I’ve been planning this article for a long time, wanting to finally share my list of the top saddest Korean dramas. In my mind, the list could be much longer, but I’ll keep it concise and focus on the ones that, if you’re searching for tears, you shouldn’t miss.
I’m kicking off this series with the saddest dramas because I had to rewatch some of them—and I have to admit, I really don’t enjoy heartbreaking stories, especially when they hit that hard. I’ll provide a brief review of each one and include the trailer (in the best quality I can find, since some are old classic shows).
Top List saddest Korean dramas
These aren’t listed in any particular order. I spent enough time picking out the saddest ones, and giving them rankings would have meant rewatching them all—which I’d rather not do when there are new dramas to explore! But if my memory serves me right, here’s a list of the top recommended saddest Korean dramas.
Padam Padam
Padam Padam is an emotional rollercoaster that combines fantasy, romance, and redemption into a deeply moving story. The drama follows Yang Kang Chil (Jung Woo Sung), a man who’s been wrongfully imprisoned for murder, and his journey toward finding love and a second chance at life. Kim Bum shines as his guardian angel, Lee Gook Soo, bringing warmth and an ethereal charm to the narrative. Han Ji Min adds depth as the reserved yet compassionate veterinarian, Jang Ji Na.
With its mix of supernatural elements and raw human emotion, Padam Padam explores themes of forgiveness, fate, and the resilience of the human spirit. The pacing may feel slow at times, but the nuanced storytelling and standout performances make it a drama worth watching.
Scent of a woman
Scent of a Woman is a heartfelt drama that blends romance, self-discovery, and a touch of melancholy into a story that inspires reflection on life. The plot follows Lee Yeon Jae (Kim Sun Ah), a woman who, after receiving a terminal diagnosis, decides to break free from her mundane life to fulfill her dreams and rediscover love with Kang Ji Wook (Lee Dong Wook), a man struggling between his family’s expectations and his own desires.
Kim Sun Ah delivers a powerful performance, portraying both the vulnerability and resilience of her character, while Lee Dong Wook brings warmth and tenderness to the romantic storyline. Eom Ki Joon also stands out as the doctor who plays a pivotal role in Yeon Jae’s life.
The drama beautifully balances deeply emotional moments with joy and hope, accompanied by a stunning soundtrack that elevates every scene. While the central theme might be heavy, the story ultimately inspires viewers to live fully and cherish every moment. A must-watch for fans of romantic dramas with a profound message.
Nice Guy
Nice Guy is a dark, emotional rollercoaster that dives deep into themes of love, revenge, and redemption. The story centers on Kang Ma Roo (Song Joong Ki), a promising young man who sacrifices everything for the woman he loves, only to be betrayed. Broken and seeking revenge, he becomes entangled with Seo Eun Gi (Moon Chae Won), a cold and ambitious heiress with her own scars, leading to a complex web of manipulation and raw emotion.
Song Joong Ki delivers a standout performance, portraying Ma Roo’s transformation from a naive and kind-hearted man to someone hardened by betrayal. Moon Chae Won shines as the vulnerable yet fierce Eun Gi, creating a compelling dynamic with Joong Ki. Meanwhile, Park Si Yeon masterfully plays Han Jae Hee, the manipulative femme fatale at the heart of Ma Roo’s turmoil.
The drama’s intricate plot keeps viewers hooked with its mix of romance, suspense, and intense character development. The cinematography and haunting soundtrack add to the melancholic and gripping atmosphere. Nice Guy is a must-watch for those who enjoy stories that explore the darker sides of love and human nature.
Shark
Shark is a gripping tale of revenge, love, and tragedy that keeps viewers on edge with its intense storytelling and complex characters. The drama follows Han Yi Soo (Kim Nam Gil), a man who fakes his death and returns years later to avenge his father’s murder, only to find himself torn between his mission and his lingering feelings for Jo Hae Woo (Son Ye Jin), his first love and now a prosecutor.
Kim Nam Gil delivers a masterful performance as Yi Soo, capturing the character’s inner turmoil and quiet determination. Son Ye Jin is equally compelling as Hae Woo, portraying a woman torn between her sense of justice and her emotions. The chemistry between them is palpable, adding depth to the story’s tragic undertones.
