1. "Sungkyunkwan Scandal" (2010)
- Plot:
While primarily a historical drama with political intrigue, the show contains a subtle LGBTQ+ theme through the character of Kim Yoon Shik, who must pretend to be a man to study at a prestigious university. There’s a romantic tension that involves questioning gender roles and attraction. - Why Watch:
A historical drama with layered relationships, offering a nuanced view of identity and love.
2. "Misaeng" (2014)
- Plot:
This workplace drama explores the challenges of office life, with one of its side characters coming to terms with his sexuality. The show doesn’t focus entirely on LGBTQ+ issues but is known for its realistic and human portrayal of characters from all walks of life. - Why Watch:
A realistic and emotional drama that touches on themes of self-identity and acceptance, with LGBTQ+ side stories adding depth.
3. "Coffee Prince" (2007)
- Plot:
A beloved K-drama that follows a young woman who disguises herself as a man to work at a coffee shop. There are LGBTQ+ undertones as one of the male characters grapples with his attraction to her (thinking she’s a man). The show explores gender identity, love, and self-acceptance. - Why Watch:
It's a classic K-drama with plenty of humor, romance, and emotional moments that tackle gender identity and attraction.
4. "Itaewon Class" (2020)
- Plot: This drama features Ma Hyun Yi, a transgender woman working as a chef in the restaurant owned by Park Sae Ro Yi. The show explores the challenges Hyun Yi faces, including family rejection, public perception, and finding love and self-acceptance.
- Why Watch: A mainstream series that touches on LGBTQ+ issues with depth, especially around transgender representation. It's a compelling story with a strong ensemble cast.
5. "Mine" (2021)
- Plot: This high-society drama includes a subplot involving the relationship between two women. One of the characters is openly lesbian and the show subtly addresses themes of coming out and societal acceptance in a wealthy family.
- Why Watch: A stylish, high-stakes drama with elegant settings, and a layered exploration of LGBTQ+ characters, making it a compelling watch for anyone interested in intricate character dynamics.
6. “The King: Eternal Monarch” (2020)
- Plot :
In a parallel universe where Korea is a monarchy, Emperor Lee Gon travels between worlds to stop a sinister conspiracy. His closest advisor, Secretary Mo, is revealed to be in a same-sex relationship. - Why Watch:
High-budget fantasy drama with an epic storyline. First K-drama to feature a same-sex relationship in a parallel universe setting. Well-executed LGBTQ+ representation, even if brief.
7.“ Reply 1997” (2012)
- Plot: Set in the late 90s, the drama follows six childhood friends as they navigate first loves, high school struggles, and self-discovery. One of them, Joon Hee, secretly loves his best friend Yoon Jae but hides his feelings due to societal pressures.
- Why Watch: One of the earliest K-dramas to feature a gay main character. Beautifully written coming-of-age romance. Touches on LGBTQ+ struggles in Korea’s past. His storyline is handled with sensitivity, showing his silent struggles, unspoken love, and quiet strength.
8. “Love With Flaws” (2019-2020)
- Plot :Joo Seo Yeon, a gym teacher who dislikes handsome men, meets Lee Kang Woo, a rich, arrogant man with a traumatic past. Joo Won Suk, the protagonist’s brother, is openly gay. As they fall in love, Seo Yeon’s three brothers—one of whom is gay—also deal with their own romantic struggles.
- Why Watch: Rare LGBTQ+ character in a lighthearted rom-com. Humorous yet realistic take on LGBTQ+ relationships. Strong family themes & well-written characters.
9. "Be Melodramatic" (2019)
- Plot :Follows three 30-year-old best friends working in the entertainment industry as they struggle with relationships, careers, and personal growth. One of the side characters is a gay screenwriter. Lee Hyo Bong, an openly gay screenwriter, provides humorous yet heartfelt moments in the drama. The drama portrays his relationship naturally, without excessive focus on his sexuality.
- Why Watch: A refreshing slice-of-life drama with great LGBTQ+ representation. Realistic & witty storytelling. Strong friendship dynamics and relatable struggles.
10. “ Nevertheless” (2021)
- Plot : A realistic modern love story between Na Bi, a woman who doesn’t believe in love, and Jae Eon, a playboy who avoids commitment. Alongside them, there’s a lesbian subplot between supporting characters Sol and Ji Wan. Sol and Ji Wan, two female best friends, struggle with their feelings for each other.
- Why Watch: One of the few mainstream K-dramas to explore a lesbian relationship. Aesthetic and mature storytelling. Complex and relatable characters.
