7 K-Drama Couples With Refreshing 'Poor Man, Rich Woman' Dynamic

The romantic storyline where the lovers come from different social and wealth backgrounds is part of a larger 'forbidden romance' trope. The main challenge for such couples usually comes from families and friends forbidding the relationship, or different perspectives on life.

If you're a fan of the trope, you've probably noticed that K-dramas based on the trope usually focus on the classic 'rich man, poor woman' scenario. But there are a few that reverse the roles and show a successful, rich woman falling for a man from a humble background. Here are seven fan-recommended examples.

I Do, I Do (2012)

IMDb rating: 6.7/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, Kocowa

Hwang Ji-ahn is a remarkable figure in the world of shoe design, living life on her own terms. But when a one-night stand with a young rookie designer, a fresh face at her company, unexpectedly results in a pregnancy, Ji-ahn's world is turned upside down and the drama begins.

A Witch's Love (2014)

IMDb rating: 7.3/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, Viki, Tubi, iQIYI, AsianCrush

Ban Ji-yeon is a renowned news reporter who is called a 'witch' for her professional prowess and doesn't believe in love because of a past heartbreak. Yoon Dong-ha is a younger man who works part-time and also has a traumatic love story despite his age. When these two cross paths, sparks ignite, but will they dare to explore the electric chemistry between them?

Run On (2020)

IMDb rating: 7.4/10

Where to stream: Netflix

In this K-drama, the 'rich woman, poor man' trope is used for the secondary couple, who are just as captivating as the main duo. Seo Dan-ah is a workaholic CEO with a personality marred by a cold upbringing. Lee Yeong-hwa is a charming art student whose warmth pierces through Dan-ah's icy facade, making him the only one who can reach her heart.

Graceful Family (2019)

IMDb rating: 7.5/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Viki

Mo Seok-hee is the heiress of a powerful chaebol family who, after years abroad, returns home with a mission. Determined to uncover long-buried family secrets, including her mother's mysterious death 15 years earlier, she enlists the help of a struggling lawyer with a personal stake in the case. Together, they form an alliance, delving into the past and forging a bond that defies the odds.

Encounter (2018)

IMDb rating: 7.6/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Hulu, Viki, iQIYI

Cha Soo-hyun is the daughter of a powerful politician and a successful businesswoman. But she feels suffocated by the confines of her family. During a vacation, Soo-hyun meets Kim Jin-hyuk, a carefree and innocent young man without a steady job. Their chance meeting blossoms into an unforgettable evening, but little do they know that fate has more meetings in store for them.

Extracurricular (2020)

IMDb rating: 7.6/10

Where to stream: Netflix

Oh Ji-soo is a brilliant student from an abusive, impoverished home. Desperate to escape his circumstances, he delves into the murky world of illegal business. Bae Gyu-ri is the privileged daughter of two CEOs, whose path accidentally intertwines with Ji-soo's. Their story is quite dark, but the undeniable chemistry between the two will leave no romance fan indifferent.

Ugly Alert (2013)

IMDb rating: 8.4/10

Where to stream: Wavve, SBS VOD, SBS World

Gong Joon-soo is an ex-convict who served time for a crime he didn't commit. While behind bars, he learned to sew, and after his release, lands a job at a fashion company run by the workaholic and bright Na Do-hee. Unexpectedly, the CEO finds herself drawn to Joon-soo, setting the stage for a love story unlike any other.