The year 2025 shines brightly for K-drama enthusiasts, offering a diverse collection of romantic stories that blend heartfelt emotions with unique storytelling. From youthful campus romances to mature second-chance love narratives, this year’s lineup caters to every romantic palate. Audiences can expect a mix of fantasy elements, culinary adventures, workplace dynamics, and historical backdrops, all woven into the intricate fabric of Korean drama magic. With seasoned actors like Kang Ha-neul, Park Bo-young, and IU returning to the screen alongside rising stars, these dramas promise unforgettable chemistry and depth. Whether you’re drawn to the melodic journey of university bands, the bittersweet reunion of past lovers, or love stories transcending life and death, 2025’s selections deliver creativity and emotional resonance. Available on global platforms like Netflix and Viki, these series ensure that romance fans worldwide can immerse themselves in beautifully crafted tales of love, growth, and redemption.
1. Spring of Youth
Spring of Youth is a heartwarming school romance premiering on May 6, 2025, on Netflix. The story follows Sa Gye, played by Ha Yoo Joon, a K-pop idol forced to attend university after being involved in a controversy. At university, he meets Kim Bom, portrayed by Park Ji-hu, a talented but shy musician. The drama centres around their journey as they join a coed band, navigating through love, competition, and personal healing. Seo Tae Yang (Lee Seung-hyub), another gifted musician who creates a complicated love dynamic, adds complexity to the romance. This university-set romance is perfect for viewers who enjoy coming-of-age stories combined with musical elements. The spring setting creates a beautiful backdrop for this youthful love story that explores themes of growth and second chances.
2. Second Shot at Love
Premiering on May 12, 2025, Second Shot at Love tells the story of two adults who reunite years after their first love ended. The drama stars Choi Soo Young as Han Geum Ju and Gong Myung as Seo Ui Jun in the leading roles. The storyline follows these two characters who get a “second shot” at love when they unexpectedly cross paths again, each carrying emotional scars from previous relationships. The series blends mature romance with themes of forgiveness and personal development, making it an engaging watch for viewers who enjoy more realistic love stories. Jo Yoon Hee and Kang Hyung Suk also join the cast as Han Hyeon Ju and Bong Seon Uk, adding depth to this exploration of second chances in love. This drama appeals to viewers who appreciate emotional depth and the complexity of adult relationships.
3. Tastefully Yours
Tastefully Yours combines culinary delights with heartwarming romance, premiering on ENA on May 12, 2025, with Netflix licensing. The drama stars Kang Ha-neul (who also appears in Squid Game season 2) and Go Min-si (from Sweet Home). The story revolves around two food enthusiasts whose paths intersect unexpectedly, leading them on a journey of self-discovery and love. The series explores how food can bring people together and heal past trauma, creating a rich narrative that appeals to both foodies and romance lovers. Following in the footsteps of other successful food-themed dramas like “Brewing Love” and “The Potato Lab,” this series combines countryside settings with the world of food and beverage executives for a delicious romantic experience.
4. Way Back Love
Way Back Love is a fantasy romance drama that premiered on April 3, 2025, and is available on Viki. The Korean title translates to “One Week Before I Die,” hinting at the drama’s unique premise. The story centres on Hee Wan, played by Kim Min Ha, who has isolated herself from society after losing her will to live. A week before her death, her childhood friend and first love Ram Woo (Gong Myoung) appears before her as a grim reaper. This supernatural romance offers a fresh take on love that transcends life and death. The fantasy elements add an interesting dimension to the romantic storyline, making it a must-watch for fans who enjoy supernatural elements in their romance dramas.
5. The Haunted Palace
The Haunted Palace is a unique romantic historical fantasy drama premiered in 2025, blending supernatural mystery with heartfelt romance. The story is set in the Joseon dynasty palace, where powerful female ghosts haunt the royal family, creating an eerie and suspenseful atmosphere. The drama follows Yoon Gap, a government officer who becomes possessed by a mystical creature called Imoogi. Yeo-ri, a skilled glass craftswoman and granddaughter of a famous shaman, refuses her inherited shamanic fate but must enter the haunted palace to save Yoon Gap. Alongside King Lee Seong, a reformist monarch, they confront vengeful spirits and unravel dark palace secrets.
6. Melo Movie
Melo Movie is a Valentine’s Day romance for film lovers released on Netflix on February 14, 20256. The drama stars Choi Woo-shik (from Parasite) and Park Bo-young (from Daily Dose of Sunshine) in a story that’s sure to appeal to movie enthusiasts. Choi plays Ko Gyeom, a movie buff turned critic, who crosses paths with Park’s character Kim Mu-bee, a director who entered the film industry due to a complex relationship with her father. The two reunite after years apart, setting the stage for a romance that’s as much about their love for cinema as it is about their feelings for each other. The drama is directed by Oh Choong-hwan, who has previously worked on popular shows like “Hotel de Luna” (2019) and “Start-Up” (2020). With its focus on movies and creative passions, this romance offers something different for viewers who appreciate stories about artists finding love.
7. When Life Gives You Tangerines
When Life Gives You Tangerines is a slice-of-life series that premiered on Netflix on March 7, 2025. The drama stars IU (from Hotel de Luna) and Park Bo-gum (known for Reply 1988 and Record of Youth). IU plays the younger version of Ae-sun, described as a bold “remarkable rebel,” while Park plays Gwan-sik, nicknamed “unyielding iron”. The story follows their relationship throughout four seasons in 1950s Jeju Island, a paradise known for its sprawling tangerine farms. This historical romance offers viewers a chance to experience love blossoming in the beautiful setting of Jeju Island. The period setting and the promised development of their relationship through different seasons add depth to this romantic journey.
Conclusion
The 2025 Korean drama lineup offers a rich variety of romantic stories, from youthful campus romances like “Spring of Youth” to mature second-chance love stories like “Second Shot at Love.” Whether you enjoy supernatural elements, food-centred narratives, workplace dynamics, artistic pursuits, or historical settings, a romantic K-drama awaits you this year. These dramas showcase why Korean romantic storytelling continues to captivate global audiences. With their emotional depth, engaging characters, and beautiful cinematography, they’re easily accessible to international viewers looking for their next romantic drama fix. Most of these dramas are available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Viki.