11.“Nobleman Ryu’s Wedding”(2021)
- Plot: Nobleman Ryu Ho Seon is shocked when his bride, Choi Hwa Jin, turns out to be her brother, Choi Ki Wan, in disguise! Forced to keep up appearances, Ho Seon gradually falls for Ki Wan, challenging societal norms and his own feelings. Meanwhile, their secret risks being exposed by a suspicious friend.
- Why Watch: First historical BL K-drama. Funny & heartwarming romance. Great chemistry & unique storyline. Short & easy to binge-watch. The lead actors deliver natural performances, making their romance feel authentic.
12.“Cheese In The Trap”
While Cheese in the Trap is not primarily a LGBTQ+ focused drama, it does feature some subtle representation through its side characters and themes that touch on LGBTQ+ identities.
- Plot: Hong Seol, a hard working college student, gets involved with Yoo Jung, a charming but mysterious and manipulative senior. As she uncovers his dark side, she’s caught between love, fear, and doubt. Meanwhile, Baek In Ho, a troubled yet kind musician, develops feelings for her, adding to the emotional tension. Supporting Characters: Some fans have pointed out the potential queer subtext between certain secondary characters, like the relationship dynamics between Baek In Ho and his childhood friend. Though not explicitly confirmed as a romantic or LGBTQ+ relationship, these interactions raise questions about gender identity and attraction.
- Why Watch: Unique psychological romance with deep characters. Explores toxic relationships & trust issues. Realistic college life struggles. Engaging love triangles with complex dynamics.
13."Semantic Error" (2022)
- Plot: Chu Sang Woo, a rigid and logical computer science student, clashes with Jang Jae Young, a charismatic and carefree design student, over a group project. Despite their differences, they find themselves drawn to each other in unexpected ways.
- Why Watch: Witty banter, chemistry, and relatable university drama.
14."Where Your Eyes Linger" (2020)
- Plot: Tae Joo, the heir to a conglomerate, and his loyal bodyguard Kang Gook have been inseparable since childhood. As they grow older, their bond transforms into something deeper.
- Why Watch: Subtle emotional storytelling and intense chemistry. Its pacing is slow and thoughtful, allowing for a meaningful connection.
15."To My Star" (2021)
- Plot: Kang Seo Joon, a famous actor, falls for Han Ji Woo, a reserved chef. They struggle with their differences in personality and the challenges of being in the spotlight.
- Why Watch: Sweet, romantic, and heartwarming.
16."Color Rush" (2020)
- Plot: Yeon Woo, a "Mono" who can only see in shades of gray, experiences a "Color Rush" when he meets Yoo Han, his destined soulmate. Together, they uncover secrets about their identities.
- Why Watch: Unique plot and engaging mystery elements.
17."The Director Who Buys Me Dinner" (2022)
- Plot: The story follows Min Yu Dam, a company director who has lived multiple lives due to a curse. He remembers all his past lives and is destined to find his soulmate in each reincarnation. This time, his soulmate is Seol Dong Baek, a new employee at his company. However, there's a twist—Dong Baek doesn’t recall any of their past connections. Min Yudam, a reincarnated soul, must make his assistant Dong Baek fall in love with him to break an eternal curse.
- Why Watch: A mix of fantasy, humor, and romance.A quirky, fantasy-driven BL drama with an intriguing premise and sweet romance.
18."The Handmaiden" (2016)
- Plot: Set in 1930s Korea under Japanese colonial rule, this film follows the intricate plot of a young woman hired to become a maid to a wealthy Japanese heiress. The maid and the heiress develop a complicated romantic and sexual relationship, and the plot is filled with twists.
- Why Watch: A masterpiece from director Park Chan-wook, blending historical drama with psychological suspense and a passionate, unconventional love story.
19."Night Flight" (2014)
- Plot: A poignant story about two high school boys, Yong Joo and Ki Woong, who experience the struggles of being gay in a homophobic society. The film explores the bullying and emotional trauma they endure as they try to navigate their love for each other.
- Why Watch: An emotional and hard-hitting portrayal of young love, bullying, and the challenges of living in a society with strict gender norms.
20."Moonlit Winter" (2019)
- Plot: This film tells the story of Yoon Hee, a single mother, who is drawn back into her past when she receives a letter from her first love, a woman she hasn’t seen in decades. The film explores themes of love, regret, and the passage of time.
- Why Watch: Quiet, reflective, and deeply moving, this film captures the nostalgia and complexity of first love, as well as the bittersweet nature of reconciling the past.
21."A Frozen Flower" (2008)
- Plot: In this historical drama set during the Goryeo Dynasty, King Gi Seong's relationship with his bodyguard, Hong Lim, causes tension as the queen is unable to conceive, and the king's desires lead to political intrigue.
