Just as K-dramas are popular, so is the interest in drama OSTs. They are no longer just background music; they have become crucial elements that maximize the emotional depth of a drama and enhance viewer immersion. In the first half of 2024, Leah, a drama & film critic for SYNC SEOUL, analyzes the trending drama OSTs that captivated viewers’ hearts.
‘Queen of Tears’ OST: Variations on Love
The tvN drama ‘Queen of Tears’ tells the story of the thrilling crisis and miraculous rekindling of love between Hong Hae-in (Kim Ji-won), the third-generation chaebol heiress of Queens Group, and Baek Hyun-woo (Kim Soo-hyun), the son of the Yongdu-ri village chief. The OST, much like the drama itself, received immense love. In particular, IU’s ‘Love wins all’ swept various music charts immediately after its release, fueling the drama’s success. IU’s unique clear vocal tone and lyrical melody deeply expressed the poignant love between Baek Hyun-woo and Hong Hae-in.
Furthermore, songs from various genres, such as Cruel’s ‘I’m Sorry, I Hate You, I Love You’ and Kim Na-young’s ‘If I Could Love Again’, richly filled the drama’s emotional landscape. The ‘Queen of Tears’ OST went beyond simple love songs, singing of hope and courage that blossom amidst life’s hardships and adversities, delivering deep emotion to many. The harmony of cinematic direction, the actors’ delicate performances, and the emotionally stirring OST made ‘Queen of Tears’ the best drama of the first half of 2024.
‘Lovely Runner’ OST: A Melody of Love Beyond Time
The tvN drama ‘Lovely Runner’ is a fantasy romance about Im Sol (Kim Hye-yoon), who travels back in time to save Ryu Sun-jae (Byeon Woo-seok), a famous artist who gave her the will to live at a moment when she had lost it. The drama’s OST simultaneously captured the freshness of teenage years and the maturity of the twenties, evoking nostalgia in viewers.
The songs by the band ‘Eclipse’, to which Ryu Sun-jae belongs in the drama, played a significant role in enhancing immersion. In particular, ‘Sudden Shower’ received much love for its refreshing melody and heart-fluttering lyrics. Additionally, Minnie’s ‘Like a Dream’ created a wistful atmosphere, representing Im Sol’s poignant feelings. The ‘Lovely Runner’ OST delicately expressed the emotions of love transcending time, amplifying the drama’s emotional impact.
‘Knight Flower’ OST: A Harmony of Intense Action and Delicate Emotion
The MBC drama ‘Knight Flower’ is a comedic action historical drama about Yeo Hwa (Lee Hanee), a widow who secretly scales walls at night, and Park Soo-ho (Lee Jong-won), a corrupt military officer by day. The ‘Knight Flower’ OST, reflecting the drama’s vibrant atmosphere, is characterized by its lively rhythms and powerful sounds.
In particular, Ailee’s ‘Snow Flower’ is a standout track featuring a grand orchestral melody and Ailee’s explosive vocals, expressing both Yeo Hwa’s strength and sorrow, adding depth to the drama. Additionally, Sondia’s ‘Song of the Wind’ beautifully depicted the poignant romance between Yeo Hwa and Soo-ho with its delicate lyrics and emotional melody. The ‘Knight Flower’ OST further enriched the charm of the drama, which harmoniously blended various genres such as action, romance, and comedy.
OST, Another Protagonist of the Drama
Drama OSTs have now become more than just background music; they are crucial elements that convey the drama’s emotions more deeply and enhance viewer immersion. In the first half of 2024, the trending drama OSTs were filled with captivating songs that not only highlighted each drama’s unique character but also captured the hearts of listeners. We look forward to seeing what new musical attempts K-drama OSTs will present in the future.
