South Korea has gained international acclaim for its rich and diverse array of drama series, each offering unique themes and captivating storylines. Among the plethora of genres, one theme that consistently resonates with viewers is the portrayal of friends transitioning into lovers. These heartwarming narratives not only capture the complexities of relationships but also offer a glimpse into the transformative power of love. Here are seven must-watch Korean dramas with the theme of friends falling in love, all available on Netflix.
1. Reply 1988 (2015)
trailer Reply 1988 (doc. tvN/Reply 1988)“Reply 1988” follows the lives of five childhood friends—Sung Deok Sun, Sung Sun Woo, Kim Jung Hwan, Choi Taek, and Ryu Dong Ryong—who grew up together in the Ssangmundong residential complex. Despite their differing backgrounds, they share a strong bond forged through years of friendship. As romantic feelings begin to surface within the group, they navigate the delicate balance between love and loyalty, facing a compelling love triangle that challenges the very foundation of their relationship.
2. Fight For My Way (2017)
trailer Fight For My Way (doc. KBS/Fight For My Way)In “Fight For My Way,” viewers are introduced to Ko Dong Man and Choi Ae Ra, childhood friends who harbor big dreams despite facing numerous obstacles. Dong Man aspires to become a renowned athlete, while Ae Ra dreams of becoming a television host. Together, they navigate the ups and downs of life, offering unwavering support and encouragement to each other. As their friendship deepens, they find themselves unwittingly falling in love, blurring the lines between friendship and romance.
3. My First First Love (2019)
trailer for the drama My First First Love (doc. Netflix/My First First Love)“My First First Love” is a romantic comedy that centers around Yoon Tae Oh, a young man from a privileged background who chooses to live independently in his twenties. Sharing his home are his close friends Hang Song I, Choe Hun, and Oh Ga Rin, each grappling with their own personal struggles. As they navigate the complexities of adulthood together, Tae Oh and Song I find their friendship evolving into something more, leading to a delightful exploration of love, friendship, and self-discovery.
4. Hospital Playlist (2020)
trailer for the drama Hospital Playlist (doc. Netflix/Hospital Playlist)“Hospital Playlist” offers a heartwarming portrayal of the enduring friendship between five doctors who have been inseparable since their days in medical school. Despite their demanding careers and hectic schedules, they find solace in each other’s company, bonding over shared meals and impromptu jam sessions. As the series unfolds, romantic tensions emerge within the group, adding a layer of complexity to their longstanding friendship.
5. More Than Friends (2020)
trailer for the Korean drama More Than Friends (doc. JTBC/More Than Friends)“More Than Friends” follows the journey of Lee Soo and Kyung Woo Yeon, childhood friends whose bond is put to the test when romantic feelings come into play. Despite Woo Yeon’s unrequited love for Soo, their friendship remains steadfast as they navigate the complexities of young adulthood. However, when they are reunited years later, their unresolved feelings resurface, leading to a poignant exploration of second chances and the enduring power of love.
6. Twenty Five Twenty One (2022)
drama trailer Twenty Five Twenty One (doc. tvN/Twenty Five Twenty One)“Twenty Five Twenty One” chronicles the romance between Baek Yi Jin and Na Hee Do, two individuals from vastly different backgrounds who find solace in each other’s company. Despite the challenges they face, their friendship blossoms into a deep and meaningful connection, leading to a captivating exploration of love, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of adversity.
7. Welcome to Samdalri (2023)
trailer Welcome to Samdalri (doc. JTBC/Welcome to Samdalri)
