Fresh Pop-Infused Remake of Timeless Korean Ballad Wins Over Listeners Across Generations
An American musician and actor is captivating K-pop enthusiasts with his vibrant remake of a cherished 1990s Korean ballad. This new rendition breathes fresh life into a classic track, resonating with listeners across multiple generations.
The artist behind this exciting remake is 18-year-old rising star, Julian Lerner. He dropped his new single, “Even If,” on May 29. This track is a modern reimagining of “Geudaeman Itdamyeon,” which translates to “If only I had you” in Korean. The original was a massive 1999 hit by Ilgiyebo, a Korean male duo who debuted in 1993.
Lerner, who made his film debut at just seven years old in the 2017 Christmas comedy “Pottersville,” has since established a notable career across television and film. He has gained significant recognition for his roles in major productions, including the popular Netflix film “Yes Day” and Disney’s “Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires.”
His foray into music began with the release of his R&B pop single “Dead End” in April 2025, marking a new chapter in his artistic journey.
“Even If,” his fourth single released so far, masterfully transforms the melancholic original ballad into an upbeat dance-pop track. Notably, the English lyrics remain largely faithful to the poignant sentiment of the Korean original.
Julian Lerner’s rendition of “Even If” has successfully resonated with both younger and older K-pop fans. The original track has always enjoyed enduring popularity in Korea, previously inspiring notable remakes by artists like Loveholic in 2006 and Nerd Connection in 2021, showcasing its timeless appeal.
“It’s common to see Korean artists remake foreign songs, but seeing a Korean song reimagined by an artist overseas feels refreshingly different. Thank you for showing love for Korean music,” commented one user on Lerner’s official YouTube channel, highlighting the unique appeal of his cover.
“I used to listen to this song all the time in college, so it’s fascinating to hear it sung in English. Even though it has been rearranged into an upbeat track, it still retains the emotional core of the original,” shared another listener, who identified himself as being in his late 40s, appreciating the blend of new and classic elements.
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