We live in a time when fans can easily connect with their favorite artists through platforms like Bubble, From, and other social media channels. However, an artist’s true essence isn’t solely found in what they share online—it’s most deeply reflected in their music. Here are five K-pop songs that beautifully capture the artists’ personal stories through autobiographical lyrics.
G-DRAGON – POWER (2024)
KISS OF LIFE – Countdown (2023)
KISS OF LIFE, a rookie group that debuted in 2023, made a strong impression with their debut mini-album. The album included solo tracks for each member, each accompanied by its own music video. Among these, “Countdown” by the main vocalist Belle garnered special attention. This pop-rock track captures the journey of overcoming adversity and embracing a new beginning. The lyrics, particularly the line “favorite playlist, then sorrow becomes nothing,” convey a message of hope and resilience and that music has the power to help people overcome difficult times. Belle is a talented all-rounder, having contributed to the lyrics and composition of LE SSERAFIM’s “UNFORGIVEN” and composed VIVIZ’s “Hypnotize.”
MARK – Golden Hour (2023)
Mark, who has been actively showcasing his talents with NCT 127 and NCT DREAM, is set to release his first solo album in February 2025. Known for the sharp diction and witty rhymes he showcased on High School Rapper early in his career, Mark has continued to impress fans with his singing and dancing in every NCT unit he’s in. In 2022, Mark released his first solo track, “Child,” as part of the NCT LAB project, followed by his second solo track, “Golden Hour,” the following year. “Golden Hour” is a dynamic hip-hop track inspired by a memorable moment when Mark failed to fry an egg on a variety show and drew sharp criticism from chef Gordon Ramsay. The song also uses the imagery of the setting sun, the “Golden Hour,” describing it as “the yolk in the sky shining.” In May, the singer released the single “200” along with an acoustic version called Minhyung’s Ver., using his real name to share a more personal and authentic side of himself through his solo music.
WONPIL – Voiceless (2022)
“Voiceless” is a solo track by Wonpil, the vocalist of the K-pop band DAY6. He chose this song as the final track on his first solo album, Pilmography, released in 2022. Wonpil shared that he wanted to convey “good luck to everyone about to embark on a new journey” when writing the lyrics. He performed this song with tears in his eyes during a solo concert following the album’s release. The lyrics, “I’ll be a better version of myself when the seasons pass and I return, so look forward to it. I’ll be back,” served as a heartfelt message to fans who had continuously supported him, particularly as he prepared for his military enlistment. While the song combines future bass and disco to create an energetic sound, its deeper meaning lies in the connection between Wonpil and his fans. They’ve shared moments of hope, longing, and joy together, making “Voiceless” a special song in his career.
CHUNG HA – X (2021)
“X” is the pre-release track from CHUNG HA’s first full-length album, Querencia. Featuring a total of 21 songs, the album encapsulates CHUNG HA’s determination to establish herself as Korea’s next diva. “X” is a modern rock-inspired track that stirs emotions, with CHUNG HA seamlessly blending her vocals and rap-like singing to create a rich musical experience. The song also garnered attention for its collaboration with The Black Skirts, a band known for rarely working with K-pop artists. The lyrics, such as “This place didn’t make me; there were no flower fields on the road I’ve walked,” metaphorically reflect CHUNG HA’s journey—from debuting through an audition program to becoming a solo artist after two group activities. “X” delves into the lowest points of her life, reflecting on the thorny path she’s walked while celebrating her resilience in reaching her current position.
Edited by Seo Hayne
Translated by Yu Jin Kim
Editor Seo Hayne: I like actors as they faithfully lead through their long running-time. I also like idols who accomplish everything on stage within 3 minutes.
