r/kdramarecommends Jul 27 '25

Official Recommendations Thread Recommendations 7.0 : Genre

Upvotes

Hello KDR community!

We are a couple of years overdue to update our community recommendation lists which were last updated in 2021/2022. For those of you who are unaware, r/kdramarecommends has an amazing resource in our community recommendation lists sorted by theme and genre spanning back to before the creation of our community when we allowed recommendation requests on our main subreddit r/KDRAMA.

You can browse the history of our community recommendation project in our what to watch wiki and view the various lists at our community MDL list page

We are going to try something different this time around and take the majority of recommendations through a google form. As in previous rounds of recommendations certain lists will be open for recommendations for certain periods of time.

The first set of lists that will be open for recommendations are our genre lists:

Genre Link to List Last Updated Notes High Tier List
Romantic Comedy MDL List Nov 2021 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that deal with romantic love but with comedic or lighthearted plot lines. Post
High School MDL List Oct 2021 This recommendation list covers any dramas set in high school or with high school aged protagonists. Post
Tertiary Education MDL List April 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas set in or around post high school education whether it be university or cram school. N/A
Sageuk (Historical) MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that deal with events in Korean history (or histories that touch Korea).Sageuks can be historical fiction or completely fictional, including elements of fantasy. Post
Sci-Fi / Fantasy MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list has a dual focus; Sci-Fi dramas which are a type of speculative fiction that deals with imaginative and futuristic concepts such as advanced technology, scientific development, or encounters with alien life and Fantasy dramas which contain magic and supernatural elements. These supernatural elements can be distinctly Korean from Korean folklore/beliefs such as goblins, gumihos, and shamanism. They can also be from non-Korean folklore such as vampires, angels, and zombies. Please signify what Sci-Fi or Fantasy elements are present in your recommendation Post
Thriller MDL List Nov 2021 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that create a heightened feeling of suspense, excitement, surprise, anticipation, or anxiety. Post
Chaebol MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas which prominently feature chaebols. N/A
Action MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas where the cast or main character is involved in a series of events that typically include violence, extended fighting, physical feats and frantic chases. Post
Crime / Mystery MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that deal with crimes, criminal acts, and their investigations. This can be in the form of police procedurals, police-based situations, legal/courtroom matters, serial crimes, one-off crimes, or whodunits. There are sleuths, detectives, investigators, or other similar people involved.
Medical MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that deal with hospitals, healthcare, and the hospital/clinic system.
Revenge MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that feature one or more characters trying to get revenge on someone.
Melodrama MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that play to the audience's emotions or feelings. These dramas often deal with themes like morality, good and evil, love and marriage (and infidelity), and family issues. Characters might be stereotypes or stock types.
Law MDL List Aug 2021 This recommendation list is for Korean dramas specifically focused on the legal system, those somewhat based in courtrooms (or other roles of those working in the legal system) with main characters that are - Lawyers/Prosecutors/Judges. Please mention within your recommendation which the focal characters are.
Spy MDL List July 2021 This recommendation list focuses on Korean dramas where one or more characters are seen performing acts of espionage (uncovering secret information without the holder's permission or knowledge) or featuring government agencies that perform acts of espionage. Spies may be professionals, housewives, etc and depictions may be realistic or fantastical.
Makjang MDL List Jul 2021 This recommendation list is a celebration of all those delicious makjang dramas out there on the spectrum from lite to full blown makjang. Makjang dramas are those which contain specific dramatic elements or devices designed to shock or keep viewers' attention. For a proper introduction to what a Makjang drama is, please read our resident Queen of Makjang, mod u/myweithisway's excellent post, Makjang 101: Taking Things To The Extreme.
Slice of Life MDL List Brand New list This recommendation list focuses on dramas which depict everyday life in a realistic manner.

How to participate:

  • Before submitting any recommendations please take a look through the linked list on MDL. If the drama is already listed with 2-3 recommendations there is no need to submit it again. If the drama only has one write up, you can submit another.

  • Write a 2-4 sentence recommendation for any unlisted drama that you think fits the category AND is worth watching. Your recommendation should explain how the drama fits the category as well as why you think it is worth watching.

  • Take care filling out your user name and the drama name correctly (please use the title that MDL gives) if we are unable to match either of these your recommendation will be disregarded.

  • Before clicking "submit" review that you have input everything correctly.

Please do not:

  • Attempt to submit more than one drama per entry

  • Submit anything other than Korean Dramas e.g. Korean movies or Chinese dramas

  • Include any spoilers in your recommendations

  • Recommend a drama that you have not watched in full or that hasn’t yet completed, come back once you are finished the drama in full

If you are ready, you may submit any recommendation for the above lists via our google form


High Tier

As a supplement to the google form we will be trailing a reddit game app called High Tier. The pre-existing recommended dramas will be added to the game and users will be able to battle to form a tiered list of dramas per category. Assuming it works well for our project each list will run for 1-2 weeks and once we finish all 16 lists we will move onto our next batch of recommendations and close submission for our genre lists.


