Korean Dramas with Legendary OSTs
If you ask any Korean drama fan what makes a show unforgettable, they’ll probably mention the OST. In Korea, soundtrack songs aren’t just background music—they become cultural moments. They climb music charts, play in cafés, echo through karaoke rooms, and stay in people’s heads long after the drama ends. As a Korean local, I’ve seen how powerful an OST can be. Sometimes a single song can make an entire nation emotional for months.
Here’s your guide to K-dramas with truly legendary OSTs—the ones international viewers still listen to even years after the finale.
Why OSTs Matter in Korean Dramas
Before diving in, it’s good to understand why OSTs are such a big deal in Korea:
- They amplify emotional scenes instead of overpowering them
- Top Korean singers participate, giving OSTs mainstream popularity
- Lyrics often mirror the storyline
- Songs become inseparable from iconic drama moments
K-dramas and OSTs go hand in hand—like ramyeon and a late-night binge.
K-Dramas with Iconic, Unforgettable OSTs
Goblin: The Lonely and Great God(도깨비: 외롭고 위대한 신)
If Korean OSTs had a hall of fame, Goblin would take up an entire floor. Songs like “Stay With Me,” “Beautiful,” and “I Will Go to You Like the First Snow” became national sensations. Even today, you can walk into a Korean café and hear at least one Goblin track floating in the air. The soundtrack elevated every emotional scene.
Descendants of the Sun(태양의 후예)
This drama produced some of the biggest OSTs of the 2010s. “You Are My Everything” and “Always” topped charts for weeks. The songs perfectly captured the show’s mix of longing, courage, and romance. If you want a soundtrack that gives you that classic K-drama nostalgia, start here.
Crash Landing on You(사랑의 불시착)
Soft ballads, emotional duets, and warm acoustic tracks—this OST brought the drama’s cross-border romance to life. “Flower” and “Here I Am Again” were huge hits in Korea and abroad, instantly transporting listeners back to Ri Jeong-hyeok’s quiet piano playing.
My Love From the Star(별에서 온 그대)
Long before global K-drama fever started, this show delivered one of the most iconic OSTs. “My Destiny” became a cultural phenomenon in Korea, played endlessly on the radio and covered by half the country at karaoke.
Hotel Del Luna(호텔 델루나)
This drama assembled a star lineup of Korean singers—Taeyeon, Paul Kim, Heize, and more. The soundtrack feels luxurious, dreamy, and slightly haunting, just like the show. “All About You” and “Done For Me” remain fan favorites.
OSTs That Took Over the Charts
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay(사이코지만 괜찮아)
A beautifully curated soundtrack that blends indie vibes with emotional ballads. “In Your Time” and “Breath” captured the healing journey of the characters. Calm, emotional, and timeless.
Start-Up(스타트-업)
If you’re looking for a modern OST with upbeat, energetic tracks, this is it. Red Velvet’s “Future” and Gaho’s “Running” became anthems for young Koreans chasing dreams.
Our Beloved Summer(그해 우리는)
A soft indie-pop soundtrack that feels like a warm summer playlist. “Christmas Tree” by V became a global hit, and the entire album is perfect for late-night studying or peaceful walks.
Rising Dramas with Standout OSTs
Twenty-Five, Twenty-One(스물다섯, 스물하나)
A nostalgic, youth-filled drama paired with a breezy soundtrack. Songs like “Starlight” captured that bittersweet, almost-universal feeling of being young and hopeful.
King the Land(킹더랜드)
Simple, romantic, and bright—this OST matched the show’s feel-good energy. Great for listeners who love light melodic tracks.
Final Thoughts
A legendary K-drama OST isn’t just a playlist—it’s the emotional heartbeat of the show. It brings scenes to life, stays in your memory, and sometimes even becomes more iconic than the drama itself. If you want to experience Korean culture through both storytelling and music, these OSTs offer a perfect introduction.