Korea has several popular TV channels, with well-known ones like TVN and JTBC producing many famous dramas. These shows often tug at the heartstrings of viewers, evoking strong emotions.
Notably, TVN has earned a reputation for crafting tear-jerking endings. This reputation stems from their knack for weaving bitter-to-sad storylines. But beneath it all lies exceptionally crafted tales, featuring top-notch performances and stunning CGI. Here are five Korean dramas with heart-wrenching plots.
1. Queen of Tears
Queen of Tears official poster (doc. tvN/Queen of Tears)The newest sensation in Korean entertainment, starring Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Ji Won, strikes a chord with audiences. The story follows Hyunwoo and Haein, a couple caught in the turmoil of conglomerate life. Their marriage faces rocky times due to family disputes. Just as Hyunwoo contemplates divorce, devastating news shakes their world: Haein has a brain tumor with only three months to live. As their love rekindles, a third party threatens to shatter what they’ve rebuilt.
2. Twenty Five Twenty One
official poster of twenty five twenty one (doc. tvN/Twenty Five Twenty One)This drama portrays the struggles of a fencer and a TV reporter striving to build a life together. Baek Yi Jin works tirelessly to support himself and repay his parents’ debts, while Na Hee Do pursues his dream of becoming an athlete. Their bond strengthens through adversity, but circumstances force them apart. Fate intervenes when they reunite during a live broadcast, complicating their paths further.
3. Snowdrops
snowdrop official poster (doc. JTBC/Snowdrop)Set against the backdrop of 1987, this story explores the tragic romance between a North Korean spy, Soo Ho, and Young Ro, a student in Seoul. Their love is tested by national divides and personal secrets. Young Ro unknowingly aids Soo Ho, unaware of his true identity. Tensions escalate when Young Ro discovers the truth, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion.
4. It’s Okay To Not Be Okay
poster it’s okay to not be okay (doc. JTBC/It’s Okay To Not Be Okay)Addressing various mental health issues, this drama follows Kang Tae, who cares for his autistic older brother while working as a nurse in a psychiatric ward. His life takes a turn when he meets Moon Young, who suffers from antisocial personality disorder due to past trauma. Their journey to finding love is fraught with challenges, highlighting the complexities of imperfect relationships.
5. Crash Landing On You
official poster of crash landing on you (doc. tvN/Crash Landing On You)Yoon Se Ri’s accidental landing in North Korea during a paragliding mishap alters her life drastically. She crosses paths with Captain Ri, a border soldier tasked with protecting her. Despite growing affection, their differing nationalities pose insurmountable obstacles to their love story.
Are any of these TV shows your favorites? Despite their sad plots, the emotional impact they have on viewers underscores the skill of the writers and directors involved. These dramas are a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability to evoke empathy in audiences.