If you have any questions regarding this project please ask them in the comments or via modmail.

We look forward to your contributions to this project throughout 2025/2026. Thanks in advance to all who take the time and effort to submit entries to this community resource.


r/kdramarecommends Aug 03 '24

Meta [META] How to get Your Recommendation Request Approved on the First Attempt

Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I’m here today with some tips to get your recommendation request approved on the first attempt.

We had a major rule update back in April and each of our post types now have minimum requirements, that is the least amount of information your post has to contain to be approved. If your post doesn’t contain that information we will either remove your post and give you a strike or we may ask you to make an edit. Preferably, for you and us you get it right on the first attempt.

So let's start from the top!

Title

Our two requirements for titles on recommendation requests are:

  • Concise and Descriptive of request
  • Follows our title rules

Post titles should be short and give users an idea of what the post is about. As the person making the request you should have an idea of what it is you are looking for. The title of your post should relate to the general area of dramas you are seeking, whereas the post body contains the details in your recommendation request. Titles cannot be edited once submitted so more often than not are the tipping point in a user's post being removed.

Common mistakes that will see your post removed:

  • Slang or shorthand such as rec/recs/pls
  • Spelling errors/typos
  • Putting too much detail AKA the whole recommendation request in the title. If your title is over a sentence, it’s very unlikely that it will be approved.
  • Generic titles such as “help”, “recommend me dramas”, “recommend anything”

Suggested title starters:

  • “Dramas like [insert drama name]”
  • “Dramas with [insert element]”
  • “[insert genre] dramas”

Post Body

There are three requirements for post body:

1) A detailed, explicit recommendation request (what you are looking for)

Even though as a Korean drama recommendation community, it is assumed that all posts are recommendation requests, we still require that you make an explicit request in the body of your post making it clear that you are seeking Korean dramas to watch and exactly what you are looking for from those dramas. The purpose of this requirement is to give a detailed explanation of what you want to see.

Common mistakes that will see your post removed:

  • Making a post without a recommendation request
  • Putting your recommendation request in the post title and not the body
  • Making an implicit request rather than an explicit request
  • Making a request that is not detailed
  • Requesting content that is considered inappropriate in our rules

Suggestions:

  • Include your recommendation request in the first paragraph of your post.
  • Use clear phrasing such as “Recommend me dramas that…” or “I’m looking for dramas that….”
  • The more detail you can provide the better
  • Note any content (triggers, tropes, actors/actresses, etc.) that you want to avoid so that people can avoid suggesting dramas containing elements that can be triggering for you.

2) A listing of dramas that you already seen that are relevant to your request plus details of what you liked and disliked about them

The purpose of this requirement is to give users a better idea of what you are seeking/your taste and preferences as a viewer. Example dramas do not need to be Korean dramas.

Common mistakes that will see your post removed:

  • Skipping this requirement completely
  • Listing dramas but not giving any details or simply giving a numerical ranking
  • Including spoilers in the details but not using spoiler tags

Suggestions:

  • Give details of at least two dramas relevant to your request - one that is similar to what you want and one that is different
  • If you are new to Korean dramas you can give examples from other media
  • If your request is very niche and you cannot think of any dramas, simply state something along the lines of “I haven’t seen any dramas that are similar to what I am seeking”.
  • If you need to include spoilers in your details make sure to spoiler tag as per our spoiler tag style guide e.g. [drama name] - [non-spoiler content about drama] spoiler content about drama

3) A complete watch history of all the Korean dramas you have seen so far

The purpose of this requirement is to give users an overall picture of you as a viewer and save both you and recommenders time recommending dramas you have already seen.

Common mistakes that will see your post removed:

  • Not providing a complete list of dramas
  • Making statements like “I can’t be bothered listing them all”, “I’ve watched 100s of dramas”, “I’ve seen all the popular ones”
  • Making unclear statements like “these are all the dramas I liked”, “I am new to kdramas” will make mods question whether you have listed all the dramas you have watched

Suggestions:

  • We recommend users make a free account on MDL which they keep updated for this purpose.
  • Use clear statements like “Dramas I have watched so far”, “All the dramas I’ve watched”, “My complete watch history”
  • If not linking to MDL format your list so it is easy to read

Some annotated examples of recommendation requests


r/kdramarecommends 1d ago

Recommendation Request Intense Dramas with Romance

Upvotes

Hello! Could you please recommend me very intense dramas with a romance plot line?

