It’s been a year since we last heard from DAWN, but he’s back and more sentimental than ever before. As many fans of the artist and K-Pop know, the musician’s relationship with HyunA ended late last year after six years together. While we don’t know the exact details of how and why the relationship ended, what we do know is that DAWN is looking back on those years fondly thanks to his new song, “Dear My Light.”

His first release under his new label AT AREA, “Dear My Light” is a soft acoustic track featuring even softer vocals from DAWN. The lyrics speak of how his past love was a light for him during their relationship and how he wants her to know that, no matter what, it was all worth it. The lyrics may be some of the rawest we’ll get from a K-Pop release, and maybe that has to do in part with the dramatic story that was DAWN and HyunA’s relationship. From leaving Cube Entertainment together, joining and leaving P NATION together, featuring on each other’s releases, and releasing an album together, the K-Pop world got to see their relationship in a way we don’t normally see idol relationships.

In a way, I think that plays a big part in how relatable and hard-hitting the lyrics are. We all know the story, but it’s one we can also relay to our own experiences. In the end, we all just want what is best for our former lovers, and DAWN puts it in an emotional, heartfelt way. If you’ve needed a good cry, here’s your chance to let it all out, because “Dear My Light” hurts in the best way possible.

Edited by Asia Moore