K-dramas are known for sweeping romances and emotional storytelling, but it’s often the most vulnerable moments that leave the deepest impact. When a lead lets their guard down and tears fall, it reveals something deeply human that’s impossible to forget.
Here are a few of the many most memorable scenes.
Warning: spoilers for the dramas below.
1. Lee Junho in “The Red Sleeve”
“The Red Sleeve” is a historical K-drama that tells the story of an emperor named Yi San (Lee Junho) who falls in love with a court lady named Seong Deok Im (Lee Se Young). Despite their differences in class and status, the two engage in a deep romance while trying to fight for their nation.
The series is filled with emotional moments, but it’s the ending that hits hardest. After Deok Im’s passing, Lee Junho delivers one of the most devastating performances in the entire drama. His grief isn’t restrained, it completely overtakes him. He’s not just crying, he’s undone, mourning the woman he loved and the life they never got to live. It lingers long after the scene ends.
Start watching “The Red Sleeve” now:
Watch Now
2. Ji Chang Wook in “Lovestruck in the City”
Park Jae Won (Ji Chang Wook), a passionate architect, can’t get over a mysterious woman who took his heart and his camera. Lee Eun Oh (Kim Ji Won), an ordinary woman, begins living as the carefree Yun Seon Ah and catches his attention. But due to unexpected circumstances, Eun Oh is forced to walk away from Jae Won, only for their paths to cross again later.
Few performances capture heartbreak as messily and honestly as Ji Chang Wook here. His character clings to memories that no longer exist, unable to let go. When everything finally spills out after one too many drinks, the result is one of the rawest emotional scenes in the series. It’s messy, aching, and painfully real, carrying all the frustration and longing he’s been holding in.
3. Son Ye Jin in “Thirty-Nine”
“Thirty-Nine” follows three best friends on the edge of turning 40 as they navigate life, love, and loss together. Their bond holds them through every high and low, especially as one of them faces a devastating illness that changes everything.
Son Ye Jin carries much of the emotional weight of the story, but it’s the moment her best friend passes that truly breaks everything open. Her reaction feels unfiltered, like grief arriving all at once with no time to prepare. The shock, pain, and heartbreak hit simultaneously, and her tears say everything she can’t.
4. Park Hyung Sik in “Strong Woman Do Bong Soon”
“Strong Woman Do Bong Soon” stars Park Bo Young as an aspiring game maker who was born with super strength. She meets Ahn Min Hyuk (Park Hyung Sik), the CEO of a game company who happens to be in need of a bodyguard. He ends up hiring Do Bong Soon with the added bonus of letting her develop a game while she works for him.
Known for his charm and lighthearted energy, Park Hyung Sik shows surprising emotional depth here. His most powerful crying scene comes as Min Hyuk desperately tries to save Bong Soon, trapped behind a locked door with a bomb strapped to her. Panic and fear take over, stripping away his usual composure. That contrast makes the moment hit even harder, turning a rom-com scene into something unexpectedly heartbreaking.
Watch “Strong Woman Do Bong Soon” here:
Watch Now
5. Park Bo Gum in “Good Boy”
In “Good Boy,” Park Bo Gum delivers crying scenes that feel completely real. As his character begins to lose his sight, his emotions surface all at once, driven by fear, frustration, and the weight of what he’s about to lose. You can feel the panic in the moments where he realizes his vision is slipping, and it makes every tear hit harder. It’s that unfiltered vulnerability that makes his performance so believable and impossible to shake.
In one especially heartbreaking moment, Yoon Dong Ju (Park Bo Gum) is speaking with Kim Jong Hyun (Lee Sang Yi) when everything suddenly becomes blurred. As he realizes he is going blind, panic sets in. His eyes fill with tears as he admits he can no longer see anything. It’s a moment that captures fear, shock, and helplessness all at once, making his vulnerability impossible to ignore.
binahearts is a Korean-Canadian published author, content creator, and influencer whose ultimate biases are Song Joong Ki and BIGBANG, but has lately been seen obsessing over Hwang In Yeop. Make sure you follow binahearts on IG as she journeys through her latest Korean crazes!
Drama,Features,TV/Film,drama,Good Boy,Ji Chang Wook,Lee Junho,Lovestruck in the City,Park Bo Gum,Park Hyung Sik,Son Ye Jin,Soompi Spotlight,Strong Woman Do Bong Soon,The Red Sleeve,Thirty-Ninedrama,good boy,ji chang wook,lee junho,lovestruck in the city,park bo gum,park hyung sik,son ye jin,soompi spotlight,strong woman do bong soon,the red sleeve,thirty-nine#KDrama #Crying #Scenes #Hit #Hard1778384595
5 Reasons Why K-Drama “The Scarecrow” Is The Definitive Answer To Bong Joon Ho’s “Memories Of Murder”
If you’re drawn to dark, realistic crime stories, the K-drama “Beyond Evil” and the Korean movie “Memories of Murder” have probably stayed with you. Directed by Bong Joon Ho and led by Song Kang Ho, the film was inspired by real-life crimes of an unsolved serial killer case and famously left audiences with a deeply unsettling, unresolved ending. Fast-forward to 2026, and the K-drama “The Scarecrow” revisits the same haunting case, but this time it approaches the story with hindsight and a very different emotional lens. Here’s why this K-drama stands out.
