7 K-Dramas With Tough & Cold Male Leads Who Melt For Love

There's something thrilling about watching a tough, arrogant male lead melt for a girl and go all out to win her heart. This trope often leads to fantastic character growth and an intense love story.

If you're someone who loves this type of male lead, K-dramaland has several shows that fit the bill perfectly.

Gangnam Beauty (2018)

IMDb rating: 7.3/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Viki, Tubi, WeTV, iQIYI, iflix

The story revolves around the journey of the female lead, Kang Mi-rae, who undergoes plastic surgery after enduring years of bullying, but still struggles to accept herself. The male lead, Do Kyung-seok, is Mi-rae's classmate who is known for his aloofness. But he suddenly shows the girl his caring side.

Marriage Contract (2016)

IMDb rating: 7.5/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Viki, Kocowa

Han Ji-hoon, the cold-hearted son of a wealthy conglomerate, enters into a contract marriage out of necessity. His chosen partner is a single mother facing financial hardship. As their fake relationship deepens, Ji-hoon unexpectedly falls in love with both the woman and her daughter.

Sh**ting Stars (2022)

IMDb rating: 7.6/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Viki, TVING, iQIYI

This K-drama perfectly embodies the trope we're discussing. The male lead, Gong Tae-sung, starts off as a tough and aloof top actor. However, as his relationship with the head of his PR team evolves from love-hate to something much more, the reasons behind his guarded nature and reluctance to trust others are gradually revealed.

Something About 1% (2016)

IMDb rating: 7.7/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, Viki

Lee Jae-in is a ruthless business tycoon and heir to a vast fortune worth millions. He's never been known for his kindness or empathy toward others. So when his grandfather gives him an ultimatum to marry the woman of his choice or lose his inheritance, Jae-in's tough exterior only hardens. But as he gets to know the woman, his perception begins to shift, and unexpected feelings begin to blossom within him.

Crash Course in Romance (2023)

IMDb rating: 7.8/10

Where to stream: Netflix

Choi Chi-yeol, a self-confident math teacher, is reserved around others. Yet, in the presence of the mother of one of his students - who also manages a local shop - his composure softens. The problem is that Chi-yeol thinks the woman he likes is married.

Dali & Cocky Prince (2021)

IMDb rating: 8.0/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, Netflix, Viki, Kocowa

Jin Moo-hak, the tough director of a global grocery chain, is not exactly a kind person, especially when it comes to collecting debts. But everything changes when he meets the charismatic new director of a struggling art museum. Suddenly, Moo-hak finds himself rethinking his priorities and realizing that some things in life - like pursuing a romantic interest - may be more important than business dealings.

What's Wrong with Secretary Kim (2018)

IMDb rating: 8.1/10

Where to stream: Disney+, Hulu, Viki, WeTV, iQIYI

Lee Young-joon, a high-powered executive in a major corporation, is notorious for his narcissism. However, when his dedicated secretary of nine years announces her resignation, Young-joon is unexpectedly stirred to action. He sets out on a personal mission to persuade her to stay, gradually discovering his growing affection for the woman.