We dare you not to shed a tear while watching these sad-happy K-Dramas.
Ever found yourself bawling your eyes out over a K-Drama and wondering why you're so invested? These are the tear-jerker tales that not only make you ugly-cry but also drop some life-changing wisdom.
From heartbreak to life lessons, these K-Dramas got it all.
So, grab your popcorn, large box of tissue, and your feels, because we're about to explore some timeless K-Dramas that don't just play your heartstrings like a harp; they'll stay there forever like a tattoo.
1. Mother
Mother is an emotional journey that explores the lengths a teacher named Kang Su Jin (Lee Bo Young) goes to save a girl facing abuse.
The wild plan involves kidnapping and fleeing the country. The bottom line: this drama hits you right in the feels, shouting, 'A mom's love can flip your world!'.
It's all about family vibes that go way beyond DNA. Plus, it throws shade at society's rules. We promise that tour box of tissues will be well-utilized while watching this tearjerker.
2. Hi Bye, Mama!
Hi Bye, Mama! is like a wild ride through an emotional rollercoaster with Cha Yu Ri (Kim Tae Hee), who scores a second shot at life. But here's the twist – she's got 49 days to reunite with her family.
This drama pushes you to hug your relationships tight, forgive like there's no tomorrow, and just soak up the present.
3. It's Okay, That's Love
It's Okay, That's Love dives into the world of a psychiatrist and a DJ, digging deep into love and mental health.
This drama's all about embracing the quirks in love and flipping the bird to societal norms.
The golden nugget? Love doesn't bloom despite flaws but because of them.
This Korean masterpiece teaches us that it's time to shatter that mental health stigma and let love shine through the cracks.
4. Hyde, Jekyll, Me
Hyde, Jekyll, Me follows Goo Seo Jin (Hyun Bin), a man with dissociative identity disorder. The drama delves deep into the chaos of being torn between who you are and who you appear to be.
The essence of this 2015 series revolves around embracing the messy bits, finding healing in imperfections, and discovering the magic of love and self-acceptance.
5. Abyss
Abyss dives into this enchanted sphere that revives people, mirroring their true selves. The series explores the idea of inner beauty, flipping the script on conventional standards.
Starring Park Bo Young, Ahn Hyo Seop, and Han So Hee, this show is a visual treat that urges you to embrace your authentic self.
6. 49 Days
49 Days takes you on a surreal ride with Shin Ji Hyun (Nam Gyu Ri) who slipped into a coma. Despite her dire medical condition, she gets a shot at waking up if three non-family members shed real tears for her.
This K-Drama digs into human connections and perspectives, while highlighting the value of treasuring genuine relationships.
7. The Moon Embracing the Sun
The Moon Embracing the Sun is a love story mixed with conspiracy and a forbidden twist. It kicks off with the Queen Dowager ordering the assassination of her stepson in order to protect her own son's throne.
This drama highlights the strength of love in tough times and emphasizes the importance of keeping it authentic.
A real-time-traveling love odyssey that will touch your heart.
8. Hi! School-Love On
Hi! School-Love On shines rhe spotlight on the amazing world of empathy and understanding.
Picture angels, humans, and the enchanting magic that happens when love and friendship conquer all challenges.
It's a whirlwind of emotions that will stick with you long after the drama ends.
9. Andante
Follow the story of Lee Shi Kyung (EXO's Kai), a city-savvy gaming genius thrust into rural Korea, teaching life lessons about savoring the simple moments and the unexpected bonds that come your way.
Andante is a symphony of valuable insights that break free from your typical high school drama mold.
10. Doctor Stranger
As one of the most gripping K-Dramas, to date, Doctor Stranger explores loyalty, love, and vengeance in the medical world and international relations.
The series underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and human connections –even when things get tough.
11. It's Okay Not to Be Okay
It's Okay Not to Be Okay dives into the complexities of the human psyche. This revolutionary K-Drama stars Kim Soo Hyun as Moon Kang Tae and Seo Yea Ji as Ko Moon Young in an unconventional romance that sparks emotional and psychological healing.
This series beautifully conveys a powerful message about finding healing through love and understanding. To boot, it tackles mental health issues without the fear of judgment.
12. Hotel Del Luna
Hotel Del Luna puts a spin on a supernatural tale centered on Jang Man-wol (IU) and the hotel's theme of redemption. Mind you, this isn't your average hotel – its clientele consists of ghosts who check in after nightfall.
The drama ventures into facing past mistakes, pursuing redemption, and discovering inner peace through the magic of love and connection.
YOUR NEXT READ: 10 Must-Watch K-Dramas In 2024