Korean romantic comedies, or “rom-coms,” have taken the world by storm, blending heartwarming romance with laugh-out-loud moments. From sweet love stories to hilarious misunderstandings, these films offer an emotional rollercoaster that keeps viewers coming back for more. Here are the top 10 Korean romantic comedies of all time that every fan of the genre should watch.
1. My Sassy Girl (2001)
Views: Over 5 million in South Korea alone, massive international following
Director: Kwak Jae-yong
Main Cast: Jun Ji-hyun, Cha Tae-hyun
This iconic film follows the quirky and unpredictable relationship between a passive college student (Cha Tae-hyun) and a tough, impulsive girl (Jun Ji-hyun). Their love story, full of slapstick humor and tender moments, has made this film a benchmark in Korean cinema and one of the most beloved rom-coms worldwide.It’s credited with launching the Korean rom-com craze and inspired remakes in Hollywood and other countries.
2. 200 Pounds Beauty (2006)
Views: 6.6 million in South Korea
Director: Kim Yong-hwa
Main Cast: Kim Ah-joong, Joo Jin-mo
Han-na, a talented singer with a body image complex, undergoes full-body plastic surgery to transform herself into a beautiful woman. She becomes a pop sensation but grapples with the emotional complexities of her newfound identity and secret love for her producer. This movie is a perfect blend of humor, romance, and a reflection on beauty standards, with Kim Ah-joong delivering a stellar performance.
3. The Beauty Inside (2015)
Views: Over 2 million in South Korea
Director: Baek Jong-yul
Main Cast: Han Hyo-joo, Park Seo-joon, Lee Dong-wook, and more
This heartwarming and unconventional love story revolves around a man who wakes up every day in a different body, regardless of gender, age, or nationality. His romantic interest, Yi-soo (Han Hyo-joo), loves him despite the ever-changing appearance. The film explores deep emotional connections beyond physical appearances, with breathtaking cinematography and a unique plot.
4. Crazy Romance (2019)
Views: 2.9 million in South Korea
Director: Kim Han-gyeol
Main Cast: Kim Rae-won, Gong Hyo-jin
This film focuses on the blossoming love between two office workers who are both recovering from messy breakups. With realistic portrayals of modern relationships and witty humor, this rom-com presents a more mature take on love. It’s perfect for those who enjoy realistic love stories with characters you can genuinely relate to.
5. What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim (2018)
Views: Television drama but gained millions of views globally (on streaming platforms)
Director: Park Joon-hwa
Main Cast: Park Seo-joon, Park Min-young
A narcissistic company vice-president and his efficient secretary begin to explore feelings for each other when the latter announces she’s resigning. What follows is a hilarious tug-of-war between two attractive and strong-willed leads. While a TV series, the chemistry between the two leads and the laugh-out-loud moments make this a must-watch for rom-com fans.
6. Spellbound (2011)
Views: 3 million in South Korea
Director: Hwang In-ho
Main Cast: Son Ye-jin, Lee Min-ki
Mixing romance, comedy, and a touch of horror, this movie is about a magician who falls in love with a woman haunted by ghosts. As they grow closer, they navigate both the paranormal and romantic elements of their lives. It’s a unique take on the rom-com genre, blending spooky elements with a heartwarming love story.
7. My Little Bride (2004)
Views: Over 3 million in South Korea
Director: Kim Ho-jun
Main Cast: Moon Geun-young, Kim Rae-won
Bo-eun, a high school girl, is forced into an arranged marriage with a college student to fulfill her grandfather’s wishes. As they try to navigate their unusual relationship, romance and hilarious misunderstandings ensue. The movie is charmingly innocent, with the young cast making it a light-hearted but memorable rom-com.
8. On Your Wedding Day (2018)
Views: 2.8 million in South Korea
Director: Lee Seok-geun
Main Cast: Park Bo-young, Kim Young-kwang
A poignant tale about first love, this movie follows a young man who receives an invitation to his high school sweetheart’s wedding. As the narrative jumps through different stages of their relationship, the film delivers both humor and bittersweet moments. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that beautifully captures the highs and lows of young love.
9. A Millionaire’s First Love (2006)
Views: Moderate box office success with enduring popularity on streaming platforms
Director: Kim Tae-gyun
Main Cast: Hyun Bin, Lee Yeon-hee
Jae-kyung, a spoiled young heir, must graduate from a rural high school to inherit his grandfather’s fortune. Along the way, he meets and falls in love with Eun-hwan, a terminally ill girl, leading to a bittersweet love story. The film is both touching and humorous, with Hyun Bin delivering an early career-defining performance.
10. Cyrano Agency (2010)
Views: Over 2.7 million in South Korea
Director: Kim Hyun-seok
Main Cast: Uhm Tae-woong, Lee Min-jung, Park Shin-hye
The story revolves around a matchmaking agency that helps people win over their crushes by orchestrating romantic scenarios. Things take a turn when the agency’s leader falls for one of their clients’ love interests. It’s a clever and witty film that mixes romance, comedy, and a touch of intrigue, with delightful performances from the entire cast.
Final Thoughts
Korean romantic comedies are renowned for blending heartfelt stories with humor, making them perfect for anyone looking to escape into the ups and downs of love. Whether you’re a fan of quirky, unconventional romances or prefer classic love stories, there’s something in Korean cinema for every rom-com lover. These ten films are a great starting point for anyone looking to dive into the delightful world of Korean romantic comedies!
