Why the Queen of Tears Soundtrack Broke Streaming Records

Queen of Tears (눈물의 여왕), the 2024 tvN drama starring Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won, became one of the most-watched Korean dramas in cable television history. But beyond its drama and performances, the OST played an enormous role in the show's emotional impact — several tracks went viral on social media and topped Korean music charts weeks after their release.

K-drama OSTs are a unique art form. Unlike Western TV scores, Korean drama soundtracks typically feature full vocal songs performed by established or emerging artists, each timed to a specific emotional beat in the show's arc. Queen of Tears is a masterclass in this format.

The OST Tracks — A Complete Guide

Magnetic (자석같아) — ILLIT

Released to coincide with the early episodes, this track captures the push-and-pull tension of the lead couple's crumbling-yet-enduring marriage. ILLIT's airy vocals give the bittersweet lyrics a delicate quality that perfectly suits the show's tone. It became one of the group's most-streamed songs.

Can't Stop Shining — Kim Jae-hwan

A soaring, anthemic ballad used across the series' emotional high points. Kim Jae-hwan's powerful tenor is well-suited to the track's climactic moments, and it's the song most associated with the drama's finale sequences.

Way Back Home — Shaun (Original + Drama Version)

An interesting choice — a reimagining of Shaun's beloved 2018 viral hit, re-recorded with orchestral additions to fit the drama's emotional register. Hearing a familiar melody recontextualised within the show's narrative is genuinely moving.

Cherries — Paul Kim

Paul Kim is a reliable presence on K-drama OSTs, and for good reason — his warm, conversational vocal style suits intimate scenes perfectly. Cherries plays during quieter, domestic moments in the drama, lending them an aching tenderness.

How Sweet — NewJeans

Used in lighter, more hopeful sequences, this contribution from NewJeans provides tonal balance to the soundtrack. Its breezy, retro-influenced sound feels almost nostalgic — fitting for a story about a couple rediscovering each other.

What Makes a Great K-Drama OST?

  • Emotional synchronisation: The best OST tracks are timed so precisely that hearing the song later instantly transports you back to the scene.
  • Artist fit: Producers match vocal qualities and genre to the drama's tone — balladeers for melodramas, bright pop for rom-coms.
  • Standalone quality: A great OST track works both in and out of context. Queen of Tears tracks charted independently long after the series ended.
  • Recurring themes: The best soundtracks use musical motifs that evolve as the story does.

How to Listen

The full Queen of Tears OST is available on all major streaming platforms. For the full emotional experience, watch the drama first — but the soundtrack stands strongly on its own as a collection of thoughtfully crafted K-pop and ballad tracks. It's an excellent entry point for anyone curious about K-drama OSTs as a genre.