Hakka folk songs, as a shining pearl in China's traditional music culture, embody profound historical and cultural connotations as well as unique social functions. This paper aims to comprehensively analyze the historical value and contemporary significance of Hakka folk songs, and explore the challenges faced in their protection and dissemination practices, as well as corresponding strategies. From a historical perspective, Hakka folk songs not only demonstrate the unique charm of Hakka culture, but also vividly interpret the essence of Hakka culture through clever rhyme schemes, harmonious tone patterns, and the unique flavor of the Hakka dialect. At the same time, Hakka folk songs have played important roles at different historical stages, whether as a channel for expressing people's emotions, a tool for public opinion in political struggles, or a vivid record of historical events, all of which highlight their irreplaceable social value. In contemporary times, the cultural significance of Hakka folk songs remains significant. They not only provide a rich source of inspiration for modern musical compositions, promoting innovative development in music art, but also enhance community cohesion, promote individual mental health, and provide valuable spiritual comfort to people by conveying deep humanistic care. In the wave of globalization, Hakka folk songs have become a window showcasing the charm of Chinese traditional culture, enhancing national cultural confidence and promoting cultural exchanges and understanding among nations. However, on the road of protecting and inheriting Hakka folk songs, we also face many challenges. How to maintain their traditional charm while achieving innovation and development; how to broaden their audience base without losing Hakka characteristics; how to resist the impact of modern pop culture and preserve their unique charm are all issues that need to be addressed urgently. Therefore, we need to adopt diversified protection measures, such as establishing a non-material cultural heritage protection system, strengthening the cultivation of inheritors, and utilizing new media for widespread dissemination, in order to find the best balance between protection and dissemination.