Though I was not able to watch as many Korean dramas as I wanted to this year, I was able to dive deep into the world of Korean BL series. Mostly because they’re usually very short and could be binged during a two-hour workout or a slow afternoon or a long drive somewhere.
And that’s exactly how I was able to watch 31(!) Korean BL series this year! And these are series from 2024 and years past. So it’s a mix of recent series and series that were pretty much trailblazers in the genre back when only Where Your Eyes Linger and Wish You were the only BL series that exited.
Interestingly enough, I watched maybe all but 1 or 2 before July. And like with my difficulties in being able to catch up with primetime Korean dramas, I wasn’t able to watch many more in the latter half of this year.
Before I get to the list though, I will mention that I did not include Love in the Big City here because I think there’s a distinction to be made between that series and the “traditional” BL series which might be much shorter in length or different in format. I’m not sure. An argument could be made that a few of these series here on my list should be part of my main “Korean Drama” list from yesterday. Though I will say, the productions of Korean BL series have quickly stepped up as their popularity continues to grow. Bigger budgets and longer formats are a good thing! So I look forward to seeing where the genre goes from here. And perhaps on my 2025 list, there will be no need to do separate lists!
So here’s the full list. I’ll just list #s 11 through 30 with a link to my Good Ol’ Reviews for them. Then feature my Top 10 with a quick summary of my thoughts on each one.
30. Love Class, Season 1
>>Good Ol’ Review of Love Class, Season 1 Coming Soon
29. Kissable Lips
>>Good Ol’ Review of Kissable Lips Coming Soon
28. Love Class, Season 2
>>Good Ol’ Review of Love Class, Season 2 Coming Soon
27. Happy Ending Romance
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Happy Ending Romance
26. Color Rush, Season 1
>>Good Ol’ Review of Color Rush, Season 1 Coming Soon
25. Color Rush, Season 2
>>Good Ol’ Review of Color Rush, Season 2 Coming Soon
24. All the Liquors
>> Good Ol’ Review of All the Liquors Coming Soon
23. Mr. Heart
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Mr. Heart
22. Roommates of Poongduck 304
>>Good Ol’ Review of Roommates of Poongduck 304 Coming Soon
21. Happy Merry Ending
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Happy Merry Ending
20. Behind Cut
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Behind Cut
19. Individual Circumstances
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Individual Circumstances
18. Peach of Time
>>Good Ol’ Review of Peach of Time Coming Soon
17. Unintentional Love Story
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Unintentional Love Story
16. Jun & Jun
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Jun & Jun
15. My Sweet Dear
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of My Sweet Dear
14. Nobleman Ryu’s Wedding
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Nobleman Ryu’s Wedding
13. Star Struck
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Star Struck
12. Tinted With You
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Tinted With You
11. Bon Appetit
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Bon Appetit
10. Happy Ending
Happy Ending offers up this humble and relatable story in an ethereal and nostalgic way. All leading up to a more than satisfying conclusion. It’s hard not to feel immediately connected and invested to every aspect of this short film. And that positive feeling will linger long after the final credits roll. This has certainly become one of my favorite Korean BL productions I’ve watched so far.
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Happy Ending
9. A Breeze of Love
The title A Breeze of Love couldn’t be any more perfect for this series. This Korean BL drama is indeed a breezy, wistful and warm series that focuses on love, friendships and self-discovery. It is able to pack in a lot of emotional depth and multi-faceted characters despite its short runtime. Well-paced, welcome sincerity and a strong cast really make this one of the most satisfying Korean BL drama experiences.
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of A Breeze of Love
8. Sing My Crush
Sing My Crush is such an unexpected gem for me. I went into the series with no expectations. I saw and read nothing about it before starting and I think that helped me fully experience the series as it is without any influence, either way. This feel-good, heartwarming, cute, sweet and fluffy series doesn’t aim to reinvent the genre. But it successfully delivers the dreamy adventure into young romance and sincere friendship. Just a truly wonderful series that brings together a strong cast, solid story and excellent music for an ultimately resonant and feel-good experience.
