As K-dramas continue to soar in popularity, in both South Korea and elsewhere around the world, it’s pretty clear that these TV series won’t fade in the background anytime soon. There are many reasons K-dramas continue to grow in popularity, including their availability on streaming platforms, engaging stories that resonate deeply with viewers, high production quality, and, of course, lovable stars. K-dramas are here to stay, and anticipation is already building up for upcoming releases in 2024.
Though the Korean drama industry produces stories spanning multiple genres, romance is one of the most prolific and successful. Within this genre, viewers find delight in appealing tropes, such as enemy-to-lovers, love triangles, teen romance, slow-burn love stories, and many more. This particular list focuses on K-dramas with college romance, providing a nostalgic journey back to college life and light-hearted entertainmen.
10 My ID Is Gangnam Beauty (2018)
My ID Is Gangnam Beauty will be a good fit for anyone who appreciates narratives that explore the challenges and experiences of young adults in their university years. Specifically, it follows the story of Kang Mi-rae, who undergoes surgery in pursuit of what she believes to be a more beautiful appearance. However, her changed appearance fails to bring her any happiness.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
The charm of this K-drama college romance lies in its ability to address relevant social issues, present relatable characters, and deliver a compelling narrative that combines drama and themes of self-discovery. Beyond its realistic portrayal of the struggles of individuals who may feel pressured to conform to a certain societal standard of beauty, it also unfolds an appealing romance between Mi-rae and Kyung-seok, which ultimately adds an emotional layer to the story. Stream on Netflix
9 Heartstrings (2011)
Heartstrings is a college romance that effortlessly captures the freshness and innocence associated with young love, making it undeniably easy to watch and wholly appealing. This K-drama follows two musicians, one who is classically trained and another who specializes in contemporary music, who team up to perform at their university’s commemorative musical event.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
Heartstrings is a near-perfect K-drama. Boasting a well-selected cast, an engaging plot, and off-the-charts on-screen chemistry between the leads, it has everything K-drama fans crave in a college romance. The love story between the leads is absolutely beautiful, and to add to the beauty of this story, there’s a fusion of modern and traditional Korean music. This beautiful romance brims with emotions, leaving many wishing they could get to experience their own beautiful love story. Stream on Viki
8 My First First Love (2019)
A heartwarming college romance, My First First Love follows Yoon Tae-oh, a college student who unexpectedly finds himself sharing a space with two childhood friends and two new acquaintances. Together, these five friends navigate the complexities of friendship, love, and adulthood.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
This K-drama may begin slowly, but gradually evolves into an unforgettable and profound experience. This series weaves romantic tension, love triangles, and heartwaming moments, keeping viewers hooked as emotions deepen between the characters. Adding to the charm are comedic elements that infuse laughter and fun, ensuring a well-rounded viewing experience. Overall, My First First Love is a heartwarming story with amazing characters worth investing in. Stream on Netflix
7 Reply 1994 (2013)
Reply 1994 might be the most underrated in the Reply series, but it continues to earn praise for its well-written narrative and captivating visuals. Centered on college students, it presents the funniest storyline and introduces the most memorable characters in the Reply series. Set in the year 1994, this nostalgic drama follows a group of college students residing in a boarding house in Seoul.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
For viewers starting their K-drama journey, this one is perfect for beginners. It captures the essence of 1990s South Korea, with stunning cinematography and, to add depth to the story, it features well-developed characters you instantly root for. It also stands out for its realistic portrayal of college romance, capturing the ups and downs of that phase in life. Like other dramas in the Reply series, K-pop plays an important role here, too, providing an aural experience. Stream on Tubi
6 Nevertheless (2021)
What could possibly become of a relationship between a heartbroken woman skeptical about love and a commitment-phobic flirtatious man? Nevertheless holds the answer to this question. Based on a webtoon, this romantic series follows university students, Yu Na-bi and Park Jae-eon, as they navigate the complexities of modern dating and the blurred line between love and attraction.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
