Korean dramas have a unique way of capturing the essence of first love – that fluttering feeling, the sweet innocence, and the poignant heartbreaks. These stories often resonate deeply, bringing back memories of one's first love. Through these narratives, we can relive those tender moments, feel the butterflies again, and perhaps find solace in the bittersweet nature of young love. From high school romances to historical settings, these dramas cover a wide range of first love experiences.
Here’s a curated list of K-dramas that beautifully portray the magic of first love, perfect for anyone looking to relive those tender moments.
"A Love So Beautiful"
Adapted from the 2017 Chinese series of the same name, "A Love So Beautiful" follows the story of high school students Shin Sol I (So Ju Yeon) and Cha Heon (Kim Yo Han). Sol I has had a crush on Heon, her neighbor and classmate, for years. This drama perfectly captures first love's innocent and persistent nature, as Sol I never gives up on her feelings despite Heon's initial coldness. Their journey from adolescence to adulthood is heartwarming and relatable, making it a must-watch for those who cherish the memories of young love.
"She Was Pretty"
In "She Was Pretty," Kim Hye Jin (Hwang Jung Eum) and Ji Sung Joon (Park Seo Joon) were each other's first loves in childhood. Years later, they meet again, but Hye Jin is no longer the pretty rich girl Sung Joon remembers. Their situation is now reversed, as Sung Joon is Hye Jin's arrogant and stubborn boss at the publishing company. Their journey to rediscover their feelings for each other is filled with humor, misunderstandings, and heartfelt moments. It's a charming watch for anyone who believes in the enduring power of first love and that love will indeed lead you back.
"Our Beloved Summer"
"Our Beloved Summer" follows the story of Choi Ung (Choi Woo Sik) and Kook Yeon Soo (Kim Da Mi), who were each other’s first love during high school. Years after their breakup where they promised never to meet again, they are forced to reunite for the documentary they filmed in their teens which went viral. The drama beautifully captures the awkwardness, nostalgia, and lingering feelings that often accompany a reunion with a first love. It's a bittersweet and heartfelt watch for anyone who has ever wondered about their first love.
"When My Love Blooms"
"When My Love Blooms" tells the story of Han Jae Hyun (Yoo Ji Tae) and Yoon Ji Soo (Lee Bo Young), who reconnect in their 40s after being each other's first loves in college. Their reunion brought back memories of their young love as well as passions from their youth that were long forgotten, with their younger versions portrayed by Jin Young and Jeon So Nee. This drama beautifully captures the enduring nature of first love and the deep emotional impact it has on one's life. It's a poignant and touching watch for those who believe in the timelessness of true love.
"Extraordinary You"
In this unique drama, Eun Dan Oh (Kim Hye Yoon) discovers that she is a minor character in a comic book. As she attempts to change her fate, she meets Haru (Rowoon), an extra in the same comic book, and becomes her first love despite all the odds. Their journey is a poignant exploration of love, identity, and destiny, making it a standout among first love stories. It's a fascinating watch for those who enjoy unconventional and thought-provoking romances.
"My ID is Gangnam Beauty"
This drama tells the story of Kang Mi Rae (Lim Soo Hyang), who undergoes plastic surgery to escape her insecurities and start anew at university. She meets Do Kyung Seok (Cha Eun Woo), a handsome and intelligent student who knew her back when they were in elementary, years before her transformation. As Mi Rae navigates her new life, she finds true love with Kyung Seok, who sees her true beauty beyond her physical appearance. This drama is a touching exploration of self-acceptance and the transformative power of love.
"Love in the Moonlight"
Set during the Joseon Dynasty, "Love in the Moonlight" follows the love story between Crown Prince Lee Yeong (Park Bo Gum) and Hong Ra On (Kim Yoo Jung), who was raised as a boy and disguises herself as a eunuch. Their romance blossoms amidst palace intrigues and personal secrets, capturing the innocence and intensity of first love. The drama is filled with charming moments and beautiful cinematography, making it a delightful watch for fans of historical romance.
"When The Weather Is Fine"
This K-Drama tells the story of Mok Hae Won (Park Min Young), a cellist who returns to her hometown and reunites with Im Eun Seob (Seo Kang Joon), a former classmate and neighbor, who has been in love with her way back when they were younger. Set in a small, serene village, their love story unfolds slowly and beautifully, focusing on healing and emotional growth. This drama is perfect for those who enjoy quiet, introspective romances set against the backdrop of nature.
"Twenty-Five Twenty-One"
Set during the IMF crisis, "Twenty-Five Twenty-One" revolves around Na Hee Do (Kim Tae Ri) and Baek Yi Jin (Nam Joo Hyuk), who meet when they are 18 and 22, respectively. Their relationship starts with innocent admiration and gradually blossoms into a deep, unforgettable first love. The drama beautifully showcases the impact of first love on personal growth and the bittersweet memories it leaves behind, making it a poignant and touching series to watch.
"Still 17"
In "Still 17," Woo Seo Ri (Shin Hye Sun) wakes up from a 13-year coma, still feeling like a 17-year-old. She meets Gong Woo Jin (Yang Se Jong), a man who has isolated himself emotionally since a traumatic incident at 17. Woo Jin blames himself due to a misunderstanding and does not know that he has reunited with his first love, Seo Ri. This heartwarming drama explores themes of time lost and emotional healing, making it a touching and inspiring watch.
These K-dramas offer a diverse range of first love stories, each with its charm and emotional depth. Whether you’re looking to reminisce about your first love or simply want to enjoy a heartwarming romance, these dramas are sure to leave a lasting impression.