I never thought I’d fall for Korean TV series. In fact, I used to think they were overrated. My siblings would go on and on about their favorite shows, excitedly discussing the latest episodes, but I never understood the hype. I’d roll my eyes and think, “Why would I watch these? They’re just so… dramatic!” And the subtitles? I found them exhausting. I was perfectly happy with my beloved American TV series, which I could watch without having to read along.
Then, everything changed when I gave birth to my daughter. During the first few months, I found myself spending a lot of time at home, especially when she was napping. There was only so much I could do with my time. One afternoon, out of sheer boredom, I decided to give something new a try. I began with BTS music videos, curious about the buzz surrounding them. That led me to dive deeper into the world of Korean entertainment, and before I knew it, I was watching my first-ever Korean drama.
The first K-drama I watched was Boys Over Flowers. I had heard so much about it, so I figured it was worth a shot. And to my surprise, I got hooked almost immediately. It was like a new world opened up. The characters were so intriguing, the romance was intense, and the plot twists were addictive. I had to keep watching, even if it meant staying up late after my daughter had gone to sleep. In fact, there were nights when I didn’t sleep—not because she was crying or needed me, but because I was so engrossed in the show.
Since then, my love for K-dramas has only grown. There are a few shows that have left an unforgettable mark on me, and I can’t help but go back to them every now and then. Here are some of my all-time favorites:
1. The King: Eternal Monarch – This series grabbed my attention with its intriguing mix of fantasy and romance. The idea of parallel worlds and time travel fascinated me, and the chemistry between the leads was undeniable. It’s one of those shows where you’ll find yourself constantly on the edge of your seat, eagerly waiting for the next twist.
2. My Love from the Star – This one is a classic. A star-crossed romance between an alien who’s lived for centuries and a famous actress is pure magic. The emotional depth and the perfect balance between comedy and drama made it an unforgettable experience. I’ve watched it more than once, and I still get emotional every time!
3. Crash Landing on You – What can I say about this one? It was a global hit for a reason! The mix of romance, comedy, and suspense was perfect. The story about a South Korean heiress who accidentally paraglides into North Korea and meets a North Korean officer was so unique and heartwarming. The leads’ chemistry was off the charts, making every moment of the series memorable.
4. That Winter, the Wind Blows – This drama is a beautiful blend of romance and tragedy. The story of a blind woman and a man pretending to be her brother touched me deeply. The raw emotion, heart-wrenching plot, and incredible performances left a lasting impact.
5. Alchemy of Souls – A more recent favorite, this one captivated me with its magical world and complex characters. The storyline keeps you guessing, and I love how the show blends historical elements with fantasy. The evolving relationships between characters add another layer to the drama that keeps me coming back.
6. Something in the Rain – This drama made me fall in love with the simple things in life. The chemistry between the two leads was beautiful, and the slow-burn romance was perfectly executed. The show is about the love story between a woman in her 30s and her younger brother’s best friend, and it felt so real and grounded.
7. Goblin – Another favorite that I can never get enough of. The mystical and heart-wrenching plotline, combined with romance and fantasy, makes this series unforgettable. The complex characters, beautiful cinematography, and soul-stirring soundtrack make it a must-watch.
8. When the Phone Rings – The most recent K-drama I’ve fallen in love with. It’s full of suspense, mystery, and gripping twists. I couldn’t stop watching this one, as it kept me on the edge of my seat, trying to figure out what would happen next.
9. The Heirs – This drama quickly became one of my all-time favorites. With its perfect blend of romance, family drama, and coming-of-age themes, it’s a show that will tug at your heartstrings. The story of a young woman who gets involved with a group of rich, privileged high schoolers, including a charismatic heir, is both charming and emotional. I couldn’t help but get attached to the characters, especially the lead couple, and their complicated but beautiful relationship.
For some unknown reason, my love for American TV series has faded away over time. I can’t quite explain it, but when I try to watch them now, they don’t hold my attention the way they used to. Instead, I find myself drawn back to K-dramas time and time again. While I occasionally watch Chinese dramas, they never seem to capture me in the same way as Korean shows. There’s something about K-dramas—their emotional depth, their captivating plots, and the way they draw you into the characters’ worlds—that keeps me coming back.
Korean TV series have become an essential part of my life. They’ve not only kept me entertained during quiet moments with my daughter but also sparked a newfound love for storytelling, romance, and drama. The more I watch, the more I realize just how much I enjoy them. And I’m so grateful that my journey into the world of K-dramas began—it’s been an experience I never thought I’d have, but one that I’m so happy I did.
What about you? Do you watch K-dramas? Do you have any favorites? I’d love to hear your recommendations!
