Feeling overwhelmed by life, work, or just a tough day? Sometimes, the best remedy is curling up with a heartwarming K-drama that makes you laugh, smile, and feel comforted. Korean dramas have a unique way of healing your heart with their warmth, romance, humor, and slice-of-life stories. If you’re looking for comfort, here are the 10 best feel-good K-dramas you should watch when you’re stressed.
1. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)
Set in the picturesque seaside village of Gongjin, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is a slow-burn romantic drama that radiates warmth and healing energy. It follows Yoon Hye-jin, a perfectionist dentist from Seoul, who ends up starting a new life in a small town. There, she meets the charming and helpful Hong Du-sik, known by locals as Chief Hong. Their growing bond, the quirky villagers, and the calming coastal scenery make this series a true comfort watch. Every episode feels like a warm hug, reminding you that sometimes slowing down is exactly what you need.
2. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo (2016)
This coming-of-age drama is lighthearted, inspiring, and filled with youthful energy. It centers on Kim Bok-joo, a strong and spirited weightlifter who’s navigating college life, friendship, and first love. Her innocent crush and awkward moments feel relatable and endearing. The show blends comedy, sports, and romance in the most uplifting way. Whether you’re going through a rough patch or just need to smile, this drama reminds you that it’s okay to be different and that love and support can come from unexpected places.
3. Crash Landing on You (2019)
Crash Landing on You is a globally loved K-drama that’s not only romantic but also deeply emotional and surprisingly funny. It tells the story of Yoon Se-ri, a South Korean heiress who accidentally paraglides into North Korea, where she meets Captain Ri Jeong-hyeok, a North Korean officer. Despite their very different worlds, the two fall in love. Their story is filled with laughter, touching moments, and heartfelt friendships. Even the side characters bring joy. It’s a perfect escape from stress, offering both laughs and tears in the best possible way.
4. Reply 1988 (2015)
Nostalgic, funny, and full of heart, Reply 1988 is set in a small neighborhood during the late 80s and follows a group of childhood friends growing up together. This slice-of-life drama focuses on family, friendship, first love, and the warmth of community. Every character is lovable, and their simple everyday lives make you reflect on your own memories. Watching this show feels like being home. It’s ideal when you need a dose of genuine human connection and positivity.
5. Our Beloved Summer (2021)
This romantic comedy beautifully captures the feeling of longing, growing up, and finding love again. It follows ex-lovers Choi Woong and Kook Yeon-soo, who are forced to reunite when a documentary they filmed in high school goes viral years later. The show is soft, humorous, and deeply emotional, exploring how people change over time. The pastel visuals, heartfelt soundtrack, and natural acting make it one of the most soothing dramas you can watch when you feel emotionally drained.
6. Because This Is My First Life (2017)
If you’re feeling stuck in adulthood or overwhelmed by responsibilities, this drama might be just what you need. It tells the story of Nam Se-hee, a socially awkward IT worker who ends up in a contractual marriage with Yoon Ji-ho, a homeless aspiring writer. Their relationship starts as a practical arrangement but slowly turns into something beautiful. This drama deals with themes like societal pressure, gender roles, and chasing your dreams, all wrapped in dry humor and understated romance. It’s realistic, refreshing, and comforting.
7. When the Camellia Blooms (2019)
This drama is a mix of romance, comedy, and a little bit of mystery, but at its core, it’s about personal growth and community support. It follows Dong-baek, a single mother running a bar in a small town, who faces prejudice and judgment. As she slowly opens up to love again with the goofy but lovable police officer Hwang Yong-sik, she also learns to stand up for herself. The story is both empowering and sweet, with plenty of moments that will make you laugh and cry. It’s a drama that uplifts you and gives hope.
8. Yumi’s Cells (2021)
One of the most unique and innovative K-dramas, Yumi’s Cells mixes live-action with animation. It gives you a look inside the mind of Yumi, an ordinary office worker, through her animated “cells” that represent her emotions, hunger, logic, love, and more. Watching Yumi navigate dating, work struggles, and personal growth is both funny and relatable. The animation adds a playful charm, and the storytelling makes you feel deeply connected to her journey. It’s the perfect series when you want something light but meaningful.
9. Twenty-Five Twenty-One (2022)
This youth-centered drama follows Na Hee-do, a passionate fencing student, and Baek Yi-jin, a hardworking young man dealing with the aftermath of the IMF crisis in Korea. Their friendship and eventual romance unfold over time, capturing the essence of dreams, growing pains, and bittersweet memories. With beautiful cinematography, emotional storytelling, and strong performances, the show pulls you in with its optimism and heartbreak. It’s a series that reminds you of the value of every stage in life, even the hard ones.
10. Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)
If you need something uplifting and inspiring, this drama about a young lawyer on the autism spectrum is a must-watch. Woo Young-woo is brilliant, sincere, and lovable, and her journey as a rookie attorney in a big law firm is full of challenges and triumphs. The show balances courtroom drama with heartfelt moments, quirky humor, and valuable life lessons. It also celebrates diversity and reminds you that being different is not something to hide; it’s something to embrace. Every episode leaves you smiling, making it a great choice when you’re feeling low.
Bottom line
Stress can weigh you down, but a feel-good K-drama has the magical ability to lift your spirits, even just for a few hours. Whether it’s the warm community of Reply 1988, the charming romance of Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, or the emotional journey in Extraordinary Attorney Woo, these dramas offer comfort, healing, and a gentle reminder that things will get better. The next time you feel overwhelmed, press play on one of these healing dramas and let their joy wash over you.
