Top 5 K-Drama Couples To Make Your Heart Flutter in 2023

In 2023, K-drama fans were treated to some of the most captivating and romantic couples yet, with sparks flying and palpable chemistry. From thrilling series like Mask Girl and The Worst of Evil, to heart-racing romances like Destined With You, streaming platforms delivered a plethora of compelling storylines. In the world of K-drama, the success of a series often hinges on the strength of its central couple.

Come and visit Samdal-ri, where a serendipitous encounter sparks the rekindling of a former couple's love long after they went their separate ways. Despite their initial hostility, they find that their enduring bond still exists amidst the memories of a past breakup. K-drama couples embody the classic tropes of the genre, from destined love and unwavering devotion, to the transformative power of love.

Which couples from the plethora of on-screen romances will leave a lasting impression on fans in 2023? Here are the top K-drama couples of the year.

5. Mi-hyun and Doo-shik (Moving)

Kang Full’s Moving delved into the emerging bond between two high school students with extraordinary abilities, as they unraveled the secrets of their parents’ history. However, viewers were captivated by the flashback sequences portraying the blossoming love story between Mi-hyun (Han Hyo-joo) and Doo-shik (Jo In-sung) while working for a government organization.

After a failed mission, Mi-hyun was reassigned to desk work but given the opportunity to redeem herself by getting close to the agency’s top agent, Doo-shik. Their love story unfolded from casual coffee machine conversations to a pure and innocent romance, despite Mi-hyun's secret mission. Doo-shik, aware of the situation, fell for her anyway, and their romance in Moving was heartfelt, even as Doo-shik became an enemy of the state. As they started a family, they were willing to do whatever it took to protect their son, even if it meant parting ways.

Moving is available on Disney+.

4. Sa-rang and Gu Won (King the Land)

Netflix’s drama "King the Land" was a mixed bag for fans. It received praise for including all the necessary romance tropes but ultimately fell short and felt a bit too predictable. Despite its flaws, fans couldn't help but agree that the 2023 K-drama featured one of the year's best couples.

The familiar story relied heavily on the chemistry between the main actors. Lee Jun-ho and Im Yoon-ah didn't disappoint, showcasing sizzling and natural chemistry both on and off-screen. Fans eagerly anticipated their connection after witnessing their performance of Camilla Cabello’s “Señorita” during a live broadcast.

King the Land's charming and effervescent hotel staffer, Sa-rang, was known for her infectious smile. Her path crossed with the hotel's heir, Gu-won, who, haunted by past trauma, was unwilling to smile. What started as a frigid and antagonistic dynamic blossomed into passionate love.

Gu-won and Sa-rang captivated fans with their longing glances and budding romance, all while concealing their relationship. Not to mention the sizzling kitchen kiss scene, the enchanting pool encounter, and much more.

King the Land is available on Netflix.

3. Yi-joo and Do-guk (Perfect Marriage Revenge)

In 2023, the surprise hit "Perfect Marriage Revenge" captured audiences' attention. The K-drama centers on painter Han Yi-joo (played by Jung Yoo-min), who was adopted into a wealthy family but never truly felt like part of it, particularly due to the mistreatment she received from her younger sister, Han Yoo-ra (played by Jin Ji-hee). Adding to the drama, Yi-joo is married to a man who is secretly in love with her sister. The plot takes a dramatic turn when Yi-joo tragically dies in an accident, only to wake up in the past during her engagement. Seeking retribution, she ends the engagement and approaches Seo Do-guk (played by Sung Hoon), the man her sister desires to marry, ultimately proposing a marriage contract.

The fake relationship blossomed into a genuine, heartfelt love, much to the delight of fans who adored the couple's seemingly flawless bond. Do-guk empathized with Yi-joo's fears and anxieties stemming from her family, and fans couldn't help but remember the touching gesture of him purchasing prepackaged food for her to ease her trauma of being intentionally made ill by her family. Yi-joo and Do-guk's romance ticked all the boxes, leaving fans beaming from ear to ear as it was the ultimate payback coupled with a happy ending.

Perfect Marriage Revenge is available on Viki.

2. Yi-chan and Cheong-ah (Twinkling Watermelon)

The 2023 K-drama "Twinkling Watermelon" featured one of the most beloved couples in teen coming-of-age romance. Prepare for a heartwarming and emotional story of young love and time travel. Eun-gyeol (Ryeoun) is a model student by day and a rocker by night. After discovering a music store, he travels back in time to 1995 and encounters his teenage father, Ha Yi-chan (Choi Hyun-wook).

However, Yi-chan is infatuated with a cellist and not his actual future mother. In an effort to ensure his own birth, Eun-gyeol attempts to bring them together, but encounters obstacles along the way. As with most romance K-dramas, the story concludes with a happy ending.

Viewers witness Yi-chan grappling with his emotions for his crush while also navigating Cheong-ah's hidden affection for him. The captivating tale of young love in Twinkling Watermelon unfolds as Cheong-ah, who is deaf, offers a unique perspective on the world. However, her condition also adds layers of complication to her relationship with Yi-chan.

Watch Twinkling Watermelon on Viki now.

1. Do-hee and Gu-won (My Demon)

The K-drama pair from the 2023 show has quickly become a fan favorite, earning the prestigious Best Couple award. My Demon, available on Netflix, has captivated viewers with its captivating fantasy plot and the romantic relationship between a demon and a chaebol heir.

Gu Won, a demon for 200 years, takes pleasure in striking deals with humans. Everything changes when he crosses paths with Do-hee. In a life or death encounter, his powers are transferred to her, forcing him to remain by her side to avoid vanishing. Do-hee, who lost her parents early in life and was taken in by a female CEO, forms a strong bond with Madam Jung. When Madam Jung unexpectedly passes away, Do-hee finds herself in a contract marriage with Gu Won. As danger looms, the demon begins to experience genuine human love.

The K-drama couple has been commended by fans for their perfect blend of humor, genuine affection for each other, their striking appearance, and their passionate kiss scenes that are top-notch. At the 2023 SBS Drama Awards, fans voted for the year's best couple and the lead actors of My Demon, Song Kang and Kim Yoo-jung, were recognized for their roles as Do-hee and Gu-won.

My Demon is available on Netflix.

Read more TV & Movies news here, K-drama content here, and Dexerto’s best 2023 K-dramas here.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I am thrilled to see the rise of K-drama couples in 2023. These couples have brought joy, excitement, and swoon-worthy moments to our screens. From the heartwarming chemistry of Mi-hyun and Doo-shik in "Moving" to the sizzling romance of Sa-rang and Gu Won in "King the Land," these couples have left a lasting impression on me.

The K-drama couples of 2023 have showcased a diverse range of dynamics, from enemies-to-lovers to destined soulmates. Each couple has brought its unique charm and chemistry to the forefront, making it difficult to choose a favorite. The actors' portrayal of these characters has been exceptional, bringing depth and authenticity to their on-screen relationships.