1. A cold case with a “solved” perspective
“The Scarecrow” is set in a world where the truth has already surfaced. The story is shaped by the 2019 breakthrough that finally identified the killer. Through a non-linear narrative, we follow an older Kang Tae Joo (Park Hae Soo) as he revisits the case and comes face-to-face with the man responsible. Moving from the 1980s to 2019, the show shifts its focus from simply uncovering the killer to examining how the system failed for so long and what closure really looks like after decades of uncertainty.
2. The detective vs. the prosecutor
At the heart of the drama is a tense and emotionally charged relationship. Kang Tae Joo (Park Hae Soo), now a retired profiler, is unexpectedly pulled back into the investigation. Cut to the ’80s, circumstances in Seoul throw him back to his hometown, where his past resurfaces when he’s forced to work again with prosecutor Cha Si Young (Lee Hee Joon), someone tied to a difficult chapter in his life. Their shared history adds weight to every interaction, especially as the imprisoned killer insists that Tae Joo is the only one who can uncover the “real truth.” This dynamic makes the story as much about personal reckoning as it is about solving a crime.
3. The “scarecrow” motif
Director Park Joon Woo, known for the K-drama “Taxi Driver,” takes a thoughtful and symbolic approach here. Instead of focusing purely on the identity of the killer, the series digs into the investigative failures of the past. The series title comes from a dark, real-life tactic used by police in the 1980s: they actually placed scarecrows in the fields as “psychological warnings” to try and scare the killer away. In the drama, the scarecrow becomes a chilling marker for the crime scenes and a symbol of an investigation that remained “frozen” and stuck for decades.
4. Voice of victims
One of the show’s strongest aspects is its commitment to telling the story from the perspective of those affected. Through journalist Seo Ji Won (Kwak Sun Young), we see how fear spread across the town of Gangseong and how deeply the crimes impacted everyday lives. She challenges authority, questions rushed conclusions, and keeps the focus on accountability.
5. Emotional weight of the ensemble
With more time to explore its characters, the show also builds a layered and emotionally rich world. Seo Ji Hye plays Tae Joo’s younger sister Kang Sun Young, a school teacher whose relationship with Lee Ki Beom (Song Geon Hee) adds a personal conflict to the story. At the same time, the relationship between the Lee brothers—Lee Ki Hwan (Jung Moon Sung), a quiet bookstore owner, and Lee Ki Beom—brings a sense of immediacy and tension.
Ultimately, “The Scarecrow” serves as the “closing argument” to a trial that lasted 33 years. It is a crime procedural thriller but also a re-telling of the infamous serial killer, but through the lens of victims, survivors, the wrongfully accused, and the long, arduous road to justice. For viewers who have long been haunted by that final, silent gaze of Song Kang Ho in Bong Joon Ho’s film, this 12-episode drama finally allows viewers to look back at the tragedy through a new perspective.
Start watching “The Scarecrow”:
Watch Now
mon.y is a devoted connoisseur of Asian dramas and pop culture, with a deep-rooted love for storytelling that spans K-dramas, C-dramas, J-dramas, and everything in between. A longtime entertainment addict turned passionate writer, she brings heartfelt enthusiasm and a sprinkle of sass to every review and deep dive.
Currently watching: “Yumi’s Cells 3,” “Perfect Crown,” “We Are All Trying Here,” “Sold Out On You,” and “The Scarecrow.” Looking forward to: “My Royal Nemesis” and “The Wonderfools.”
Drama,Features,TV/Film,drama,Jung Moon Sung,Kwak Sun Young,Lee Hee Joon,Park Hae Soo,Seo Ji Hye,Song Geon Hee,Soompi Spotlight,The Scarecrowdrama,jung moon sung,kwak sun young,lee hee joon,park hae soo,seo ji hye,song geon hee,soompi spotlight,the scarecrow#Reasons #KDrama #Scarecrow #Definitive #Answer #Bong #Joon #Hos #Memories #Murder1778265530
30+ Medical/Law/Office Dramas Of 2025 (K-Drama Masterlist)
If you enjoy seeing professionals in action—this list is for you!
In continuation of Soompi’s K-drama masterlists, which listed all the Korean dramas that aired in 2025 and sorted them by genre from romance to rom-coms, fantasy, historical, action, mystery, comedy, and more, we’ve prepared a list of all the dramas that aired in 2025 that also centered around medical, law, and enforcement professionals as well as office workers.
Includes dramas that premiered in 2024 and ended in 2025 as well as dramas that premiered in 2025 and ended in 2026.
Medical
“The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call”
Korean Title: “중증외상센터”
Cast: Ju Ji Hoon, Choo Young Woo, Yoon Kyung Ho, Ha Young, Jeong Jae Kwang
Broadcast Period: January 24
Number of Episodes: 8
Based on a hit webtoon, “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” is a medical drama about genius surgeon Baek Kang Hyuk (Ju Ji Hoon) who joins the severe trauma team at a hospital and restores it to its former glory.
“Hyper Knife”
Korean Title: “하이퍼나이프”
Cast: Park Eun Bin, Sul Kyung Gu, Yoon Chan Young, Park Byung Eun
Broadcast Period: March 19 – April 9
Number of Episodes: 8
“Hyper Knife” is a medical crime thriller drama that depicts the fierce rivalry and growth of Doctor Jeong Se Ok (Park Eun Bin), who once had a promising past, and her former mentor Choi Deok Hee (Sol Kyung Gu), who caused her to hit rock bottom.
