Top 15 Best Korean BL Dramas
Korean BL dramas, or Boys' Love dramas, are a genre of television shows that feature romantic relationships between male characters. They are popular among ... read more...fans of Korean culture, LGBTQ+ representation, and emotional storytelling. In this article, Toplist has introduced you to some of the best Korean BL dramas that you can watch online, and explained why they are worth your time.
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Light On Me is based on the boys-love dating sim mobile game of the same name by DAY7. It was directed by Um Ji-sun and written by Lee Ji-eum.
The series stars Lee Sae-on, Kang Yoo-seok, Choe Chan-yi, and Go Woo-jin. It tells the story of Woo Tae-kyung, an 18-year-old high school student who is a loner. He is encouraged to join the school's student council, where he meets Noh Shin-woo, the vice president, who is cold and distant toward him. However, Tae-kyung also meets the president of the council, Da On, who is warm and friendly. Tae-kyung begins to develop feelings for Da On, but Shin-woo does not approve.
Light On Me was praised for its heartwarming story and its realistic portrayal of teenage relationships. The series was also notable for being one of the first South Korean BL dramas to be broadcast on a major streaming platform.
- Release date: June 29, 2021
- Produced by: Viki, WhyNot Media
- Genres: Romance, Drama
- Director: Um Ji-sun
- Stars: Myungkyu Kim, Kang You-Seok, Lee Sae-on
- Number of episodes: 16
- IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/37454c-light-on-me
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Premiering on January 22, 2021, To My Star is a South Korean web series consisting of 10 episodes. The storyline intricately weaves the romantic narrative of Kang Seo Joon, a former superstar actor, and Han Ji Woo, a young chef. Despite their starkly different personalities, the two embark on a relationship, only to find their love tested when the fundamental disparities in their perspectives on life, love, and various aspects become apparent. The series delves into themes of love, personal growth, and identity, providing a unique exploration from a male standpoint.
To My Star has garnered acclaim for its adept portrayal of the challenges associated with leaving behind a former life and adopting a somewhat artificial, beautiful identity to secure societal acceptance. While asserting the universal concept that "love is love" with no regard to gender, the series notably sidesteps explicit discussions on homosexuality, potentially missing an opportunity to add depth to the love story of Seo Joon and Ji Woo.
Despite this, the series remains well-received, praised for its nuanced depiction of the complexities of love, personal transformation, and identity.
- Release date: January 22, 2021
- Produced by: Seezn
- Genres: Short, Drama, Romance
- Director: Hwang Da-Seul
- Stars: Son Woo-Hyun, Kim Kang-min, Jeon Jae Yeong
- Number of Episodes: 10
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
- Watch here: https://tinyurl.com/mu365duf
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Blueming, originating from a South Korean webtoon with the same title, unfolds as a captivating web series that premiered on March 31, 2022, spanning 11 episodes. The narrative centers around Cha Si Won, a college student fixated on the belief that popularity is reserved for the conventionally attractive. Si Won ardently pursues this ideal, meticulously adhering to a personal regimen and adopting a pleasant demeanor. However, his confidence is rattled when he encounters Hyeong Da Un, a seemingly perfect individual with impeccable looks, academic excellence, affluent lineage, and an amiable personality.
Delving into themes of popularity, beauty, family, and LGBTQ+ perspectives from a male vantage point, the series has garnered acclaim for its portrayal of the challenges associated with shedding one's old identity to adopt a somewhat artificial, beautiful facade for societal acceptance. While exploring the universal theme of "love is love," Blueming intentionally sidesteps explicit discussions on homosexuality, potentially missing an opportunity to add complexity to the love story between Si Won and Da Un.
In its entirety, Blueming stands out as a well-crafted series, offering a distinctive exploration of popularity, beauty, and identity. The positive reviews highlight its nuanced portrayal of the struggles associated with embracing a new persona and its universal message about the fluidity of love and acceptance.
- Release date: March 31, 2022
- Produced by: Kakao TV
- Genres: Youth, Romance, Drama
- Director: Hwang Da Seul
- Stars: Hyuk-Joon Jo, Eun-bin Kang, Kim Seon-hwa
- Number of episodes: 11
- IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
- Watch here: https://tinyurl.com/3pjkabet
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In the realm of Korean BL dramas, Where Your Eyes Linger stands as a groundbreaking masterpiece, captivating audiences with its heartwarming tale of friendship and burgeoning romance. Set against the backdrop of a high school world, the narrative revolves around Han Tae Joo, a chaebol heir yearning for freedom, and Gang Gook, his enigmatic bodyguard, who harbors a hidden affection for his charge.
Their paths intertwine as Tae Joo seeks to escape the suffocating confines of his privileged upbringing, drawn to Gook's carefree spirit and genuine demeanor. As their bond deepens, Tae Joo finds solace in Gook's presence, confiding in him his deepest fears and desires. Amidst their blossoming connection, challenges arise, testing the strength of their bond and forcing them to confront their true feelings for one another.
