Korean dramas, or K-dramas, have taken the world by storm with their unique blend of romance, fantasy, and emotional storytelling. Among the plethora of options, certain series stand out for their unforgettable characters, intricate plots, and heartwarming romances. If you’re a fan of love stories that transcend time, fate, and even the supernatural, here are some must-watch romance K-dramas, starting with the iconic Goblin (2016).
Goblin (2016): A Timeless Tale of Love and Immortality
Goblin, also known as Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, is a masterpiece that blends fantasy, romance, and drama into a captivating narrative. The story revolves around Kim Shin (played by Gong Yoo), a once-feared general from the Goryeo Dynasty who is cursed with immortality after being betrayed and killed by his king. For 900 years, he has wandered the earth as a goblin, searching for his “bride”—the only person who can pull the sword from his chest and end his eternal life.
Enter Ji Eun Tak (Kim Go Eun), a cheerful yet tragic high school student who can see ghosts and is destined to be the Goblin’s bride. Their relationship begins as a means to an end, but as they spend more time together, their bond deepens into a love that defies time and fate. The drama is a beautiful exploration of life, death, and the sacrifices we make for love. With its stunning cinematography, hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, and unforgettable performances, Goblin is a must-watch for any romance enthusiast.
Strong Woman Do Bong Soon (2017): Love and Strength in Equal Measure
If you’re looking for a mix of romance, comedy, and a touch of action, Strong Woman Do Bong Soon is the perfect choice. The series follows Do Bong Soon (Park Bo Young), a petite woman with superhuman strength—a gift passed down through the women in her family. However, she must use her powers for good, or risk losing them forever.
Bong Soon’s life takes a turn when she becomes the bodyguard of Ahn Min Hyuk (Park Hyung Sik), the quirky and charming CEO of a gaming company. As they grow closer, a love triangle forms between Bong Soon, Min Hyuk, and her childhood crush, In Guk Doo (Ji Soo). The drama is a delightful blend of humor, romance, and suspense, with a strong message about empowerment and self-discovery. Park Bo Young and Park Hyung Sik’s chemistry is electric, making this series a fan favorite.
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020): Healing Through Love
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay is a poignant and visually stunning drama that explores mental health, trauma, and the healing power of love. The story centers on Moon Gang Tae (Kim Soo Hyun), a caregiver at a psychiatric hospital, and Ko Moon Young (Seo Ye Ji), a children’s book author with an antisocial personality disorder.
Their paths cross when Moon Young becomes infatuated with Gang Tae, and despite their contrasting personalities, they begin to heal each other’s emotional wounds. The drama tackles heavy themes with sensitivity and grace, offering a heartfelt message about acceptance and self-love. The chemistry between the leads, combined with the show’s fairytale-like aesthetic, makes it a standout in the romance genre.
Descendants of the Sun (2016): Love in the Midst of War
Descendants of the Sun is a sweeping romance that takes place against the backdrop of war and disaster. The series follows Kang Mo Yeon (Song Hye Kyo), a skilled surgeon, and Yoo Shi Jin (Song Joong Ki), a charismatic special forces captain. Their love story begins with a chance encounter and quickly deepens as they navigate the challenges of their respective professions.
What sets this drama apart is its portrayal of love amidst chaos. Whether they’re saving lives in a war-torn country or dealing with personal struggles, Mo Yeon and Shi Jin’s relationship is a testament to the strength of love and resilience. The drama’s gripping storyline, coupled with the sizzling chemistry between the leads, made it a global phenomenon.
What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim (2018): From Workplace to Romance
For a lighter, more comedic take on romance, What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim is an excellent choice. The series stars Park Seo Joon as Lee Young Joon, a narcissistic vice president, and Park Min Young as Kim Mi So, his capable and long-suffering secretary. When Mi So decides to resign after nine years of dedicated service, Young Joon realizes he can’t imagine life without her.
What follows is a hilarious and heartwarming journey as Young Joon tries to win Mi So’s heart while confronting his own vulnerabilities. The drama is filled with laugh-out-loud moments, swoon-worthy scenes, and a healthy dose of secondhand embarrassment. Park Seo Joon and Park Min Young’s undeniable chemistry makes this office romance a joy to watch.
What makes these K-dramas so special is their ability to weave romance into larger-than-life narratives. Whether it’s the supernatural elements in Goblin, the comedic undertones in Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, or the emotional depth of It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, each drama offers a unique take on love. They remind us that love can be found in the most unexpected places—whether it’s through a centuries-old curse, a superhuman strength, or a chance encounter in a war zone.