The drama stands out for its suspenseful plot, intricate twists, and stunning cinematography that mirrors the dark and somber tone of the narrative. The symbolic use of sharks throughout the story adds an additional layer of depth, reflecting themes of survival, vengeance, and primal instinct.
Shark is not just a revenge drama—it’s a haunting exploration of love, morality, and the cost of seeking justice. A must-watch for fans of intense, emotionally charged stories.
Princess’ Man
The Princess’ Man is a beautifully tragic love story often described as the Korean version of Romeo and Juliet. Set in the Joseon era, it follows the forbidden romance between Se Ryung (Moon Chae Won), the daughter of a powerful and ambitious prince, and Kim Seung Yoo (Park Shi Hoo), the son of a high-ranking official caught in a deadly political rivalry with her family.
Moon Chae Won and Park Shi Hoo deliver exceptional performances, bringing raw emotion and depth to their characters’ love and heartbreak. The drama is visually stunning, with breathtaking costumes and landscapes that enhance its historical setting.
What sets The Princess’ Man apart is its perfect balance between romance and political intrigue, with a plot full of twists and betrayals. It’s a poignant tale of love, sacrifice, and resilience that lingers with you long after the final episode. A must-watch for fans of historical dramas.
What happened in Bali
What Happened in Bali is a captivating, emotional rollercoaster that explores love, betrayal, and the complexities of relationships. The story centers on Lee Soo Jung (Ha Ji Won), a woman who, after a failed romance, ends up in Bali, where she becomes entangled with two men: the charming and unpredictable Jae Min (Jo In Sung) and the warm-hearted, reliable Kim (So Ji Sub).
The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, with Ha Ji Won’s strong and relatable portrayal of Soo Jung at the heart of the drama. Jo In Sung and So Ji Sub both deliver strong performances as the contrasting men in her life, adding depth and intrigue to the love triangle.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Bali, the drama skillfully mixes romance with emotional tension, highlighting the pain of past mistakes and the consequences of living in the present. What Happened in Bali is a gripping watch that leaves a lasting impact, perfect for fans of complex love stories and intense emotional drama.
I’m Sorry I love You
I’m Sorry, I Love You is a heart-wrenching drama that explores themes of love, loss, and redemption. The story follows Cha Moo Hyuk (So Ji Sub), a man with a tragic past who, after being abandoned as a child, returns to Korea to find his birth mother. Along the way, he becomes entangled in a complicated love triangle with his childhood friend, Song Eun Chae (Im Soo Jung), and a wealthy, kind-hearted man, Choi Mu Gyeol (Chung Kyung Ho).
So Ji Sub delivers an unforgettable performance as Moo Hyuk, capturing the pain and vulnerability of a man searching for meaning in his life. Im Soo Jung brings warmth and depth to Eun Chae, making the love story both beautiful and tragic. The emotional weight of the story, paired with its powerful performances, creates a drama that’s impossible to forget.
With its mix of raw emotion and intense drama, I’m Sorry, I Love You is a must-watch for fans of tragic love stories. The pain of Moo Hyuk’s journey will leave you with a lingering feeling long after the show ends.
Beyond Evil
Beyond Evil is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The story follows two detectives, Lee Dong Sik (Shin Ha Kyun) and Han Joo Won (Yeo Jin Goo), as they investigate a series of gruesome murders in a small town. As they dig deeper, their personal lives and dark secrets become entangled with the case, leading to shocking twists and intense revelations.
Shin Ha Kyun and Yeo Jin Goo deliver exceptional performances, with incredible chemistry that adds depth to their complex characters. The drama skillfully explores themes of guilt, obsession, and the fine line between good and evil. Beyond Evil stands out for its intricate storytelling, strong character development, and tense atmosphere, making it a must-watch for fans of suspenseful, mind-bending thrillers.
Road Nº1
Road No. 1 is a compelling and emotional drama that brings the Korean War to life, focusing on the sacrifices, hardships, and camaraderie of soldiers on the front lines. The story follows Lee Jin Seok (So Ji Sub), a young man torn between his duty and his personal life, as he fights alongside his fellow soldiers, including his close friend and rival, Kim Su Yeok (Yoon Kye Sang), and his love interest, Joo Young (Kim Ha Neul).
