Unforgettable Romantic Journeys: 23 Irresistible K-Dramas About Love Blossoming with the Boss

Summary

K-dramas offer a variety of themes, including boss and employee dramas with love stories that hook audiences with dynamic storylines.

Popular K-dramas like Extraordinary Attorney Woo and Pachinko can easily be accessed through streaming platforms such as Viki and Netflix. These shows, including Romance Is A Bonus Book and Radio Romance, captivate viewers with their distinctive storylines and captivating portrayals of workplace romances between employees and their bosses.

K-dramas offer viewers a variety of themes to satisfy their interests, including boss and employee dramas with a touch of romance. From suspenseful thrillers to beloved love stories, there is something for everyone. Although it may be a guilty pleasure, many enjoy the allure of a love story involving a boss and a subordinate. Whether it's the tale of a timid newcomer who catches the attention of a handsome and wealthy CEO or a power dynamic that is flipped, K-dramas have a knack for captivating audiences with their engaging plots.

If you're in search of some new K-dramas to add to your watch list, look no further. As streaming platforms like Viki and Netflix make shows like Extraordinary Attorney Woo and Pachinko easily accessible, K-dramas are gaining even more popularity. These shows are known for their diverse storylines and ability to transcend genres, but nothing quite captures the heart like a classic love story. Workplace romances between employees and their superiors are a particular favorite, guaranteed to keep viewers hooked.

Romance Is A Bonus Book (2019)

Stream Romance is a Bonus Book on Netflix. This unique boss and employee drama sets itself apart with its unconventional premise. Unlike typical stories, where a romance evolves between co-workers, this series takes a different approach. The characters in this show share a history that predates their professional relationship, adding an intriguing dynamic to the plot.

Cha Eun-ho, the chief editor and author, has been a close friend of Kang Dan-i, who has recently faced a series of unfortunate events due to her husband's infidelity. Despite harboring unexpressed emotions for her, Cha Eun-ho's sentiments and their professional dynamics become intricate when she secures a temporary role at his publishing company. This heartwarming tale beautifully showcases the unexpected twists and turns that life brings.

Radio Romance (2018)

Available to stream on Kocowa

Radio Romance revolves around the daily operations of a radio station. The main character, Kim So-hyun, has been working as a writing assistant for a prolonged period due to her lack of skills for advancement. Determined to save her program from cancellation, she takes the bold step of hiring the renowned actor, Yoon Doo-joon. However, complications arise as her scripts are not always up to par, and the actor struggles without a proper script. Their working relationship becomes increasingly challenging, but there is potential for a deeper connection beyond their professional roles in this K-drama.

Crazy Love (2022)

Stream Crazy Love on Hulu, a captivating tale that follows a wealthy CEO (Kim Jae-wook) consumed by the fear of imminent murder, while his devoted secretary (Krystal Jung) uncovers her own limited time left. Despite his brilliance, the CEO's narcissistic reputation among colleagues and rivals remains intact, leaving his secretary to be the sole individual capable of enduring his antics. As part of his elaborate plans, she even consents to play the role of his girlfriend, further plunging into their tangled web of deceit.

The relationship between the two main characters is merely a fragment of the vast K-drama. This series intertwines revenge plots, corporate espionage, enemies turned lovers, and numerous other clichés, resembling a soap opera rather than a typical K-drama. It may appear overwhelming to include so many tropes, but somehow they harmonize together.

Suspicious Partner (2017)

Available to stream on Kocowa

This K-drama with an office romance theme offers a thrilling twist with added action. In addition to being a legal drama, it unveils a captivating plot where one of the main characters is accused of murder.

A prosecutor and a trainee join forces to solve a murder case, only to discover unexpected connections in their personal lives. Just as their feelings for each other start to blossom, one of them becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation. Balancing suspenseful mystery and a heartwarming love story, this series keeps viewers engaged.

Forecasting Love And Weather (2022)

Stream Park Min-young's latest romance K-drama on Netflix, where she takes the reins as the boss in a unique boss-employee relationship. Just as she secures a promotion, a fresh face, played by Song Kang, joins her team, and a surprising bond forms between them. It turns out, their ex-partners betrayed them and ended up marrying each other.

Coffee Prince (2007)

They are inexplicably pulled towards each other, despite consistently clashing over their differing perspectives at work. As employees of the Korean Meteorological Association, their budding connection flourishes through the use of weather-related metaphors. Despite the surrounding drama, their evolving bond remains one of the most heartwarming aspects of the show.

Available to stream on Kocowa

In K-Dramas, it's quite common to come across the TV trope of gender-swapping. A perfect example of this can be seen in the popular K-drama Coffee Prince, which revolves around a love story between a boss and his employee. The story follows Go Eun-Chan (Yoon Eun-Hye), a vibrant woman who often presents herself as a male and is mistakenly hired by Choi Han Gyu (Gong Yoo), the grandson of a prominent coffee tycoon.