I'm looking for high stakes and themes like manipulation, ride-or-die relationships, politics, action, murder, North-South tensions, violence, and characters constantly fighting for their lives. Both emotionally/interpersonally intense shows or environmental/political thrillers are great in my book. I want that intensity paired with a strong romance plot line, but I'd also readily accept high-stakes dramas with only a little romance if their chemistry can carry me through (see: Happiness).

Bonus points for: well-written shows; terrible women, especially ones I can root for (I love Ko Moon-young from It's Okay to Not Be Okay); yearning; competent leads (especially if they save their lover); 'married' leads (even if it's only barely implied); shows that centre multiple strong relationships (romantic, platonic, or familial); and/or a great ensemble cast.

I don't really want historical settings or a high school age cast, unless it's something super worthwhile. No main lead cheating plot lines please. Ideally on either Netflix or Disney+.

Dramas I've watched:

  • Crash Landing on You — Really enjoyed the military aspects, action, and high stakes of the North/South politics. And the romance was stellar! Everything about this was outstanding. Phenomenally well-written, a perfect drama. 10/10
  • Descendants of the Sun — Similarly was obsessed with the intensity of the military in this. Also I really liked all the later arcs too because they were just as life-and-death. And following multiple romantic relationships was so nice! 9/10
  • Doctor Stranger — I was gripped at the start by the intense themes (North/South politics; hidden identities; kidnapping; human experimentation; constant action and drama) and the fact that the love story was central to everything, but the writing quickly became abysmal so I dropped it. 3.5/10
  • It's Okay to Not Be Okay — So wonderful! Great levels of violence, manipulation, personal drama and overall crazy, while also being so emotionally moving. I liked how offbeat this felt. Super well-written, with a fantastic cast of characters. Also loved how unapologetically psychopathic the women are in this. 10/10
  • Happiness — Super fun thriller, and I liked the zombies and violence a lot! Only about 10-15% was romance, but the chemistry between the leads was so insanely off-the-charts that every single time they even looked at one another or walked into a room together, their love was unmistakable (which sustained me in the romance regard). 8.5/10

I just started Vincenzo, which sounded exactly like what I was looking for, but so far seems to be much more crime-comedy than crime-thriller. Also watching All of Us Are Dead and Business Proposal (both of which only half fit the intense drama + romance bill). Thanks for your help!


r/kdramarecommends 2d ago

Recommendation Request Looking for a K-Drama like Masters Sun or Spooky in Love

Upvotes

I finished Spooky in love and while I was not fond of all the corporate-struggle-stuff I was really into the team the ML and the FL were together. When these two hunted ghosts and fell in love this show was great. It was a pity it fell apart in the last few episodes. So I would really love a recommendation like Masters Sun or Spooky in Love where the leads are forced to join forces and have strong chemistry. The show should have a happy ending and a considerable amount of romance. I would love to have it spooky but this is not a must. The screwball comedy and romance should be center. Thank you guys!

Here is my list of the Dramas I've seen so far. Mostly Romance K-Drama and J-Drama.

https://mydramalist.com/dramalist/Dinshi


r/kdramarecommends 2d ago

Recommendation Request Romance recommendations with yearning?

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I’m watching Love Next Door and it’s not hitting the spot after five episodes in. I like that it is adults and not school aged people, but with a little more romance. Romance needs to be the main focus. Not interested in thriller or anything else.

I want a drama like Love Next Door but with more yearning, passion and protection.

Dramas I've watched

Love Next Door: not fast enough, not enough yearning or passion.


r/kdramarecommends 3d ago

Moderator Announcement Send in Your Questions for Dive into You Director So Jaehyun! (r/KDRAMA Exclusive AMA Interview)

Post image
Upvotes

As part of our K-Drama Day celebrations, we’re excited to partner with the team at Viki to host an exclusive interview with So Jaehyun, the director of 2026 Viki original Dive into You.

Join us on r/KDRAMA and send in your questions about the K-drama production process, what it’s like behind the scenes, and more. See this post for full details and to submit your questions.


r/kdramarecommends 4d ago

Recommendation Request Looking for a K-drama with a villainous man obsessed with the FL

Upvotes

I'm looking for a K-drama where the male villain has feelings/obsession toward the female lead, but the FL does not return his feelings. I'm specifically looking for a proper villain rather than a misunderstood second lead or someone who becomes good after falling for her.

I especially like the dynamic in Spooky in Love, where the villain is interested in the FL. I also like the kind of dynamic seen in The Confidence, where the male character can be dangerous/antagonistic while the FL has no romantic interest in him.

My ideal drama would have:

A genuine villain/antagonist who likes or becomes obsessed with the FL.

The FL doesn't secretly love him or develop feelings for him.

