7 Romantic K-Drama Shows On Netflix To Binge-Watch: CLOY, Start-Up, And More
1/7 Guardian: The Lonely and Great God
Featuring Gong Yoo (Train to Busan, Coffee Prince) in the title role, this drama brings together all the elements that make for TV gold. Comedy, romance, stunning locations, mystery, a stellar soundtrack, and top-notch acting all-around—each episode carries a cinematic punch that will keep you on your toes till the finale. Starring opposite Gong Yoo is the charismatic Kim Go Eun who plays the Guardian/Goblin's love interest, Ji Eun Tak.
At the age of 939, Goblin continues to roam the earth looking for his bride who is the key to end his curse of immortality. As he stumbles upon the vibrant and clairvoyant Ji Eun Tak, his long-awaited romance proves to be trickier than expected. Across the show, Goblin makes friends with a Grim Reaper while Eun Tak confides in sassy chicken restaurant owner, Sunny. Viewers get to discover more about these four characters who all hold their own share of secrets and revelations.
Tatler Tip: Check out Guardian's OST on Spotify.
2/7 Crash Landing On You
Although this cinematic gem came out in 2019, fans of the show are still recovering from its heart-wrenching story. Earlier this year, Dispatch announced that CLOY lead actors Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin have confirmed their relationship off-screen. Rewatching them play star-crossed lovers (North Korean Captain Ri Jeong Hyuk and South Korean heiress and CEO Yoon Se Ri) may cause even more hearts to stir because of the stars' real-life romance. Rewatch this drama to get a load of their undeniable chemistry.
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3/7 Start-Up
Are you team Nam Do San or Han Ji Pyeong?
Released late 2020, Start Up has caused many viewers to pick sides between the two leading men vying for the heart of Seo Dal Mi. The show follows rookie AI company Sam San Tech as they traverse the world of business start-ups. The feisty lead character, Seo Dal Mi, fights for her role as newbie CEO against her already established sister, Won In Jae. With the help of Do San and Ji Pyeong, Dal Mi strives to make Sam San Tech a success. Filled with anecdotal input on business savvy and coding—with a love triangle thrown in the mix, no less—Start Up will have you rooting for your favourite character in no time!
4/7 Descendants of the Sun
This award-winning drama brings together two opposing worlds: that of a soldier's and a doctor's. When Captain Yoo Si Jin falls for Dr Kang Mo Yeon, the two find that their lives and virtues often clash. Both bound by their duties, their relationship takes a back seat. Played by Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo respectively, Descendants of the Sun serves up jitters and tears hand in hand. Not for the faint of heart, this drama may require a few glasses of your favourite drink to go with!
5/7 What's Wrong With Secretary Kim?
If you're looking for something light-hearted and cute, What's Wrong With Secretary Kim? is the way to go. Starring Park Seo Joon (Itaewon Class, Parasite) and Park Min Young (Her Private Life, Healer), Secretary Kim mirrors the premise of 2002 Hollywood blockbuster, Two Weeks Notice. When his secretary of nine years decides to resign, conceited Vice Chairman Lee Young Jun tries to stop her by all means possible—including a few marriage proposals and extravagant gestures.
Swoon-worthy antics from both lead actors will have you reaching for another glass of wine in no time. With an extra dose of comedy and hyperbolic supporting characters, Secretary Kim is definitely binge-worthy.
6/7 Lovestruck in the City
All about modern love, Lovestruck in the City brings together Ji Chang Wook (Empress Ki, Suspicious Partner) and Kim Ji Won (Descendants of the Sun, Fight For My Way) for a powerhouse drama that seeks the meaning of intimacy in today's fast-paced world. Following six young adults as they navigate their way through dating and falling in love, this drama will tug at your heartstrings with its earnest storytelling and unforgettable characters. Tune in to find out how it all works out for each couple—you just might find one or two scenarios a little too relatable.
7/7 Fight For My Way
Are you secretly in love with your long time best friend? Then add Fight For My Way to your must-watch list ASAP! Essentially a coming-of-age story, this drama follows best friends Ko Dong Man (played by Park Seo Joon) and Choi Ae Ra (played by Kim Ji Won) as they discover their passions in life while realising their true feelings for one another. Without over-the-top gestures and plot twists, this series explores the difficulties and intricacies of following one's dream and the value of friendship.
Tatler Trivia: This show also brings together real-life friends, Park Seo Joon and Choi Woo Shik, who've starred alongside each other in multiple productions including Oscar-winning movie Parasite and the recently released reality show, Youn's Stay. Watch out for their comedic banter across each episode!