than rainy weekends. Queue up these tracks for this year’s monsoon season, which will likely end late this month. Taeyeon- "Rain" K-pop diva Taeyeon, also a member of the legendary K-pop girl g
July 6, 2024 - 16:01:15
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weekender
Songs that perfectly capture spring in full bloom
Spring is in full bloom in South Korea. If you are beginning a lazy weekend, here are some songs that will motivate you to get out of bed and enjoy the warm breezy weather to the fullest. Sole - “Ride” Start your morning by playing this R&B number released in November 2017 by singer-songwriter Sole. Sole debuted in 2017 with this single and made a name for herself by becoming a member of WSG Wannabe, an all-female project group created on MBC reality show "Hangout With Yoo.&
April 13, 2024 - 16:00:48
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K-pop
Songs to get you ready for fresh new beginning
With Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, coming to an end, many are set for a new start in 2024. Even the weather is starting to warm up, confirming that spring is coming. Here are three songs that will prep you for a fresh start. TWS - “Plot Twist” Anyoneoff to a new start can relate to this song, which sings about the difficulty of encountering people you have never met before in a new environment. This single, by K-pop rookie TWS also conveys the message that not everything goes
April 10, 2024 - 13:36:35
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K-pop
Start spring with a little luck
Although it is the third month of the year, March can be a month of new beginnings, as sprouts poke through the ground and a gentle spring breeze shakes off the dust of a dark winter. Celebrating the beginning of a new semester and the warmth of spring, The Korea Herald presents some cheerful songs to wish for luck in the heart-throbbing season. Peppertones – “Good Luck to You” Peppertones, a duo of Shin Jae-pyung and Lee Jang-won, formed in 2003 after the two friends met
March 14, 2024 - 16:15:49