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Sing My Crush
7. Jazz For Two
When the show’s theme song that plays during the opening credits in the first episode’s first minute already delivers an inexplicably warm feeling and good vibes, you know you’re in for something special. And that’s exactly what Jazz For Two ends up being. This romantic, coming of age series manages to pack a lot of heart and emotion into its eight episodes. Tackling serious and sometimes difficult topics while telling a humble story of young love and friendship, Jazz For Two is a compelling and thought-provoking watch with a talented and charming cast to boot.
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Jazz For Two
6. Once Again
This 2022 Korean web series is such a refreshing entry into the growing BL genre. A relatively high concept premise allows for a unique approach to familiar stories. A truly dramatic and emotional series with a strong cast, Once Again is a must watch for any Korean BL fan. A unique blend of genres and poignant story. But really, it’s an overall production that can rival even most popular mainstream Korean dramas. Just a wonderful, enjoyable, affecting and thoroughly satisfying viewing experience.
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Once Again
5. The Time of Fever
I had one last opportunity to watch a Korean BL drama this year and I am so glad I chose The Time of Fever. Stunning in almost every way, this feature film/series features one of the most breathtaking depictions of the tumultuous years of adolescence. Following these two young men, both trying to deal with and understand their own developing feelings and identity, the series opens up a profound discussion in a way I don’t think I’ve seen many Korean series do, BL or not.
Emotional, volatile, warm, comforting; this six-episode series (or feature film, depending on how you watch it) features a welcome roller coaster of emotions. And all brought to vivid life through pitch-perfect direction and phenomenal performances from its lead actors Won Tae Min and Do Woo.
>>Click here for my review of The Time of Fever
4. The Eighth Sense
Writers and directors Werner du Plessis and Inu Baek deliver a revelatory narrative and visual experience in the series The Eighth Sense. Its careful, nuanced and unflinching portrayal of young love, friendships and mental health offer a different, though very welcome change of pace. And not just for the Korean BL genre, but perhaps Korean drama as a whole.
The Eighth Sense is perfect for those seeking a well-crafted drama that goes beyond conventional narratives. While not solely focused on romance, The Eight Sense is a compelling exploration of individual journeys and the complexities of human relationships. And it is a series that will linger for long after the final credits roll.
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of The Eighth Sense
3. Love Tractor
If you’re looking for a sweet, fluffy and thoroughly enjoyable series, look no further than Love Tractor. The smile will never leave your face during the series’ eight episodes. This absolutely wholesome series has all the best parts of what makes a fully lighthearted series so fun and enjoyable. Charming and talented leads in Do Won and Yoon Do Jin effortlessly draw you in to the equally charming Korean countryside for one of the most feel-good and satisfying romantic Korean BL series you might ever see.
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Love Tractor
2. To My Star, Seasons 1 and 2
Sometimes, first seasons and second seasons can be a mixed bag. One is better than the other. The second season does not live up to the greatness of the first. For the two seasons of To My Star, none of that is the case. Instead, both seasons together offer up a wonderfully heartwarming and thought-provoking exploration of love, self-discovery and the power of human connections.
Both seasons of To My Star are an excellent and immersive experience. It sets itself apart from other series in the genre by being a fuller and deeper exploration of familiar themes. Unlike other series, Ji Woo and Seo Joon’s story not only feels more complete. But it feels even more realistic and sincere. There is nothing wrong with fluffy love stories that end up with a neat little bow. But sometimes, the journey to that happy ending can be just as fulfilling. And To My Star is perhaps the best example of that possibility.
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of To My Star, Season 1
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of To My Star, Season 2
1. Love for Love’s Sake
There might be a tendency to judge a Korean BL series within a certain parameter. But Love for Love’s Sake is not just an excellent Korean BL drama. It is an excellent Korean drama period. The series is able to transcend and overcome the limitations and hurdles of the emerging Korean BL genre and online streaming format. This romantic fantasy features a higher concept in style, substance and execution than some might be used to, either in Korean BLs or Korean drama as a whole.
Everything comes together to offer up what is a unique and refreshing blend of romance, fantasy and human drama. The balanced focus between characters and the intricate story allow for what is ultimately a sincerely resonant, emotional and thought-provoking series. A total package makes it a standout and memorable experience. One that would be difficult to forget anytime soon.
>>Click here for my Good Ol’ Review of Love for Love’s Sake
This is a great list! There’s a lot of great ones you haven’t seen yet too. I agree with your top favorites.
Do you have any suggestions for must watches?