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Learn Korean with Davichi’s “Don’t Say Goodbye” – Lyrics, Translation & Breakdown
Lyrics Breakdown
Lyrics Preview & Meaning
“Don't Say Goodbye” by Davichi is a classic K-pop ballad (from the album Vivid Summer Edition, released on 2008‑02‑04) that expresses heartbreak, longing, and the desperate plea to hold onto love.
Below is a preview of the lyrics with translation and notes. The full interactive breakdown will load shortly.
떨리는 너의 입술을 난 난 처음 보았지
tteollineun neoui ipsureul nan nan cheoeum boatji
I saw your trembling lips for the first time
Opens with a vivid description of a significant moment
무슨 말 하려고 말 하려고 오 뜸만 들이는지
museun mal haryeogo mal haryeogo o tteumman deurineunji
What are you trying to say, just hesitating like this?
Shows the narrator's anxiety about what's coming
슬픈 예감은 다 맞는단 노래 가사처럼
seulpeun yegameun da matneundan norae gasacheoreom
Just like song lyrics, all my sad premonitions were right
Uses a metaphor comparing life to song lyrics
설마 아니겠지 아닐꺼야 오 아니어야만 돼
seolma anigetji anilkkeoya o anieoyaman dwae
Surely not, it can't be, oh it must not be
Shows denial and desperation in the face of reality
벌써 넌 나를 떠나 니 마음마저 떠나 또 몸마저도 떠나는데
beolsseo neon nareul tteona ni maeummajeo tteona tto mommajedo tteonaneunde
You're already leaving me, even your heart is leaving, and even your body is leaving
Emphasizes the complete nature of the departure
…full lyrics and detailed vocabulary will appear below once loaded.
Artist Spotlight
Debuted: 2008
Davichi is a South Korean vocal duo consisting of Lee Haeri and Kang Minkyung. Known for their powerful vocals and emotional ballads, they have established themselves as one of Korea's most successful vocal duos.
- Members: Lee Haeri (이해리) and Kang Minkyung (강민경)
- Fandom: Davichi's Angels
- Record: Multiple chart-topping ballads and OSTs
Cultural Notes
The Power of Korean Ballads
"Don't Say Goodbye" is a classic example of Korean ballad style, known for its emotional depth and storytelling. The song's structure and lyrical content reflect the traditional Korean approach to expressing heartbreak and longing.
The Significance of "안녕" (Goodbye)
The repeated plea "안녕이라고 내게 말하지마" (Don't say goodbye to me) reflects the Korean cultural tendency to avoid direct goodbyes, especially in emotional situations. This phrase carries more weight in Korean than its English equivalent.
Emotional Expression in Korean Music
The song's use of physical metaphors ("가슴이 아파" - my heart hurts) is a common feature in Korean ballads, reflecting the cultural connection between physical and emotional pain in Korean expression.
Korean Phrase Corner
안녕 means "goodbye" in Korean.
Example from the song: 안녕이라고 내게 말하지마 (Don't say goodbye to me)