Kdramas Similar to Heirs: 20 Shows to Bring Back That Fluttery Feeling
Missing Heirs? It’s no surprise—Lee Min Ho and Park Shin Hye gave us a legendary pairing that combined romance, drama, and youthful heartaches. If you’re pining for that same butterflies-in-your-stomach feeling, we have you covered! We’ve curated a list of Kdramas that echo Heirs in all the best ways, packed with rich-guy-poor-girl tropes, heartwarming friendships, and swoon-worthy characters.
50. Boys Over Flowers (2009)
- Boys Over Flowers is a Kdrama classic, showcasing the iconic “rich guy-poor girl” trope. It follows Jan-di, an ordinary girl from a working-class family who attends an elite high school on scholarship. There, she meets the F4—four wealthy, handsome boys who essentially rule the school. The leader, Jun-pyo, initially bullies her, but his feelings turn into love as he sees Jan-di’s resilience and kindness. As Jan-di becomes entangled in the complicated lives of the F4, she must navigate friendships, rivalry, and romance, all while staying true to herself. This drama captures themes of love, resilience, and class struggle that make it a must-watch for fans of high school romances.
49. Cinderella and Four Knights (2016)
- This modern twist on the Cinderella story features Ha-won, a strong-willed young woman who works multiple jobs to save for college. Through a twist of fate, she finds herself living in a luxurious mansion with three rich and handsome cousins who each have distinct personalities. While Ha-won is focused on her dreams, the boys find themselves drawn to her warmth and charm. The series is full of humor and heartfelt moments as Ha-won’s honest nature gradually breaks down the emotional barriers of the wealthy family, showcasing how genuine connection can overcome even the most rigid walls.
48. My ID is Gangnam Beauty (2018)
- My ID is Gangnam Beauty tackles the sensitive issue of beauty standards in a society obsessed with appearances. Kang Mi-rae, who has struggled with bullying because of her looks, decides to undergo plastic surgery before entering college. However, she soon realizes that appearance doesn’t shield her from criticism or self-doubt. Enter Kyung-seok, a handsome and aloof student who recognizes Mi-rae’s true worth beyond physical beauty. As they grow closer, Mi-rae learns to accept herself and sees that inner beauty holds more value than any outward transformation. It’s a heartfelt story about self-love, societal pressure, and finding happiness on one’s terms.
47. Cheese in the Trap (2016)
- This university-set drama dives deep into the dynamics of relationships and hidden personalities. Hong Seol, a hardworking student, finds herself drawn to her mysterious and seemingly perfect classmate, Yoo Jung. However, as their relationship develops, she begins to see a darker, more complex side of him. With its subtle psychological twists, Cheese in the Trap explores the contrast between outward appearances and inner struggles. This drama offers viewers a realistic take on human relationships, showing that love and friendship often involve navigating each other’s flaws and insecurities.
46. The King: Eternal Monarch (2020)
- Starring Lee Min Ho, this fantasy romance follows Emperor Lee Gon, who discovers a portal to a parallel world. There, he meets Jung Tae-eul, a detective who opens his eyes to the value of ordinary life. The two begin to fall for each other while facing the challenges of their separate worlds and Lee Gon’s royal duties. With beautiful cinematography and a plot filled with mystery and intrigue, The King: Eternal Monarch combines elements of fantasy and romance. The drama’s focus on love that transcends worlds and the duty to one’s people adds depth to this epic story.
45. Playful Kiss (2010)
- Playful Kiss is a lighthearted story that follows Oh Ha-ni, an academically challenged girl with a huge crush on Baek Seung-jo, her school’s smartest student. When Ha-ni’s house is destroyed, she ends up moving in with Seung-jo’s family, leading to humorous and sweet moments as she tries to win his heart. Seung-jo, initially cold and distant, slowly opens up to Ha-ni’s persistent kindness. This drama captures the charm of opposites attracting, emphasizing the impact of perseverance and kindness in winning someone’s heart.
44. Secret Garden (2010)
- Secret Garden takes a unique approach to romance by adding a fantasy twist: body-swapping. Gil Ra-im, a tough stuntwoman, meets Kim Joo-won, a wealthy CEO who falls for her despite his arrogant exterior. Through a magical event, they find themselves literally in each other’s shoes, leading to plenty of laughs and heartfelt moments. As they learn to understand each other’s struggles and viewpoints, the show explores themes of empathy and love across class divides. This drama is both hilarious and touching, capturing the transformative power of stepping into someone else’s life.