Where Your Eyes Linger asterfully captures the complexities of human emotions, portraying the characters' struggles with identity, societal expectations, and the yearning for genuine connection. The series delicately navigates the delicate themes of love and acceptance, showcasing the transformative power of human connection in a world often bound by societal norms.
- Release date: May 22, 2020
- Producer: WStory
- Genres: Short, Comedy, Drama
- Director: Han Sang-woo
- Stars: Han Gi-Chan, Eui-soo Jang, Choi Kyu-Ri
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/37111c-where-your-eyes-linger
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You Make Me Dance is a 2021 South Korean BL (boys' love) movie directed by So Joon Moon. The film stars Chu Young Woo as Song Shi On, an aspiring contemporary dancer who is thrown out of his family home after a fight with his father. He ends up sharing an apartment with Jin Hong Seok, a debt collector who gave up on his dream of becoming a pianist.
Shi On and Hong Seok initially clash, but they eventually develop a bond as they learn to accept each other for who they are. Hong Seok encourages Shi On to pursue his dream of dancing, and Shi On helps Hong Seok to rediscover his passion for music.
You Make Me Dance is a heartwarming and hopeful story about love, acceptance, and following your dreams. The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters and its exploration of universal themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery.
- Release date: February 25, 2021
- Produced by: WStory
- Genres: Short, Drama, Romance
- Director: Joon Moon So
- Stars: Hyung Hoon Won, Young Woo Chu, Gun-rak Park
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/37669c-you-make-me-dance
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Cherry Blossoms After Winter was based on the webtoon of the same name by Bamwoo. The drama is directed by Yoon Joon Ho and stars Kang Tae Oh as Seo Hae Bom, a chaebol heir yearning for freedom, and Jang Eui Soo as Jo Tae Seong, his enigmatic bodyguard who harbors a hidden affection for his charge.
Their paths intertwine as Hae Bom seeks to escape the suffocating confines of his privileged upbringing, drawn to Gook's carefree spirit and genuine demeanor. As their bond deepens, Hae Bom finds solace in Gook's presence, confiding in him his deepest fears and desires. Amidst their blossoming connection, challenges arise, testing the strength of their bond and forcing them to confront their true feelings for one another.
Cherry Blossoms After Winter masterfully captures the complexities of human emotions, portraying the characters' struggles with identity, societal expectations, and the yearning for genuine connection. The series delicately navigates the delicate themes of love and acceptance, showcasing the transformative power of human connection in a world often bound by societal norms.- Release date: February 24, 2022
- Produced by: WStory
- Genres: Drama, Romance
- Director: Yoon Joon Ho
- Stars: Jinwook Ok, Kang Hui, Hyunwook Kim
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
- Watch here: https://tinyurl.com/ycknce58
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Semantic Error is a 2022 South Korean cinematic creation directed by Kim Su Jeong, drawing inspiration from a well-established webtoon of the same name. Fronted by Park Seo Ham and Jae Chan Park, the storyline unfolds around Chu Sang Woo, a solitary junior majoring in computer science and identified as an ISTJ Logistician per the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).
The plot takes a turn when, during a university project, Chu Sang Woo's less motivated group members leave him to navigate the task solo. In an attempt to safeguard his work, he presents the project under his name alone, inadvertently triggering complications for Jang Jae Young, an ENFP MBTI senior student aspiring to study abroad.
The ensuing conflict between the meticulous Chu Sang Woo and the easygoing, popular Jang Jae Young leads to an unexpected twist as they are compelled to collaborate. Despite their contrasting personalities, a surprising attraction begins to emerge between the two. The film explores the complexities of interpersonal dynamics, contrasting personalities, and the unanticipated bonds that can form amid adversity.
Through its engaging narrative, Semantic Error navigates the intricacies of revenge, collaboration, and the subtle interplay of emotions, offering audiences a captivating cinematic experience that transcends the boundaries of a conventional romantic storyline.
- Release date: September 16, 2022
- Produced by: Raemongraein
- Genres: Web Drama, BL, Romance
- Director: Kim Soo-jung
- Stars: Park Seoham, Jae Chan Park, Ji-Oh Song
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/38375c-semantic-error
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Sing My Crush tells the story of Baram, the frontman of the band Ddara Baram, who learned from the painful failure of his first love that he should be cautious with his feelings and is now a decisive person. In truth, Baram's feelings for Hantae have already surpassed friendship, but he has not shown it. One day, when Baram becomes embroiled in a plagiarism controversy and his attitude becomes extremely negative, Hantae decides to help him in his own way.
Through Hantae's unwavering support, Baram begins to open up his heart and confront his feelings for Hantae. As they spend more time together, their bond deepens and they realize that their feelings for each other are more than just friendship.