The villain can be possessive, manipulative, dangerous, or morally questionable.

I would prefer a modern setting, although historical/traditional dramas are also fine.

Romance does not have to be the main plot, as long as the villain's interest in the FL is an important part of the story.

Bonus points if the villain is handsome.

I'm particularly interested in dramas where the villain remains a villain rather than getting completely redeemed.

What I've watched and what I liked/disliked

Queen of Tears

Spooky in Love

Siren's Kiss

Love in Sadness

Watching (movie)

Tale of the Nine-Tailed

From Now On, Showtime!

Manhole

Lie to Love

Save Me

Missing You

The Tale of Nokdu

Vincenzo

Dali and the Cocky Prince

Unchained Love

The Impossible Heir

I'm mainly asking for K-drama recommendations, but if there are C-dramas that fit this trope exceptionally well, I'm happy to hear those too.

I want a preferably modern K-drama with a handsome, genuinely evil/dangerous male villain who likes or becomes obsessed with the FL, while the FL has absolutely no romantic interest in him. The villain doesn't have to be the ML. I actually prefer him to remain a proper villain rather than being rede,emed.


r/kdramarecommends 4d ago

Recommendation Request recommendation needed for first kdrama [M20]

Upvotes

I'm completely new to K-dramas and have never watched one before, but I want to explore the genre. I'm looking for recommendations that would appeal to someone who usually prefers dark, intense, plot-driven shows with strong characters, suspense, crime, violence, morally grey characters, and high stakes. I'm not particularly interested in romance being the main focus.

Some shows I've enjoyed:

  • Game of Thrones — I loved the political intrigue, morally grey characters, betrayals, violence, world-building, and the feeling that major characters could actually die.
  • Breaking Bad — I really enjoyed the character development, slow transformation of the protagonist, crime story, tension, and consequences of every decision.
  • Better Call Saul — I liked the character writing, morally complicated protagonists, crime elements, and slow-burn tension.
  • Invincible — I enjoyed the violence, unpredictable story, dark themes, and characters who aren't simply good or evil.
  • Outer Banks — I liked the adventure, mystery, friendships, danger, and fast-moving plot.

I'm especially looking for a K-drama that can hook someone who normally doesn't watch Korean dramas. I'd prefer something with a compelling story from the beginning, good pacing, memorable characters, and plenty of tension.

I'm open to different genres as long as the show is genuinely gripping. Thriller, crime, mystery, action, revenge, survival, political drama, or dark fantasy would all be interesting.

If you had to recommend 1–3 K-dramas as the best introduction to the genre for someone with my taste, what would you pick?

K-drama watch history:

  • Watched in full: None
  • Dropped: None
  • Currently watching: None
  • In progress: None

Thanks!


r/kdramarecommends 4d ago

Recommendation Request 2000s romance drama

Upvotes

Hi, im not sure if this has been asked before but I want romance kdramas, early 2000s ones are heavily preferable but can be of any year if u feel like they meet all of my points-

  1. The leads shouldn't be in a love triangle and the main guy shouldn't be a jackass but if he is then the girl should be a jackass too.
  2. The female lead shouldn't be some whiney doormat, crying doesn't mean whiney imo, just must not be a low self esteem lead who lets the male lead walk all over her. Male lead shouldn't be a doormat either.
  3. Not toxic and the leads must have mutual respect for each other ( by the end of it at least if they start out hating each other).
  4. A bit or a lot of skinship tbh, they shouldn't squirm at every pinky touch or smth towards the end of the show
  5. Happy endings pls no open ending

I've watched few romance not 2000s necessarily.

  1. My name is sam soon (Liked it a lot in general but the one thing i liked about it was that the female lead was as loud as the male lead. i didnt like that the guy chased after his ex tho it was a bit understandable but i'd like a drama without that.)
  2. Oh my venus (liked this one)
  3. Princess hours (couldnt get past the 1st ep because it was too cringy. )
  4. King the land (I really liked it, it was low stakes sweet romance without much drama)
  5. Twinkling Watermelon (liked this one a lot esp since the romance between the parents was really sweet)
  6. Lovely Runner (liked this one too)
  7. Business proposal (couldn't get into it as it had too much 2nd hand embarrassment)
  8. Tale of lady OK (best kdrama ever but not what im looking for rn. This was really sad at times)
  9. Weightlifting fairy (idk seemed too overhyped and a bit cringy imo didnt like it)
  10. Strong Girl Bong-soon (was cute i remember liking it)
  11. Flower of evil (was ok)
  12. Vincenzo ( was ok)
  13. W two worlds (watched it when i was young and loved it but idk if i would today)
  14. Crash landing on you (dropped idk a bit sad)
  15. Dr romantic- (loved it i've watched 2 seasons)
  16. Trauma code- Heroes on call (loved this too, i like good medical dramas in general)

Other kdramas i've dropped/couldn't get into- hospital playlist, What's wrong with secretory kim, Her private life, Love to hate you, suspicious partner, it's ok to not be ok, my love from another star, Mr queen etc.


r/kdramarecommends 5d ago

Weekly Post Thursday Therapy - [2026/09/03]

Upvotes

Thursday Therapy, is r/kdramarecommends’ weekly community chat. A place in which Korean drama addicts both recent and those moving towards recovery can freely discuss anything and everything!

