The Famous K-Pop Songs You Didn’t Know Were Actually About Pets
Pets have inspired some of K-pop’s most touching and unexpected tracks. These songs reveal the softer sides of stars and their bonds with animals with hidden tributes or open dedications. Here are 15 tracks you probably didn’t know were actually about pets.
Tonight – Jin of BTS
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When Jin uploaded “Tonight” on SoundCloud in 2019, fans initially thought it was a love ballad. Instead, it turned out to be dedicated to his late pets: a family dog named Janggu and sugar gliders Eomuk and Odeng. The lyrics recall happy memories while coping with loss. The song hit one million streams in just 30 minutes.
End Of A Day – Jonghyun of SHINee
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Jonghyun’s beloved dog Roo was the hidden inspiration for “End Of A Day,” one of his most cherished songs. He once explained that Roo’s habit of tickling his ears when he returned home comforted him. This small act sparked the idea behind the song, which he hoped would help listeners feel reassured, the same way Roo made him feel. The track later became a standout from his Story Op. 1 collection album.
To The Moon – Taeyeon
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“To The Moon” might come across as a simple daydream about running away from problems, but it’s rooted in Taeyeon’s bond with her dog, Zero. The lyrics hint at wanting to leave everything behind with a companion who never judges. The airy production and relaxed vocals mirror the soothing presence of curling up next to a pet.
Your Dog Loves You – Colde (feat. Crush)
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Colde flipped perspectives in this playful track by letting his dog Samna “sing” to him. The lyrics reassure the owner through loyalty and devotion: “Even if you’re tired, even if you’re sad, I’m always here for you.” The song frames pets as sources of unconditional support.
Pet – 10cm
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This indie-pop gem tells the story of a pet waiting patiently for its owner’s return. The lyrics describe small, everyday details, like a dog perched by the door or its tail wagging at the faintest sound. It’s a gentle reminder that an animal’s world can center entirely around the human it loves.
Cat – Sunwoo Jung-a (feat. IU)
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“Cat” captures feline energy with playful lyrics and a jazzy beat. Lines like “I only come when I want to / Don’t try to hold me” portray independence and charm. Sunwoo Jung-a and IU even structured the melody to mimic soft purrs and sudden leaps.
Little Star – Hyunjin of Stray Kids
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Hyunjin penned “Little Star” as a heartfelt letter to his late dog Komi. The lyrics speak to wishing his voice could reach a star, a metaphor for connecting with his pet after loss. It was released in 2020 and showed a vulnerable side of Hyunjin.
To You – SEVENTEEN
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In SEVENTEEN’s 2021 album Attacca, the track “To You” seemed like a fan-dedicated anthem. However, Woozi, the group’s producer, later shared that one lyric came from his experience with pets. The line, “To you who always will welcome me when I open the door,” was rooted in his cats’ presence. Woozi eventually revealed he had two cats and even a tattoo honoring one that passed away.
Zzz – YOUHA
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YOUHA’s track “Zzz” was written in memory of her dog Milky. She handled everything herself, from writing to composing to arranging, which made the song especially personal. The lyrics balance sadness with warm recollections.
Puppy – FTISLAND
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“Puppy,” a Japanese single from FTISLAND, is loved for its playful spirit. The track features the band barking in rhythm while the music video shows them on a comical search for a missing dog. The highlight comes when Jaejin shows up in a full puppy costume.
Home – Roy Kim
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Roy Kim released “Home” with a touching music video that starred an adorable white dog. The video’s theme centered on loyalty and the comfort of having a pet waiting for you. While the lyrics don’t explicitly mention dogs, the imagery connects them to the idea of unconditional belonging.
Awoo – Lim Kim
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Lim Kim’s “Awoo” has a playful, animalistic edge. The song’s title mimics a howl, even though the video features cats and the lyrics reference a fox. The mix of airy vocals and electro-R&B rhythm keeps it light and quirky.
Woof Woof – SHINee
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SHINee’s “Woof Woof,” from their 2015 album Odd, brought puppy energy straight to the stage. During live shows, the members leaned into the theme by dressing like dogs and barking with the crowd.
That’s Okay – D.O. of EXO
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D.O.’s “That’s Okay,” which was released as part of SM Station, carries deep emotional resonance connected to themes of healing and loss. Although the lyrics focus on letting go of pain, the animated music video subtly reveals the backstory: a man grieving the passing of his pet dog before finding hope again.
Cherry (Real Miracle) – JiU of Dreamcatcher
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JiU’s “Cherry (Real Miracle)” is a sweet and genuine love letter to her dog, Cherry. The upbeat city-pop track from Dreamcatcher’s album Apocalypse: Save Us celebrates the joy and comfort Cherry brings to her life. In the music video, JiU looks back on her memories with Cherry.