In South Korea, Original Soundtrack (OST) albums play a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere of popular dramas, and many of these albums achieve remarkable sales figures. The strong connection between a series and its soundtrack can elevate the viewing experience, and certain soundtracks become as iconic as the dramas themselves. With the rise of global K-drama popularity, Korean OSTs have expanded their reach beyond national borders, making their mark internationally.
The Appeal of K-Drama OSTs
OSTs are an essential part of the K-drama experience. They often reflect the emotional highs and lows of the show, capturing the essence of key moments and deepening the viewer’s emotional connection. For K-drama lovers, the music becomes intertwined with the story, making the soundtrack almost as important as the plot. The popularity of these albums is not solely driven by the drama’s viewership but also by the emotional attachment that fans develop through the music.
Some OSTs have made history by setting records for album sales, with tracks that have become household anthems. This speaks volumes about the power of music in Korean entertainment. Let’s dive into some of the best-selling OST albums and the factors that contribute to their success.
1. Descendants of the Sun OST
Released in 2016, the Descendants of the Sun OST quickly became a cultural phenomenon, both in South Korea and abroad. The drama, which starred Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo, was a massive hit, and its soundtrack was no exception. The album featured a mix of ballads, pop songs, and orchestral scores, and its songs captured the heartwarming and tense moments of the show. The album sold millions of copies, solidifying its place as one of the best-selling OST albums in Korean history.
Songs like “Always” by Yoon Mi-rae and “This Love” by Davichi became instant hits, gaining immense popularity even outside the Korean-speaking world. The album’s success highlights how a well-composed OST can enhance the viewing experience and leave a lasting impact on listeners.
2. Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God) OST
Another beloved K-drama that left a significant mark on OST sales is Goblin. Released in 2016, the Goblin OST became a chart-topping success, with the drama itself enjoying massive viewership. Featuring iconic tracks like “Stay With Me” by Chanyeol (EXO) and Punch, the album captured the drama’s mystical and emotional essence, becoming one of the best-selling OST albums in Korea.
The song “Stay With Me” became an anthem for many, and the OST’s success demonstrated how well music could elevate the plot’s depth. As Goblin reached global audiences, its OST continued to sell, gaining traction internationally.
3. Crash Landing on You OST
The 2019 hit drama Crash Landing on You, starring Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin, also saw its OST album become one of the best-selling soundtracks in Korea. The drama, which blends romance with moments of humor and drama, featured songs that resonated deeply with viewers. Tracks like “Here I Am Again” by Gummy and “I’m On My Way” by Kim Kwang-seok captured the emotional layers of the story and contributed significantly to the OST’s success.
The album’s widespread appeal was bolstered by the show’s international success, as the drama’s music reached listeners around the globe, further cementing its place as a top-selling OST.
4. Vincenzo OST
Released in 2021, the Vincenzo OST became another massive hit, thanks to its mix of hip-hop, classical, and orchestral influences. The drama, starring Song Joong-ki as the titular character, was filled with suspense, humor, and emotional depth. The soundtrack reflected this dynamic range, with tracks like “Oasis” by Ha Sung-woon and “Vincenzo” by Kim Young-hoo contributing to its high sales.
The combination of powerful music and a captivating storyline led Vincenzo to become one of the most talked-about K-dramas, and its OST album sold out quickly, with the music remaining popular for months after the series concluded.
5. Our Beloved Summer OST
The Our Beloved Summer OST quickly climbed the charts in 2021, featuring a diverse array of artists and musical genres. The drama, starring Choi Woo-shik and Kim Da-mi, was a charming love story that blended humor and heartfelt moments. The soundtrack, which featured songs by artists like Kassy and DAVII, perfectly captured the light-hearted and emotional vibes of the series.
As the drama gained more fans, the OST continued to sell well, making it one of the best-selling albums in recent years. Its success highlights how a great K-drama and its music can connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Factors Behind the Success of OST Albums
Several factors contribute to the success of a K-drama OST, but some of the most important include:
- Star Power of the Drama: When a drama features popular actors and a compelling storyline, it naturally attracts a large audience. This, in turn, drives sales for the OST.
- Emotional Resonance: OSTs that capture the emotional highs and lows of the drama can forge a deep connection with listeners. Songs that accompany key moments or reflect a character’s journey are often more impactful.
- International Appeal: As K-dramas gain popularity around the world, their OSTs also benefit from this international exposure. Fans from different countries often seek out and purchase these albums to feel more connected to the show and its characters.
- Iconic Tracks: Many best-selling OST albums feature one or more tracks that become cultural phenomena. These songs often chart independently and gain long-term popularity.
The Future of OST Albums in Korea
As K-drama viewership continues to rise globally, it’s likely that OST albums will continue to play a significant role in both the music and entertainment industries. With streaming platforms and online stores like ktown4u allowing for easy access to these albums, international fans can now enjoy OSTs as much as domestic fans.
In conclusion, the success of OST albums in Korea is a testament to the power of music in shaping the emotional landscape of K-dramas. From Descendants of the Sun to Crash Landing on You and Vincenzo, these soundtracks not only complement the stories but often become iconic in their own right. The emotional resonance, unforgettable tracks, and international appeal make these albums a testament to the lasting impact of music on the K-drama experience. As the global popularity of K-dramas continues to rise, so too will the influence and success of their soundtracks.