You may want to:

  • Introduce yourself or remain anonymous (share your My Drama List page or similar)
  • Share what you’ve been watching and whether you love or hate it (it doesn’t have to be a Korean drama)
  • Ask for recommendations unrelated to Korean dramas (books, movies, podcasts, other country’s television series, etc)
  • Share a great recommendation thread you found whilst digging through the archives
  • Talk about what is coming out on [insert drama service name]
  • Give thanks to the community for helping you find your new favourite drama

Please remember to use spoiler tags when discussing major plot points or anything you think should be redacted. If you are unsure of how to use spoiler tags here is r/KDRAMA’s easy to follow guide.


r/kdramarecommends 6d ago

Recommendation Request Dramas With Satisfying Consequences for Villains

Upvotes

Looking for ones where villains actually face severe and satisfying consequences for their actions. I don’t like it when villains commit multiple murders, corruption and countless other crimes throughout the entire drama, and only get a prison sentence at the very end of the final episode.

I want dramas where the consequences feel proportional to what the villains have done. I like stories where the ML takes matters into his own hands like in The Devil Judge, the villains completely lose everything, or karma is delivered in a way that feels genuinely satisfying.

I need some dramas where I will not spend the entire finale thinking that the villain got off too easily.

Watchlist: https://mydramalist.com/list/Lp6QmAa4


r/kdramarecommends 6d ago

Recommendation Request Dramas like My Demon

Upvotes

I search for a Drama like My Demon. I really liked the Characters, the visuals, the chemistry and the funny circumstance. I prefer a K-Drama but it could also be a C-Drama or something like that. I’ve watched it a few months ago and looked for other popular K-Dramas but couldn’t find something like that. I like funny or cute Dramas with good visuals, great romance & Chemistry and Iconic characters but nothing too scary like a thriller. Here are all K-Dramas I’ve seen so far:

True Beauty (very funny)

My Demon (of course)

Lovely Runner (great romance and funny)

Crash Landing on You (liked there chemistry and the other characters)

Reply 1988 (I couldn’t finish it, found it too boring and long (sorry))

These are all I’ve watched but I am open for new genres as long as they are good but the Dramas have to be available on Netflix, Prime Video or on any free, legal platforms like Viki.


r/kdramarecommends 7d ago

Recommendation Request ML Who Stands Up To Toxic Relatives

Upvotes

I'm looking for dramas where the ML does not let toxic or controlling relatives push him around. All I've seen are rich grandfathers or CEO parents ordering the ML around while he simply accepts it.

I want a ML who is not afraid to confront his family, speaks up when they cross a line, and makes his own decisions even when it causes conflict.

A good example for me is Jang Uk in S2 of Alchemy Of Souls. I liked how firm he was in not letting anyone dictate his choices.

I am mainly looking for ones where this is a part of the ML's character rather than something that happens in only one or two scenes.

Watchlist: https://mydramalist.com/list/Lp6QmAa4


r/kdramarecommends 7d ago

Recommendation Request Kdrama to watch with mama

Upvotes

Hi. So my mom and I have started watching Kdramas together. Actually, everything we’ve watched, I had already seen once or twice. We just finished When Life Gives you Tangerines, and it was so beautiful but also so emotional, so we want something light hearted and funny as a follow up. Also since I’m watching with mom something wholesome for sure.

Here’s a list of what we’ve seen and we loved all of them.
They were heartfelt, funny and unique. We also loved some of them have that hero/heroin/villains Disney-like aspect. It’s fun to have a villain you love to hate.
The Tale of Lady Ok
Crash Landing On You
Jewel in the Crown
Extraordinary Attorney Woo
The King’s Affection
Marry My Husband
When Life Gives You Tangerines

Wow! Thank you everyone for all your suggestions! They all sound awesome and we can’t wait to watch all of them! Now our only problem is, they all sound so good that we don’t know where to start..lol


r/kdramarecommends 8d ago

Recommendation Request Need more stuff like Fight for my Way

Upvotes

Yesterday I've finished Fight for my Way and I absolutely adored it!

They were just so cute together the chemistry was off the charts. Ive really enjoyed the childhood friends to lovers and the constant bickering relationship.

