[K-Bridge/Samuel] Korean drama original soundtracks (OSTs) have evolved into global hits, transcending borders and language. In recent years, several OSTs have charted internationally, thanks to the global popularity of K-dramas and K-pop. This article highlights five standout Korean drama OSTs that gained notable international recognition from 2020 onward.
1. “Sweet Night” – V (BTS) | Itaewon Class
- A self-composed English ballad by BTS’s V.
- Reached #1 on iTunes in 117 countries.
- First Korean OST to surpass 400 million Spotify streams.
- Won OST of the Year at 2020 APAN Star Awards.
2. “Start (Start Over)” – Gaho | Itaewon Class
- A powerful rock-pop anthem that topped Korean charts.
- Music video surpassed 100 million views on YouTube.
- Won Best OST at the 2020 Mnet Asian Music Awards.
3. “Christmas Tree” – V (BTS) | Our Beloved Summer
- First K-drama OST to debut on the Billboard Hot 100 (No. 79).
- Topped Billboard’s Digital Song Sales chart.
- Featured on Billboard’s 25 Best Christmas Songs of the 21st Century.
4. “Yours” – Jin (BTS) | Jirisan
- Topped iTunes in over 90 countries.
- Reached #1 on Japan’s Oricon and Billboard Japan download charts.
- Over 200 million streams on Spotify.
5. “With You” – Jimin (BTS) & Ha Sung-woon | Our Blues
- Fastest song to reach #1 on iTunes in 100 countries.
- Over 300 million streams on Spotify.
- Topped Worldwide iTunes and appeared on Billboard Global Excl. U.S.
Conclusion
These OSTs showcase the global appeal of Korean drama music, backed by powerful vocals and emotional storytelling. As K-dramas continue to dominate international platforms, their soundtracks are cementing a place in global music charts, redefining the impact of television music.
References
- StarNews. (2020). BTS V’s ‘Sweet Night’ ranks No.1 on iTunes in 117 countries. https://star.mt.co.kr
- Forbes. (2022). BTS’s V Debuts at No.1 on Digital Song Sales With ‘Christmas Tree’. https://www.forbes.com
- Soompi. (2021). Winners Of The 2020 APAN Star Awards. https://www.soompi.com
- Korea JoongAng Daily. (2023). Gaho’s ‘Start’ OST surpasses 100M views on YouTube. https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
- Allkpop. (2021). BTS Jin’s ‘Yours’ breaks records on iTunes and Japanese charts. https://www.allkpop.com
- Sportskeeda. (2025). BTS Jimin’s ‘With You’ becomes fastest OST to reach 100 iTunes #1s. https://www.sportskeeda.com
- Billboard. (2022). ‘Christmas Tree’ by V enters Billboard Hot 100 at No.79. https://www.billboard.com
