What to Watch Next

2018 Romantic Comedy Kdramas That Are Lesser Known

Binge-Worthy 2018 Romantic Comedy Kdramas: 12 Must-Watch Korean Romantic Comedies from 2018! In recent years, Korean dramas have taken the world by storm, captivating audiences with their unique blend of romance, comedy, and drama. 2018 was no exception, as a variety of romantic comedies captured the viewers’ hearts with their endearing characters, hilarious plotlines, and heartwarming moments.

Whether you’re new to the Korean drama scene or a seasoned fan, this list of 12 must-watch lesser-known romantic comedies from 2018 will provide you with the perfect binge-watching material for your next cozy night.

Top 12 Binge-Worthy Rom-coms of 2018

  1. ​The Undateables
  2. Radio Romance
  3. Two Cops
  4. Wok of Love
  5. About Time
  6. Rich Man
  7. Lovely Horribly
  8. Let’s Eat 3
  9. Your House Helper
  10. Devilish Joy​
  11. The Third Charm
  12. The Time

So grab some snacks, settle in, and get ready to fall in love with these delightful 2018 Romantic Comedy Kdramas!

Check out the links provided for your binge-watching pleasure!!!

What to Watch Next!!!

Looking for romantic comedy dramas about marriage? Here is a list of what to watch next: 10 Korean Dramas About Marriage that will tug at Your Heartstrings


01. The Undateables

TitleThe Undateables
Male LeadNamkoong Min as Kang Hoon-nam
Female LeadHwang Jung-eum as Yoo Jung-eum
WriterLee Jae-Yoon
Episodes32 Episodes | 35 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseMay 23 – July 19, 2018
GenreRomance Comedy
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Namkoong Min as Kang Hoon-nam 

Kang Hoon-nam is an elite and stylish magazine columnist who is confident in his knowledge about love and relationships. He believes he knows everything there is to know about dating. This is primarily because he has observed rather than personally experienced a genuine romantic relationship.

Hwang Jung-eum as Yoo Jung-eum

She is a passionate and enthusiastic former diving athlete turned matchmaker. She wants to find her clients’ true love, even if she’s somewhat unlucky in her own love life. Determined and spirited, she believes that love can be found for anyone.

Summary

Yoo Jung-eum is eager to get back into the dating scene after recovering from a heartbreak. She works as a matchmaker, committed to helping her clients find their perfect match. On the contrary, Kang Hoon-nam believes that true love is nothing more than a societal construct. He believes this even though he has no personal in-depth understanding of relationships.

Their worlds collide when Jung-eum seeks out Hoon-nam’s expertise to help her clients, especially the ones deemed ‘undateable.’ As they collaborate, the two find themselves entangled in a series of comedic and heartfelt situations. They are both challenged by their preconceived notions about love. Their opposing views create friction. As they spend more time together, the line between professional and personal begins to blur. Amidst their journey of helping the “Undateables” find love, they begin to question if they might be each other’s perfect match.

This delightful romantic comedy unfolds as two experts in love, each with their scars and stories, come together to discover the unpredictable nature of love and relationships.


02. Radio Romance

TitleRadio Romance
Male LeadYoon Doo-Joon as Ji Soo-ho
Female LeadKim So-Hyun as Song Geu-rim
WriterJeon Yu-ri
Episodes16 Episodes | 60 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseJanuary 29 – March 20, 2018
GenreRomance
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Yoon Doo-joon as Ji Soo-ho

Ji Soo-ho is a top actor with a flawless image on the outside. But unknown to the public, he harbors deep scars and a complicated family background. Despite his success on screen, he struggles with his personal life, especially when it comes to emotions and relationships.

Kim So-Hyun as Song Geu-rim

Song Geu-rim is an energetic radio show writer. She has always had an unparalleled passion for the medium, even though she is not particularly talented as a writer. She radiates positivity and has an innate ability to connect with people. This quality has made her perfect for the world of radio.

Summary

Song Geu-rim has always loved radio. Working as a writer for a radio show, she pours her heart and soul into her scripts. Even though she works very hard, her work isn’t considered up to the mark. When the show faces the threat of cancellation, a twist of fate brings top actor Ji Soo-ho on board as the new DJ.

