6 Overlooked K-Drama Rom-Coms That’ll Steal Your Heart!
- Anwaya Mane
- Jun 19
- 4 min read
K-drama rom-coms are more than just a genre — they’re a universe of their own. Fun, frothy, trope-filled, a little messy (in the best way), packed with sizzling chemistry, stunning visuals, and unforgettable scenes — they’ve carved out a unique space in pop culture. So iconic that “K-drama rom-com” is now recognized as its own sub-genre, impossible to replicate, and beloved for its distinct identity.
The beauty of K-drama rom-coms is their universal appeal. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, their charm transcends age, gender, and preferences. Even non-purists find themselves hooked. While some K-drama rom-coms have rightfully earned their place in the spotlight—endlessly referenced and re-watched—others haven’t received the love they truly deserve. That’s why we’re shining a light on six underappreciated K-drama rom-coms that, in our opinion, deserve way more attention!
1. Shooting Stars (2022)
Workplace K-drama rom-coms are always a treat—but throw in a top celebrity and his PR manager, and you've got scandalously fun drama. Shooting Stars stars Kim Young Dae as Gong Tae Sung, one of Korea’s biggest stars, and Lee Sung Kyung as Oh Han Byul, his sharp, no-nonsense publicist. Their love-hate, frenemies dynamic is filled with fast-paced banter, backstage chaos, and simmering tension that slowly turns into romance. Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing—with rival suitors and high-stakes careers in the mix, things get messy in the most entertaining way. The chemistry between the leads is electric, and this drama absolutely deserves more attention than it got!
2. Extraordinary You (2019)
This drama introduced us to some of Korea’s brightest rising stars — Kim Hye Yoon, Rowoon, Kim Young Dae, and Lee Jae Wook. Extraordinary You follows the story of Eun Dan Oh (Kim Hye Yoon), a high school student who makes a shocking discovery: she’s just an extra in a comic book, destined to die from a heart condition. Refusing to accept her fate, Dan Oh decides to rewrite her story, find true love, and reclaim her own narrative. Blending fantasy with heartfelt romance, this whimsical rom-com is light, imaginative, and perfect for anyone looking for a feel-good watch with just the right amount of depth. It’s charming, clever, and definitely deserves more love.
3. Run On (2021)
Im Si Wan and Shin Se Kyung are two of the most underrated talents in the Korean entertainment industry, and Run On is a quiet gem that showcases their depth beautifully. Unlike your typical high-energy K-drama rom-com, Run On is calm, contemplative, and comforting — more of a slow-burn romance with a healing touch. The story follows Ki Seon Gyeom (Im Si Wan), a former sprinter navigating life after sports, and Oh Mi Joo (Shin Se Kyung), a passionate subtitle translator. Though their worlds couldn't be more different, together they create something beautifully balanced. With its nuanced characters, thoughtful storytelling, and quiet charm, Run On is the kind of drama that lingers with you, and definitely deserves more appreciation.
4. Dali and Cocky Prince (2021)
An underrated gem in the romance genre, Dali and Cocky Prince features an unexpectedly charming couple in Kim Min Jae and Park Gyu Young. The story follows a brash, newly wealthy businessman (a parvenu, or what we colloquially call "new money") who lacks formal education, and a cultured woman from an elite family striving to save her late father’s crumbling art museum. Their romance is fresh, engaging, and layered with both heart and humour. Kim Min Jae and Park Gyu Young deliver standout performances and truly deserve more recognition!
5. Into the Ring (2020)
Before Park Sung Hoon gained global fame with The Glory and Squid Game, he and Nana showcased incredible chemistry in this underrated political rom-com, Into The Ring. The story centers on a spirited woman who can’t stand injustice and has a track record of quitting jobs over her principles—almost a professional resignee. Fed up, she decides to “enter the ring” by running for the district assembly. Light-hearted, witty, and full of heart, this drama is both hilarious and refreshingly original.
6. Go Back Couple (2017)
Time travel is a beloved trope in Korean dramas, and Go Back Couple, starring Son Ho Jun and Jang Nara, uses it to heartwarming and humorous effect. The story follows a married couple who are deeply dissatisfied with their relationship, careers, and personal lives. After hitting rock bottom, they suddenly find themselves transported back to their 20s—college students once again, with a second chance at life and love. Both moving and funny, this drama beautifully explores regret, youth, and the possibility of rediscovery.
All the mentioned dramas are available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and Viki. Which underrated K-drama rom-com are you planning to watch next? Let us know in the comments below!
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