Korean BL dramas have surged in popularity recently. Back in the day, South Korea didn't jump onto the Boys Love phenomenon like other nearby countries. It took a while for the Korean BL series to gain traction over the years. You'll notice a flurry of new dramas and series coming out around 2021 and 2022.
Since then, Korean BL dramas have quickly gained favour among many fans. Their high production values and exciting storylines are the staples of the genre. Although the romances tend to be more culturally conservative, they are sweet and wholesome. Most dramas are also relatively short, making them easy to finish in one go.
In 2022, Semantic Error became a cultural phenomenon. This sleek and fast-paced romance resonated with millions of fans worldwide. It set a new bar of excellence for the Korean BL industry. In addition, its success catapulted the two leads to stardom, proving there is a mass market for this genre. Following in its footsteps, many other studios have begun producing new Korean BL series in 2023 and beyond.
You'll enjoy Korean BL dramas if you like:
- Good production values
- Emotionally charged storylines
- Sweet and wholesome romances
Check out the list of Korean BL dramas and series from South Korea made over the years! Read the reviews of each series for in-depth information about the plot, cast, episode guides, and scene analysis.
List of BL Dramas in South Korea
2023
- A Breeze of Love
- A Shoulder to Cry On
- All the Liquors
- Bon Appetit
- Bump Up Business
- Happy Merry Ending
- Individual Circumstances
- Jun and Jun
- Love Class 2
- Love Mate
- Love Tractor
- Our Dating Sim
- Sing My Crush
- Star Struck
- The Eighth Sense
- Unintentional Love Story
2022
- Blue of Winter
- Blueming
- Cherry Blossoms After Winter
- Choco Milk Shake
- Color Rush 2
- First Love Again
- Happy Ending Romance
- Kissable Lips
- Love Class
- Ocean Likes Me
- Oh! Boarding House
- Oh! My Assistant
- Once Again
- Roommates of Poongduck 304
- Semantic Error
- The Director Who Buys Me Dinner
- The New Employee
- To My Star 2
2021
- Behind Cut
- Light On Me
- My Sweet Dear
- Nobleman Ryu's Wedding
- Peach of Time
- The Tasty Florida
- Tinted With You
- To My Star
- You Make Me Dance
2020
Pre-2020
Korean BL Dramas in 2023
A Breeze of Love (2023)
A Breeze of Love is a Korean BL series about two university students and their reunion. The main characters used to be friends until they parted ways on disagreeable terms. They meet years later in the school's basketball club, yet their relationship remains strained over unresolved tensions. The protagonist makes a deal with his teammate. If they win the upcoming game, he wants them to fulfill a special request.
Early on, A Breeze of Love intrigued me as the characters navigate their fractured relationship. The mysterious love story conveys sensitive emotions, dreamy visuals, and a melancholic vibe. However, the narrative progresses too slowly, wasting time on unresolved tension or tedious filler. The frustratingly vague flashbacks also seem disjointed. I'm disappointed by this uneventful drama's thin plot and bland romance.
- School romance
- Sad & emotional
- 8 episodes
- 3 hours
A Shoulder to Cry On (2023)
A Shoulder to Cry On is a Korean BL series about two high school students who go from enemies to friends. The main character is the star of the archery club. He clashes with his cheeky classmate, who pranks, taunts, and bullies him. Eventually, they overcome their animosity and develop a close bond. The lonely teens open up about the unhappiness inside their hearts.
Beautifully filmed, A Shoulder to Cry On dazzles with polished production and stylish artistry. I'm also fascinated by the two flawed protagonists with complex personalities. However, this frustrating love story is rough around the edges. The volatile relationship scenes have an unpleasant vibe. The plot is heavy on excessive conflicts and exaggerated melodrama, which overpower the teen romance.
- School romance
- Sad & emotional
- 7 episodes
- 4 hours
All the Liquors (2023)
All the Liquors is a Korean BL series about a small restaurant owner who dislikes alcohol. Despite running a popular diner, the main character won't allow anyone to drink alcoholic beverages at his store. His strict policy causes negative publicity, putting the business at risk. A persistent customer encourages him to lift the ban. As they grow closer, the protagonist reveals the reasoning behind his aversion to booze.
