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The second lead syndrome refers to when viewers who are rooting for the supporting character to win the heart of the protagonist face heartbreak as the main couple inevitably solidify their relationship. The emotional rollercoaster of love triangles is a familiar experience for K-drama fans, as they endure the tension and hope that the second lead might finally get their happy ending.
Fortunately, some K-dramas break away from this concept. These shows offer stories that prioritize solid relationships, character growth, and engaging plots without the added drama of a love triangle.
Whether set in fantasy worlds or modern workplace settings, this list features shows that provide an escape from the heartbreak of the second lead syndrome, focusing on heartfelt and stress-free romantic storytelling.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo, and 7 other shows to overcome the second lead syndrome
1) It's Okay, That's Love (Amazon Prime, Rakuten Viki, iQIYI)
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It's Okay, That's Love is a 2015 romantic melodrama series that aired on SBS from July 23 until September 11, 2014. With a total of 16 episodes, this drama stars Zo In-sung and Gong Hyo-jin as Jang Jae-yeol and Ji Hae-soo, respectively.
Moreover, the series explores the romance between a mystery-fiction novelist and a psychiatrist who both suffer from personal trauma. The show focuses on their emotional healing, character development, and the eventual romantic attraction, without introducing a second lead to complicate matters.
2) Goblin (Netflix, Viu)
Several K-drama fans might be familiar with Goblin, a 2016-2017 Korean drama series starring Gong Yoo, Lee Dong-wook, Kim Go-eun, Yoo In-na, and BTOB Sungjae. Although with a star-studded cast, there are no second leads vying for attention, and the focus remains on each character's life and the main trio's shared destiny.
Specifically, Goblin is a love story between an immortal guardian and a high school girl. The only obstacles coming between them are supernatural, such as death and the Goblin's curse.
3) Extraordinary Attorney Woo (Netflix)
59th Baeksang Arts Awards Grand Prize Awardee Park Eun-bin headlines the 2022 romantic comedy-drama Extraordinary Attorney Woo. This charming series follows Woo Young-woo, an extraordinary attorney on the autism spectrum, and her romantic connection with her co-worker.
There are no second leads in this series, but the main lead Woo Young-woo has a fascination with whales. Specifically, the drama revolves around her career growth, discovering the truth behind her birth, her connection with peers, and an eventual love story. Without a rival love interest, the series feels light and inspiring.
4) Her Private Life (Netflix, Rakuten Viki, iQIYI)
Behind her dedicated image as an art gallery curator, Sung Deok-mi (portrayed by Park Min-young) is a huge fan of idols. As the title itself gives away, Her Private Life revolves around her efforts to hide this secret from everyone.
However, she finds love in an unexpected way, with the male lead (played by Kim Jae-wook) getting only half of her time and attention due to her being a fangirl.
But this doesn't really have a second lead as the series focuses on the couple's chemistry and the humorous situations that arise from the female lead's private life.
5) W: Two Worlds (Netflix, Rakuten Viki)
W: Two Worlds is a 2016 fantasy rom-com series starring Lee Jong-suk and Han Hyo-joo as Kang Cheol and Oh Yeon-joo, respectively. With a relatively unique storyline and execution of two worlds, the series features the story of a webtoon character getting involved with a surgeon in the real world.
Set between two parallel universes, this drama strays away from the cliche love triangle. Instead, the love story is central, with external threats like murder plots and world-shifting realities taking precedence over any romantic rivalry.
6) While You Were Sleeping (Viu, Rakuten Viki)
Led by Suzy Bae and Lee Jong-suk, While You Were Sleeping is a fantasy rom-com thriller series that aired on SBS from September 27 to November 16, 2017. The series combines romance with the power of foresight, with the main characters having the ability to see future events through their dreams.
Although Han Woo-tak (portrayed by Jung Hae-in) poses a threat to Jung Jae-chan (portrayed by Lee Jong-suk), the former's feelings towards Nam Hong-joo (played by Suzy Bae) are kept concealed.
He did not work on his romantic attraction as he already sensed that Hong-joo and Jae-chan have feelings for each other.
With no love triangle to distract from the gripping plot, the focus is on their teamwork and growing relationship.
7) Love in the Moonlight (Viu, Netflix)
Love in the Moonlight is a historical coming-of-age rom-com that aired on KBS2 from August 22, 2016, until October 18, 2016. Starring Park Bo-gum, Kim Yoo-jung, and Jung Jin-young, the series is set in the Joseon era, focusing on the relationship between a young prince and a girl disguised as a eunuch.
There are no crucial love triangle arcs in the series, just Kim Yoon-sung (Jung Jin-young) having a protective attitude towards Ra-on (Kim Yoo-jung). Moreover, there are political and societal challenges discussed in the series, and there's no second lead interfering with the main couple's love story, letting their sweet and tender connection shine.
8) A Korean Odyssey (Netflix, Rakuten Viki, Amazon Prime)
Aired on tvN from December 23, 2017, until March 4, 2018, A Korean Odyssey is a modern retelling of Journey to the West. Starring Lee Seung-gi, Cha Seung-won, Oh Yeon-seo, and Lee Hong-ki, the series features a love story between a woman who can see spirits and a powerful deity. Their bond grows as they navigate supernatural obstacles and fate-driven challenges.
Additionally, this series has no second lead, and because of the absence of a love triangle, it keeps its focus on their unique and passionate relationship.
For K-drama fans seeking relief from the emotional turmoil of second lead syndrome, these shows provide the perfect alternative. By prioritizing the main leads’ relationships and eliminating competing love interests, they offer an experience filled with romance, growth, and refreshing plots.
