Year-Ender 2024: Unforgettable Korean drama OSTs of the year

The soundtracks of Korean dramas have always played a great role in amplifying their emotional depth and intense storytelling. In 2024, a fresh wave of OSTs captured our hearts. They offered a diverse blend of genres and themes. From the serene ballads of Queen of Tears to the electrifying anthems of The Judge from Hell, these tracks are more than just background music.

Here’s a look at the standout K-drama OSTs of the year that left an indelible mark on viewers and listeners alike.

Lee Sora – I See You

Lee Sora’s enchanting vocals transport us to a different world in I See You. The song, from the K-drama Atypical Family has a calm yet hopeful vibe. The lyrics of the song go, “Unable to express everything, so many words choked up / You’re there watching me in that somewhat familiar distance / Hoping for a slight pull, somehow it feels good.”

Kum Junhyeon – Ruin Life

Kum Jun Hyeon captivates listeners with his intense performance in RUIN LIFE, a standout track from the romance-mystery series Hierarchy. The show delves into the lives of elite students from the top 0.01% of society, exploring themes of corruption, inequality, and the struggles of adolescence.

Seo Eunkwang – 100 Wins

This song from the crime comedy series Chief Detective 1958 has a rocking beat. The rugged styled song has comical lyrics and confident instrumental. The lyrics go, “Whether you run or fly, you’re just a flea / Even if you flee frantically, you’re still in my hands / I’ll emerge victorious in every battle.”

BEN – Your Traces

BEN’s Your Traces from the K-drama The Midnight Studio explores grief and highlights the people who have been left behind. The lyrics of the song go, “Memories that remain so clearly / Remain everywhere in my day / How far did I go in erasing you / Is there still more left?” The still-living person, in this case, seems to be stuck in the denial process of grieving; unable to fully let go. As the song continues, they progress to anger; “I hate you so much for leaving / I blame you all night long / Again, I’m thinking of you.”

Kim Kyung Hee – In a Beautiful Way

The simple lyrics of In a Beautiful Way from Queen of Tears speaks of lovers being there for each other. The lyrics go, “Breathe in / Stop the clock / I’m close to you / I’m here with you / Let go of all the bad times.” The ballad song plays at the opening of the episodes, as it prepares the readers for the emotional turmoil that they are about to face.

Jessi – Boomerang

An electrifying track, Jessi’s Boomerang from The Judge from Hell has a fierce vibe. The song begins in a calm manner with Jessi’s vocals taking the lead. It turns into a bold anthem when the music gives off darker vibes. Jessi starts rapping in her raw tone towards the end of the song, which steals the show.