“Resident Playbook”
Korean Title: “언젠가는 슬기로운 전공의 생활”
Cast: Go Youn Jung, Shin Sia, Kang You Seok, Han Ye Ji, Jung Jun Won
Broadcast Period: April 12 – May 18
Number of Episodes: 12
A spin-off of “Hospital Playlist,” “Resident Playbook” depicts the lives, growth, and heartwarming friendships of OBGYN residents Oh Yi Young (Go Youn Jung), Pyo Nam Kyung (Shin Sia), Um Jae Il (Kang You Seok), and Kim Sa Bi (Han Ye Ji) at the Jongro branch of Yulje Medical Center.
“Surgical Road Trip”
Korean Title: “로드 투 외과의사”
Cast: Kim Gun Woo, Lee Won Jung, Jung Shin Hye
Broadcast Period: June 14
Number of Episodes: 2
Part of CJ ENM’s short drama project “O’PENing” written by new screenwriters, “Surgical Road Trip” is a story of growth as medical residents Kim Ju No (Kim Gun Woo) and Lee Dae Gil (Lee Won Jung) work to track down the youngest resident Kim Hye Won (Jung Shin Hye) who has disappeared.
“Hunter With a Scalpel”
Korean Title: “메스를 든 사냥꾼”
Cast: Park Ju Hyun, Park Yong Woo, Kang Hoon
Broadcast Period: June 16 – July 10
Number of Episodes: 16
“Hunter with a Scalpel” is a psychological crime thriller about forensic pathologist Seo Se Hyun (Park Ju Hyun). While conducting an autopsy one day, Se Hyun recognizes the signature murder method of her father—a serial killer who she thought had died 20 years ago—and sets out to find him before the police.
“Mary Kills People”
Korean Title: “메리 킬즈 피플”
Cast: Lee Bo Young, Lee Min Ki, Kang Ki Young
Broadcast Period: August 1 – September 12
Number of Episodes: 12
A remake of the Canadian series of the same name, “Mary Kills People” is about Woo So Jung (Lee Bo Young), a doctor who illegally provides euthanasia to patients with incurable illnesses, along with terminally ill patient Jo Hyun Woo (Lee Min Ki) and former plastic surgeon Choi Dae Hyun (Kang Ki Young).
Law
“Oh My Ghost Clients”
Korean Title: “노무사 노무진”
Cast: Jung Kyung Ho, Seol In Ah, Cha Hak Yeon
Broadcast Period: May 30 – June 28
Number of Episodes: 10
“Oh My Ghost Clients” is a comedy-action drama about Noh Mu Jin (Jung Kyung Ho), a labor attorney who can see ghosts, as he partners up with his sister-in-law Na Hee Ju (Seol In Ah) and video creator Go Gyeon Woo (Cha Hak Yeon).
“Law and The City”
Korean Title: “서초동”
Cast: Lee Jong Suk, Mun Ka Young, Kang You Seok, Ryu Hye Young, Im Seong Jae
Broadcast Period: July 5 – August 10
Number of Episodes: 12
“Law and The City” follows five associate attorneys—Ahn Ju Hyeong (Lee Jong Suk), Kang Hui Ji (Mun Ka Young), Cho Chang Won (Kang You Seok), Bae Mun Jeong (Ryu Hye Young), and Ha Sang Gi (Im Seong Jae)—as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of their daily lives while commuting each day to the bustling legal district of Seocho.
Watch “Law and The City”:
Watch Now
“Beyond the Bar”
Korean Title: “에스콰이어: 변호사를 꿈꾸는 변호사들”
Cast: Lee Jin Uk, Jung Chaeyeon, Lee Hak Joo, Jeon Hye Bin
Broadcast Period: August 2 – September 7
Number of Episodes: 12
“Beyond the Bar” follows the story of Kang Hyo Min (Jung Chaeyeon), an upstanding and confident yet inexperienced rookie attorney at the law firm Yullim. Under the mentorship of Yoon Seok Hoon (Lee Jin Uk), a cold but exceptionally skilled partner attorney, Hyo Min gradually grows into a true lawyer as she navigates the challenges of the legal world.
“Pro Bono”
Korean Title: “프로보노”
Cast: Jung Kyung Ho, So Ju Yeon, Yoon Na Moo, Seo Hye Won, Kang Hyung Suk, Lee Yoo Young
Broadcast Period:December 6 – January 11, 2026
Number of Episodes: 12
“Pro Bono” is a chaotic courtroom drama about Kang David (Jung Kyung Ho), a materialistic judge obsessed with success who unexpectedly gets trapped in a large law firm’s overlooked pro bono team.
“IDOL I”
Korean Title: “아이돌아이”
Cast: Sooyoung, Kim Jae Yeong, Jeong Jae Kwang, Choi Hee Jin, Kim Hyun Jin
Broadcast Period: December 22 – January 27, 2026
Number of Episodes: 12
“IDOL I” is a mysterious courtroom romance drama as Maeng Se Na (Sooyoung), a virtuous star lawyer and devoted fan, defends her favorite idol Do Ra Ik (Kim Jae Yeong) after he is accused of murder.
