The Best Romantic Korean Drama on Netflix: My Suggested List

As I grow older, I'm not that much interested in romantic Korean dramas but in love affairs, thrillers, and revenge, among others. Maybe that's because I find the romance genre unrealistic and cheesy.

That said, the best romantic Korean drama on Netflix I suggest has unique features that keep me engaged. Get ready to be swept off your feet? Let's get right to them.

1. Alchemy of Souls

This refreshing story features souls being transferred into different bodies. Though season 1 dragged a bit, season 2 picks up the pace with a faster pace, action, and humor. I think this makes for better chemistry between the leads. The kissing scenes feel genuine, and the actors appear natural and comfortable in their roles, especially Jang UK, my favorite handsome "destroyer", and Seo Yul, who looks out of this world.

2. Twenty-Five Twenty-One

A near-perfect drama that's only let down by a somewhat dragging second half. Nonetheless, it showcases incredible cast chemistry, strong performances by the lead actors, and the depiction of the strong bond among the characters. This series is a blend of poignant storytelling with heartfelt morals on dreams, happiness, and overcoming life's trials.

I love happy endings, so I can't rate it 10 stars. I wish the daughter had discovered a diary about her parent's love story (e.g., how they [the male and female leads] overcame the challenges of being separated, how they remained faithful and loyal to each other, and how they finally got married because of their true lovẹ).

Do I recommend this? ~ Absolutely! Will I watch it again? ~ No way! But I enjoyed most of the series and that's my honest opinion.

You may also be interested in: ‘Twenty Five Twenty One’ Kdrama: Quotes That Resonate With You and Give You Support

3. Dr. Romantic

Initially, the drama's title gave me the wrong impression of being a typical romance with a medical backdrop. However, upon watching, it turned out to consist of impressively accurate and realistic surgical scenes that caught my attention. Contributing to the show's success, the talented actors deliver an engaging combination of emotional stories with easily digestible medical knowledge. It's more than just a love story based in a hospital. While Dr. Romantic 1 is still my favorite, the series showcases strong chemistry and memorable moments.

4. Young Lady and Gentleman

This best romantic Korean drama on Netflix is perfect for fans of Makjang dramas (over-the-top melodramas). It reminisces about older Kdramas from the 00s-10s.

On the one hand, it may be frustrating at times. If you can't stand the toxic tropes and the over-the-top tragedies, then you might want to skip this one. Unless you enjoy watching drama for the sake of drama, then go ahead and have fun!

But on the other hand, the show features a unique and engrossing storyline, depicting how love can flourish regardless of age differences, setting it apart from many conventional, cliche romances. As this drama demonstrates that old people can fall in love with younger individuals, it proves love transcends age and societal norms. Appealing character dynamics like the charismatic Young Guk and cheerful Dan Dan add to the charm.

5. Melancholia

A thoughtful drama offering a fresh perspective on math, love, and education. Showcasing the world through the eyes of a mathematician and cinematography lover, Melancholia delivers a one-of-a-kind experience that challenges the usual chemistry between lead characters in a drama.

This romantic Korean drama might not suit everyone's taste, but it leaves a lasting impact on those (including me) who connect with it and those (yea, count me in) who enjoy a different viewpoint. It indeed offers comfort through exploring different aspects of life and love.

6. Crash Landing on You

Rumor has it, it was inspired by a true story. This series brings together the worlds of North and South Korea. The engaging storylines and outstanding performances leave you mesmerized, especially the brilliant chemistry between lead actors, Hyun Bin and Ye-Jin. A mix of love, relationships, family, friendship, and social status - it's engaging without feeling overwhelming. Despite some clichés and unnecessary scenes, and occasional overacting, it has something for everyone.

It's amazing how fate brought them together, but also how their status and power saved them from danger. If Se-ri was not a wealthy heiress and Jeong-Hyeok was not a high-ranking soldier, would they have survived in North Korea? Or would they have to hide their love forever in the shadows? It's funny to think about that.