So Ji Sub gives a standout performance, portraying Jin Seok’s internal struggle and determination amidst the brutality of war. The chemistry between the leads, especially between So Ji Sub and Kim Ha Neul, adds emotional depth to the story, while the war scenes are realistically depicted, highlighting the devastating consequences of conflict.
With a strong narrative that combines action, romance, and intense emotional moments, Road No. 1 is a poignant tribute to the sacrifices made during wartime. It’s a must-watch for fans of historical dramas that delve into both the personal and collective cost of war.
Beyond The Clouds
Beyond the Clouds is a poignant and thought-provoking drama that explores themes of love, regret, and redemption. The story revolves around Hae Sung (Lee Sung Jae), a man who has been living a life of solitude after being deeply affected by a past tragedy. As he reconnects with his first love, Jung Hae In (Park Yoochun), and confronts the secrets of the past, the drama delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships.
The performances are strong, with Lee Sung Jae’s portrayal of a man torn between past and present being particularly moving. Beyond the Clouds skillfully mixes suspense and romance, maintaining a balance between drama and emotional depth. It’s a drama that will resonate with viewers who enjoy stories of second chances and the power of healing.
That Winter the wind blows
That Winter, the Wind Blows is a beautifully tragic romance that explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of human emotions. The story follows Oh Soo (Jo In Sung), a man who pretends to be the long-lost brother of blind heiress Oh Young (Song Hye Kyo) in order to claim her inheritance, only to find himself falling deeply in love with her.
Jo In Sung and Song Hye Kyo deliver stellar performances, capturing the emotional depth of their characters and the evolving tension between them. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, with their heart-wrenching journey keeping viewers captivated throughout.
Set against a cold, winter backdrop, the drama’s cinematography perfectly complements its somber tone. That Winter, the Wind Blows is a slow-burn love story that explores fate, forgiveness, and the healing power of love, making it a must-watch for fans of emotional, character-driven dramas.
Cinderella’s Sister
Cinderella’s Sister offers a fresh and really dark take on the classic fairytale, blending romance and family melodrama in a modern setting. The story follows Eun Jo (Moon Geun Young), a bitter and misunderstood young woman who feels neglected by her family, and her complicated relationship with her stepsister, Hyo Sun (Seo Woo), and their shared love interest, Ki Hoon (Chun Jung Myung).
Moon Geun Young shines in her portrayal of Eun Jo, a character torn between resentment and vulnerability. The drama’s exploration of family dynamics, jealousy, and love gives it depth, making it more than just a typical romance. Cinderella’s Sister is a heartfelt drama that dives into the complexities of sisterhood and personal growth.
Stairway to heaven
Stairway to Heaven is a classic melodrama that pulls at the heartstrings with its intense love story and family conflicts. The drama follows the life of Cha Song Joo (Kwon Sang Woo) and Han Jung Seo (Choi Ji Woo), childhood friends who become separated due to misunderstandings, only to be reunited later in life under tragic circumstances.
The performances, especially by Kwon Sang Woo and Choi Ji Woo, are compelling, capturing the emotional turmoil of their characters. The plot is filled with twists and heart-wrenching moments, making it a tearjerker from start to finish. While Stairway to Heaven follows many typical melodramatic tropes, its emotional depth and the chemistry between the leads make it a timeless watch.
Thank You
Thank You is a heartwarming and deeply emotional drama that touches on themes of illness, love, and the strength of family. The story follows a doctor, Jang Joon Ha (Jang Hyuk), who is trying to care for a young girl with HIV while navigating his own complex feelings toward her mother, the independent and strong-willed Min Ki (Ahn So Hee).
The drama skillfully combines light moments with serious social issues, particularly the stigma surrounding HIV. Jang Hyuk and Ahn So Hee deliver powerful performances, capturing the tenderness and complexity of their characters’ relationships. Thank You is a moving and unforgettable story that showcases the healing power of love and acceptance.
This is not the trailer but the first episode. Sorry I couldn’t find a better preview.
I know they are old and the list is not nearly complete, so which one would you add? And if you liked the list, please share some love!