Watch “IDOL I”:
Watch Now
Enforcement
“Undercover High School”
Korean Title: “언더커버 하이스쿨”
Cast: Seo Kang Jun, Jin Ki Joo, Kim Shin Rok
Broadcast Period: February 21 – March 29
Number of Episodes: 12
“Undercover High School” is a comedy action drama that follows Jeong Hae Seong (Seo Kang Jun), a National Intelligence Service (NIS) agent who goes undercover as a high school student to track down missing gold.
Watch “Undercover High School”:
Watch Now
“Nine Puzzles”
Korean Title: “나인 퍼즐”
Cast: Kim Da Mi, Son Suk Ku
Broadcast Period: May 21 – June 4
Number of Episodes: 11
“Nine Puzzles” is a mystery thriller that follows the story of profiler Yoon Yi Na (Kim Da Mi), who was the only witness in an unsolved case from 10 years ago, and detective Kim Han Saem (Son Suk Ku), who still believes her to be a suspect, as they unearth the secrets of a new serial murder case that begins with a mysterious puzzle piece.
“Good Boy”
Korean Title: “굿보이”
Cast: Park Bo Gum, Kim So Hyun, Oh Jung Se, Lee Sang Yi, Heo Sung Tae, Tae Won Seok
Broadcast Period: May 31 – July 20
Number of Episodes: 16
“Good Boy” is a comic action drama that follows a group of young athletes who become police officers through a special recruitment program. Trading their medals for badges, they take on a world full of corruption, deception, and injustice.
“S LINE”
Korean Title: “S라인”
Cast: Lee Soo Hyuk, Lee Da Hee, Arin, Lee Eun Saem
Broadcast Period: July 11 – July 25
Number of Episodes: 6
“S LINE” is a webtoon-based fantasy thriller in which red lines suddenly appear above people’s heads, connecting them to people with whom they have had physical relationships and thus revealing sensitive personal information overnight.
“Queen Mantis”
Korean Title: “사마귀 : 살인자의 외출”
Cast: Go Hyun Jung, Jang Dong Yoon, Cho Seong Ha, Lee El
Broadcast Period: September 5 – September 27
Number of Episodes: 8
“Queen Mantis” is a crime thriller about Jung Yi Shin (Go Hyun Jung), a famous serial killer nicknamed “The Mantis,” and her son Cha Soo Yeol (Jang Dong Yoon), a detective who has despised his mother his entire life, as they end up having to work on a case together.
Watch “Queen Mantis”:
Watch Now
“Shin’s Project”
Korean Title: “신사장 프로젝트”
Cast: Han Suk Kyu, Bae Hyeon Seong, Lee Re
Broadcast Period: September 15 – October 28
Number of Episodes: 12
“Shin’s Project” is about former legendary negotiator Mr. Shin (Han Suk Kyu) who runs a modest chicken restaurant while hiding a mysterious secret and willingly jumps into other people’s conflicts to settle their problems and deliver justice.
“No Mercy”
Korean Title: “단죄”
Cast: Lee Joo Young, Ji Seung Hyun, Junhoe
Broadcast Period: September 24 – October 16
Number of Episodes: 8
“No Mercy” is a revenge thriller that follows Ha So Min (Lee Joo Young), a voice phishing victim who, after losing her parents to a phishing scam, uses deepfake technology to infiltrate a massive voice phishing organization and take revenge.
“Tempest”
Korean Title: “북극성”
Cast: Jun Ji Hyun, Kang Dong Won
Broadcast Period: September 10 – October 1
Number of Episodes: 9
“Tempest” follows the story of Moon Ju (Jun Ji Hyun), a UN ambassador who sets out to uncover the truth behind an assassination attempt, and San Ho (Kang Dong Won), a special agent of unknown nationality who must protect her, as they confront a massive truth that threatens the Korean Peninsula.
“Made in Korea”
Korean Title: “메이드 인 코리아”
Cast: Hyun Bin, Jung Woo Sung, Woo Do Hwan, Cho Yeo Jeong, Seo Eun Woo, Won Ji An, Jung Sung Il
Broadcast Period: December 24 – January 14, 2026
Number of Episodes: 6
“Made in Korea” follows Baek Ki Tae (Hyun Bin), a man driven by ambition for wealth and power, and prosecutor Jang Geon Young (Jung Woo Sung), who sacrifices everything to stop him, as they confront a monumental event in the turbulent 1970s.
Office
“Love Scout”
Korean Title: “나의 완벽한 비서”
Cast: Han Ji Min, Lee Jun Hyuk, Kim Do Hoon, Kim Yoon Hye
Broadcast Period: January 3 – February 14
Number of Episodes: 12
“Love Scout” is a romance drama about Kang Ji Yun (Han Ji Min), a CEO who is fantastic at her job but inept at everything else, and Yu Eun Ho (Lee Jun Hyuk), her highly competent secretary who is great at not only his job but also childcare and housework.
Watch “Love Scout”:
Watch Now
“Unmasked”
Korean Title: “트리거”
Cast: Kim Hye Soo, Jung Sung Il, Joo Jong Hyuk
Broadcast Period: January 15 – February 19
Number of Episodes: 12
“Unmasked” is an office comedy drama set against the backdrop of Korea’s first Investigative Journalism Bureau at a broadcasting company. The series is about a group of investigative reporters who use their cameras to expose bad people.