For several episodes, All the Liquors showed some faint potential. The gentle love story warms up slowly but surely. However, neither the lacklustre plot nor the disappointing romance makes a significant impact. The bland series lacks flavour and doesn't do enough to excite viewers. It's too mild to stand out in the crowded BL market.
- Romance
- Nice & gentle
- 8 episodes
- 3 hours
Bon Appetit (2023)
Bon Appetit is a Korean BL series about two neighbours who meet up for dinner every night. The main character is a workaholic who never has time for meal preparation. A new apartment tenant has noticed his unhealthy eating habits and invites him to eat together. This aspiring restauranteur is an excellent chef and prepares many tasty homemade dishes. As the pair bonds over dinnertime, they develop a secret attraction.
While Bon Appetit has an okay start, the quality declines steadily and never recovers. The story focuses too much on the irrelevant workplace plots instead of the BL content. Furthermore, it creates bland conflicts through the tedious love triangle drama. Many uneventful episodes bore me, especially toward the end. Even if the charismatic actors do their best to rejuvenate the series, they can't salvage a dull, cliched narrative.
- Romance
- Nice & heartwarming
- 8 episodes
- 4 hours
Bump Up Business (2023)
Bump Up Business is a Korean BL series about an up-and-coming boy group. The main character is a rookie about to make his debut. His agency pairs him with an experienced idol who used to have a scandalous past. They'll pretend to have a fake romance to attract fans as a promotional gimmick. The couple is encouraged to spend time together to develop their chemistry. What began as a phony relationship soon blossoms into something more.
The early episodes of Bump Up Business are mildly fascinating. The cynical plot follows a fake celebrity couple, highlighting how the entertainment industry manipulates fans and commercializes love. However, the series collapses into unwatchable nonsense in its second half. The narrative shifts focus to unpleasant plots, tiresome villains, and tedious drama. The couple's romance never gains momentum and doesn't develop interestingly.
- Romance
- Spicy & romantic
- 8 episodes
- 2 hours
Happy Merry Ending (2023)
Happy Merry Ending is a Korean BL series about a singer, a pianist, and their romance. The main characters are musicians who meet while performing at a wedding. Despite their connection, the introverted protagonist is uncomfortable socializing and suffers from panic attacks. His trauma stems from a manipulative relationship in the past. His new love interest tries to help him overcome these insecurities.
Occasionally, Happy Merry Ending shows a glimmer of promise. An emotional moment or an intimate exchange may seem intriguing. However, most of the narrative is uncompelling. The last few episodes steer the plot to angsty melodrama. A poorly executed time skip also halts any momentum in the romance. All these lacklustre elements add up to a dry, clunky BL series with unfulfilled potential.
- Romance
- Nice & gentle
- 8 episodes
- 2 hours
Individual Circumstances (2023)
Individual Circumstances is a Korean BL series about an author working on his romance novel. A struggling director gets in touch with him, hoping to adapt his work into a movie. Despite being rejected, the filmmaker camps outside the writer's home, hoping to change his mind. Although their current relationship seems frosty, the two characters knew each other in the past and shared an intriguing history.
After an awkward start, Individual Circumstances improves and develops into an intricate BL drama. The clever storytelling shows hidden depths as it reveals the mysterious relationship dynamic between the characters. Unfortunately, the stiff romance diminishes the intended emotional impact. If the actors share more chemistry, they can bring out the vivid feelings from this sentimental love story.
- Romance
- Deep & mature
- 8 episodes
- 3 hours
Jun and Jun (2023)
Jun and Jun is a Korean office BL series about a marketing intern and his boss. After starting his first day of work, the main character is surprised to reunite with his childhood friend. His old playground buddy has become his new boss. The protagonist tries to maintain professional boundaries and focuses on passing his job probation. Yet, his love interest seems eager to reconnect, setting up intimate scenarios between them.
Beyond the problematic boss-employee romantic dynamic, Jun and Jun has awful writing. Each episode bores me with tedious plots, from dull office chats to annoying love triangles. The story focuses on doomed rivals instead of nurturing the bond between the leads. The couple's flirting is so cringy that it gives me second-hand embarrassment. Even if they have a decent kiss, it doesn't negate the four hours of uncomfortable relationship drama.