43. Sassy Go Go (2015)
- This high school-based Kdrama explores friendship, rivalry, and school pressures as it follows a cheerleading club that brings together students from different backgrounds. While the academic achievers and underperformers clash initially, they begin to understand and support one another through shared challenges. With a blend of romance, humor, and meaningful friendships, Sassy Go Go highlights the importance of kindness and understanding in a competitive environment. Fans of Heirs will enjoy the familiar themes of class disparity and personal growth.
42. Pinocchio (2014)
- Pinocchio follows the story of young reporters determined to uncover the truth while overcoming personal and professional obstacles. Choi In-ha, a journalist with a condition that causes her to hiccup whenever she lies, struggles to pursue her passion despite her condition. Paired with Choi Dal-po, a fellow journalist haunted by his family’s past, they support each other in their quests for justice. The drama blends romance with investigative mystery, as well as themes of honesty, justice, and integrity.
41. Goong (Princess Hours) (2006)
- This modern fairytale centers on an ordinary girl, Shin Chae-kyeong, who unexpectedly becomes engaged to the crown prince of Korea due to an old royal agreement. The show follows her journey as she adapts to palace life, navigating the challenges of royal traditions and expectations. Alongside the budding romance between Chae-kyeong and her new husband, the show explores the sacrifices required by royal duties. With beautiful costumes, palace intrigue, and a heartwarming love story, Goong is a treat for fans who enjoy fairytale-like romances with a touch of drama.
40. The Liar and His Lover (2017)
- In this heartwarming musical romance, high school student Shin Woo-yeon, a girl with a stunning voice, meets a famous but reclusive music producer named Han Kyul. He’s known for his strict and mysterious persona but is charmed by Woo-yeon’s talent and sincerity. As they navigate their music careers and personal emotions, the two become entangled in a love story filled with creative challenges and emotional growth. This drama explores themes of trust, love, and the power of music in bringing people together, with plenty of sweet moments and catchy tunes.
39. Fated to Love You (2014)
- Fated to Love You tells the story of an ordinary woman, Kim Mi-young, who gets entangled in an unexpected one-night affair with a rich heir, Lee Gun. Unaware of each other’s identities, they find themselves in an even more complicated situation when Mi-young ends up pregnant. As they navigate the complexities of this unexpected bond, both characters begin to realize that love can come from the most surprising places. The drama balances comedy, emotional depth, and romance, offering a touching exploration of fate, family, and second chances.
38. High Society (2015)
- High Society focuses on the complexities of class and love. Jang Yoon-ha, a woman born into a wealthy family, decides to pursue a simple life away from her family’s expectations and becomes a part-time worker at a coffee shop. There, she meets a hardworking and ambitious man, Choi Joon-gi, who has big dreams of making it in the corporate world. As their romance develops, the drama explores the impact of class differences, ambitions, and personal choices on relationships. This series showcases a strong female lead balancing love and ambition while questioning the role of money and status in relationships.
37. Uncontrollably Fond (2016)
- Uncontrollably Fond is a heartbreaking romance between the top Hallyu star Shin Joon-young and a documentary producer, No Eul. Their childhood love story is marred by misunderstandings and loss, leading to a reunion years later when both characters are dealing with personal and professional struggles. This series explores themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of second chances, with a deep emotional pull that tugs at the heartstrings. Joon-young’s health issues add a layer of poignancy to the romance, making it a bittersweet but unforgettable love story.
36. Rooftop Prince (2012)
- Rooftop Prince is a unique mix of comedy, romance, and mystery, featuring Lee Gak, a crown prince from the Joseon era, who ends up in modern-day Seoul after a series of mysterious events. As he searches for the truth behind his lost love from the past, he gets entangled with a modern woman, Park Ha, who lives on a rooftop. The drama combines humor, time-travel twists, and emotional moments as the prince adapts to the present while unraveling the mysteries of his past. It’s a delightful and fresh take on romance that keeps viewers hooked with its mix of lightheartedness and intrigue.