“My Dearest Nemesis”
Korean Title: “그놈은 흑염룡”
Cast: Mun Ka Young, Choi Hyun Wook, Im Se Mi, Kwak Si Yang
Broadcast Period: February 17 – March 24
Number of Episodes: 12
“My Dearest Nemesis” tells the love story of Baek Su Jeong (Mun Ka Young) and Ban Ju Yeon (Choi Hyun Wook), who first meet via their online game characters during their school days, then meet again in real life as boss and employee 16 years later.
Watch “My Dearest Nemesis”:
Watch Now
“The Potato Lab”
Korean Title: “감자연구소”
Cast: Lee Sun Bin, Kang Tae Oh, Lee Hak Joo, Kim Ga Eun, Shin Hyun Seung
Broadcast Period: March 1 – April 6
Number of Episodes: 12
Set in a rural potato research institute, “The Potato Lab” is a romantic comedy about Kim Mi Kyung (Lee Sun Bin), a researcher whose life revolves entirely around potatoes, and So Baek Ho (Kang Tae Ho), a cold pragmatist who joins the institute as a new chief.
“The Art of Negotiation”
Korean Title: “협상의 기술”
Cast: Lee Je Hoon, Kim Dae Myeung, Sung Dong Il, Jang Hyun Sung
Broadcast Period: March 8 – April 13
Number of Episodes: 12
“The Art of Negotiation” follows the story of Yoon Joo No (Lee Je Hoon), an M&A expert who is known as a legendary negotiator, as he leads his team through high-stakes corporate challenges.
Watch “The Art of Negotiation”:
Watch Now
“The Divorce Insurance”
Korean Title: “이혼보험”
Cast: Lee Dong Wook, Lee Joo Bin, Lee Kwang Soo, Lee Da Hee, Chu So Jung
Broadcast Period: March 8 – April 13
Number of Episodes: 12
“The Divorce Insurance” is a romantic comedy about Noh Ki Jun (Lee Dong Wook), an insurance actuary in the innovative product development team at Plus Insurance who has experienced three divorces himself.
“Our Unwritten Seoul”
Korean Title: “미지의 서울”
Cast: Park Bo Young, Park Jinyoung, Ryu Kyung Soo
Broadcast Period: May 24 – June 29
Number of Episodes: 12
“Our Unwritten Seoul” is a romantic drama about identical twin sisters Yoo Mi Ji and Yoo Mi Rae (both played by Park Bo Young) who lead completely different lives. After switching identities through a web of lies, they embark on a journey to discover real love and the true meaning of life.
“To The Moon”
Korean Title: “달까지 가자”
Cast: Lee Sun Bin, Ra Mi Ran, Jo Aram, Kim Young Dae
Broadcast Period: September 19 – October 31
Number of Episodes: 12
Based on a novel, “To the Moon” is about the survival of three working-class women Jung Da Hae (Lee Sun Bin), Kang Eun Sang (Ra Mi Ran), and Kim Ji Song (Jo Aram) who struggle to live on their salaries and turn to cryptocurrency investing.
“Typhoon Family”
Korean Title: “태풍상사“
Cast: Lee Junho, Kim Min Ha, Sung Dong Il, Kim Ji Young, Kwon Han Sol
Broadcast Period: October 11 – November 30
Number of Episodes: 16
“Typhoon Family” follows the journey of Kang Tae Poong (Lee Junho), a rookie businessman who suddenly becomes the head of a struggling trading company with no employees, no money, and nothing left to sell during the IMF crisis in 1997.
“The Dream Life of Mr. Kim”
Korean Title: “서울 자가에 대기업 다니는 김 부장 이야기”
Cast: Ryu Seung Ryong, Myung Se Bin, Cha Kang Yoon
Broadcast Period: October 25 – November 30
Number of Episodes: 12
Based on a webtoon, “The Dream Life of Mr. Kim” follows middle-aged man Kim Nak Soo (Ryu Seung Ryong) who loses everything he once believed was valuable. Through his journey, he comes to realize that his worth doesn’t lie in being a major corporate manager but in embracing his true self.
“Dynamite Kiss”
Korean Title: “키스는 괜히 해서”
Cast: Jang Ki Yong, Ahn Eun Jin, Kim Moo Joon, Woo Davi
Broadcast Period: November 12 – December 25
Number of Episodes: 14
“Dynamite Kiss” is a romantic comedy about Go Da Rim (Ahn Eun Jin), a single woman who disguises herself as a married mother in order to get a job, and Gong Ji Hyuk (Jang Ki Yong), a team leader who falls in love with her.