However, there’s a catch: Ji Soo-ho has never done a live broadcast in his life. His entire career has been built on carefully scripted moments. He’s used to sticking to lines provided to him. This makes the unscripted world of radio a daunting challenge for him to undertake. Soo-ho and Geu-rim are forced to work closely together, despite their clashing personalities.

As they navigate the dynamic and unpredictable world of live broadcasting, past traumas, and personal secrets start to unravel. Their shared journey on the radio show becomes a therapeutic experience. They begin to help each other mend old wounds and lead them toward an unexpected romance.

“Radio Romance” beautifully captures the essence of traditional radio in the modern world. It highlights the power of voice, connection, and the unexpected twists of love.


03. Two Cops

TitleTwo Cops
Male Lead Jo Jung-suk as Cha Dong-tak / Gong Su-chang
Female LeadLee Hye-ri as Song Ji-an
WriterByun Sang-soon
Episodes32 Episodes | 35 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseNovember 27, 2017 – January 16, 2018
GenreRomantic comedy, Fantasy, Mystery, Action
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Jo Jung-suk as Cha Dong-tak / Gong Su-chang

A dedicated and strong-willed detective, Cha Dong-tak finds his life turned upside down when the spirit of a con artist, Gong Su-chang, possesses him. Now, with two minds in one body, Dong-tak must navigate the challenges of not only his detective work but also the antics of the mischievous Su-chang.

Lee Hye-ri as Song Ji-an

An ambitious and intrepid reporter, Song Ji-an is determined to uncover the truth in her stories. She becomes intricately linked with Cha Dong-tak. As their paths continue to cross, sparks begin to fly.

Summary

Detective Cha Dong-tak is known for his unwavering commitment to justice. However, his life takes a chaotic turn when the soul of a sly conman, Gong Su-chang, takes up residence in his body. While both men couldn’t be more different, they are forced to find a way to coexist in the same body. This often leads to hilarious situations. Dong-tak is used to his structured, no-nonsense life. He struggles to deal with the whims and unpredictabilities that Su-chang brings.

Song Ji-an, a passionate reporter, gets drawn into the peculiar world of Dong-tak and Su-chang. As she delves deeper into her stories, she often finds herself in tricky situations. The duo often come to her aid in their uniquely collaborative way.

As the trio works together in tackling criminal cases and uncovering corruption, they also delve into a more personal journey. They begin unraveling past mysteries, healing old wounds, and discovering love in the most unexpected places.

“Two Cops” offers a fresh twist on the classic crime genre, weaving in elements of fantasy, comedy, and romance. All while exploring themes of identity, partnership, and the lengths one will go to for justice and love.


04. Wok of Love

TitleWok of Love
Male LeadLee Jun-ho as Seo Poong; Jang Hyuk as Doo Chil-sung
Female LeadJung Ryeo-won as Dan Sae-woo
WriterSeo Sook-hyang
Episodes38 Episodes | 35 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseMay 7 – July 17, 2018
GenreDrama, Romance, Comedy
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Lee Jun-ho as Seo Poong

Seo Poong is a talented chef who once was the star of a prestigious hotel kitchen. He experiences a fall from grace and ends up running a small neighborhood Chinese restaurant.

Jang Hyuk as Doo Chil-sung

Doo Chil-sung is a lovable gangster recently released from prison. Despite his rough exterior, Chil-sung has a soft spot for Sae-woo and a hidden passion for food.

Jung Ryeo-won as Dan Sae-woo

Dan Sae-woo is a wealthy woman who once lived a life of privilege. After her life takes an unexpected turn, she discovers the joy of eating jajangmyeon (black bean sauce noodles). Soon after she starts working at Seo Poong’s restaurant.

Summary

“Wok of Love” is a delicious blend of romance, drama, and humor set against the backdrop of a bustling kitchen. Chef Seo Poong’s career takes a nosedive after a series of unfortunate events. This led him to take charge of a humble neighborhood Chinese restaurant. He is determined to reintroduce himself and his cooking skills to the world.