You may also be interested in: 'Crash Landing on You' Kdrama: The Best Quotes That You Love

7. Mr. Queen

An unexpectedly engaging and enjoyable drama, Mr. Queen is a hidden gem that hooked me with its interesting storylines, cooking, dancing, flirting with Ramyeon scene, and other amusing scenes. The strong chemistry between lead actors Hye Sun (my favorite) and Jung Hyun is also worth mentioning. Though primarily a historical drama, it stands out for its entertainment value, sense of humor, and excellent performances from the entire cast. This Kdrama is not one to miss for fans of this drama genre.

8. One the Woman

This top romantic Korean drama boasts a consistent and engaging storyline, skillfully blending elements of suspense, action, comedy, and romance. The cast is well-suited for their roles and creates great chemistry. Ha-Nee is relatively good at her role as a strong female lead, while her gorgeous co-star Sang-Yoon undoubtedly shines in his performance. Despite some occasional drawbacks in pacing and the series stretching a tad too long, it kept me engaged throughout its 16 episodes, making it a worthwhile Kdrama experience.

9. Summer Strike

An ode to introverts, this highly-rated soothing series helps heal and relax you as it focuses on personal development over romance. The drama shows how a young woman discovers joy and purpose in her life by trusting herself -- her smarts, courage, and kindness -- instead of depending on some guy like in typical romance dramas.

The story is not original. The main actors are also new to some people even though they have watched many Kdramas for a long time. (Maybe, this helps a bit, as seeing the same faces over and over in different dramas can get boring, no matter how good they are.) Besides, the plot is predictable.

But, strangely, this is the Kdrama I enjoyed watching the most this year. Everything flows so naturally and beautifully. Everyone can learn from its themes of minimalism and happiness in the ordinary and everyday aspects of life.

You may also be interested in: "Summer Strike" Kdrama That Redefines Happiness and Self-discovery

10. Angel's Last Mission: Love

The series features memorable, breathtaking scenes, strong lead characters, leads who share remarkable chemistry, a unique take on love despite disabilities, and surprising twists that come together to create an unforgettable viewing experience. Though the pace may be slow at times, the show offers engrossing build-up, beautiful cinematography, choreography, and OSTs to make it worth the watch.

More specifically, I admire the female lead for being strong despite being blind. She had a tough past, so I don't mind her tantrums. The male lead was adorable, but sometimes over the top. That was his role, though. They were a great pair. Also, the happy ending was too short for me. I wanted more time for them.

You may also be interested in: 'Angel's Last Mission: Love': Quotes That You Are so in Love With

11. Crash Course in Romance

A light-hearted and sweetly entertaining drama with a fantastic cast and relatively engaging storylines. Some argued that the female lead looked too old for the male lead and it affected their chemistry; maybe they should have cast someone else for their roles. Still, it overall offers a pleasurable viewing experience.

12. Romance is a Bonus Book

The show, centered around a "noona" romance theme, gives a realistic portrayal of the struggles of a single mother and the publishing industry at large. To be more specific, this is a heartwarming story about a single mom who has no money, no home, no husband, no job, and no skills. She tries to find her place in the world of publishing, where she meets many interesting people. The show is funny and realistic, with no evil characters. The actors are all great and make the characters come alive.

13. Master's Sun

This series features an unconventional love story with supernatural elements and amazing chemistry between the leads. It remains enjoyable and keeps viewers wanting more despite some unnecessary episodes

I was excited to see them finally get together after 16 episodes, but I wanted more than a kiss! For example, how did they adjust to their married life?

And the way the truth came out was too simple. The kidnapping plot and the past story should have been more suspenseful. The villain was too weak. She should have tried harder to get back at Gong-shil instead of just leaving.

14. The Beauty Inside

Engaging, heartwarming, and beautifully scored, this popular romantic drama hooks audience members with its wonderful OSTs and talented cast. While it may drag a little long for some viewers and has some inconsistency in the face-changing aspect, the series conveys a powerful message about fate and connections. We meet people for a reason.

You may also be interested in: 5 Amazing Quotes from 'The Beauty Inside' Drama That Will Make Your Day

The final word

The best romantic Korean drama on Netflix offers a unique experience, tackling love, happiness, and life. Find the one that captivates, entertains, and touches your heart. Remember to let me know your favorite list. Happy watching! ---