I also really liked that overall it was just a feel good show with a straightforwardly progressing romance with barely any angst and lots of displays of affection/actual couple screentime.

If you know of more shows with such dynamics, please recommend them here. Thank you very much.

My watch history:

Twinkling Watermelon, 18 Again, Reset, Go back Couple, Undercover High School, Weak Hero Class, Moving, Teach you a Lesson, Signal, Deaths Game, Mr Queen, Kingdom, My Perfect Stranger, Love Next Door, Happiness, Agent Kim Reactivated, Still 17, Its Okay Not to be Okay, Come and Hug me, My Strange Hero, Because this is my first Life, Fight for my Way


r/kdramarecommends 8d ago

Recommendation Request Enemies to Lovers Kdramas

Upvotes

Looking for low-stakes enemies-to-lovers romance where the ML falls first and gets jealous. I love enemies to lovers (prefer, but will also take any other types of romance kdramas) and want one thats low stakes, male lead falls first, and theres jealousy from the male lead because for some reason i LOVE jealousy from male lead, and overall just showing signs of affection and being down bad like trying to impress her, blah blah (ik i need help) also not too much of a slowburn and no love triangles or unrequited love! any recs? [my rules arent too strict ig i can watch a show that doesnt meet one or two requirements too just specify]. also good endings!!!

shows ive watched (top fav):

true beauty- LOVEDD except disliked the love triangle but still was amazing also was never bored

business proposal- i thought it was really cute and had most of the things i was looking for and was never bored either

king the land- so cute! loved the enemies to lovers however found it boring at sometimes and wouldnt do a rewatch as much since i feel like it was dragged out a bit (due to their being 3 diff storylines and a bit of slow pacing)

other shows i watched

love your nemesis

my demon (obvi)

see you in my 19th life (loved even though its not usually my ideal drama i just really love genuinely cute stories)

love next door (ahh so cute)

destined w you


r/kdramarecommends 8d ago

Recommendation Request Thrillers with an engaging plot and little to no romance

Upvotes

I am looking for a drama with a consistently engaging plot that does not become slow or boring. I recently watched The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call and found it very engaging, so I would love something that keeps that same feeling of wanting to continue watching.

I would preferably like little to no romance. I am fine with romance being present if it does not take over the main story. I have also watched The Penthouse recently, but although I found it entertaining at times, I found the style of the drama extremely frustrating. I would not want recommendations for other dramas with a similar makjang style.

I have watched quite a lot of thrillers in the past, but I am currently burnt out on murder mystery and detective-style plots. I have seen dramas such as Beyond Evil, Mouse, Flower of Evil and Through the Darkness, so I am not really looking for another drama centred around investigating murders.

However, I did really enjoy Strangers from Hell which I watched last month. What I particularly liked about it was the psychological horror and unsettling atmosphere, with enough shock and tension to keep me on edge. I would definitely be interested in something with a similar ability to create tension, even if it is not specifically a psychological horror.

I have also recently updated my MyDramaList with dramas I dropped. I had forgotten to keep this updated, so hopefully my dropped list can give a better idea of what I do not enjoy as well as what I have watched. https://mydramalist.com/dramalist/mmymelodyy

I would preferably like a K-drama, but I am also open to other Asian dramas. I am currently learning Japanese, so I would especially appreciate any genuinely good J-drama recommendations as well.

I am mainly looking for something with a strong, consistent plot that will keep me interested from episode to episode.


r/kdramarecommends 9d ago

Recommendation Request K-Dramas like the side couple in Business Proposal?

Upvotes

K dramas with the fun, affectionate energy of Business Proposal’s side couple?

I’m looking for funny, fast paced romances with a female lead who has a strong personality and a male lead who is expressive, empathetic, and actually shows affection.

I loved Business Proposal’s overall vibe because it was funny and easy to watch. I especially liked Shin Ha Ri because she was energetic, expressive, genuinely pretty, and had a real personality. However, I found the main male lead kind of boring.

I preferred Jin Young seo and Cha Sung hoon’s relationship because they had better chemistry, showed more affection, and their romance moved at a faster pace. I also really enjoyed how naturally romantic and intimate their relationship felt, including their kissing scenes. They did not just endlessly misunderstand each other. Their relationship actually felt like it was progressing.

I just got into K dramas, so I do not have a huge watch history yet. I’m looking for something with a similar balance of comedy, romance, affection, and good chemistry. I’m fine with mature romance, but I do not want something that is mainly about casual hookups or an extremely slow burn.