- Why Watch: A mix of royal intrigue and forbidden love, this film offers a powerful narrative about power, loyalty, and forbidden romance.
22."The King’s Letters" (2019)
- Plot: In this historical drama set during the Goryeo Dynasty, King Gi Seong's relationship with his bodyguard, Hong Lim, causes tension as the queen is unable to conceive, and the king's desires lead to political intrigue.
- Why Watch: A mix of royal intrigue and forbidden love, this film offers a powerful narrative about power, loyalty, and forbidden romance.
23."Two Weddings and a Funeral" (2012)
- Plot: This rom-com revolves around a gay man who pretends to be straight to avoid disappointing his conservative family. When he falls in love with his best friend, his internal conflict and the family's expectations make the situation increasingly complicated.
- Why Watch: A heartwarming yet comedic exploration of love, family, and identity.
24.“You Make Me Dance”
- Plot: Lew Won and Kang Gook, who from deep emotional connection thought dance. Lee Won, struggling with his past, finds healing through his relationship with Kang Gook, a dancer who helps him express his emotions. The series explores themes of love, self-discovery, and overcoming personal struggles.
- Why Watch:Emotional depth and relatable character growth. Dance as a powerful form of expression. Representation of same-sex relationships. Heartfelt performances by the cast.
25. “Unintentional Love Story”
- Plot:It is about Ji Won-young, an employee who gets fired unfairly and tries to win back his job by tracking down Yoon Tae-joon, a famous but reclusive potter. As he gets closer to Tae-joon, pretending to befriend him for work, real feelings start to develop, leading to unexpected romance and emotional conflict.
- Why Watch:Heartwarming romance with slow-burn chemistry.Beautiful cinematography and artistic themes (pottery) Strong character development and emotional depth. A mix of drama, healing, and sweet moments.
26.“Our Dating Sim” (2023)
- Plot: Two childhood best friends reunite after years of separation when they end up working at the same gaming company. As they work together, old feelings resurface, forcing them to confront their past.
- Why Watch: A soft and well-paced romance with an adorable dynamic between the leads.
27.“Long Time No See” (2017)
- Plot: A thrilling romance between two contract killers who fall in love despite their dangerous professions. As they struggle to keep their relationship a secret, their pasts catch up with them.
- Why Watch: A rare LGBTQ+ drama that blends action, suspense, and romance.
28.“Happy Merry Ending” (2023)
- Plot: Seung Jun, a wedding singer, has given up on love until he meets Jae Hyun, a charming pianist. The two develop feelings, but Seung Jun's traumatic past makes it difficult for him to accept love again.
- Why Watch: A heartfelt romance with great chemistry between the leads and a soothing musical atmosphere.
29.“The Eighth Sense” (2023)
- Plot: A university student struggling with loneliness meets a popular senior who helps him navigate his emotions. Their growing bond turns romantic, but societal pressure and personal insecurities create obstacles.
- Why Watch: A deeply emotional and realistic portrayal of love and identity.
30.“Jazz For Two”(2024)
- Plot: After losing his older brother, genius pianist Han Tae-yi loses his passion for music. When transfer student Yoon Se-heon arrives, playing jazz eerily similar to his late brother, Tae-yi is forced to confront his grief. As they prepare for a performance together, their bond deepens, leading to healing, self-discovery, and unexpected romance.
- Why Watch :Emotional story of loss & healing. Beautiful jazz performances & cinematography. Slow-burn romance with deep character growth
31.“Girlfriend Project Day 1” (2022)
- Plot: Hee-ram and Ga-in met in a general education class, Psychology of Sex and Love. In this class, students have to perform a dating mission as a mock couple. A hard-working student Hee-ram and an easy-goer Ga-in don't quite get along with each other from their first meeting.
- Why Watch: If you enjoy lighthearted, fluffy romance stories with a unique premise about a "mock dating" project in a psychology class, featuring contrasting personalities clashing and developing feelings for each other.
32. “She Makes My Heart Flutter”(2022)
- Plot: Ha-rin and Mi-yeon, who are housemates. Mi-yeon, a warm and caring person, starts developing feelings for Ha-rin, who seems distant and hesitant about love. As they spend more time together, their relationship gradually shifts from friendship to something deeper, making them question their emotions and desires.
- Why Watch:A rare GL K-drama, as the genre is still growing in Korea. Features a soft and realistic portrayal of a slow-burn romance. Beautiful cinematography with a cozy, heartwarming vibe. A short but emotionally touching story, perfect for a quick watch.