However, their budding romance faces unexpected challenges as they confront personal insecurities and external pressures. Baram struggles to reconcile his feelings for Hantae with his own uncertainties about the future, while Hantae grapples with the weight of family expectations and the complexities of his past.
Despite the obstacles in their path, Baram and Hantae remain determined to fight for their love. Through their shared passion for music and their unwavering support for each other, they find the strength to overcome their fears and embrace their true feelings.
- Release date: August 2, 2023
- Produced by: Rakuten Viki
- Genres: Comedy, Music, Romance
- Director: So Joon Moon
- Stars: Do-yoon Jang, Hyun Woo Son, Koo Ja-Keon
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
- Watch here: https://www.iq.com/album/sing-my-crush-2023-mwwh6d0gf9
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Mr. Heart is a heartwarming tale of self-discovery and the transformative power of love. Sang Ha, a spirited member of the track team, embodies the essence of resilience despite his struggles with distance running. His infectious smile and unwavering positivity radiate through every step he takes.
When Jin Won, a star athlete burdened by the weight of expectations, finds himself in a slump, Sang Ha's presence becomes a beacon of light. Though initially met with indifference, Sang Ha's unwavering support and infectious enthusiasm gradually chip away at Jin Won's stoic façade, revealing a hidden yearning for connection.
As their bond deepens, they embark on a journey of mutual understanding and self-acceptance. Sang Ha's unwavering belief in Jin Won's abilities rekindles the athlete's passion, while Jin Won's newfound appreciation for Sang Ha's selfless support opens his heart to the possibility of love.
Mr. Heart transcends the realm of mere sportsmanship, weaving a narrative that resonates with universal themes of friendship, acceptance, and the transformative power of love. It's a story that reminds us that true victory lies not in achieving perfection but in embracing our imperfections and finding solace in the connections we forge along the way.
- Release date: November 20, 2020
- Produced by: Viki
- Genres: Short, Drama, Romance, Sport
- Director: Park Seon Jae
- Stars: Sejin Lee, Seungho Cheon, Shin Ae Moon
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/37272c-mr-heart
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Set against the backdrop of a bustling Chinese restaurant, The Tasty Florida unfolds as a heartwarming tale of love, friendship, and the pursuit of culinary dreams. Seo Hae Won, a fresh-faced college freshman, finds himself navigating the intricacies of his new guesthouse, where he encounters Florida Banjeom, a popular Chinese restaurant located on the rooftop.
Intrigued by the tantalizing aromas wafting from the restaurant, Hae Won finds himself drawn to the charismatic and enigmatic Baek Eun Gyu, the head chef of Florida Banjeom. As their paths intertwine, Hae Won discovers Eun Gyu's passion for culinary excellence and his unwavering dedication to his craft.
Amidst the sizzling pans and the rhythmic chopping of vegetables, a spark of undeniable attraction ignites between Hae Won and Eun Gyu. Their connection deepens as they share their dreams, aspirations, and vulnerabilities, fostering a bond that transcends the boundaries of their professional relationship.
However, their blossoming romance faces unexpected challenges as they confront personal insecurities and external pressures. Hae Won struggles to reconcile his feelings for Eun Gyu with his own uncertainties about the future, while Eun Gyu grapples with the weight of family expectations and the complexities of his past.
- Release date: September 23, 2021
- Produced by: WeTV
- Genres: Short, Romance
- Director: Yang Kyeong-hui
- Stars: Woo-min Cha, Hwan Yoo, Kang-Hyuk Moon
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/38119c-the-tasty-florida
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Long Time No See is a 2017 South Korean BL movie that tells the story of two men who are brought together by fate. Ha Soo, a renowned hitman known as "Flying Dagger," bumps into Han Gi, a hired assassin for mobster "Black Leopard." While both of them try to be incognito, they cannot help falling in love with each other. However, Han Gi has a secret that he couldn't confide in Ha Soo.
After all, Ha Soo and Han Gi reveal their secret identities to each other during the fight led by their bosses. They run into danger as gangsters brand them as traitors. Will they be able to overcome obstacles and keep their love?
Long Time No See is a well-made and emotional movie that will appeal to fans of the BL genre. The acting is strong, the chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, and the story is both heartwarming and suspenseful. The movie also features some beautiful visuals, which help to create a sense of atmosphere and mood.
- Release date: November 23, 2017
- Produced by: Strongberry
- Genres: Action, Drama, Romance
- Director: Kang Woo
- Stars: Seung Ho Yeon, Tak Woo-suk, Kim Myung-hwan
- Number of episodes: 5
- IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
- Watch here: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x8gzuv7
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Based on the web novel of the same name by Se Sang, Color Rush is a 2020 South Korean mystery romance movie produced by Viki, Story Wiz and Convergence TV. The movie stars Yoo Jun as Yeon Woo, a Mono who lives in a world where people can only see in shades of gray until they meet their destined Probe. When Yeon Woo meets Yoo Han, played by Hyun Jun, he is suddenly able to see color. This leads him to believe that Yoo Han is his destiny.
