Best Gay Korean Dramas You Can Watch
The Korean drama industry has steadily evolved, pushing boundaries and embracing diverse storytelling. While LGBTQ+ themes were once taboo in mainstream Kdramas, recent years have seen an emerging wave of gay Kdramas that offer authentic, emotional, and heartfelt portrayals of same-sex love. Whether you're seeking coming-of-age stories, emotional romances, or slice-of-life dramas, this list highlights must-watch titles that stand out in terms of storytelling, acting, and representation.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the most touching and well-executed gay Kdrama titles. These dramas not only challenge stereotypes but also pave the way for more inclusive narratives in Korean television.
1. Semantic Error (2022)
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Genre: BL, Romance, Youth
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Cast: Park Seo-ham, Park Jae-chan
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Director: Kim Su-jeong
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Plot:
A strict, rule-abiding computer science student clashes with a carefree design student. What begins as a rivalry slowly morphs into attraction. -
Why Watch:
This drama captures the gay Kdrama genre with wit, tension, and romantic chemistry that’s hard to forget. The fresh campus backdrop and realistic tension make it an instant favorite.
2. To My Star (2021–2022)
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Genre: Romance, Drama, BL
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Cast: Son Woo-hyun, Kim Kang-min
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Director: Hwang Da-seul
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Plot:
A washed-up celebrity meets a reserved chef, and the two form a bond that defies societal expectations. -
Why Watch:
One of the most loved Korean BL dramas, it explores love, fame, and identity with maturity and emotional depth.
Read Our Recent Article - Romantic Korean Dramas On Viki
3. Where Your Eyes Linger (2020)
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Genre: BL, Youth, Drama
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Cast: Han Gi-chan, Jang Eui-soo
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Director: Hwang Da-seul
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Plot:
A rich heir and his loyal bodyguard have been inseparable since childhood. As emotions stir, the line between friendship and love blurs. -
Why Watch:
Often cited as Korea’s first mainstream gay Kdrama, this drama showcases intense chemistry and subtle emotional tension.
4. Blueming (2022)
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Genre: BL, Romance, Drama
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Cast: Kang Eun-bin, Jo Hyuk-joon
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Director: Hwang Da-seul
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Plot:
A student obsessed with appearances enters college only to meet someone more perfect than him, sparking rivalry and romance. -
Why Watch:
It’s aesthetically beautiful and emotionally rich, blending humor and vulnerability while navigating self-esteem and sexuality.
5. Our Dating Sim (2023)
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Genre: Romance, BL, Slice of Life
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Cast: Lee Jong-hyuk, Lee Seung-gyu
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Director: Lim Hyun-hee
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Plot:
Two former friends turned lovers reconnect while working on a dating simulation game, facing past emotions and new beginnings. -
Why Watch:
A soft, heartwarming take on rekindled love and forgiveness, wrapped in a nostalgic gaming theme.
6. Individual Circumstances (2023)
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Genre: BL, Comedy, Romance
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Cast: JunQ (MYNAME), Han Jung-wan
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Director: Kim Jin-yeol
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Plot:
A recluse filmmaker and an outgoing web novelist cross paths after years apart. The unresolved past fuels their present connection. -
Why Watch:
It perfectly portrays complex emotions, creative tension, and the process of healing through reconnection.
7. First Love Again (2022)
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Genre: Fantasy, BL, Romance
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Cast: Jin Gun, Jeon Chang-ha
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Director: Yoo Young-soo
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Plot:
A writer is reborn and encounters his first love from a past life—who is now a man. -
Why Watch:
A unique blend of reincarnation and gay Kdrama, exploring themes of destiny and emotional transformation.
Read Our Recent Article - Romantic Love Korean Movies
8. You Make Me Dance (2021)
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Genre: BL, Youth, Romance
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Cast: Chu Young-woo, Won Hyung-hoon
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Director: So Joon-moon
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Plot:
An aspiring contemporary dancer and a debt collector form an unlikely bond while navigating personal struggles. -
Why Watch:
The artsy setting, emotional arcs, and stunning cinematography make it a beautifully shot and deeply emotional drama.
9. Cherry Blossoms After Winter (2022)
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Genre: BL, Romance, School
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Cast: Ok Jin-wook, Kang Hui
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Director: Jang Eui-soon
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Plot:
A lonely orphan and his childhood friend grow up together and begin to see each other in a new light. -
Why Watch:
A slow-burn, heartfelt exploration of love blooming from friendship. Fans of gentle, school-age romance will love it.
10. Light on Me (2021)
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Genre: BL, Coming-of-Age, School
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Cast: Lee Sae-on, Kang Yoo-seok, Choe Chan-yi
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Director: Lee Yoo-yeon
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Plot:
A socially awkward student joins the school council and meets people who challenge his understanding of relationships. -
Why Watch:
This is one of the best coming-of-age gay Kdramas with nuanced characters and genuine emotional arcs.
Why Gay Kdramas Matter
In a country where LGBTQ+ themes are still met with conservative views, gay Kdramas provide visibility, representation, and hope for viewers worldwide. They challenge stereotypes and normalize same-sex relationships in a relatable, heartfelt manner. These dramas open up conversations, not just within Korea but globally, by humanizing love stories that deserve the spotlight. Visit Our Website for more Kdrama News.
Where to Watch Gay Kdramas
Many of these dramas are available on platforms like:
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Viki (highly recommended for English subtitles and global access)
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YouTube (Official Channels)
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GagaOOLala (dedicated LGBTQ+ streaming)
Make sure to explore legal streaming sources to support the creators and actors involved in bringing these stories to life.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to Korean dramas or a seasoned viewer, the growing genre of gay Kdramas offers a powerful blend of romance, emotion, and cultural change. These shows go beyond simple romance—they talk about identity, acceptance, and love in the face of adversity. As the industry continues to diversify, we can only hope for more such heartfelt and beautifully crafted stories.