Dan Sae-woo, whose life shifts from luxury to uncertainty due to family circumstances, finds solace in the simple pleasure of food. This newfound appreciation brings her to Seo Poong’s restaurant. The uncertainty of her life led her to an unexpected career change.

Doo Chil-sung, the endearing gangster with a knack for getting into trouble, becomes infatuated with Sae-woo, while also forming an unlikely friendship with Seo Poong. The trio, each facing their challenges, come together in the chaotic world of the kitchen.

As they cook, serve, and eat, they navigate the complexities of love, ambition, and friendship. Through the highs and lows, the kitchen becomes a place of solace, growth, and unexpected love triangles.

“Wok of Love” serves up a delightful dish of life’s unpredictabilities and the magic that can be found within them. It reminds viewers that much like cooking, love, and friendship require the perfect mix of ingredients.


05. About Time

TitleAbout Time
Male LeadLee Sang-Yoon as Lee Do-ha
Female LeadLee Sung-kyung as Choi Michaela / Mika
WriterChu Hye-mi
Episodes16 Episodes | 60 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseMay 21 – July 10, 2018
Genre Fantasy, Romance, Melodrama
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Main Cast:

Lee Sang-yoon as Lee Do-ha

Lee Do-ha is a successful and cold-hearted chairman of a cultural foundation. He suffers from anxiety attacks and consults with his psychiatrist friend regularly to help him cope with his situation. He does not believe in a loving relationship and has resigned himself to a love-less match. But as he gets to know Mika, that belief is shaken and becomes central to the story’s progression.

Lee Sung-kyung as Choi Michaela (Mika)

Mika is a talented musical actress with a unique and bittersweet gift. She can see the lifespan clocks of everyone, including herself. This means she knows exactly how much time she and those around her have left to live.

Summary:

“About Time” is a heart-wrenching tale that delves into the value of time and what people do with the moments they have. Choi Michaela has always had the eerie ability to see lifespan clocks. Every person she meets has a countdown timer, indicating how long they have left to live. The weight of her own dwindling time becomes even more pressing when she discovers she doesn’t have long to live.

However, fate has a twist in store for her. Upon meeting Lee Do-ha, she notices something extraordinary: her timer halts. The closer she is to Do-ha, the more time she seemingly gains. Intrigued and desperate to lengthen her life, Mika tries to stay close to him.

Do-ha, initially resistant to Mika’s advances, finds himself drawn to her vibrancy and zest for life. As they grow closer, both grapple with the implications of her ability, their intertwined fates, and the moral dilemma of using someone’s time.

The drama beautifully unravels the complexities of love, life, and the choices we make when time is of the essence. “About Time” serves as a poignant reminder to cherish every moment and poses the question: If you knew how much time you had left, how would you choose to live?

A tale of love, destiny, and the race against time, “About Time” captivates the audience with its ethereal charm and emotional depth.


06. Rich Man

TitleRich Man
Male LeadKim Jun-myeon as Lee Yoo-chan
Female LeadHa Yeon-soo as Kim Bo-ra
WriterHwang Jo-yoon, Park Jung-ye
Episodes16 + 1 Episodes | 60 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseMay 9 – June 28, 2018
GenreRomance Comedy
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Kim Jun-myeon (also known as Suho from EXO) as Lee Yoo-chan

Lee Yoo-chan is a young and brilliant CEO of an IT company, Next In. While he’s a tech genius with unparalleled skills in the industry, he has a glaring flaw. Yoo-chan suffers from prosopagnosia, the inability to recognize faces.

Ha Yeon-soo as Kim Bo-ra

Kim Bo-ra is a determined woman with an exceptional memory. Fresh out of college and struggling to find a job, she ultimately lands a position at Next In. She becomes Yoo-chan’s right-hand woman, assisting him in navigating his condition.