Realizing that she must conceal her true gender to maintain her employment, Eun-Chan goes to great lengths to keep up the charade. Coffee Prince achieved tremendous success in South Korea and has also enjoyed popularity in other Asian countries, such as Thailand and the Philippines, where local production studios have created their own adaptations of the show.

Business Proposal (2022)

Streamable on Netflix, "The K-Drama Business Proposal" revolves around a character assuming a false identity and represents one of the finest K-dramas depicting a workplace romance. Shin Ha-Ri (played by Kim Se-Jeong), a young woman, unwittingly substitutes her friend on a blind date, oblivious to the fact that her friend was arranged to meet her boss, Kang Tae-Moo (portrayed by Ahn Hyo-Seop).

Don’t Dare To Dream (2016)

The source material of Business Proposal, a webtoon, raised concerns among many TV critics who perceived it as lacking strength and being filled with clichés. However, thanks to the captivating performances of its charismatic leads, a compelling and uncomplicated storyline, and a refreshing touch of lighthearted romance, the show has proven itself to be one of the top K-Dramas of 2022.

Currently not available for streaming, this K-drama follows the story of Pyo Na-Ri, a temporary weather forecaster at a TV station. Na-Ri has harbored a crush on her superior and colleague, Lee Hwa-Shin, who has consistently shown arrogance and treated her harshly. This engaging series explores the dynamics of their complicated relationship.

Oh My Ghost (2015)

Hwa-Shin’s sentiments towards Na-Ri take a turn as soon as an intriguing gentleman by the name of Go Jung-Won (Go Kyung-Pyo) exhibits a keen interest in the adored weather forecaster. Don’t Dare to Dream received praise for its exploration of journalistic ethics, its witty humor, and its heartfelt romantic moments.

Available to stream on Viki

Oh My Ghost is a renowned supernatural drama and one of the top K-dramas depicting a romance between an employee and her boss. The story revolves around three main characters, with the central love story unfolding between a timid young woman and her boss, a renowned chef. However, there's a twist. Na Bong-Sun (played by Park Bo-Young) not only harbors a huge crush on her boss but also possesses the ability to see spirits.

One fateful day, Bong-Sun becomes possessed by a spirited and rebellious young female ghost who believes that losing her virginity is the only way to move on to the afterlife. Now under the ghost's influence, Bong-Sun undergoes a striking transformation, evolving into a confident and vibrant woman who captivates her boss's attention.

Radiant Office (2017)

Content available for streaming on Kocowa.

Radiant Office, a 2017 drama, offers a delightful boss-employee storyline and is considered one of the top K-dramas centered around falling in love with the boss. Eun Ho-Won (portrayed by Go Ah-Sung) finds herself in a desperate situation, searching for employment and even contemplating suicide. However, fate takes a surprising turn when she not only survives but also secures a job opportunity.

With a newfound sense of purpose, Ho-Won dives headfirst into her new job. Seo Woo-Jin, her superior and boss, finds her to be quite a nuisance and they constantly clash. However, their unconventional relationship has the potential to evolve into something more.

Protect The Boss (2011)

Available to stream on Viki

This K-drama stands out from others in its portrayal of a boss-employee romance. Protect the Boss revolves around Cha Ji-Heon (played by Ji Sung), a director at DN Group known for his immaturity. His life takes a turn when he encounters Noh Eun-Seol (played by Choi Kang-Hee), his new secretary.

Eun-Seol is determined to succeed in her first professional job and puts in her utmost effort. Her warm and lively personality begins to captivate Ji-Heon. But things get even more interesting with the introduction of Cha MuWwon (played by Kim Jae-Joong), Ji-Heon's cousin and rival, setting up a compelling love triangle.

Master's Sun (2013)

Stream Master's Sun on Viki, a captivating K-drama that combines supernatural elements and an intriguing employee-boss dynamic. Following a peculiar accident, Tae Kong-Shil (Gong Hyo-Jin) acquires the uncanny capability to see ghosts. Hindered by her unique abilities, she struggles to secure a stable occupation. Find her working as a cleaning lady at Kingdom's shopping mall, which belongs to a prominent conglomerate.

Jugglers (2017)

Upon their initial encounter, Long-Shil finds herself in the presence of Joo Joong-Won, the company's exceptionally frosty and aloof CEO, portrayed by the talented So Ji-Sub. Surprisingly, an extraordinary twist of fate unfolds, as the mere touch of Long-Shil's hand causes the apparitions to vanish into thin air. Despite Joong-Won's reluctance, he eventually agrees to stick around and support her in recovering a treasured possession that was stolen from him.