35. The Secret Life of My Secretary (2019)
- This office romance stars a strict, cold-hearted CEO and his diligent secretary, who seems to be the only person who understands him. But when a mysterious accident causes the CEO to lose his ability to recognize faces, he starts to rely on his secretary in new ways. The show explores the developing bond between them as the CEO slowly realizes how much he depends on her, both personally and professionally. It’s a sweet, light-hearted series that delves into themes of workplace relationships, self-discovery, and the hidden emotions behind cold exteriors.
34. Her Private Life (2019)
- Her Private Life revolves around an art curator, Sung Deok-mi, who leads a seemingly normal life at work, but secretly harbors a fangirl obsession for a boy group member. When her new boss, Ryan Gold, discovers her secret, he initially tries to expose her, but he eventually becomes involved in her world. This romantic comedy explores the balance between professional and personal lives, the joy of having hobbies, and how love can bloom from mutual understanding. It’s a fun, heartwarming look at passion, privacy, and the power of self-expression.
33. Extraordinary You (2019)
- Extraordinary You takes a unique twist on the romance genre, following a high school girl, Eun Dan-oh, who discovers she’s a character in a webtoon and has no control over her fate. Realizing that her life is prewritten, she attempts to change the course of her story and take control of her future, particularly in love. The drama is filled with exciting twists and clever moments as Dan-oh fights to change her destiny. It’s a fresh take on the “rich guy-poor girl” romance that allows for deep self-reflection, destiny, and the power of choice.
32. Legend of the Blue Sea (2016)
- This fantasy romance stars Lee Min Ho as Heo Joon-jae, a genius con artist who crosses paths with a mermaid, Sim Chung, played by Jun Ji-hyun. Set between the modern day and a past life, the story follows their love story as Joon-jae helps Sim Chung navigate the world and discover her true identity. The drama is filled with action, romance, humor, and fantasy elements, offering a thrilling mix of adventure and heartwarming moments. Legend of the Blue Sea is an entertaining, magical journey that captivates viewers with its dynamic characters and plot twists.
31. Love Alarm (2019)
- Love Alarm is a unique romance drama set in a world where an app alerts people when someone nearby has romantic feelings for them. This app adds a new layer to relationships, causing both excitement and confusion. The story revolves around three high school students—Kim Jo-jo, Hwang Sun-oh, and Lee Hye-young—as they navigate their emotions and the complications of modern love. The series explores themes of love, trust, and technology’s influence on relationships, making it a fresh take on the Kdrama genre. Love Alarm blends modern romance with insightful commentary on the impact of technology on our personal lives.
30. School 2015: Who Are You? (2015)
- School 2015: Who Are You? revolves around twin sisters who were separated at a young age. One sister has lived a privileged life, while the other has faced hardship. After a tragic incident, the two girls switch places, leading to a complex identity crisis as they each face the challenges of the other’s life. Amid the drama, romance blooms, and the series delves into issues like bullying, self-worth, and the bonds of family. This school-based drama is packed with emotional depth and thought-provoking moments about the pressures of teenage life.
29. Flower Boy Next Door (2013)
- Flower Boy Next Door is a quirky romance featuring Go Dok-mi, a reclusive woman who works from home as a translator. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she becomes involved with her charming neighbor, Enrique Geum, who is a popular webcomic artist. This drama balances humor and romance with an exploration of loneliness and personal growth. With a colorful cast of characters and plenty of quirky moments, it offers a refreshing look at relationships, the importance of facing one’s fears, and stepping out of your comfort zone.
28. Rich Man, Poor Woman (2018)
- Rich Man, Poor Woman tells the story of a cold, genius CEO named Lee Yoo-chan, who is brilliant in business but socially awkward, and a hardworking young woman named Kim Bo-ra, who comes from a modest background. Despite their vast differences, the two begin to fall for each other, with Yoo-chan’s memory problems adding complexity to the relationship. This series is a compelling blend of romance, drama, and personal growth, with an underlying commentary on class differences and the impact of technology in modern relationships.
27. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo (2016)
- Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo is a delightful and heartwarming college romance about an aspiring weightlifter, Kim Bok-Joo, who juggles her athletic career and young love. The series follows her as she learns to balance her dreams, friendships, and romantic feelings for a fellow athlete. It’s a feel-good drama that emphasizes self-confidence, the importance of pursuing one’s passion, and the growth that comes from both love and personal challenges. Filled with humor, lighthearted moments, and inspiring athleticism, it’s a perfect pick for fans of youthful romance and empowerment.
