The Most Inspiring K-Pop Quotes to Learn Korean

K-pop is one of the biggest cultural movements of the 21st Century. With its eye-popping visuals and perfectly synchronized choreographies, it has transcended musical definitions to become a global phenomenon. It’s not hard to see why. K-pop stars, who are referred to as “idols” in Korea, are hard-working, fully prepared, incredibly talented artists. Besides, their music videos are so inventive and beautifully executed that they seem almost futuristic.

But one of the things that people often overlook about K-pop bands is that their lyrics are as catchy and gorgeous as their melodies. Indeed, language enthusiasts who like to learn through music will find in K-pop songs lots of inspirational quotes to sharpen their Korean skills while getting important life lessons.

Below, you will find a list of the best, most inspirational K-pop quotes to learn this wonderful language.

Tomorrow, by BTS

Even in the far future,

never forget the you of right now

To start the list, we chose this wonderful K-pop quote by BTS about the importance of staying true to yourself. Knowing who you are, and not losing sight of the things that make you who you are can help you to navigate both success and failure in a more meaningful way. From a linguistic perspective, you can learn how Koreans say common words like “you”, “never” and “now”.

Eyes, Nose, Limps, by Taeyang

My selfishness that didn’t let you go

Turned into an obsession that imprisoned you

Though this quote may seem more sad than inspirational at first sight, we believe that there is an important lesson to be learned here, and that is to never disregard your partner’s feelings or take away their freedom. With this song, you can also learn abstract nouns such as “selfishness”, and “obsession”.

One of These Nights, by Red Velvet

Everything in that short moment

The moment that stopped for you and me

Why did not I realize it was a miracle?

This beautiful, nostalgic K-pop quote reminds us that time is a precious thing, and that we should cherish every happy moment we get to spend with our loved ones. Because this song talks about memories, you can use it to see how Koreans use past forms.

Breathe, by Lee Hi

It’s alright if you run out of breath

No one will blame you

It’s okay to make mistakes some times

This truly inspirational K-pop quote teaches us not to be so harsh with ourselves, as anyone can be wrong from time to time. It’s just part of being alive. The ones who really love you will understand, and they won’t blame you for your mistakes. After all, they make them too, don’t they? With this song, language learners can learn reassuring phrases such as “it’s alright”, and “it’s okay”.

Fly, by Got7

Every morning when I open my eyes, it feels like a dream

It feels like the dazzling sun is shining for me

If you ever wake up feeling a bit sad or tired, this uplifting tune by Got7 might be just what you need. The simple but poetic song is all about finding joy and beauty in every small thing, from the moment you wake up till the moment you go to bed. As regards language, you can see how Koreans refer to actions in progress (“the sun is shining for me”) as well as habitual activities “Every morning when I open my eyes…”).

Warning Sign, by Teen Top

I won’t be fooled again

I should get away from you, baby

Do you want to break up with a toxic partner but can’t seem to find the courage to do it? Then this song might be a new anthem for you. Warning Sign is about all those things we know are not working in a relationship, and how to find the strength to make the pain go away. Hopefully, learning all these break-up lines in Korean will inspire you to finally say them out loud in your own language!

Young Forever, by BTS

I’m happy with who I’ve become

That I make someone scream with joy

Probably meant as a love letter to their fans, this song is about self-acceptance and the importance of making other people happy. Sometimes, we feel that our lives are small or uneventful, but if we are making someone happy, then we are already making this world a better place. Can you translate this K-pop quote back into its original language and see what “happy” sounds like in Korean? That’s a great word to start, isn’t it?

The 7th Sense, by NCT U

A different dream is getting closer

Now I understand as if everything was mine

This song is about the importance of chasing dreams, and how eye-opening they can be. When you have a new purpose to stay in the fight, it feels as if the world belonged to you. Wouldn’t it be nice to look for the original quote, write it down, and stick it to your bedroom wall? That way, you will be reminded about this important lesson every day (and you’ll get to learn some Korean!).

Which of these inspiring K-pop quotes is your favourite? You can let us know in the comment section.

If you’d like to learn Korean with a native tutor, don’t hesitate to contact us on our website. We will prepare a tailor-made online course that will help you to achieve fluency and understand all these K-pop songs without translations!