- Office romance
- Spicy & romantic
- 8 episodes
- 4 hours
Love Class 2 (2023)
Love Class 2 is a Korean BL series about three university couples. The first pair are classmates who reunite after years apart. The protagonist tries to figure out the reason behind his high school crush's mysterious disappearance. In the second storyline, two childhood friends come to terms with their uncertain feelings. Meanwhile, the third romance is between a teaching assistant and a student, who meet under hilariously awkward circumstances.
Contrary to its title, Love Class 2 is not a sequel. You can understand the second season without watching the original drama. Compared to its predecessor, this series is a welcomed improvement. The three charming couples each have their enjoyable moments in the spotlight. I adore their playful banter, easygoing rapport, and natural chemistry. While some storylines aren't well executed, the romantic content is compelling.
- School romance
- Cute & sweet
- 10 episodes
- 5 hours
Love Mate (2023)
Love Mate is a Korean BL series about an office romance between two polar opposites. The main character is disillusioned about dating and avoids long-term relationships. However, a plucky new coworker is a hopeless romantic who challenges his way of thinking. Despite their initial clash, the protagonist is won over by his coworker's earnestness. He slowly opens his heart to the possibility of love.
I hate how the romance starts in Love Mate. The obnoxious main character pesters his love interest to the point that it feels like workplace harassment. The awkward plots, amateurish acting, and abundant cliches add to my uncomfortable viewing experience. The series becomes so hilariously bad that the awfulness almost becomes entertaining. I laugh at the cheesy flirting and dumb drama, not taking anything too seriously.
- Office romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 3 hours
Love Tractor (2023)
Love Tractor is a Korean BL series about a law school student who relocates to the countryside. The main character defies his strict father and disregards his promising career prospects. He flees to his grandfather's countryside home for a fresh start. The protagonist meets a friendly farmer who helps him settle into his new lifestyle. Despite their cultural differences and personality clashes, they develop a budding relationship.
Carried by its countryside charm, Love Tractor will appeal to those who enjoy warm, cozy BL dramas. From the memorable characters to the cute relationship scenes, this series offers a delightful experience. It's also beautifully filmed with picturesque landscapes and an atmospheric soundtrack. While pleasant, the plot unfolds straightforwardly. I wish these simple storylines contained more substance and sophistication.
- Romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 3 hours
Our Dating Sim (2023)
Our Dating Sim is a Korean BL series about a workplace romance in a video game company. The protagonist is stressed when he reunites with his high school crush during a new job opportunity. Due to a failed love confession, these two childhood friends fell out of touch for many years. They must work together in a small office environment, navigating their troubled relationship history and hazy professional boundaries.
From thrilling sexual tension to memorable kisses, Our Dating Sim is a sensational BL series at the top of its game. Elegant in its simplicity, the plot flows effortlessly at a fun, breezy rhythm. The charming protagonists share an enthusiastic rapport, and their seductive exchanges make my heart race with excitement. This small and short series has surpassed many titans in the BL genre. It proves you don't need a big budget to create the best love story.
- Office romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 2 hours
Sing My Crush (2023)
Sing My Crush is a Korean BL series about a young aspiring musician with romantic feelings for his mentor. After a crucial audition, the main character gathers the courage to confess his secret love. However, the outcome devastates him. At his emotionally lowest point, the heartbroken protagonist befriends a bubbly companion who comforts him. They forge a special connection filled with music, laughter & mutual support.
Although the plot may be straightforward, Sing My Crush presents a delightful and sentimental love story. It's a pleasure witnessing the couple's cozy friendship blossom into an intimate bond. Many sweet romantic encounters make my heart swell. The leads dazzle with their captivating charisma and chemistry. Also, the elegant music, visuals, and production values add an impressive polish to the viewing experience.
- Romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 4 hours
Star Struck (2023)
Star Struck is a Korean BL series about two childhood friends from troubled homes. The main character lives with his depressed mother and struggles financially. His best friend is miserable due to his parents' constant quarrelling. Despite their family hardships, they rely on each other's companionship for emotional support. However, the protagonist's secret romantic feelings may jeopardize their precious bond.
