7 K-pop Songs That Are Too Relatable It's Almost Terrifying: DAY6's 'Zombie,' IU's 'Palette,' More

By Riely Miller Sep 10, 2023

Among the long list of meaningful K-pop songs, there are few releases that have hit listeners too close to home. These songs are scarily accurate in depicting real-life experiences or memories.

Here are 7 K-pop songs that are too relatable!

1. 'Zombie' by DAY6

DAY6's "Zombie" describes the uncertain, mundane side of daily life, which can get some people feeling down and empty. "I feel like I became a zombie, not alive but I'm still walking," the song utters, depicting the day's never-ending cycle.

"So I live this life

Wanting something I can't see

And something I can't reach

Or something that could not exist"

Aside from its lonely nature and sound, the song can serve as a comfort song when feeling lost to give listeners a big warm hug.

"No more of this, I wanna cry

Dried out, but I feel like I should cry

Tell the world that I'm still here tonight, oh, oh"

2. 'Children' by Bvndit

BVNDIT's "Children" made it on the list due to its accurate lyrics that describe the scary journey of being an adult. According to fans, the lyrics are based on the feelings of wondering how to deal with life and still experience feelings of lacking or knowledge.

"Mom, mom, I'm a grown up now

Already achieved so many things

But I still lack so much, I'm so greedy

I always had so many dreams, trust me"

3. 'Pied Piper' by BTS

In the song "Pied Piper," BTS straight up told fans to stop obsessing over them, and that it's time to prioritize academics. Read some of the lyrics below:

"Stop, now stop watching and study for your test

Your parents and boss hate me

Video clips, pictures, tweets

V app, Bon Voyage

I know, you can't help what you like"

"But stop, interpret the music video later

You have so many pictures of me in your room anyway

It's not just one hour, it's a whole year that'll disappear

So this song is a reward I'm giving to you"

4. 'Lovesick Girls' by BLACKPINK

Romantic songs are abundant in K-pop, and BLACKPINK hit fans hard with their 2020 bop "Lovesick Girls," which says how much people are willing to find love no matter how much it hurts them.

"Maybe it's all just for a moment

What are we looking for so aimlessly

But I don't care, I'll do it over and over

I just need you in my life"

"Yeah, we were born to be alone

But why we still looking for love?"

5. '11:11' by SNSD Taeyeon

While "Lovesick Girls" focused on moving forward with love, Taeyeon's "11:11" centered on reminiscing the past. The song, fueled by Taeyeon's vocals, tug the listers' heartstrings through its painful and emotional lyrics.

Despite how heartbreaking the lyrics are, the song also emits a form of catharsis, and instill feelings of hope after breaking up with someone.

"Everything finds its place and leaves

You took all of me and left

But like the two hands of the clock in my heart

I keep lingering in the same place

I believe, I'll be over you"

6. 'THANKXX" by ATEEZ

ATEEZ's "THANXX" addresses the pressure society has given to the younger generation, and the generation's desire to break free of the same repetitive rules that hinder development.

According to ATINYs, many were encouraged to feel more assertive about doing things they want to do, as well as become wiser when it comes to making decisions.

"Why aren't you listening?"

"Back in my days...", "Kids these days..."

Oh, dear, why don't you just go on your way?

"Everything I say is right"

"I know because I went through it"

"Your worries? No, thanks, I'm okay (Oh-ooh)

I'm just doing me (Hey, hey)

Don't say you're doing this for me

Leave me alone, I'm in my own rhythm"

7. 'Palette' by IU

"Palette" is one of the most profound songs in K-pop. In this iconic 2017 hit, IU acknowledged her personal flaws and says that it's okay since life will move on one way or another. Moreover, G-Dragon's rap verse conducted as an advice to IU, cementing the song's sincerity.

Since we all have our own flaws, "Palette" acknowledges our insecurities and encourages us to do better every day. "I think I know myself a little bit now," the song assures us.

"When I'm not a kid or an adult, when I'm just me

I shine the brightest

So don't get scared when the darkness comes

Because it's so beautiful, because flowers bloom

You are a child that will always be loved"

"I like it, I'm twenty five

I know that you hate me

I got this, I'm truly fine

I think I know myself a little bit now"