Available to stream on Viki

2017 witnessed the rise of a plethora of captivating K-dramas centered around boss-employee relationships, making it a great year for binge-watching. Jugglers, in particular, embraced this trend by delving into the story of a secretary and her seemingly cold-hearted boss. Known as one of the finest K-dramas that explores the theme of falling in love with one's boss, Jwa Yoon-Yi (played by Baek Jin-Hee) is portrayed as a dedicated and conscientious secretary whose life takes a shocking turn when her boss's wife accuses her of engaging in an affair with her husband.

On the other hand, Nam Chi-Won (played by Daniel Choi) is appointed as the managing director at Yoon-Yi's company, consequently becoming her new boss. As Yoon-Yi assumes the role of his secretary, a complicated dynamic begins to develop between them. Chi-Won, haunted by a childhood trauma, exhibits a stoic and uninterested demeanor in socializing. However, after Yoon-Yi becomes inebriated at a dinner party, Chi-Won accompanies her home and makes the startling realization that she resides in the very place where his own traumatic past took place. Witnessing the 'tenant wanted' sign posted on her door, he seizes the opportunity to become her neighbor, hoping to confront and ultimately overcome his haunting past.

My Secret Romance (2017)

Streamable on Roku, this captivating K-drama delves into the intricate dynamics between an employee and their boss, throwing them into a whirlwind when their paths cross again three years after a steamy one-night stand. As Lee Yoo-Mi, portrayed by the talented Song Ji-Eun, grapples with her insecurities and obligations to her mother's wedding, fate reunites her with Cha Jin-Wook (played by Sung Hoon), who not only becomes her superior but also ignites a powerful connection that defies their initial animosity when they first met.

Yoo-mi remains oblivious to his true identity and hastily escapes the following morning. Several years later, she lands a job as his personal nutritionist. Jin-Wook, having transformed his life since that fateful night, assumes control of his father's company and never lets go of his memories of Yoo-mi. He embarks on a mission to charm her and coax out her hidden emotions for him. Intertwined in this narrative is a subplot regarding Yoo-mi's younger brother, amplifying the mystery surrounding his biological father.

Rich Man (2018)

Available to stream on Viki

Rich Man is notable for its original Japanese television drama version, Rich Man, Poor Woman, which has gained popularity. A remarkable K-drama remake of the series, released in 2018, depicts a unique storyline revolving around a boss-employee romantic relationship. The male protagonist, being the CEO of a renowned IT company, possesses a facial recognition disability hindering him from recognizing his first love. During an employee recruitment gathering, he becomes intrigued by a young woman who possesses a remarkable photographic memory and confidently stands up to the CEO's harsh behavior. Fascinated by her, he ultimately hires her as an employee to assist him in running the company.

Strong Girl Bong-Soon (2017)

Stream Strong Girl Bong-Soon on Viki, a beloved K-drama that explores the captivating theme of romance blossoming between an employee and their boss. This enthralling series revolves around a young girl who possesses extraordinary superhuman strength, inherited as a family characteristic, resulting in an engrossing and engaging storyline.

My Shy Boss (2017)

After standing up to a group of bullies, she catches the attention of a wealthy CEO from a renowned gaming company. As her affection develops for a close friend, she begins to question her true emotions. Simultaneously, she takes on the responsibility of safeguarding her CEO from a potential danger and kidnapper. The show's delightful comedy and relatable themes make it an excellent choice for those new to the K-Drama genre.

Available to stream on Tubi

Sometimes, the most peculiar attraction occurs between individuals with polarizing qualities. "My Shy Boss" or "Introverted Boss" narrates the tumultuous connection between a CEO and his fresh recruit. Ranked among the finest K-dramas depicting a blossoming romance between an employee and her superior, the CEO of a public relations agency defies expectations.

In contrast to assumptions, he possesses an introverted disposition, exhibits shyness, displays sensitivity, and appears distant. Conversely, the company appoints a new employee who embraces extroversion, exudes vivacity, and fearlessly expresses her thoughts. Intrigued by the CEO, she yearns to unravel his true identity concealed beneath his composed facade.

Lucky Romance (2016)

Streamable on Viki, Lucky Romance guarantees hilarity with its unique shenanigans. This K-drama revolves around a 26-year-old alluring yet superstitious woman who firmly believes she was cursed with misfortune since birth. Taking every possible precaution, she even seeks guidance from a shaman regarding her sister's predicament. The solution? She must find a man born in the Year of the Tiger and spend a night with him to break the spell.

