8 Best Korean Dramas Similar to Melancholia to Watch

Korean dramas have an uncanny ability to weave intricate narratives, delve into complex relationships, and explore the depths of human emotions. If you were swept away by the intense storytelling and emotional rollercoaster of “Melancholia”, these are some Korean dramas you will like.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into a curated list of Korean dramas that share similar themes, emotions, and plotlines, ensuring your journey into the world of K-dramas continues to be captivating and emotionally charged.

 

List of Korean Dramas Similar to Melancholia

 

1. Crash Course in Romance

Best Korean Dramas Similar to Melancholia

Crash Course in Romance” takes center stage with a unique twist – both main leads are math teachers. The intricate portrayal of mathematics in the storyline adds a layer of intellectual depth, mirroring the thematic complexity found in Melancholia.

As Nam Haeng Sun, a retired national athlete, finds herself drawn to Choi Chi Yeol, a private instructor known as the “1 Billion Won Man,” the drama explores the intersection of passion for education and budding romance. Will their love withstand the challenges thrown their way? Dive into this mathematical romance to find out.

This Korean drama like Melancholia was released in 2023 and has 16 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Jeon Do Yeon and Jung Kyung Ho.

 

2. Doctors

Best Korean Dramas Similar to Melancholia

Doctors” offers a compelling narrative centered around the transformation of Yoo Hye Jung, a tough high school bully turned compassionate doctor.

The teacher-student relationship, a prominent theme in both Melancholia and Doctors, unfolds as Hye Jung meets her mentor, Hong Ji Hong.

As they reconnect later in life, the drama delves into personal growth, overcoming scars from the past, and the profound impact of mentorship on one’s life journey.

This one of the best Korean dramas similar to Melancholia was released in 2016 and has 20 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Kim Rae Won, Park Shin Hye, and Yoon Kyun Sang.

 

3. Itaewon Class

Best Korean Dramas Similar to Melancholia

The parallels between Melancholia and “Itaewon Class” are striking. Both K-dramas share a revenge plotline with lead characters uniting against a formidable adversary. The 10-year age gap and a love story evolving after a time skip add a layer of complexity.

The characters, like Baek Seung Yoo and Jo Yi Seo, demonstrate growth, love, and the pursuit of justice. If you enjoyed the intricate web of relationships in Melancholia, “Itaewon Class” promises a similarly engaging experience.

Released in 2020 and has 16 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Park Seo Joon, Kim Da Mi, Kwon Na Ra, and Yoo Jae Myung..

 

4. SKY Castle

In the realm of elite education and parental pressure, “SKY Castle” echoes Melancholia’s exploration of societal expectations and academic pursuits.

Both dramas portray the stark contrast between rich and poor, exposing the harsh realities of school injustice, corruption, and the impact on genius children from less privileged backgrounds.

If you were captivated by the social commentary in Melancholia, SKY Castle awaits with a gripping tale of ambition, sacrifice, and societal pressures.

This one of the best Korean dramas similar to Melancholia was released in 2018 and has 20 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Yeom Jung Ah, Lee Tae Ran, and Yoon Se Ah.

 

5. Why Her?

Best Korean Dramas Similar to Melancholia

Why Her?” and Melancholia share the theme of an older female lead and a younger male lead in a teacher-student relationship. Both dramas explore the protagonists’ painful pasts, creating a canvas for romance and drama.

The common thread of reputation redemption and the actors’ previous collaboration in “18 Again” further intertwine these two compelling narratives.

This TV show like Melancholia Kdrama was released in 2022 and has 16 episodes. You can watch it on Viki. Stars Seo Hyun Jin, Hwang In Youp, Heo Joon Ho, and Bae In Hyuk.

 

6. The Glory

Best Korean Dramas Similar to Melancholia

Revenge takes center stage in “The Glory,” set in a school environment similar to Melancholia. The story follows a high school student seeking revenge for past school violence.

The K-drama’s exploration of justice, redemption, and the consequences of bullying resonates with the emotional depth found in Melancholia.

This one of the best Korean dramas similar to Melancholia was released in 2022 and has 8 episodes. You can watch it on Viki. Stars Song Hye Kyo, Lee Do Hyun, Im Ji Yeon, and Yeom Hye Ran.

 

7. My Strange Hero


My Strange Hero” and Melancholia share a commitment to fighting school corruption. Both dramas feature a tragic first meeting that eventually leads to a reunion as adults. With themes of revenge and justice, these narratives explore the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Released in 2018 and has 32 episodes. You can watch it on Viki. Stars Yoo Seung Ho, Jo Bo Ah, and Kwak Dong Yeon.

 

8. Start-Up

Best Korean Dramas Similar to Melancholia

Start-Up” and Melancholia share a focus on passionate individuals navigating the challenges of their chosen fields. While “Start-Up” revolves around the tech industry, Melancholia intertwines engineering and mathematics.

Both K-dramas feature protagonists with a geeky side, embarking on journeys of self-discovery, ambition, and the pursuit of success. The OSTs of both series provide a similar emotional backdrop, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

This one of the best Korean dramas similar to Melancholia was released in 2018 and has 32 episodes. You can watch it on Viki. Stars Bae Suzy, Nam Joo Hyuk, Kim Seon Ho, and Kang Han Na.

 

That’s a list of Korean dramas similar to Melancholia that you must watch right now. Thank you for reading this article, have a nice day!

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