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Romantic K-dramas continue to captivate audiences with their heartwarming stories, unique characters, and compelling narratives. In 2024, the genre delivered an impressive lineup, featuring tales of time travel like Lovely Runner, second chances like Queen of Tears, and unconventional love stories like Wedding Impossible.
These romantic K-dramas released in 2024 deliver on all fronts, portraying stories that are not just entertaining but also deeply relatable. Whether it's a lighthearted rom-com or a deeply emotional journey, this year's romantic K-dramas have something special for everyone. Here are the top 10 romantic K-dramas of the year that deserve to be on one's watchlist.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely of the author.
10 romantic K-dramas of 2024 one shouldn't miss: Lovely Runner, Queen of Tears, Love Next Door, and more
1) Lovely runner
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Ryu Seon-jae (Byeon Woo-seok) is a famous star who feels trapped in the glittering but exhausting world of fame. Im Sol (Kim Hye-yoon) is a big-time fan of Seon-jae as she found solace in his music during a difficult time. When tragedy strikes, and Ryu Seon-jae's life ends prematurely, it leaves Im Sol devastated.
However, by a twist of fate, she gets the chance to travel back in time and meet a younger Ryu Seon-jae, determined to rewrite his future. It is a touching and romantic K-drama of love, destiny, and resilience, which is elevated by the chemistry between Byeon Woo-seok and Kim Hye-yoon. The time-travel premise, paired with heartfelt moments and witty banter, makes it a must-watch.
Where to watch: Netflix
2) Queen of Tears
It follows the story of Baek Hyun-woo (Kim Soo-hyun), a self-made legal director, who is married to Hong Hae-in (Kim Ji-won), a chaebol heiress known for her fierce personality. As their relationship goes through ups and downs, they navigate the trials of love, power, and misunderstandings.
The drama's strength lies in its portrayal of a couple rekindling their bond while overcoming external pressures. With Kim Soo-hyun's nuanced performance and Kim Ji-won's commanding presence, the romantic K-drama delivers both emotional depth and lighthearted moments. It blends heartfelt romance with humorous and touching scenes of married life.
Where to watch: Netflix
3) Love Next Door
Choi Seung-hyo (Jung Hae-in) is a gifted architect who reconnects with his childhood frenemy, Bae Seok-ryu (Jung So-min), whose life has taken unexpected turns. From childhood memories to awkward adult interactions, their reunion is filled with charm and unexpected emotions.
Jung Hae-in's charismatic portrayal and Jung So-min's lively performance make their evolving relationship a delight to watch. This romantic K-drama is an entertaining mix of nostalgia, humor, and romance that keeps viewers hooked.
Where to watch: Netflix
4) Doctor Slump
This drama is about Yeo Jeong-woo (Park Hyung-sik), a celebrated plastic surgeon who faces a career crisis after a mysterious incident. At his lowest point, he reconnects with Nam Ha-neul (Park Shin-hye), a former rival turned anesthesiologist. Both characters, struggling with personal challenges, find comfort and companionship in each other.
Despite their rocky past, their reconnection sparks unexpected romantic tension. The drama balances lighthearted humor with deeper explorations of identity and ambition, making it a refreshing addition to 2024 romantic K-dramas.
Where to watch: Netflix
5) No Gain No Love
Son Hae-young (Shin Min-A) is a practical career woman who thinks of a fake marriage plan to secure a promotion. She recruits Kim Ji-wook (Kim Young-dae), a cheerful and kind-hearted part-timer, as her pretend fiancé. Despite their stark differences, their partnership blossoms into something unexpected.
Shin Min-A's comedic timing and Kim Young-dae's charm make this quirky drama a standout. Its hilarious situations paired with a sweet romance make it irresistibly entertaining.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
6) Wedding Impossible
It follows the life of a struggling actress, Na A-jeong (Jun Jong-seo), who agrees to play the role of her chaebol friend Lee Do-han's (Kim Do-wan) wife to avoid his family's arranged marriage plans. Things get complicated when his ambitious younger brother, Lee Ji-han (Moon Sang-min), and another suitor enter the picture.
Jun Jong-seo has delivered a captivating performance in this K-drama, and along with Kim Do-wan's effortless charm, it balances humor and heartfelt moments seamlessly. The chaotic fake marriage setup leads to plenty of laughs and romantic tension.
Where to watch: Viki
7) Brewing Love
Chae Yong-joo (Kim Se-jeong), a former special forces soldier turned liquor salesperson, meets Yoon Min-joo (Lee Jong-won), a sensitive brewmaster living a quiet life. She is assigned the task of selling his beer, and she ends up bringing chaos to his orderly world, creating moments of hilarity and romance.
Kim Se-jeong's lively energy and Lee Jong-won's understated charm make this romantic K-drama a unique watch. The fresh setting and playful interactions between the leads in Brewing Love add a unique flavor to the genre.
Where to watch: Viki
8) Mr. Plankton
This drama is about Hae-jo (Woo Do-hwan), an outcast searching for his father, who sets off on a journey with Jo Jae-mi (Lee Yoo-mi), a bride fleeing her wedding. Their shared struggles and adventures lead to an unexpected connection.
Woo Do-hwan's brooding intensity and Lee Yoo-mi's heartfelt performance make this romantic K-drama a touching story of love and self-discovery. The quirky premise and heartfelt character arcs make it both emotional and entertaining.
Where to watch: Netflix
9) Marry My Husband
Marry My Husband follows Kang Ji-won (Park Min-young), who was betrayed by her husband and best friend. She wakes up 10 years in the past with a chance to rewrite her future. She plots to change her life while growing closer to Yoo Ji-hyeok (Na In-woo), a kind colleague with a secret.
Park Min-young's compelling performance and Na In-woo's quiet strength elevate this revenge-meets-romance drama. Its mix of suspense, humor, and heartfelt romance helped this drama earn rave reviews and become one of the top romantic K-dramas of 2024.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
10) Family by Choice
This one is a romantic K-drama as well as a slice-of-life drama that follows Kim San-ha (Hwang In-yeop), Yoon Joo-won (Jung Chae-yeon), and Kang Hae-joon (Bae Hyun-sung) who reconnect after years apart. As childhood friends reunite, romantic feelings bloom, challenging their understanding of love and friendship.
It's a heartwarming exploration of love and friendship wrapped in gentle humor. With its relatable characters and tender moments, this drama offers a heartfelt and compelling exploration of how love can transform the bonds of friendship.
Where to watch: Viki
The romantic K-dramas of 2024 showcase the enduring appeal of the genre, offering a blend of heartfelt emotions and captivating stories. With engaging narratives and standout performances, these romantic series continue to capture the hearts of viewers. Whether it's the laughter, the tears, or the romance, they promise to leave a lasting impact and reaffirm why the genre remains a favorite among audiences.
