7 K-Dramas Exploring The Magic Of Slow-Burning Relationships
These stories are as real as it gets.
We've all seen those K-dramaland moments where one lead (or even both) falls head over heels for the other at first glance or with just a single word exchanged. And hey, there's no shame in getting lost in those fairy-tale romances.
But every once in a while, we all crave something a little more grounded and realistic. You know, the kind of love story where the leads actually take the time to get to know each other and gradually realize their feelings.
If you're in the mood for a cozy, slow-burning vibe tonight, here are seven K-dramas that will hit the spot.
Behind Your Touch (2023)
IMDb rating: 7.4/10
Where to stream: Netflix, TVING
She's a vet with the ability to see a person's past with a touch, and he's a fiery detective with a nose for trouble. What brings these two together? Well, at first it's all about solving cases side by side. And only in time do they realize a deeper connection.
Bora! Deborah (2023)
IMDb rating: 7.6/10
Where to stream: Prime Video, TVING
The drama also known as True to Love is a true gem for any slow-burn enthusiast. Yeon Bo-ra is a celebrated relationship coach who can't seem to untangle her own love life. The tension between her and her love interest builds throughout the series, and it is only at the end that one of them finally makes the move.
Crash Course in Romance (2023)
IMDb rating: 7.8/10
Where to stream: Netflix
She is a professional athlete turned shop owner. He is a top high school tutor with an eating disorder. Their love story is not just the perfect escape from life's stresses, but a slowly unfolding journey of two souls finding solace in each other's arms, each moment unfolding tenderly like a blooming flower.
Love to Hate You (2023)
IMDb rating: 7.8/10
Where to stream: Netflix
She is an outspoken feminist attorney. He is a hotshot actor with a serious distrust of the fairer sex and her client. They start with a clash over gender and mutual dislike and end up deeply in love. But their journey from enemies to lovers isn't a rushed, out-of-nowhere romance; it's a long and well-crafted story that will keep you glued to the screen.
I Hear Your Voice (2013)
IMDb rating: 8.0/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Viki, Kocowa, iQIYI, WeTV
This drama, which follows a colorful team of a savvy lawyer, an idealistic public defender, and a high school student with an uncanny ability to read minds, adds a lot of ingredients to the mix. There's drama, mystery, a dash of the supernatural, and, of course, a relationship that blossoms and evolves with every twist and turn, making each episode better than the last.
Mr. Queen (2020)
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IMDb rating: 8.6/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Viki
The concept of this fan-favorite K-drama is quite unique: a modern-day male chef wakes up in the body of a Joseon-era queen. With all the chaos that ensues, you'd think romance would be the last thing on the protagonist's mind. But love finds a way, and let's just say it's a chef's kiss.
Reply 1988 (2015)
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IMDb rating: 9.1/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Viki, Tubi
Watching this wholesome K-drama is like stepping into a time machine that takes you back to a cozy Seoul neighborhood in the 1980s. Five families navigate the ups and downs of everyday life and share all kinds of relationships, including an extremely sweet childhood friends-to-lovers slow burn.