Summary

“Rich Man” is a modern-day retelling of the classic story “Beauty and the Beast” set against the high-stakes backdrop of the tech industry. Lee Yoo-chan is the visionary CEO of Next In, a leading IT company. He has it all: wealth, success, and a genius intellect. Yet, he suffers from prosopagnosia, rendering him unable to recognize faces. This condition isolates him, turning Yoo-chan into a cynical and guarded individual.

Enter Kim Bo-ra, a bright-eyed recent graduate brimming with enthusiasm. Bo-ra’s impeccable memory becomes an asset to Yoo-chan. She becomes his human “address book,” helping him recognize people he meets daily. Bo-ra brides the gap Yoo-chan’s condition has created.

As they work together, the initial misunderstandings and conflicts give way to a deepening bond. Bo-ra’s warmth starts to melt Yoo-chan’s icy demeanor. Yoo-chan on the other hand, offers Bo-ra a glimpse into the world of tech entrepreneurship and its challenges.

Their dynamic relationship plays out against corporate rivalries, personal vendettas, and past traumas. Throughout, the series poses the question: Can one truly see the essence of someone, beyond just their face?

“Rich Man” offers an engaging blend of romance, drama, and corporate intrigue. It explores themes of personal growth, empathy, and the transformative power of human connection.


07. Lovely Horribly

TitleLovely Horribly
Male LeadPark Si-hoo as Yoo Philip/Yoo Eul-chook
Female LeadSong Ji-hyo as Oh Eul-soon
WriterPark Min-Joo
Episodes32 Episodes | 35 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseAugust 13 – October 2, 2018
GenreRomantic Comedy, Horror
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Park Si-hoo as Yoo Philip/Yoo Eul-chook

A famous and charismatic A-list actor who’s enjoying the height of his career. However, his life becomes intertwined with a twist of fate that he never anticipated.

Song Ji-Hyo as Oh Eul-soon

A down-on-her-luck scriptwriter who has struggled to find success. Her life seems plagued with misfortune, yet she possesses an inexplicable link to Philip’s fortunes.

Summary

“Lovely Horribly” is a unique blend of romance, comedy, and chilling suspense. The drama unfolds the unusual fate of two individuals: Yoo Philip and Oh Eul-soon. Their lives are bizarrely intertwined. When good fortune smiles upon one, misfortune darkens the other’s life.

As Yoo Philip’s star continues to rise in the entertainment industry, he realizes that his successes directly correlate with Oh Eul-soon’s series of unfortunate events, and vice versa. This uncanny connection brings them together when Eul-soon is hired to write for a drama that stars Philip. The duo quickly becomes ensnared in a series of eerie events that blur the line between their scripts and reality.

As they navigate the treacherous waters of the entertainment industry, past traumas, and hidden agendas resurface. The duality of their connection is further complicated by budding feelings of romance amidst the chaos.

The series expertly weaves humor and horror, making viewers oscillate between laughter and nail-biting suspense. At its core, “Lovely Horribly” delves deep into questions of destiny, love, and the price one pays for success.

Combining unexpected twists, endearing moments, and chilling sequences, “Lovely Horribly” is a rollercoaster of emotions that keeps audiences hooked till the very end.


08. Let’s Eat 3

TitleLet’s Eat 3
Male LeadYoon Doo-Joon as Goo Dae-young
Female LeadBaek Jin-hee as Lee Ji-woo
WriterIm Soo-mi
Episodes14 Episodes | 60 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseJuly 16 – August 28, 2018
GenreSlice-of-life; Romance
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Yoon Doo-Joon as Goo Dae-young

The food-loving insurance salesman we’ve come to adore from the previous installments of “Let’s Eat.” Now in his 30s and facing a slump in life, he’s yearning to revisit the flavors of his past.

Baek Jin-hee as Lee Ji-woo

An old college mate of Dae-young’s who reconnects with him in the present day. She shares Dae-young’s passion for food and becomes an integral part of his journey down memory lane.

Summary

“Let’s Eat 3” is the delightful continuation of the beloved food-centric drama series. This season serves up a heaping portion of nostalgia as Goo Dae-young, now in a mid-life rut, decides to retrace his college days through the dishes he used to enjoy.