As someone who adores romantic stories with childhood best friends, Star Struck naturally appeals to me. This moody BL drama captures the melancholy and torment of yearning for unrequited love. I am emotionally invested in the couple's volatile journey, which consists of arguments, apologies, confessions, and rejections. However, the short series has too many unnecessary conflicts, overshadowing the enchanting moments.
- School romance
- Sad & emotional
- 8 episodes
- 3 hours
The Eighth Sense (2023)
The Eighth Sense is a Korean BL series about the emotional relationship between two university students. The main character has moved away from a small town to study in a big city. He befriends the campus heartthrob, who entices the protagonist to join the surfing club. As their bond deepens, his charming companion becomes increasingly restless. Beneath the confident swagger, he struggles with his deteriorating mental health.
With intelligent themes and profound emotions, The Eighth Sense redefines the meaning of excellence in BL dramas. The sophisticated narrative thoughtfully captures each protagonist's growth and struggles, including a nuanced portrayal of mental health experiences. The story is further enriched by sensitive acting, pulsating chemistry, and cinematic artistry. This outstanding work will be remembered as a masterpiece.
- School romance
- Deep & mature
- 10 episodes
- 6 hours
Unintentional Love Story (2023)
Unintentional Love Story is a Korean BL series about a recently fired office employee who gets a fresh start during a vacation. After losing his job, the main character travels to a charming coastal town for a diversion. He meets a mysterious pottery shop owner with a secret past. The protagonist realizes his new acquaintance can help him regain his employment. As the pair becomes closer, they unexpectedly fall in love.
There's a stretch of episodes where Unintentional Love Story comes together enjoyably. The memorable characters, breezy romance, and polished production create an easygoing atmosphere. After finding its stride, the series goes downhill and spends too long on annoying conflicts. The unpleasant final arc dampens my enthusiasm for what could have been a solid BL drama.
- Romance
- Nice & gentle
- 10 episodes
- 6 hours
Korean BL Dramas in 2022
Blue of Winter (2022)
Blue of Winter is a Korean BL series about a high school love triangle. The main character is in the judo club, where he meets a new student with a secret crush on him. Soon afterwards, the protagonist receives an unexpected love confession from a friend. As these teenagers navigate their feelings, they struggle with confusion, insecurity, and heartbreak.
Made by an indie studio, Blue of Winter has many noticeable limitations in its low-budget production. The incoherent narrative struggles to introduce characters properly or develop the relationships organically. Overall, the series is confusing, frustrating, and unsatisfying to watch.
- School romance
- Sad & emotional
- 5 episodes
- 45 mins
Blueming (2022)
Blueming is a Korean BL series about two film school students with a rocky relationship. The protagonist has a terrible first impression of his popular classmate, who seems to belittle everything he does. He becomes wary of his new rival as tensions rise uncomfortably. During a heated confrontation, the two characters discover their perceptions of each other are very different. There might have been a misunderstanding from the start.
Hindered by clunky storytelling, Blueming feels awkward in several parts where the plot doesn't always flow smoothly. The series wins back points by doing some moments exceptionally well, including the artistry, acting, and romantic passion. Despite showing occasional brilliance, this uneven BL drama has pacing issues and falls short of greatness.
- School romance
- Nice & gentle
- 11 episodes
- 3 hours
Cherry Blossoms After Winter (2022)
Cherry Blossoms After Winter is a Korean BL series about two childhood friends throughout their time in high school and university. The main character is an orphan living with a single mother and her son. Although the two teenagers grew up together, they drifted apart over the years. Now, they have a chance to reconnect again, navigating their complicated feelings for each other.
The cute and affectionate moments in Cherry Blossoms After Winter might appeal to BL fans. However, I can't stop cringing during every episode due to the juvenile writing and contrived pandering. This mushy BL drama crosses my inherent threshold for second-hand embarrassment.
- School romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 3 hours
Choco Milk Shake (2022)
- Fantasy
- Cute & sweet
- 11 episodes
- 3 hours
Color Rush 2 (2022)
Color Rush 2 is the sequel of the Korean BL series Color Rush. The second season continues the story of a colourblind protagonist, seeking the whereabouts of his missing loved ones. He is joined by a new companion, as they work together to uncover the conspiracy behind a mysterious organization.
