Korean Web Drama OSTs: The Best Soundtracks to Discover

Korean Web Drama OSTs: The Best Soundtracks to Discover

Korean web dramas have exploded in popularity, offering shorter, more digestible narratives often focused on youth, romance, and contemporary issues. While the compelling storylines and captivating visuals are undeniable draws, another crucial element contributing to their success is the music. Original Soundtracks (OSTs) of Korean web dramas are often curated with immense care, featuring both established artists and rising stars, delivering a diverse range of genres that perfectly complement the on-screen action and amplify the emotional impact. This article delves into the world of Korean web drama OSTs, highlighting some of the best soundtracks to discover, examining their unique qualities, and exploring the artists behind the music.

A-TEEN (열여덟)

A-TEEN, a coming-of-age drama revolving around high school students navigating friendship, love, and identity, boasts an OST as relatable and vibrant as the series itself. The soundtrack captures the essence of youth with its upbeat pop anthems and heartfelt ballads.

• “A-TEEN” by SEVENTEEN: This energetic track perfectly embodies the youthful exuberance of the drama. The catchy melody and optimistic lyrics make it an instant earworm, reflecting the characters’ hopes and dreams. The song’s popularity extended beyond the drama, becoming a staple in K-pop playlists.
• “Talk Talk” by Fromm: This acoustic-driven song offers a more introspective perspective, capturing the anxieties and uncertainties that come with adolescence. Fromm’s soothing vocals and the gentle instrumentation create a comforting atmosphere, resonating with viewers facing similar challenges.
• “If You Were Me” by Red Velvet: Divided into two versions, one sung by Wendy and the other by Seulgi, this song delves into the complexities of relationships and unrequited love. The contrasting vocal styles of the Red Velvet members add depth and nuance to the track, enhancing its emotional resonance.

The A-TEEN OST is a perfect example of how music can elevate a web drama, creating a lasting connection with the audience and solidifying the series’ cultural impact.

Love Playlist (연애플레이리스트)

Love Playlist, a realistic portrayal of college students’ dating lives, is known for its relatable scenarios and authentic characters. The OST mirrors this authenticity, featuring indie artists and acoustic melodies that capture the bittersweet emotions of young love.

• “From Today” by Motte: This song is practically synonymous with Love Playlist. Motte’s delicate vocals and the melancholic melody perfectly encapsulate the yearning and uncertainty of new relationships. It’s a quintessential indie-pop track that has become a signature song for the series.
• “Reason” by Jung Joon Il: Known for his emotionally charged ballads, Jung Joon Il’s “Reason” adds a layer of depth and vulnerability to the Love Playlist OST. The song explores the complexities of love and the reasons behind our choices, resonating with viewers who have experienced similar emotions.
• “First Love” by Standing Egg: This acoustic track exudes warmth and nostalgia, evoking the feeling of innocent first love. Standing Egg’s signature mellow sound creates a comforting atmosphere, making it a perfect backdrop for romantic scenes.

The Love Playlist OST showcases the power of indie music in capturing the nuances of everyday life and amplifying the emotional impact of relatable stories.

Extraordinary You (어쩌다 발견한 하루)

Extraordinary You, a fantasy romance drama set in a fictional comic book world, features an OST that blends dreamy melodies with powerful vocals, reflecting the drama’s unique premise and emotional depth.

• “First Love” by April: This sweet and innocent song perfectly captures the initial spark of romance between the main characters. April’s bright vocals and the upbeat melody create a cheerful and optimistic atmosphere, reflecting the hopeful beginnings of their relationship.
• “Feeling” by April: Another track by April, “Feeling” explores the deeper emotions of love and the longing for connection. The song’s melancholic melody and heartfelt lyrics add a layer of vulnerability to the OST, reflecting the challenges faced by the characters in their fictional world.
• “Neo and Me” by VERIVERY: This song offers a more energetic and dynamic sound, reflecting the characters’ determination to defy their predetermined fates. VERIVERY’s powerful vocals and the driving beat create a sense of urgency and excitement, adding a layer of intensity to the OST.

The Extraordinary You OST perfectly complements the drama’s fantastical elements while also capturing the universal emotions of love, loss, and self-discovery.

Replay: The Moment When It Starts Again (리플레이: 다시 시작되는 순간)

This music romance drama, focusing on aspiring musicians and their dreams, naturally boasts an OST heavily featuring original songs and instrumental pieces. The soundtrack highlights the passion and struggles of pursuing a musical career.