Level Up (2019)

In her quest to save her sister, Shim Bo-Nui (Hwang Jung-Eum) encounters a CEO and brilliant game developer who perfectly meets her requirements. Although their personalities clash, Shim Bo-Nui remains resolute in her mission, even if it means charming her boss. This unique twist on an employee-boss relationship is truly captivating.

Available to stream on Viki

Level Up is a captivating K-drama that intricately weaves together elements of a traditional boss-employee narrative with a touch of drama. It stands out as one of the finest examples of a romantic story that revolves around falling in love with one's boss. The chief executive officer depicted in the series possesses a distinctive expertise in reviving faltering companies. Despite grappling with past childhood trauma related to gaming, he fearlessly embarks on the challenge of rejuvenating a company named Joybuster.

Assuming the role of the company's new CEO, he soon crosses paths with the head designer. Sparks fly as a passionate and charming young woman finds herself at odds with a cold and methodical boss. Will they manage to set their differences aside, collaborate on creating a remarkable new game, and potentially discover love in the process?

Hotel Del Luna (2019)

Stream Hotel Del Luna, a beloved K-drama on Netflix, which captivates audience with its unique love story between an employee and her boss. This captivating romantic series, infused with fantasy elements, follows the journey of Jang Man-Wol (portrayed by Lee Ji-Eun), a brooding and ill-tempered owner of Hotel Del Luna, who has been managing the hotel for thousands of years. Witness her transformation as she seeks redemption and strives to improve her disposition.

The hotel is exclusively visible to spirits, apparitions, and mortal beings during specific periods throughout the year. When a new general manager takes charge of the hotel as a result of a contract signed by his father, the situation becomes more intense. Gu Chan-sung (played by Yeo Jin-goo) is a composed individual with an MBA degree who must confront his deep-seated fear of ghosts. As he evolves, he undergoes a transformation that not only warms Man-Wol's heart but also ensures her safety.

She Was Pretty (2015)

Available to stream on Kocowa

Content must be written in English:

She Was Pretty is an exhilarating joyride that captivates viewers and stands out as one of the finest K-dramas exploring the dynamics of an employer-employee relationship. Fans of the acclaimed film Parasite will instantly recognize the lead actor in this captivating K-drama. The story revolves around two childhood friends who, as they grow older, find themselves on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of both success and physical appearance. Kim Hye-jin (played by the talented Hwang Jung-Eum) inherits her father's rosy cheeks and unruly hair, while Ji Sung-Joon (portrayed by the strikingly handsome Park Seo-Joon) transforms into a remarkably attractive man.

Determined to reconnect, Hye-jin hesitates when she witnesses the drastic changes that have occurred. However, Sung-Joon mistakenly believes her best friend to be Hye-jin, thus setting the stage for a fabricated love story. Unbeknownst to Sung-Joon, circumstances lead him to become Hye-jin's boss at the magazine company she works for. Will Sung-Joon recognize his first love and succumb to the overwhelming emotions that resurface? Or will Hye-jin's co-worker charm her away?

What's Wrong With Secretary Kim (2018)

Stream What's Wrong With Secretary Kim on Hulu. The show is considered one of the top K-dramas that delves into the intricacies of workplace romance, particularly when it comes to falling in love with the boss. Kim Mi-so, played by Park Min-young, has been Lee Young-Joon's, portrayed by Park Seo-Joon, trusted secretary for many years. However, her decision to quit her job doesn't sit comfortably with her stoic and business-minded boss.

Her Private Life (2019)

He begins to perceive her in a new way, transcending their professional relationship. Jealousy, romantic gestures, and a true change of heart unravel in his personal drama. Additionally, the passionate K-Drama showcases some sizzling moments. Young-Joon will stop at nothing to ensure Mi-so remains a part of his life.

Available to stream on Netflix

Park Min-Young returns as Sun Deok-Mi in Her Private Life, a captivating K-drama centered around an unconventional love story between an employee and her boss. This series stands out not only for its exceptional storyline but also for its adaptation from a beloved Korean webtoon. Deok-Mi, a highly respected art curator, carries a hidden passion that could potentially jeopardize her career at the museum. When the museum welcomes Ryan Gold, a renowned and retired artist, as their new boss, a rumor spreads about Deok-Mi's infatuation with a famous idol who also happens to be a client of the museum. In order to shield themselves from scrutiny, Gold and Deok-Mi decide to pretend to be in a relationship. However, as fake dating commences, genuine feelings between them begin to flourish. Deok-Mi finds herself torn between her fan page and her blossoming love for Gold, forcing her to confront her obsession and prioritize her happiness.

In the realm of K-dramas exploring the complex dynamics between employees and bosses, the options are vast and diverse. From action-packed dramas to heartwarming comedies and even supernatural tales, the Korean entertainment industry offers a wide range of shows to satisfy every viewer's preferences.