More masterlists to check out:
Drama,Features,TV/Film,Beyond the Bar,drama,Dynamite Kiss,Good Boy,Hunter with a Scalpel,Hyper Knife,IDOL I,Law and The City,Love Scout,Made in Korea,Mary Kills People,masterlist,My Dearest Nemesis,Nine Puzzles,No Mercy (drama),Oh My Ghost Clients,Our Unwritten Seoul,Pro Bono,Queen Mantis,Resident Playbook,s-line,Shin’s Project,Soompi Spotlight,Surgical Road Trip,Tempest (drama),The Art of Negotiation,The Divorce Insurance,The Dream Life of Mr. Kim,The Potato Lab,The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call,To The Moon,Typhoon Family,Undercover High School,Unmaskedbeyond the bar,drama,dynamite kiss,good boy,hunter with a scalpel,hyper knife,idol i,law and the city,love scout,made in korea,mary kills people,masterlist,my dearest nemesis,nine puzzles,no mercy (drama),oh my ghost clients,our unwritten seoul,pro bono,queen mantis,resident playbook,s-line,shin’s project,soompi spotlight,surgical road trip,tempest (drama),the art of negotiation,the divorce insurance,the dream life of mr. kim,the potato lab,the trauma code: heroes on call,to the moon,typhoon family,undercover high school,unmasked#MedicalLawOffice #Dramas #KDrama #Masterlist1778062485
Soompi & Viki Staff Talk: What Is Your Favorite K-Drama From 2016?
For K-drama fans, 2016 was an absolutely golden year with so many dramas that are still talked about to this day! As a decade has passed now, we took this chance to look back on some of our favorite K-dramas from 2016 for this edition of Soompi & Viki Staff Talk.
Here are some of our staff’s responses to this very difficult question:
Somni: “Descendants of the Sun”
A true icon of 2016, “Descendants of the Sun” remains one of the most unforgettable K-drama experiences that I’ve had so far. Starring Song Joong Ki as the soldier Yoo Si Jin and Song Hye Kyo as doctor Kang Mo Yeon, the drama perfectly blends romance, action, and emotional storytelling set against high-stakes humanitarian missions. Equally captivating is the chemistry between the sub couple Seo Dae Young (Jin Goo) and First Lieutenant Yoon Myung Joo (Kim Ji Won), whose intense, slow-burn romance adds another layer of depth. Rewatching the series now, it still delivers the same thrill, butterflies, and tears even a decade later!
Watch “Descendants of the Sun”:
Watch Now
Deanne: “Another Miss Oh”
For those of us who were K-drama fans in 2016, “Another Miss Oh” was a drama we didn’t just watch—we sat with it, replayed scenes over and over again, and let it ruin our sleep schedules in the best way! Oh Hae Young (Seo Hyun Jin) isn’t the typical polished character we were used to at the time, which made her all the more memorable—expressive, flawed, and refreshingly real. Paired with Park Do Kyung (Eric), whose guarded nature gradually softens throughout the series, this drama gives us a love story that feels raw rather than idealized. For anyone craving a 2016 throwback, I definitely recommend “Another Miss Oh.” It’s a perfect rom-com that blends humor with pure emotion, capturing messy yet truthful love that lingers with you long after the final episode!
Watch “Another Miss Oh”:
Watch Now
Winnie: “Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo”
It’s hard to believe that “Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo” is already celebrating its 10th anniversary! A decade later, the drama still feels just as fresh, heartfelt, and comforting as ever. What truly makes it unforgettable is the sparkling chemistry between Kim Bok Joo and Jung Joon Hyung, brought to life so effortlessly by Lee Sung Kyung and Nam Joo Hyuk. Their playful bickering, heart-fluttering confessions, and soft, supportive moments capture the sweetness of first love in the most natural and adorable way, and their romance remains one of K-drama’s cutest love stories. So…”Do you like Messi?”
Watch “Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo”:
Watch Now
Julia: “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo”
As a 2016 throwback, “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo” is a drama with a very loyal fandom that has only grown stronger over time. IU as Hae Soo appears bright and lively at first, but as the story progresses, the tone turns devastatingly sad. The character goes through intense character development as she endures repeated loss, which gives the drama its lasting emotional weight. Add to that a stacked lineup of actors playing Goryeo princes—each with distinct personalities and tragic arcs—and it’s easy to see why everyone who watches this drama gets so attached. This drama has become one of my lifelong favorites as it’s the kind of series that lingers deeply in your heart forever!
Watch “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo”:
Watch Now
Jinny: “Dear Fair Lady Kong Shim”
“Dear Fair Lady Kong Shim” is a drama I loved in 2016 and still do ten years later! What I love about the series is the rare, warm charm that feels both chaotic and comforting at the same time. From the very first episode, the way Ahn Dan Tae (Namkoong Min) crashes into the life of Kong Shim (Bang Minah)—literally kicking the flowerpot she drops and becoming her rooftop tenant—sets up a relationship that feels organic and messy. The drama recently gained spotlight again as Bang Minah got married to On Ju Wan, who played Seok Joon Soo, late last year. An on-screen connection turned into a real-life love story gives K-drama fans even more reason to revisit the series!
Watch “Dear Fair Lady Kong Shim”:
Watch Now
Sala: “Dr. Romantic”
An oldie but a goldie, ”Dr. Romantic” is so iconic that they needed to bring the cast and story back not once but twice! With three seasons of binge-worthy goodness, “Dr. Romantic” is a classic must-watch K-drama that first aired in 2016, following the stories of the renowned Dr. Kim (Han Suk Kyu) along with realistic doctors working at a rundown hospital in the countryside. I love the heartwarming stories of doctors who sincerely care for their patients and also the phenomenal chemistry and teamwork between the hospital staff, helmed by Yoo Yeon Seok and Seo Hyun Jin in Season 1. The series delivers everything from emotional moments to laughter—so don’t miss out and start by watching the first season, the story that started it all.