The Color Rush sequel comes with many changes, including a charismatic love interest and his excellent rapport with the protagonist. Unfortunately, the overambitious storylines don't always translate well, limited by noticeable budget constraints and rough writing. I still like this BL drama despite its flaws, and the innovative plot continues to fascinate me.
- Mystery
- Dark & toxic
- 8 episodes
- 2 hours
First Love Again (2022)
First Love Again is a Korean fantasy BL series about a reincarnated man searching for his long-lost love. The protagonist is a famous author who carries the memories from his two previous lives. He fell in love with the same woman both times, but their romance always met a tragic end. The main character is determined to reunite with her again in the present timeline. Yet, he is shocked to discover his former lover has reincarnated as a man.
The fascinating premise behind First Love Again hooks me from the start. I love the ambitious and innovative concept of this transhistorical romance. Regrettably, the BL romance is clunky and doesn't develop at a comfortable pace. What could have been an epic love story falls flat and feels ingenuine.
- Fantasy
- Deep & mature
- 6 episodes
- 3 hours
Happy Ending Romance (2022)
Happy Ending Romance is a Korean BL series about a love triangle between two authors and a book publisher. The main character used to be a famous writer until he crossed a powerful enemy. Since then, his career and reputation have plummeted. He meets the owner of a small publishing house, who admires his talent and wants to release his next book. Yet, they face many setbacks, especially from the protagonist's meddling boyfriend.
I was often frustrated and bored with the book publication storyline in Happy Ending Romance. This dramatic plot becomes tedious as it progresses, overshadowing the romantic content. Fortunately, one of the leads exudes an overpowering charm. His bubbly enthusiasm elevates the entire series. Every time I look at his heartwarming smile, I forget all my complaints about the narrative.
- Drama
- Sad & emotional
- 8 episodes
- 4 hours
Kissable Lips (2022)
Kissable Lips is a Korean BL drama about vampires. The main character is a dying vampire who suffers from deteriorating health. According to urban legend, his only way to stay alive is by drinking the rare blood of a human lover. Against the odds, he meets somebody with this blood type, forming a whirlwind romance that takes them on a turbulent journey.
Although the production values are solid, Kissable Lips suffers from a convoluted story and a shallowly depicted romance. The characters behave as if they experienced an epic relationship journey when we see nothing of the sort. As the plot deteriorates rapidly, the last few episodes are dull, nonsensical, and almost unwatchable.
- Horror
- Sad & emotional
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
Love Class (2022)
Love Class is a Korean BL series about the romance between two university students. The leads attend the same class, paired together for a group project. Initially, the main character has a crush on his pretty female friend. However, he grows confused about his feelings after spending more time with his male classmate.
I enjoyed Love Class at first, which impressed me with its colourful cast, elegant aesthetic, and vibrant atmosphere. However, each episode goes on a steady decline. I became increasingly fed up with the frustrating characters, obnoxious love triangles, and incessant melodrama. Almost everything annoyed me, including the tedious finale.
- School romance
- Spicy & romantic
- 6 episodes
- 2 hours
Ocean Likes Me (2022)
Ocean Likes Me is a Korean BL series about a restaurant by the beach. The main character relocates to a seaside community by himself and wants to open his own udon shop. He struggles to attract customers to his new business until a fateful encounter with a quirky free spirit. As they work together, the store and their relationship steadily gain momentum.
I enjoy Ocean Likes Me, even though this criminally underrated BL drama doesn't have the best reputation among fans. I'm won over by the cute romance, the engaging story, and the two fabulous leads. The dumb jokes and ridiculous scenarios circle back to being hilarious. Maybe it loses points for the bizarre ending, but almost everything else is charming and delightful.
- Romance
- Happy & funny
- 8 episodes
- 2 hours
Oh! Boarding House (2022)
Oh! Boarding House is a quirky Korean BL comedy series. The goofy protagonist is a landlord who lives with the other eccentric characters in a boarding house. When a handsome tenant moves into the residence, the landlord becomes smitten with the new arrival. The two men begin as awkward acquaintances, but they soon develop a solid connection.
I like the goofiness in Oh! Boarding House. This lighthearted comedy can be silly, upbeat, and endearing at times. However, the aimless plots and pointless scenes are the signs of an unpolished script. The romance is also lacklustre and I don't feel engaged by this BL couple.