Nevertheless delves into the emotional struggles and personal growths of its main characters, addressing mature themes and showcasing the emotional roller coaster of love and relationships in today’s fast-paced society. What’s unique about this series its complicated and unconventional approach to romance that differs from straightforward and typical K-drama romance tropes. It is a well-crafted story with a great cast, and stands as one of the top K-dramas on Netflix. Stream on Netflix
5 My Roommate Is a Gumiho (2021)
With only 16 episodes, My Roommate Is a Gumiho offers a refreshing and entertaining blend of romance, fantasy, and comedy, catering to those who appreciate a thrilling package of these genres. The story revolves around a college student, Lee Dam, who accidentally swallows the magical bead of a male Gumiho named Shin Woo-yeo. To survive, these two must live together until they retrieve the magical bead.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
This K-drama is for anyone who enjoys stories about the unwavering nature of romance, as the main characters fall in love against all odds. Incorporating gumiho mythology into a college romance, this series evokes a spectrum of emotions, from joy to sadness to warmth. Praised for its engaging storyline, charming characters, and palpable chemistry between not only the main characters, but the entire cast as well, it’s a must-watch for those seeking a feel-good romance. Stream on Prime Video
4 Go Back Couple (2017)
Go Back Couple is a gem in the K-drama industry, weaving a unique story that emphasizes the power of second chances, healing, and destiny. The story revolves around a couple grappling with a strained marriage, only to wake up and find themselves transported back in time to their college years. No matter how much they try to avoid ending up together, destiny brings them together.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
This K-drama isn’t just a tale for lovers of college romance, it also caters to fans of stories centered on married couples. With its focus on the importance of communication, its time-travel theme and its exploration of how individuals can learn from their mistakes, this series offers more than just eye-catching and intense romance. Its heartfelt story, unique premise, and the undeniable chemistry between characters have earned it positive reviews. Stream on Viki
3 Cheese in the Trap (2016)
Love isn’t always easy or heart-warming, and Cheese in the Trap underscores this notion by delving into the dark side of relationships. It follows the romance between a hardworking college student and a seemingly perfect senior, who reveals himself to be a mysterious and complex individual.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
Cheese in the Trap is one of those stories that people will either hate or love. Featuring an unlikable yet realistic male character and a love story fraught with difficulties, this may not win everyone’s heart — but that’s partially the point. What’s more, it is remembered for its compelling characters, and the tension created by the psychological and romantic elements. Stream on Viki
2 Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo (2016-2017)
One of the most-watched K-dramas of all time, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo tells a heartwarming love story set in the industry of college sports. It revolves around a straightforward female lead known for her unapologetic personality as she struggles with the pursuit of her dreams and love. With the help of a charming and care-free swimmer, she slowly falls in love while pursuing her goal.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
With its energetic storyline and drama full of hope, this K-drama reminds many of how beautiful life can be sometimes. The transition from friends to lovers is done seamlessly, infused with feel-good moments, good-natured bickering, and delightful fights, making the characters’ relationship irresistibly cute. Beyond its romantic elements, it delves into the themes of self-discovery, the importance of friendship, and the pursuit of personal goals, offering a multifaceted and compelling college narrative. Stream on Kocowa
1 Love Alarm (2019-2021)
Based on the webtoon of the same by Chon Kye-young, Love Alarm falls under the genres of romance, drama, and science fiction. The story is set in a world where a mobile app called “Love Alarm” is created to notify users if someone within a 10-meter radius has romantic feelings for them. The series starts off as a high school romance in the first season and evolves into a college romance later on, tracing the journeys of Kim Jo-jo, Hwang Sun-oh, and Lee Hyee-yeong into adulthood.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
With a combination of romance and insightful social commentary, this series scrutinizes the impact of technology on human emotions, making it seem like a story carved out of Black Mirror. As such, it offers an entertaining watch for those who love thought-provoking and engaging storylines. Stream on Netflix
This story originally appeared on Movieweb