26. The Master’s Sun (2013)
- The Master’s Sun blends supernatural elements with romance as it tells the story of a woman, Tae Gong-shil, who can see ghosts and the wealthy CEO, Joo Joong-won, who helps her avoid the spirits. As they grow closer, both characters find themselves dealing with personal trauma, emotional healing, and unexpected love. The drama is a mix of suspense, mystery, and romance with a touch of humor. It’s an intriguing series that mixes the supernatural with a developing love story and the importance of overcoming one’s past.
25. Dream High (2011)
- Dream High is a musical drama set in a performing arts school where a group of high school students aims to make it big in the entertainment industry. The series explores their dreams, rivalries, and relationships as they strive for success. With an ensemble cast and plenty of romance, rivalry, and inspiring moments, Dream High offers a dynamic mix of music, drama, and youthful ambition. Fans of Heirs will enjoy the heartfelt stories of personal growth, romance, and friendship that power this show.
24. Coffee Prince (2007)
- Coffee Prince is a classic Kdrama that combines humor, romance, and a touch of gender-bending drama. The story follows Go Eun-chan, a woman who disguises herself as a man to get a job at a café run by a wealthy heir, Han Kyul. What follows is a romantic tale full of misunderstandings, charming moments, and self-discovery. This drama is known for its refreshing take on gender roles, its heartwarming romance, and the hilarious situations that arise from the misunderstandings between the characters.
23. My Love From the Star (2013)
- My Love From the Star is a timeless fantasy romance that follows an alien, Do Min-joon, who has lived on Earth for centuries. He meets Cheon Song-yi, a famous actress who becomes his neighbor, and they develop an unlikely relationship. As the story progresses, their love grows, and they face challenges that test both their love and their understanding of the human world. A perfect blend of romance, humor, and mystery, this Kdrama became a global hit due to its strong chemistry, plot twists, and memorable characters.
22. My Fair Lady (2009)
- My Fair Lady is a delightful and lighthearted romantic comedy about a spoiled heiress, Han Se-kyung, who hires a poor but handsome man, Seo Do-kyung, as her butler. Initially, their relationship is a game of manipulation and misunderstanding, but as they spend time together, both characters learn more about love, life, and self-worth. This charming drama explores themes of class differences and the importance of understanding each other beyond societal expectations, making it an enjoyable watch for fans of romantic comedies.
21. Because This is My First Life (2017)
- Because This is My First Life is a refreshing take on modern romance, focusing on a pragmatic woman, Yoon Ji-ho, and a financially struggling man, Nam Se-hee, who enter into a marriage of convenience. The two live together and navigate their developing feelings for each other as they deal with societal expectations, personal goals, and the complexities of love. This series delves into the nuances of relationships, particularly the pressures of marriage and career, and offers a more realistic, mature look at romance, making it a must-watch for fans of introspective love stories.
20. She Was Pretty (2015)
- She Was Pretty is a fun, lighthearted drama about a woman who used to be beautiful but becomes insecure after a dramatic transformation. When she reunites with her childhood friend, she goes to great lengths to hide her appearance, only to have her friend fall for her despite not recognizing her. This drama is filled with misunderstandings, humor, and sweet moments as the characters learn to accept each other for who they truly are. It’s a feel-good series about love, self-acceptance, and finding beauty in unexpected places.
19. Oh My Venus (2015)
This inspiring and humorous drama revolves around Kim Young-Ho (So Ji-Sub), a personal trainer with a troubled past, and Kang Joo-Eun (Shin Min-A), a once-beautiful lawyer who is now struggling with her weight. After a health scare, Joo-Eun hires Young-Ho to help her lose weight and regain confidence. The drama is a beautiful journey of self-acceptance and transformation, blending romantic moments with hilarious and uplifting lessons about health, confidence, and loving oneself at any size.
18. Kill Me, Heal Me (2015)
This psychological drama offers a deep, emotional look at mental health, focusing on a wealthy man named Cha Do-Hyun (Ji Sung) who suffers from dissociative identity disorder, leading him to have seven different personalities. He seeks help from a psychiatrist, Oh Ri-Jin (Hwang Jung-Eum), who becomes entangled in his complex journey of healing. Despite the intense psychological themes, the drama is heartwarming, and the chemistry between the leads offers both emotional depth and moments of humor.