Dae-young’s culinary journey back in time reunites him with Lee Ji-woo. They reminisce about their younger days, rekindling old memories and flavors. Each episode is artfully interspersed with mouth-watering Korean dishes that play a symbolic role in Dae-young and Ji-woo’s past and present.

As the duo dives deeper into their shared food adventures, they not only rediscover forgotten dishes but also reexamine their past choices, relationships, and regrets. Old wounds resurface, and new challenges arise, but their shared love for food remains a constant bond.

“Let’s Eat 3” is more than just a culinary showcase — it is a sentimental journey of reflection, growth, and the comforting power of food to heal and connect. Whether you’re a foodie or a romantic at heart, this series is sure to satisfy your drama appetite.


09. Your House Helper

TitleYour House Helper
Male LeadHa Seok-jin as Kim Ji-woon
Female LeadBona as Im Da-young
WriterKim Ji-Seon
Episodes32 Episodes | 35 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseJuly 4 – August 29, 2018
GenreRomantic comedy; Slice of life
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Ha Seok-jin as Kim Ji-woon

Once a successful corporate employee, Kim Ji-Woon takes an unexpected turn in his career. He becomes a meticulous house helper who not only cleans homes but also heals hearts.

Bona as Im Da-young

A young woman struggling to find her footing both professionally and personally. Her life takes a turn when Ji-woon becomes her house helper. The surprising turn of events gets this young man offering her more than just household solutions.

Summary

“Your House Helper” provides a refreshing take on life’s daily challenges and the healing power of human connection. Kim Ji-Woon, transitioning from his corporate life, becomes a professional house helper. But he offers more than mere cleaning services. With a calm demeanor and a knack for listening, he becomes an unexpected source of comfort to his clients. He helps them declutter not only their homes but also their lives.

Im Da-young, amidst her own set of challenges, hires Ji-Woon. While initially skeptical, she comes to appreciate the tranquility and order he brings to her space. Their interactions grow deeper as Ji-woon helps Da-young confront her personal issues. Her issues are often symbolized by the clutter in her home.

Throughout the series, the drama beautifully intertwines the concepts of physical cleaning with emotional and mental decluttering. The homes Ji-woon tidies up become metaphors for the lives of the people living in them.

“Your House Helper” is a poignant reminder of the complexities of modern life. It highlights the importance of self-care, understanding, and the transformative power of human connection. For those seeking a drama that offers both heartwarming moments and life lessons, this series is a perfect choice.


10. Devilish Joy

TitleDevilish Joy
Male LeadChoi Jin-hyuk as Gong Ma-Seong
Female LeadSong Ha-Yoon as Ju Gi-ppeum
WriterChoi Ji-Yeon
Episodes16 Episodes | 60 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseSeptember 5 – October 25, 2018
GenreRomantic Comedy
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Choi Jin-hyuk as Gong Ma-seong

Gong Ma-Seong is a talented and wealthy neurologist. After a tragic accident, he suffers from “Cinderella Memory Disorder,” causing his memories from the previous day to disappear at night while he sleeps.

Song Ha-Yoon as Ju Gi-ppeum

Ju Gi-ppeum is a former popular actress whose life is in a downturn due to a scandal. She has a fateful encounter with Ma-seong, a memory she holds onto even as he forgets.

Summary

“Devilish Joy” is a heartrending tale of love, loss, and the fragility of memory. Dr. Gong Ma-seong, a top neurologist, experiences a life-changing event when he meets and falls for Ju Gi-ppeum, a shining actress, during a trip abroad. However, their budding romance is cut short when Ma-seong gets into an accident. This led him to develop a rare form of amnesia where his memories of each day fade away once he falls asleep.

When the pair meet again years later, Gi-ppeum is no longer the beloved celebrity she once was. Her reputation was tarnished by an unfortunate scandal. She remembers their past fondly. But to Ma-seong, every day with her feels like the first time. He wakes up with no recollection of the previous day.

As their paths intertwine once more, they must navigate the challenges posed by his condition. Gi-ppeum becomes Ma-seong’s anchor, reintroducing herself to him daily and rekindling their love over and over. Their unique situation poses the question: Is love stronger than the confines of memory?