- Comedy
- Happy & funny
- 8 episodes
- 2 hours
Oh! My Assistant (2022)
Oh! My Assistant is a Korean BL comedy series about a webtoon artist and his new employee. The protagonist draws for a living and recently hires a assistant to help with his projects. Romantic feelings develop as they work together day and night. However, the characters don't know if their crush is reciprocated. They must navigate their attraction and confusion in many funny situations.
The first half of Oh! My Assistant is silly, energetic, and hilarious. It demonstrates a delightful sense of humour, combining goofy characters and naughty scenarios with surprisingly astute LGBT themes. Yet, the plot takes a sharp nosedive during the last few episodes. As the ridiculous story becomes unbearably dumb, you'll almost forget all the charming qualities in the beginning.
- Comedy
- Happy & funny
- 8 episodes
- 2 hours
Once Again (2022)
Once Again is a Korean fantasy BL series about going back in time to stop a murder. The main character was almost kidnapped by a child abductor fifteen years ago. A young man saved him, but this hero lost his life during the rescue. The adult protagonist is traumatized until he discovers the ability to revisit the past. He feels determined to change the timeline and stop the tragedy before it unfolds.
Backed by an innovative premise, Once Again shines on a few occasions with sentimental moments and genuine performances. The series knows how to maximize the emotions from its poignant storyline. Yet, the narrative struggles with many plot holes and pacing issues. The awkward romance also develops incoherently, producing an unsatisfying BL couple.
- Fantasy
- Sad & emotional
- 8 episodes
- 3 hours
Roommates of Poongduck 304 (2022)
Roommates of Poongduck 304 is a Korean BL series about an office worker, his boss, and their odd living arrangement. The main character is a marketing intern who lives by himself. His friend slyly recruits a tenant and collects the rent money. Due to the misunderstanding, the two roommates clash and form an awful first impression. Later, the protagonist is mortified after learning his houseguest has become his new manager at work.
Surprisingly, Roommates of Poongduck 304 becomes a fun, lighthearted workplace romance after a rocky start. I wasn't fond of power dynamics at the beginning. Seeing a boss mistreat his employee isn't my idea of entertainment. Over time, I warmed up to the couple, their humourous interactions, and the charismatic leads. This BL series blends charm and comedy into a winning combination.
- Office romance
- Happy & funny
- 8 episodes
- 4 hours
Semantic Error (2022)
Semantic Error is a Korean BL series about two feuding university students. A serious programmer and a rebellious artist clash over a school project. Their animosity keeps escalating to new extremes, defined by petty pranks and feisty arguments. When their vendetta starts to dissolve, the characters discover their feelings for each other are a lot more complicated.
Many BL fans will adore Semantic Error, a sharp and stylish drama that knows how to tell an engaging story. The volatile relationship dynamic is full of adrenaline, propelled by sassy protagonists, snappy exchanges and sizzling chemistry. This exciting romance builds momentum from episode to episode, leading to a phenomenal climax that takes my breath away.
- School romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 3 hours
The Director Who Buys Me Dinner (2022)
The Director Who Buys Me Dinner is a Korean BL series about an office romance with a fantasy twist. The protagonist is supposed to start his dream job. Unexpectedly, he transfers departments and becomes the company director's personal assistant instead. His new boss reveals they used to share a complicated past. The two characters begin meeting for dinner as they navigate their ambiguous relationship.
At times, The Director Who Buys Me Dinner is impressive due to its creativity. This innovative series amuses me with its unpredictable twists and entertaining scenarios. However, the clunky narrative doesn't flow smoothly. It's like watching random events pieced together instead of a cohesive story. I also find the romance lacklustre. Even though the actors look good together, their characters don't forge a persuasive connection.
- Fantasy
- Wild & intense
- 10 episodes
- 3 hours
The New Employee (2022)
The New Employee is a Korean BL series about a marketing intern, his boss, and their office romance. The main character begins an internship at an advertising company. He works under a strict supervisor known for his demanding work ethic. Although their relationship doesn't have the best start, they warm up to each other. Soon, the two colleagues must navigate a budding attraction as they work closely together.
