K-Drama Flashback: Five Cha Eun-woo OSTs

Cha Eun-woo is not just an exceptional South Korean singer, actor and model, but is also unbelievably talented in many other facets. He is more than simply a success story, courtesy of his ascent in Korean showbiz and subsequent entry into the global spotlight. The ASTRO idol, who adds flair to routine activities, attracts attention with his endearing attitude. I admire his inherent screen presence and acting skills, but I especially love his musicianship. His singing is so comforting and innately soulful that I’ve had some of his songs as permanent fixtures on my playlist for a long time. Five of them are listed below.

“Together” from Top Management (2018)

This song by Cha, I presume, is a subtle dig at people who fail to acknowledge his hard work and abilities, and only applaud his looks instead. My presumption is based on lines like, “I can sing very well/ I’m pretty good at cooking as well/ I’m also good at studying/ But most people only care about looks.” “Together” serves as the theme song for his character Woo Yeon-woo in Top Management, which follows an erstwhile girl idol trainee with the ability to predict the future, who becomes the manager of an ambitious but struggling boy idol group, S.O.U.L.

Because of how sweet and fragile Cha’s voice is throughout the rack, it creates an immersive experience. His vocal technique is soothing and brightens the song up. Every line in the song and the emotions that Cha has imbibed in them can be felt if you listen closely.

“Rainbow Falling” from My ID Is Gangnam Beauty (2018)

A powerfully healing Korean drama, My ID Is Gangnam Beauty gained attention for its viewpoint that true beauty comes from accepting yourself for who you are. Additionally, it explores the incredible love story of Kang Mi-rae (Im Soo-hyang) and Do Kyung-seok (Cha), two psychologically damaged people who grow intellectually and emotionally as a result of their relationship.

Thanks to Cha’s voice, “Rainbow Falling” skilfully expresses Kyung-seok’s intense affection for Mi-rae despite her struggles. The song’s lyrics highlight how crucial she is to him and how she entirely uplifts his otherwise downcast and miserable life. “Even the short moments of slight smiles/ Makes a rainbow spill over my world right now/ Whatever color you bring, even when you’re having hard days/ I’ll hold you tight just like always.”

“Please Remember” from Rookie Historian Gu Hae-ryung (2019)

With its exquisite melody and poignant lyrics about Yi Rim’s love for Gu Hae-ryung, the ballad “Remember Me” stands out. Shin Se-kyung plays the eponymous role in the epic rom-com sageuk drama, a feisty female historian named Hae-ryung, and Cha plays royal Yi Rim (Prince Dowon)—who clandestinely writes romance novels—under the pseudonym “Maehwa.” Up until he meets Hae-ryung, who becomes his only ally, Yi Rim lives a profoundly lonely life.

As the song in question proceeds, Cha’s honey vocals, which appear to be murmuring Yi Rim’s love for Hae-ryung in the song’s opening moments, sound increasingly explosive, as if they are venting unrestrained passion. The music’s heartfelt tone is complemented by its arrangement: delicate piano playing, a gorgeous string line, and a stunning timpani arrangement.

“Love So Fine” from True Beauty (2020)

True Beauty, a well-known coming-of-age romantic comedy, is a story about restoring one’s self-worth. Lim Joo-kyung (Moon Ga-young), the lead character, is a high-school student who, after experiencing bullying and discrimination because of her looks, transforms into a stunning “goddess” with makeup, becoming famous overnight. On the other hand, Lee Su-ho (Cha) is the most popular and attractive boy in his school. He also carries scars despite his tough exterior. When the two finally cross paths, they begin to heal by opening up and falling in love.

The medium-tempo romantic track “Love So Fine” has light electric guitar riffs, brilliant strings and bass sounds. It features in various scenes throughout the drama, and is filled with lines that embody sweet romantic sentiments that cohere with Cha’s gentle tone and heartfelt moments, wrapping up a pleasant confession song, notably in conjunction with the second half of the narrative where Joo-kyung and Su-ho affirm their growing love and feelings for each other.

“Don’t Cry My Love” from Under the Oak Tree (2021)

In “Don’t Cry, My Love,” Riftan, the male protagonist, professes his deep love and longing for Maximillian, his lady love, in Cha’s voice in the theme song. With this 2021 ballad, Cha reached the global iTunes list at number 15 thanks to his romantic, clean and soothing voice, which effectively captures emotions at their best.