“Devilish Joy” beautifully captures the trials of love against adversity. It offers a unique twist on the classic amnesia theme. It’s a tale that showcases the lengths to which people will go to hold onto love, even when faced with the inevitable reality of forgetting.


11. The Third Charm

TitleThe Third Charm
Male LeadSeo Kang-joon as On Joon-young
Female LeadEsom as Lee Young-Jae
WriterPark Eun-young; Park Hee-Kwon
Episodes16 Episodes | 60 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseSeptember 28 – November 17, 2018
GenreRomantic Comedy
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Seo Kang-joon as On Joon-young

A meticulous and principled university student turned model student, Joon-young grows up to be a methodical environmental health officer, living a structured life.

Esom as Lee Young-Jae

A spontaneous and emotional young woman, Young-Jae is the polar opposite of Joon-young. From a hardworking hairdresser, she transforms into a successful entrepreneur.

Summary

“The Third Charm” offers a detailed exploration of a relationship spanning over a decade, examining the evolution of love and personal growth. Joon-young and Young-Jae, two contrasting personalities, meet serendipitously during a group blind date. Their differences become the catalyst for an unexpected connection, and thus begin their 12-year journey of love, separation, and rediscovery.

The drama unfolds in three distinct parts, marking the three significant encounters in their lives: their youthful university days, their turbulent mid-20s, and their more mature early 30s. With each meeting, they rediscover each other and what they once shared, leading to reflection and revelation.

As the title suggests, their third encounter, or “charm”, pushes them to confront their past choices, mistakes, and the essence of their love. Can the third time truly be the charm? Or have they grown too far apart?

Through its intricately woven narrative, “The Third Charm” delves deep into the complexities of love, highlighting the highs and lows, passion and pain, and the ever-changing dynamics of relationships. A captivating tale for anyone who’s ever experienced the roller coaster of love and the transformative power of time.


12. The Time

TitleThe Time
Male LeadKim Jung-Hyun as Cheon Soo-Ho
Female LeadSeohyun as Seol Ji-Hyun
WriterChoi Ho-chul
Episodes32 Episodes | 35 Minutes per Episode
ReleaseJuly 25 – September 20, 2018
GenreRomance; Melodrama
LanguageKorean
Country of OriginSouth Korea

STORYLINE

Kim Jung-Hyun as Cheon Soo-Ho

The heir to a conglomerate and a man seemingly with everything. Yet, he carries heavy burdens and guilt that lead him to put a time limit on the remainder of his life.

Seohyun as Seol Ji-hyun

A bright and determined woman who undergoes a drastic transformation after facing a series of life-altering tragedies, including the mysterious death of her younger sister.

Summary

“The Time” is a gripping melodrama that dives deep into themes of love, redemption, and the intricacies of time. Cheon Soo-Ho, despite his luxurious life, is consumed with remorse and plans to end his life within a set time frame. Just as he’s counting down his days, he crosses paths with Seol Ji-hyun, a woman who’s experienced her fair share of sorrow.

Ji-Hyun, while grappling with the mysterious circumstances surrounding her sister’s death, discovers Soo-Ho’s indirect involvement. The revelation creates a whirlwind of emotions and intertwining fates. As they’re drawn together by their shared pain, they embark on a heart-wrenching journey of redemption, forgiveness, and understanding.

While the ticking clock serves as a constant reminder of the fragility of life, the duo learns to heal and find solace in one another. But with secrets unfolding and shadows of the past lurking, their relationship is put to the ultimate test.

“The Time” beautifully encapsulates the essence of fleeting moments, second chances, and the transformative power of love against the backdrop of despair. A compelling watch for those seeking a drama that resonates deeply, reminding us that even in darkness, love can illuminate the way.


Looking for more K Dramas to watch? Check out KDB’s What to Watch Next for more binge-worthy series you can choose from.


DISCLAIMER: The images used are not my own. They are from promotional materials released by their respective production companies. These images may be subject to copyright. No copyright infringement intended. This blog is for entertainment purposes only. [Last Update 04242024]

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