You could make these pads with subtractive waveforms. I’d experiment with Saw and Pulse waves.
The most important design aspect for these sounds will be the Filter. You’ll want to use a Lowpass filter and really experiment with the Cutoff and Resonance parameters.
There’s also some movement which you can achieve with unison or a Chorus effect.
Yes, they can be done with a VST. If it feels a little “cold” to you, see if the filter has a “Drive” parameter. Turn it up to get a little analog-style warmth.
Both songs sound like they’re in a Minor key.