8 Must-Watch K-Dramas About Marriage: From Queen of Tears to Full House

Binge-watching K-Dramas has become a favorite pastime for fans across the globe. Whether you’re into comedy, suspense, or romance – you’re guaranteed to find a story that will appeal to you. Among the different genres, dramas exploring marriage hold a special place. Whether it’s the hilarity of newlywed struggles or the heartache of strained relationships, these stories resonate deeply.
From romantic comedies that bring laughter to intense dramas that provoke tears, K-Dramas about marriage offer something for everyone, often mirroring the complexities of real-life partnerships. If you’re ready to laugh, cry, and maybe gain a new perspective on love and commitment, here’s a list of must-watch K-Dramas you can add to your must-watch list.
Queen of Tears
Starring Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won, Queen of Tears is one of the most-watched K-Dramas in 2024 because it offers a poignant look at the realities of marriage. The story centers on the turbulent marriage of Baek Hyun-woo, a legal director, and Hong Hae-in, a chaebol heiress, whose relationship faces a crisis when Hae-in is diagnosed with a rare brain condition. The series explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of marriage, portraying both the romantic and challenging sides of wedded life.
The World of the Married
The World of the Married is a gripping South Korean drama that aired on JTBC from Mar. 27 to May 16, 2020. Starring Kim Hee-ae as Ji Seon-woo, it explores the unraveling of a seemingly perfect marriage after the discovery of her husband’s affair, leading to a tense journey of betrayal and revenge. Praised for its intense storytelling and powerful performances, the series delves into the complexities of love, infidelity, and the psychological fallout of broken trust.
Forbidden Marriage
Forbidden Marriage is a historical romantic comedy-drama that aired on MBC. Starring Kim Young-dae, Park Ju-hyun, and Kim Woo-seok, it’s set in the Joseon Dynasty and follows King Lee Heon, who imposes a ban on marriage while mourning his late wife, and Ye So-rang, a witty swindler who pretends to be possessed by the queen’s spirit. With its mix of humor, romance, and palace intrigue, the series has been praised for its engaging plot and strong lead performances, appealing to fans of lighthearted historical dramas.
Marry My Husband
Marry My Husband tells the story of Kang Ji-won (played by Park Min-young), who, after a tragic betrayal and her untimely death, is sent back in time to rewrite her fate and seek justice against her unfaithful husband. Combining elements of fantasy, revenge, and romance, the drama captures Ji-won’s transformation into a determined and empowered woman, resonating with audiences drawn to stories of resilience and second chances.
Because This Is My First Life
The series, which aired in 2017, highlights the nuances of modern relationships and societal expectations. The story follows Nam Se-hee, a career-focused IT worker, and Yoon Ji-ho, a financially struggling writer, who enter a contract marriage to solve their respective problems. The series is praised for its candid portrayal of contemporary issues such as financial insecurity and the changing nature of marriage, while also offering a relatable, heartwarming journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
The Trunk
The Trunk is a South Korean mystery melodrama that premiered on Netflix on Nov. 29, 2024, starring Seo Hyun-jin and Gong Yoo. The series follows Noh In-ji, who works at a company specializing in contract marriages, and her partnership with Han Jeong-won, a music producer burdened by his past. The show delves into themes of emotional baggage, love, and loss, with the mystery of a trunk linking the characters’ histories and adding depth to their evolving relationship.
Love in Contract
Love in Contract is a South Korean romantic comedy-drama starring Park Min-young as a professional contract marriage expert. The series follows her character, Choi Sang-eun, who navigates a love triangle with two clients, leading to emotional complications as her professional life clashes with her personal feelings. The show tackles themes of love, societal norms, and commitment while balancing humor with deeper emotional moments.
Full House
Full House is a beloved South Korean romantic comedy-drama that aired in 2004, based on the manhwa by Won Soo-yeon. The series tells the story of Han Ji-eun (Song Hye-kyo), whose life is turned upside down when her friends sell her home while she is away, leading her to form a temporary contract marriage with actor Lee Young-jae (Rain). Known for its delightful humor and the undeniable chemistry between the leads, the series became a key player in the rise of K-Dramas internationally and remains a classic in the genre.
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