Watch “Dr. Romantic”:
Watch Now
Yeon: “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God”
We can’t talk about 2016 K-dramas without mentioning “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God”! This fantasy romance tells the emotional story of the immortal Goblin Kim Shin (Gong Yoo) and Ji Eun Tak (Kim Go Eun), the only bride destined to end his eternal life. It’s a tear-jerking romance that is impossible not to get invested in, but there are also plenty of comedic moments that bring smiles and laughter. The stunning cinematography and beloved OST also contribute to the drama’s lasting power that brings me back to watching it every year!
Watch “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God”:
Watch Now
Drama,TV/Film,Another Miss Oh,Dear Fair Lady Kong Shim,Descendants of the Sun,Dr. Romantic,drama,Guardian: The Lonely and Great God,Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo,Soompi Spotlight,Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Jooanother miss oh,dear fair lady kong shim,descendants of the sun,dr. romantic,drama,guardian: the lonely and great god,moon lovers: scarlet heart ryeo,soompi spotlight,weightlifting fairy kim bok joo#Soompi #amp #Viki #Staff #Talk #Favorite #KDrama1778046739
9 K-Drama Leads Who Have Chemistry With Everyone
In the world of K-dramas, there’s nothing quite like a pairing that just clicks. While strong writing and good direction also play their roles, sometimes it really comes down to the actors and their ability to create believable, heart-fluttering connections. Whether it’s a playful rom-com or a more emotionally layered story, these leads have a way of making every relationship feel natural and compelling.
Here are some K-drama stars who seem to have chemistry with everyone they work with.
1. Park Hyung Sik
Park Hyung Sik as Ahn Min Hyuk in “Strong Woman Do Bong Soon” delivered one of the most charming and memorable romances in K-drama. What really sets him apart though is how consistently he brings that same level of connection to every role. Across dramas like “Happiness” and “Soundtrack #1,” his performances are reactive and emotionally in tune, which allows his co-stars to shine alongside him. It’s that sincerity and ease that make his chemistry feel effortless, no matter who he’s paired with.
Watch “Strong Woman Do Bong Soon” here:
Watch Now
2. Lee Junho
Lee Junho brought depth and intensity to his role in “The Red Sleeve,” where his connection with Lee Se Young was filled with longing and emotional weight. He also showed a completely different side in “King the Land” alongside Im Yoona, where the chemistry leaned into lighthearted and romantic moments. Both performances felt equally convincing despite their differences. His ability to shift between emotional tones is what makes him stand out.
Watch “The Red Sleeve” here:
Watch Now
3. Kim Ji Won
Kim Ji Won as Choi Ae Ra in “Fight for My Way” had a dynamic with Park Seo Joon that felt natural and heartfelt, especially with the banter. But in “My Liberation Notes,” her connection with Son Suk Ku is quieter but just as impactful. She also held her own in “Descendants of the Sun” alongside Jin Goo, creating a romance that resonated with viewers. Her strength lies in how real she makes every interaction feel. No matter the co-star, the chemistry never feels forced.
Start watching “Fight for My Way” now:
Watch Now
4. Yoo Yeon Seok
Yoo Yeon Seok brought warmth and sincerity to “Hospital Playlist,” especially in his gentle romance with Shin Hyun Been. Their relationship unfolded naturally, making every moment feel earned. In “Dr. Romantic,” he showed a more intense and layered dynamic opposite Seo Hyun Jin. Even in more restrained roles, his presence adds emotional depth to every interaction.
Start watching “Dr. Romantic” now:
Watch Now
5. Kim Hye Yoon
Kim Hye Yoon has a bright and lively energy. She brought this same energy to “Extraordinary You,” where her chemistry with Rowoon felt youthful and so full of life. And in “Lovely Runner,” she explored a more emotional and layered connection with Byun Woo Seok. She has a way of reacting so naturally that every relationship she portrays feels immersive.
Watch “Extraordinary You” here:
Watch Now
6. Seo In Guk
Seo In Guk really gained attention for his nostalgic and heartfelt romance in “Reply 1997” alongside Jung Eun Ji. And in “Doom at Your Service,” his chemistry with Park Bo Young took on a more emotional and fated tone. But he also delivered a complex and intense dynamic with Jung So Min in “Hundred Million Stars From the Sky.” With every project, his emotional range allows him to fully meet each co-star.
Watch “Reply 1997” now:
Watch Now
7. Park Bo Young
Park Bo Young brought heart and sincerity to “Strong Woman Do Bong Soon,” especially in her adorable and genuine connection with Park Hyung Sik. In “Doom at Your Service,” she shared a more bittersweet and emotional romance with Seo In Guk. She also showed great chemistry with Ahn Hyo Seop in “Abyss.” Her ability to balance softness with emotional depth makes every pairing feel authentic.
Start “Doom at Your Service” now:
Watch Now
8. Ji Chang Wook
Ji Chang Wook delivered unforgettable chemistry with Park Min Young in “Healer,” creating a romance that is full of tension and heart. In “Suspicious Partner,” his dynamic with Nam Ji Hyun balanced humor with emotional growth. He also explored a more realistic and modern relationship with Kim Ji Won in “Lovestruck in the City.” His versatility is what allows him to build strong connections across genres.