The lead actors of The New Employee are attractive studs who form a handsome couple. At times, I can see glimpses of potential in their mature workplace romance. However, the characters fall in love too promptly instead of building up to a passionate journey. Also, this unexciting BL series is low on energy and doesn't inspire enthusiasm. The mundane story is missing a touch of dramatic flair.
- Office romance
- Cute & sweet
- 7 episodes
- 3 hours
To My Star 2 (2022)
To My Star 2: Our Untold Stories is the second season of the Korean BL series, To My Star. This sequel continues the romance between a famous actor and an ordinary chef. However, the couple is no longer together at the beginning of the story. A year after their heartbreaking separation, the devastated protagonist seeks answers from his missing ex-boyfriend.
Improving upon the original series, To My Star 2 feels like a remarkable departure from the simplistic first season. The sequel contains richer backstories, more character development, and complex relationship dynamics. It explores a couple's poignant break-up with intrigue, intimacy, and intense emotions. To My Star has matured into a sophisticated BL drama that unfolds in a riveting journey.
- Romance
- Sad & emotional
- 10 episodes
- 5 hours
Korean BL Dramas in 2021
Behind Cut (2021)
Behind Cut is a Korean BL series that focuses on an aspiring fashion designer. As the protagonist tries to break into the competitive industry, he searches for the perfect model to represent his clothes. Contrary to professional standards, he recruits an inexperienced newcomer. The two characters form a romantic connection as they pursue their careers together.
The problem with Behind Cut is its mediocrity across the board. The flat storytelling, dull character development, and rushed romantic content are unremarkable. While the overall product is still watchable, this milquetoast BL drama fails to excite me and feels average at best.
- Romance
- Nice & gentle
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
Light On Me (2021)
Light On Me is a Korean BL drama that takes place in an all-boys high school. The main character is a lonely outcast until he joins the school's student council. Although he is welcomed by a new group of friends, there's one particular student who clashes with him and makes his life more volatile. As they get to know each other better, the line between their feud and friendship becomes blurred.
Recommended for BL fans, Light On Me is an incredibly bubbly series packed with lots of vibrant charisma. This innocent high school romance is supported by its charming story, the captivating characters, and a perpetually cheerful energy. You'll have fun throughout the sixteen half-hour episodes, which are capped off with a sweet and satisfying conclusion.
- School romance
- Cute & sweet
- 16 episodes
- 7 hours
My Sweet Dear (2021)
- Romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
Nobleman Ryu's Wedding (2021)
Historical BL dramas are very rare, and the unique setting in Nobleman Ryu's Wedding is a major selling point for this innovative Korean series. The story begins on the day of an arranged marriage, except the runaway bride got cold feet on her wedding day. In an unconventional arrangement, the bride's brother will impersonate her and pretend to be loved-up newlyweds in front of the groom's family.
I wanted to like Nobleman Ryu's Wedding so badly. The historic setting is exciting, the premise is completely unique, and the actors are all familiar faces that I recognize from other Korean BL dramas. Unfortunately, the romance is just too lacklustre, while the story failed to capitalize on its immense potential. This series is a promising start for the genre, but there's a lot of room for improvement.
- Historical
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
Peach of Time (2021)
Peach of Time is a Korean BL drama with a mix of family melodrama and sweet romance. The main character is from Thailand and visits South Korea to meet up with his friend. However, what was supposed to be a fun casual vacation gets derailed by an unpleasant and unexpected discovery. The protagonist becomes entangled in a series of extraordinary events with a supernatural twist.
I like the ambition shown by Peach of Time, an adventurous series that tells a complex story beyond the confines of BL. Although it gets points for trying, the plot feels too contrived and the emotions don't connect as well as they should. This drama shines in a few moments and falls flat at other times, resulting in just an okay viewing experience for me.
- Supernatural
- Sad & emotional
- 10 episodes
- 4 hours
The Tasty Florida (2021)
- Romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
Tinted With You (2021)
Tinted With You is a historical BL series from South Korea. The protagonist is a high school student who gets magically transported to the feudal period. Confused by his surroundings, he encounters a banished prince and his devoted bodyguard. The three characters live together, getting entangled in a love triangle.