My watch history:

  • Business Proposal: completed. Loved the humor, Ha ri’s personality, and especially the side couple. Found the main male lead boring.
  • My Sassy Girl: watched. Liked the male lead, but found the female lead too irritating.
  • Crash Landing on You: only watched the first episode. It felt too serious for what I’m looking for.

r/kdramarecommends 10d ago

Recommendation Request Dramas where the ML is a charming sociopath / psychopath

Upvotes

Im looking for dramas where you’re constantly kicking yourself for rooting for the main characters. Ones that are sociopaths, psychopaths, or have something dark about them yet come off as very charming. Examples being Smile Has Left Your Eyes, Flower of Evil, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, Doom at Your Service.

Don’t enjoy: Office romances, dating the CEO/boss, chaebol nonsense

My watched list with ratings:

10/10

- [x] The smile has left your eyes - 10/10

- [x] Our Unwritten Seoul - 10/10

- [x] Flower of evil - 10/10

- [x] Twinkling watermelon - 10/10

- [x] Teach you a lesson - 10/10s

- [x] It’s okay to not be okay- 10/10

- [x] Doctor slump - 10/10

- [x] Twenty one twenty five - 10/10

- [x] Lovely runner - 10/10

9/10

- [x] Can this love be translated - 9/10

- [x] Doom at your service - 9/10

8/10

- [x] Healer - 8/10

- [x] True beauty - 8/10

7/10

- [x] Goblin - 7/10

- [x] My royal nemesis - 7/10, just personally don’t care to joseon era

- [x] My demon - 7/10, Song Kang annoys me all his characters end up childish and it doesn’t fit the plot

- [x] Love to hate you - 7/10, little plot

6/10

- [x] Idol I - 6/10

- [x] Shooting stars - 6/10

- [x] Itaewon class - 6/10, got bored

- [x] Business proposal - 6/10

- [x] What’s wrong with secretary Kim - 6/10

5/10

- [x] Perfect crown

4/10 and below

- [x] My bias, my boss - 4/10

- [x] Sold out on you - 4/10

- [x] Nevertheless - 3/10

- [x] Strong woman namsoon - 0/10


r/kdramarecommends 11d ago

Recommendation Request Romance Kdrama where MC is framed

Upvotes

I am looking for drama with the romance trope where MC is framed which leads to people around him not trust/isolate him along with FMC. Like FMC treating MC coldly because of that.

It doesn't necessarily need to framing. Maybe it could be a misunderstanding that leads to close people treating MC poorly/being cold towards MC.

Recent examples I can give is

Queen of Tears - MC is framed and his opinion inlaws don't trust him plus FMC treating him and similarly when she is amnesia

3XLove (Webtoon) - MC is framed for stealing private clothing of FMC when they were child and everyone bullied him for it and broke relationships with him. Same thing happens in future when someone reveals he is the same guy in present time despite MC pleading his innocence until the truth is revealed

Recommendation can be kdrama, cdrama and even webtoon, manga, manhwa, etc. (I know this kdrama subreddit but any suggestion works for me)

Drama I have seen that I can remember from top of my mind: * Queen of tears * Nice guy/innocent man * Boys Over Flowers * Cinderella and four knights


r/kdramarecommends 12d ago

Weekly Post Thursday Therapy - [2026/08/27]

Upvotes

Thursday Therapy, is r/kdramarecommends’ weekly community chat. A place in which Korean drama addicts both recent and those moving towards recovery can freely discuss anything and everything!

You may want to:

  • Introduce yourself or remain anonymous (share your My Drama List page or similar)
  • Share what you’ve been watching and whether you love or hate it (it doesn’t have to be a Korean drama)
  • Ask for recommendations unrelated to Korean dramas (books, movies, podcasts, other country’s television series, etc)
  • Share a great recommendation thread you found whilst digging through the archives
  • Talk about what is coming out on [insert drama service name]
  • Give thanks to the community for helping you find your new favourite drama

Please remember to use spoiler tags when discussing major plot points or anything you think should be redacted. If you are unsure of how to use spoiler tags here is r/KDRAMA’s easy to follow guide.


r/kdramarecommends 14d ago

Recommendation Request Dramas where FL shows that they love ML?

Upvotes

Hey I'm looking for kdramas(or even cdramas I know this is rarer) where the FL actually shows they love ML instead of the common trope of the viewers being told the FL loves ML after finally giving in to MLs constant obsessiveness with 10 minutes left in the show.

Just watched Our Sticky Love and liked how the drama portrayed the FL actually caring for the ML.

Dramas I think fit:

Healer (FL openly in love with ML)

Our Sticky Love

Just Between Lovers

Touch Your Heart (FL chases ML, doesn't take long for ML to show love back)

Come and hug me

Other shows ive watched :

Whats wrong with secretary kim ( I liked this one, I wish she fully liked the ML before doubting MLs brother was the one with her)

My strange hero (disliked the FL in this one)

Shooting Stars

My Dearest Nemesis

Id prefer not to see the "left because i love him/her" because if you truley loved someone so much you'd think fight for it, or atleast communicate...