17. Strong Woman Do Bong Soon (2017)
Do Bong Soon (Park Bo-Young) is an adorable young woman with superhuman strength. Despite her immense physical power, she dreams of becoming a game designer. Her life changes when she is hired as a bodyguard for Ahn Min Hyuk (Park Hyung-Sik), the charming CEO of a gaming company. While the drama is full of comedic and action-packed moments, it also has a sweet romance as Bong Soon and Min Hyuk develop an unexpected but strong bond. The drama focuses on themes of empowerment, strength, and love.
16. Hyde, Jekyll, Me (2015)
This drama explores the fascinating concept of multiple personalities. Goo Seo-Jin (Hyun Bin) is a wealthy and cold CEO with a severe personality disorder, where he switches between two identities—one kind-hearted, and the other manipulative and controlling. He is forced to confront his psychological struggles with the help of a circus performer, Jang Ha-Na (Han Ji-Min), who becomes involved in his journey of self-discovery and healing. The show offers both romance and mystery as Seo-Jin navigates the challenges of his split personality.
15. Abyss (2019)
This supernatural romance follows two characters who are given a second chance at life after they die under tragic circumstances. After their revival, they return to life with different appearances. The male lead, Cha Min (Ahn Hyo-Seop), is an unremarkable man who becomes a handsome CEO, while the female lead, Go Se-Yeon (Park Bo-Young), undergoes a transformation into an unrecognizable woman. Together, they uncover the mysterious circumstances surrounding their deaths, all while navigating their growing romantic feelings. It’s a blend of mystery, supernatural intrigue, and heartwarming romance.
14. Hwarang (2016)
Set in the Silla Dynasty, Hwarang follows an elite group of young warriors known as the “Hwarang” who are trained in both combat and politics. The drama blends romance, action, and friendship, focusing on the life of a young man named Moo Myung (Park Seo-Joon), who becomes part of this warrior group under the false identity of a nobleman. As the Hwarang face love triangles, internal rivalries, and political intrigue, Hwarang captivates viewers with its rich historical setting and engaging character dynamics.
13. It’s Okay, That’s Love (2014)
A powerful and emotional drama that explores mental health and love, It’s Okay, That’s Love focuses on the relationship between Jang Jae-Yeol (Jo In-Sung), a successful writer with obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Ji Hae-Soo (Gong Hyo-Jin), a psychiatrist who has her own emotional struggles. As the two work together to heal their respective wounds, they form a deep emotional connection. This drama tackles serious mental health issues with empathy and humor, making it a unique and heartfelt watch.
22. Healer (2014)
Healer is a fast-paced action-romance that follows Seo Jung-Hoo (Ji Chang-Wook), a mysterious “night courier” who secretly works as a vigilante. He uncovers dark secrets while getting involved with a reporter, Chae Young-Shin (Park Min-Young), who is determined to uncover the truth behind her father’s mysterious past. The drama expertly combines suspense, action, and romance, and the chemistry between the leads adds an extra layer of depth to this thrilling ride.
11. Beauty Inside (2018)
This heartwarming and unique romance centers around an actress, Han Se-Kye (Seo Hyun-Jin), who suffers from a mysterious condition that causes her to change appearances every month. She hides this secret from the public, but when she meets the CEO of an airline, Seo Do-Jae (Lee Min-Ki), who has face blindness (the inability to recognize faces), their paths cross in an unexpectedly beautiful way. Beauty Inside is a poignant exploration of love, identity, and self-worth, showing that true beauty goes beyond outward appearances.
10. What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim? (2018)
A delightful office romance, What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim? follows the charming and narcissistic CEO Lee Young-Joon (Park Seo-Joon) and his highly efficient secretary, Kim Mi-So (Park Min-Young), who suddenly decides to quit her job after nine years of service. As Lee Young-Joon struggles with her departure, he begins to realize his feelings for her. The drama is a perfect blend of humor, romance, and heartwarming moments, making it a delightful watch for anyone looking for a lighthearted romance.
Dev King is a passionate fan of manga, manhwa, and webtoons, with a love for Korean, Japanese, and Chinese cartoons. Always exploring new worlds and stories, he finds joy in every unique style and plot twist.