Start watching “Healer” now:
Watch Now
9. Suzy
Suzy created a warm and natural connection with Lee Jong Suk in “While You Were Sleeping.” And in “Start-Up,” her chemistry with Nam Joo Hyuk brought both sweetness and emotional conflict. She also shared a deeply emotional romance with Kim Woo Bin in “Uncontrollably Fond.” Her understated acting style allows her relationships to unfold organically. She complements her co-stars in a way that always feels balanced and real.
Watch “While You Were Sleeping” here:
Watch Now
binahearts is a Korean-Canadian published author, content creator, and influencer whose ultimate biases are Song Joong Ki and BIGBANG, but has lately been seen obsessing over Hwang In Yeop. Make sure you follow binahearts on IG as she journeys through her latest Korean crazes!
Drama,Features,TV/Film,drama,Ji Chang Wook,Kim Hye Yoon,Kim Ji Won,Lee Junho,Park Bo Young,Park Hyung Sik,Seo In Guk,Soompi Spotlight,Suzy,Yoo Yeon Seokdrama,ji chang wook,kim hye yoon,kim ji won,lee junho,park bo young,park hyung sik,seo in guk,soompi spotlight,suzy,yoo yeon seok#KDrama #Leads #Chemistry1777774159
5 K-Drama Male Leads Who Fell First And Harder
There’s just something irresistible about a male lead who knows what he wants and falls first… and then proceeds to fall even harder. Whether it’s quiet devotion, unwavering loyalty, or full-on heart-eyes energy, these K-drama men set the bar high when it comes to love. Here are some unforgettable male leads who didn’t just fall first, they fell with everything they had.
1. Jang Shin Yu in “Destined With You”
Rowoon stars as Jang Shin Yu, a successful lawyer who seems to have it all. When he meets Lee Hong Jo (Jo Bo Ah), he quickly becomes entangled in a mysterious curse tied to an ancient spellbook. Amid all the supernatural chaos, it’s clear that Shin Yu’s feelings for Hong Jo develop fast and deeply.
What makes Shin Yu stand out is how openly smitten he becomes. He doesn’t shy away from his emotions and instead leans fully into them, even when it confuses everyone around him (including himself). His lovestruck expressions and unwavering pull toward Hong Jo make his journey all the more compelling, drawing viewers into just how shamelessly he wears his heart on his sleeve.
2. Lee Young Joon in “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim”
Park Seo Joon plays Lee Young Joon, a narcissistic vice chairman who believes the world revolves around him until his long-time secretary Kim Mi So (Park Min Young) decides to quit. That’s when Young Joon realizes that Mi So may mean more to him than he had thought.
Young Joon does not realize it right away, but he falls hard for Mi So and tries his best to earn her affections. His attempts to keep her by his side slowly reveal his genuine feelings, and what starts off as ego-driven desperation turns into sincere love. The best part? Watching him transform from self-absorbed boss to a man completely whipped and willing to do anything for the woman he loves.
Start watching “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim”:
Watch Now
3. Lee Jang Hyun in “My Dearest”
Namgoong Min plays Lee Jang Hyun, a wanderer who initially appears aloof and uninterested in love. He vows never to get married and lives life as a nomad, detached from emotional ties. However, once he meets Yoo Gil Chae (Ahn Eun Jin), everything he believes about love and relationships begins to unravel, and nothing in his world stays the same.
Jang Hyun’s love is quiet but intense. He falls first and carries that love through war, separation, and heartbreak without ever wavering. His actions speak louder than words, and his sacrifices for Gil Chae are both devastating and beautiful. This is the kind of love that lingers and is deep, enduring, and impossible to forget.
4. Kang Tae Moo in “A Business Proposal”
Ahn Hyo Seop plays Kang Tae Moo, a CEO who goes on a blind date expecting nothing, only to meet Shin Ha Ri (Kim Se Jeong). The two decide to start a fake relationship, but what begins as pretend quickly turns very real… at least for him.
Tae Moo wastes no time falling head over heels for Ha Ri. Once he realizes his feelings, he’s all in. His directness and confidence make his affection even more swoon-worthy, and the way he pursues Ha Ri with absolute certainty is what makes this romance so satisfying.
5. Gu Won in “King the Land”
Lee Jun Ho plays Gu Won, a wealthy hotel heir who is initially cold and emotionally distant. But when he meets Cheon Sa Rang (Im Yoona), his walls start to crumble.
Gu Won falls first, and it shows right away. From subtle glances to protective gestures, his feelings for her grow fast and sincerely. What makes him so lovable is how effortlessly soft he becomes without even realizing it. He’s bold about his feelings, not caring who sees, which makes it all the more romantic. His once rigid world slowly begins to revolve around Sa Rang, and watching him embrace love so wholeheartedly is incredibly satisfying.
binahearts is a Korean-Canadian published author, content creator, and influencer whose ultimate biases are Song Joong Ki and BIGBANG, but has lately been seen obsessing over Hwang In Yeop. Make sure you follow binahearts on IG as she journeys through her latest Korean crazes!
Drama,Features,TV/Film,A Business Proposal,Destined with You,drama,King the Land,My Dearest,Soompi Spotlight,What’s Wrong with Secretary Kima business proposal,destined with you,drama,king the land,my dearest,soompi spotlight,what’s wrong with secretary kim#KDrama #Male #Leads #Fell #Harder1777130259