Thanks in advanced!


r/kdramarecommends 15d ago

Recommendation Request Dramas like The Devil Judge Spoiler

Upvotes

I’m looking for more dramas like The Devil Judge. What I liked about it primarily was the bromance combined with the “morally grey” aspect to it and the idea of someone using manipulation to trick an already corrupt system. I liked that Kang Yohan wasn’t exactly a typical hero and I really liked how he was a genius who basically had a plan for everything and at the end of the day everyone would just be playing into his hands. I really, really liked how he basically played with the law; there were a lot of scenarios where he pretty much committed a crime or did something illegal, but my favourites were the instances where he didn’t *technically* do anything wrong. I liked the political drama of it all too.

Things I didn’t like/wish were a bit different: I wish there were more live court trials that we got to see, though, because I feel like those trials were where the aspects of that I liked most shone the best (the manipulation/trickery, Yohan’s genius, etc.). Plus, I generally like things that have to do with law/lawyers/legal proceedings, so that’s also why I wish we got to see more of the trials.

I haven’t watched any other kdramas like this, but a non-kdrama that comes to mind is Suits. It has the bromance, the legal proceedings, the older morally grey manipulative who ends up with a younger, very moral hero by his side.

My kdrama history isn’t relevant to this at all, but this is everything I have seen:

  1. What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim
  2. Strong Woman Do Bong Soon
  3. Business Proposal
  4. Hospital Playlist
  5. King the Land

r/kdramarecommends 17d ago

Recommendation Request Thriller kdrama recommendations

Upvotes

I am looking for Kdrama recommendations in the crime, investigative mystery, and psychological thriller genres that are gripping and suspenseful from start to finish.

What I want: Realistic police procedurals, serial killer investigations, well-crafted plot twists, undercover operations, and high-tension storytelling.

What to avoid: Any supernatural, fantasy, sci-fi, or zombie/monster elements. I also want to avoid overly disturbing, grotesque horror or repetitive torture.

What I Liked and Disliked in Relevant Dramas:

* Mouse & Beyond Evil: Loved the complex writing, morally gray characters, psychological cat-and-mouse dynamic, and unpredictable twists that kept me guessing.

* Signal & Tunnel: Loved the strong procedural focus and realistic cold-case investigations.

* The Worst of Evil & Taxi Driver: Loved the fast pacing, gritty undercover tension, and satisfying action.

* Kingdom & The Silent Sea: Disliked because I do not enjoy supernatural/zombie or sci-fi themes; I strongly prefer realistic, grounded real-world settings.

* Death’s Game: Did not like the fantasy afterlife and reincarnation mechanics.

* Strangers from Hell: The atmosphere felt overly grotesque and unsettling rather than thrilling or suspenseful.

* Bloodhounds: Disliked how the plot lost momentum and narrative coherence in the second half.

Complete Watch History of All Korean Dramas I Have Seen So Far:

* Beyond Evil

* Blind

* Bloodhounds (Dropped)

* Death's Game (Dropped)

* Extracurricular

* Kingdom (Dropped)

* Mouse

* Save Me

* Signal

* Stranger (Secret Forest)

* Strangers from Hell (Dropped)

* Taxi Driver

* The Glory

* The Good Detective

* The Silent Sea (Dropped)

* The Worst of Evil

* Tunnel

* Vincenzo

* Voice

Current Plan to Watch / Considering Next (tried watching some of them, didn't feel the vibe) :

* Awaken

* Black Out

* D.P.

* Flower of Evil

* Healer

* Memorist

* My Name

* Through the Darkness

* Vagabond


r/kdramarecommends 17d ago

Recommendation Request Mystery dramas with nerdy/loser/clumsy male leads that get romance

Upvotes

Ok so im looking for a drama that doesnt necessarily have to be a mystery drama but has some sort of mystery and like and the male lead is a bit of a loser / nerd whos trying to either solve the mystery or help solve it with someone, im also not just looking for the mystery element but the ml getting with a fl. Also im looking for something with not incredibly high stakes (i dont mind if it is) but i prefer like something confusing and mind bending if thats possible. Some examples i can think of are:

Like Flowers in Sand - Literally my favourite kdrama ever has the mystery has the loser male lead and also manages to involve sports i love it if theres anything like this with the mystery element i would love to see it.

When the camelia blooms - liked it less than like flowers in sand but enjoyed the concept

Psychopath Diary - I havent watched this one and it looks literally perfect for what im asking for except i know he doesnt have any romance with the fl which im looking for otherwise this would be perfect

MDL - https://mydramalist.com/dramalist/AriahitoFR