While Tinted With You shows ambition and creativity with its premise, the story is told incoherently. It doesn't have enough time to flesh out the plot, develop the characters, or expand on the romance. This historical drama underwhelms me with its awkward narrative, even if the BL content is sometimes compelling.
- Historical
- Nice & gentle
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
To My Star (2021)
To My Star is a Korean BL drama about a famous celebrity who goes into hiding after he’s rocked by a public scandal. In his hideout, he gets acquainted with his new roommate, an ordinary man who leads a modest, unassuming life. As they spend time together, a romance blossoms between these two roommates from very different walks of life.
Carried by an energetic lead actor, To My Star puts a fun, vibrant spin to a classic and familiar love story. The plot plays out exactly as you'd expect, but it remains enjoyable nonetheless. Overall, this BL series feels solid and well-rounded in every aspect.
- Romance
- Cute & sweet
- 9 episodes
- 2 hours
You Make Me Dance (2021)
You Make Me Dance is a Korean BL drama about a student dancer. He forms an unlikely romance with his loan shark. Yes, you read that right. He falls in love with the guy who chases him over his debt payments. Even for the BL genre, this pairing seems like such an odd combination between two characters from different walks of life.
Unfortunately, I didn't like You Make Me Dance very much. The plot was too farfetched, the characters were too shallow, and the romance was too random. It's impossible to feel immersed in this absurd and poorly written story.
- Romance
- Spicy & romantic
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
Korean BL Dramas in 2020
Color Rush (2020)
- Fantasy
- Dark & toxic
- 8 episodes
- 2 hours
Mr. Heart (2020)
Mr. Heart is a Korean BL drama about a university athlete who competes in marathons. This upbeat love story begins when he’s introduced to a cute guy who motivates him to do better, and you can pretty much guess what happens next.
Actually, this series does take a sudden dramatic turn in its second half, but it remains fairly lighthearted for the most part. Mr. Heart doesn’t exactly break new ground, but it’s a pleasant BL series with enough delightful moments to satisfy your appetite.
- School romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
Sweet Munchies (2020)
Sweet Munchies is a Korean drama featuring a restaurant chef, who pretends to be gay in order to land a lucrative TV hosting gig. As the show becomes popular, he struggles to cope with his lie when romantic feelings grow towards his female producer. Meanwhile, he is unaware that his male friend has a crush on him, creating a love triangle made complicated by the public spotlight.
The best way to enjoy Sweet Munchies is to keep your expectations low, especially in terms of anticipating any meaningful LGBT representation. Although this series displays rare moments of brilliance, the quality is inconsistent as the plot gets more and more infuriating near the end.
- Non-BL drama
- Spicy & romantic
- 12 episodes
- 13 hours
Where Your Eyes Linger (2020)
Where Your Eyes Linger is a Korean BL drama about a wealthy student and his devoted live-in bodyguard. Their close adolescent friendship intensifies over time, complicated by a love triangle and family disapproval. The two characters must navigate through their coy, confusing, and complicated feelings for each other.
The elegantly simple Where Your Eyes Linger tells a compelling teenage story. The narrative is packed with meaningful melodrama and heightened emotions, conveyed powerfully by the talented actors. If you love BL, this satisfying series is among the best in the genre.
- School romance
- Sad & emotional
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
Wish You (2020)
WISH YOU: Your Melody From My Heart is a Korean BL drama about an aspiring musician at the start of a promising career, and the obstacles that he faces along the way. Wish You was initially released as an eight-episode BL series, but was also released in a movie version, which came out later. Apparently, the movie has some extra scenes, but it’s pretty much the same content as the series, just combined into one big package.
Wish You is packaged very well with beautiful cinematography and lovely music, but the romance here is severely lacking in depth. You’ll get all style and no substance in this very basic love story.
- Romance
- Cute & sweet
- 8 episodes
- 90 mins
Korean BL Dramas Pre-2020
Long Time No See (2017)
Long Time No See is a Korean BL drama about an assassin whose life changes course after he falls in love. The drama was originally released as a short five-episode series, but there’s also a movie version available with the same content.
Although Long Time No See is slightly rough around the edges, it tells a super ambitious story backed by solid acting performances. There are some creative ideas and pleasant surprises found in this little gem of a series.
- Crime
- Dark & toxic
- 5 episodes
- 75 mins