• “Dreamin'” by (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon: This song is a powerful anthem about chasing dreams and overcoming obstacles. Miyeon’s strong vocals and the uplifting melody create a sense of determination and hope, inspiring viewers to pursue their own passions.
• “Tell Me” by Kim Jae Hwan: Known for his soulful voice, Kim Jae Hwan delivers a heartfelt ballad that explores the pain of unrequited love. The song’s emotional depth and Jae Hwan’s expressive vocals resonate with viewers who have experienced similar heartbreak.
• Various Instrumental Pieces: The OST also features a variety of instrumental pieces that underscore the drama’s musical themes and create a vibrant atmosphere. These pieces range from upbeat pop melodies to more melancholic and introspective compositions, adding depth and nuance to the soundtrack.

The Replay OST is a testament to the power of music in storytelling, showcasing the passion and dedication required to pursue artistic dreams.

Twenty Twenty (트웬티 트웬티)

Twenty Twenty, a drama exploring the challenges faced by young adults transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, features an OST that reflects the uncertainties and anxieties of this pivotal stage in life.

• “Sweet Dream” by Kim Woo Sung (The Rose): This song captures the bittersweet feeling of nostalgia and the longing for simpler times. Kim Woo Sung’s soulful vocals and the melancholic melody evoke a sense of reflection and introspection, resonating with viewers who are navigating similar transitions.
• “Let Me Stay” by Stella Jang: This song explores the fear of change and the desire for stability. Stella Jang’s delicate vocals and the gentle instrumentation create a comforting atmosphere, reflecting the characters’ yearning for connection and security.
• “Question” by WOODZ (Cho Seung Youn): This song delves into the uncertainties and anxieties of self-discovery. WOODZ’s powerful vocals and the introspective lyrics capture the characters’ struggles to find their place in the world.

The Twenty Twenty OST offers a nuanced portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of young adulthood, capturing the emotional complexities of this transformative period.

Growing Season (잘 하고 싶어)

Growing Season is a drama focused on the complexities of relationships in the digital age. The OST reflects this modern setting with a mix of upbeat pop and introspective R&B tracks.

• “Photograph” by Kim Feel: This song adds a touch of sophistication to the soundtrack. Kim Feel’s smooth vocals and the soulful melody create a romantic atmosphere, reflecting the characters’ evolving relationships.
• “Falling” by Lee Hi: Known for her distinctive voice and emotional delivery, Lee Hi’s “Falling” explores the vulnerability and uncertainty of falling in love. The song’s melancholic melody and Lee Hi’s expressive vocals resonate with viewers who have experienced similar emotions.
• “Maybe It’s Not Our Fault” by Baek A Yeon: This song delves into the complexities of communication and misunderstanding in relationships. Baek A Yeon’s delicate vocals and the heartfelt lyrics capture the characters’ struggles to connect with each other.

The Growing Season OST provides a contemporary soundtrack to a modern love story, capturing the nuances of relationships in the digital age.

Playlist Global: Key Considerations

When curating a Korean web drama OST playlist, consider the following:

• Genre Diversity: Web drama OSTs often encompass a wide range of genres, from K-pop and indie-pop to R&B and ballads. Embrace this diversity to create a well-rounded and engaging listening experience.
• Emotional Connection: Choose songs that resonate with you on an emotional level. OSTs are designed to evoke specific feelings and enhance the storytelling, so select tracks that amplify those emotions.
• Artist Discovery: Web drama OSTs often feature lesser-known artists, providing an opportunity to discover new talent. Explore the discographies of these artists to expand your musical horizons.
• Contextual Appreciation: While the songs can be enjoyed independently, understanding the context of the drama can enhance your appreciation of the OST. Consider watching the drama to gain a deeper understanding of the music’s significance.
• Lyrical Understanding: While the melodies are captivating, understanding the lyrics can further enhance your emotional connection to the music. Consider seeking out translations to fully appreciate the meaning behind the songs.

By carefully selecting and curating your Korean web drama OST playlist, you can create a soundtrack that not only enhances your listening experience but also allows you to relive the emotions and memories associated with these captivating dramas. The world of Korean web drama OSTs is vast and diverse, offering a wealth of musical treasures waiting to be discovered.