"Day By Day" is a song by JOY, a member of the South Korean girl group Red Velvet. The song talks about reminiscing a past love and expressing the wish to be able to love again. The lyrics portrays an individual who has experienced heartbreak and struggles to move on from the person they loved. The song reflects on the emotions felt after a breakup, with the singer admitting that they believed they would never be able to love again but realizing that they have slowly started to open up their heart. They express their desire to get closer to someone and slowly reveal their true self. The lyrics also express the need to be understood and accepted, hoping that despite their flaws and past experiences, the person they love will embrace them. The song conveys a sense of vulnerability, longing, and hope for a new beginning. It emphasizes the importance of healing and preparing oneself to love again after experiencing heartbreak. The overall message of the song is about personal growth, self-discovery, and the journey towards finding love and happiness again.