However, Yeon Woo's life is not as simple as it seems. He is also struggling to find out what happened to his missing mother. As he investigates his mother's disappearance, he uncovers a series of secrets that will change his life forever.
Color Rush is a heartwarming and suspenseful story about love, loss, and the power of destiny. With its beautiful visuals, charming characters, and intriguing plot, the movie is sure to appeal to fans of the BL genre.
- Release date: December 30, 2020
- Produced by: Convergence TV, Rakuten Viki, Story Wiz
- Genres: Drama, Mystery, Romance
- Director: Park Sun Jae
- Stars: Tae-ui Hong, Hyun Jun Heo, Seo Hoo Baek
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/37605c-color-rush
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In the captivating Korean romance My Sweet Dear, two chefs from contrasting culinary backgrounds clash in the heart of a bustling restaurant kitchen. Yoon Do Gun, a traditional and experienced chef, takes pride in his authentic flavors and time-honored techniques. On the other hand, Choi Jung Woo, a modern and innovative chef, embraces creativity and unconventional methods, seeking to push the boundaries of taste.
Their initial encounters are marked by friction and rivalry, as their opposing culinary philosophies and personalities collide. However, as they spend more time together, a spark of undeniable attraction ignites between them. Amidst the sizzling pans and aromatic spices, they begin to discover a deeper connection, transcending the boundaries of their professional differences.
Unbeknownst to Do Gun, Jung Woo harbors a secret that threatens to unravel their budding romance. As their feelings intensify and their paths intertwine, they must navigate the complexities of their professional lives and personal desires, confronting their own insecurities and vulnerabilities.Through the lens of their culinary passions, My Sweet Dear explores the themes of love, acceptance, and the pursuit of dreams. It captures the essence of finding common ground amidst differences, celebrating the beauty of unexpected connections.
- Release date: December 2, 2021
- Produced by: WStory
- Genres: Romance, Drama, Food, Youth
- Director: So Joon Moon
- Stars: Seung-Jun Oh, Seohu Jo, Eui-soo Jang
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/38032c-my-sweet-dear
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Tinted With You is a South Korean fantasy romance film released in 2021. Directed by Ra Ha Na and starring Yoo Hyun Woo and Park Jun Hee, the film follows the story of Eun Ho, a high school student with a passion for painting, who is unexpectedly transported back to the Joseon dynasty through a mysterious painting.
In the past, Eun Ho crosses paths with Lee Heon, the deposed crown prince who is living in exile. As they spend more time together, Eun Ho develops a deep connection with Lee Heon and begins to understand the weight of his responsibilities as the rightful heir to the throne.Determined to help Lee Heon reclaim his rightful place, Eun Ho uses his artistic talents to complete the mysterious painting, which holds the key to unlocking the path back to the present day. However, as the acting king grows increasingly desperate to eliminate the threat posed by Lee Heon, Eun Ho finds himself caught in a dangerous game of power and intrigue.
Tinted With You is a captivating tale of love, friendship, and the power of art to transcend time and space. With its stunning visuals, heartwarming performances, and thought-provoking themes, the film is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
- Release date: December 23, 2021
- Produced by: Viki
- Genres: Fantasy, Romance
- Director: Ra Ha Na
- Stars: Park Jun-Hee, Hyun Woo Yoo, Kim Tae-Jung
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/38120c-tinted-with-you
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Kissable Lips is a 2022 South Korean BL web series that tells the story of Jun Ho, a vampire who is about to die. To survive, he will need to drink pure blood and thus become a human. One day, while searching for this pure blood, he meets Min-hyun. But another vampire named Hae-soo, who knows about Jun's traumas, causes Min-hyun and Junho to fall out.
The series follows the relationship between Jun Ho and Min-hyun as they navigate their feelings for each other while also dealing with the challenges of being a vampire in the modern world. The series also explores themes of love, friendship, and acceptance.
Kissable Lips is a sweet and heartwarming BL series that is sure to appeal to fans of the genre. The series is well-acted and beautifully shot, and the chemistry between the two leads is undeniable. If you're looking for a cute and fun BL series to watch, Toplist highly recommends Kissable Lips.
- Release date: February 3, 2022
- Produced by: Viki
- Genres: Short, Fantasy, Romance
- Director: Yang Kyeong-hui
- Stars: Seobin Yoon, Ji Woong Kim, Jihoo Moon
- Number of episodes: 8
- IMDb Rating: 6.0/10
- Watch here: https://www.viki.com/tv/38365c-kissable-lips