The classic trope of the “rich girl poor guy” has been a cornerstone of K-dramas for decades. It’s a formula that evokes laughter, tears, and heartwarming moments, yet often leaves us rolling our eyes at its predictability. This trope plays on the tension between wealth and love, creating a magnetic push-and-pull dynamic that audiences can’t seem to resist. Whether it’s the chaebol heiress falling for the struggling underdog or the poignant commentary on social hierarchies, these dramas explore the clash of worlds in the most entertaining ways.
1. Nice Guy (2012)
“Nice Guy” (also known as The Innocent Man) is a dark melodrama that flips the trope on its head. Kang Ma-roo (played by Song Joong-ki), a promising medical student, falls deeply in love with Han Jae-hee (Park Si-Yeon), a struggling journalist who dreams of escaping poverty. However, Jae-hee betrays him to secure a relationship with a wealthy man. Devastated, Ma-roo decides to use Seo Eun-gi (Moon Chae-won), the heiress to a chaebol, in his quest for revenge.
What starts as a calculated plan evolves into a twisted, emotionally charged love story. The show masterfully blends themes of ambition, heartbreak, and redemption, keeping viewers hooked till the very end.
Where to Watch:
Available on Viki and Netflix (regional availability may vary).
Episodes:
20 episodes, aired from September 12 to November 15, 2012, on KBS2.
2. Queen of Tears (2024)
“Queen of Tears” is a fresh addition to the K-drama roster, starring Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won. This romantic comedy centers on Baek Hyun-woo, a humble lawyer who unexpectedly marries Hong Hae-in, the pampered heiress of Queens Group. Their marriage seems like a fairy tale at first glance, but beneath the surface lies the struggle to bridge their vastly different worlds.
The drama captures the humor and chaos of a mismatched couple trying to maintain love amidst societal expectations, family drama, and their own insecurities. With its razor-sharp wit and heartfelt moments, “Queen of Tears” brings new life to the “rich girl poor guy” trope.
Where to Watch:
The series is streaming on TVING and Netflix.
Episodes:
Scheduled to be released in January 2024, with a total of 16 episodes airing weekly.
3. High Society (2015)
In “High Society,” Jang Yoon-ha (played by Uee) is the youngest daughter of a chaebol family who hides her wealth to live as a regular part-timer at a supermarket. She yearns for genuine relationships, away from the trappings of her privileged life. Enter Choi Joon-ki (Sung Joon), a pragmatic young man who has worked his way up the corporate ladder with no tolerance for those who have it easy.
As their paths intertwine, the drama delves into themes of love, social class, and personal identity. Supporting characters add depth, with parallel love stories and poignant lessons about ambition and happiness.
Where to Watch:
Available on Viki and KOCOWA.
Episodes:
16 episodes, aired from June 8 to July 28, 2015, on SBS.
4. Encounter (2018)
Encounter tells the story of Cha Soo-Hyun (played by Song Hye-Kyo), the elegant and wealthy CEO of a hotel chain, and Kim Jin-Hyuk (played by Park Bo-Gum), a free-spirited, modest young man. The two meet by chance in Cuba, where a picturesque sunset and a few serendipitous moments lead to a connection that defies their starkly different worlds.
Their relationship becomes complicated as Soo-Hyun’s status as a divorcee and Jin-Hyuk’s humble background create societal and familial hurdles. The series explores themes of personal freedom, societal expectations, and the sacrifices one must make for love. With stunning visuals and heartfelt moments, Encounter showcases the tension between social classes while staying grounded in an emotionally raw love story.
- Release Date: November 28, 2018
- Episodes: 16
- Streaming Platforms: Available on Netflix, Viki, and Prime Video (region-dependent).
5. That Winter, the Wind Blows (2013)
This poignant melodrama revolves around Oh Young (played by Song Hye-Kyo), a blind and wealthy heiress, and Oh Soo (played by Jo In-Sung), a con artist with a tragic past. Pretending to be her long-lost brother to clear his debts, Oh Soo enters Oh Young’s life. However, his initial schemes give way to genuine feelings as he becomes her protector, confidant, and love interest.
The show artfully blends romance, deception, and redemption while addressing the emotional isolation that comes with wealth. With breathtaking cinematography and an evocative soundtrack, this drama delivers an unforgettable love story filled with twists and heartbreak.
- Release Date: February 13, 2013
- Episodes: 16
- Streaming Platforms: Watch it on Viki, iQIYI, and Prime Video.
6. Extracurricular (2020)
Unlike traditional “Rich Girl, Poor Guy” dramas, Extracurricular brings a dark, modern twist to the trope. Oh Ji-Soo (played by Kim Dong-Hee) is a quiet high school student who secretly runs an illegal business to fund his dream of escaping poverty. Things spiral out of control when Bae Gyu-Ri (played by Park Ju-Hyun), a rich but rebellious classmate, discovers his secret and insists on becoming his partner.
The story delves into the stark contrasts between their lives, with Ji-Soo’s desperation clashing with Gyu-Ri’s rebellion against privilege. It’s a gritty, thrilling take on class disparity, packed with suspense and moral dilemmas.
- Release Date: April 29, 2020
- Episodes: 10
- Streaming Platforms: Available exclusively on Netflix.
7. My Fair Lady
Kang Hye-na (played by Yoon Eun-Hye) is a wealthy, arrogant heiress living in luxury as the sole owner of the “Lady Castle.” Her life revolves around her whims until she meets Seo Dong-chan (played by Yoon Sang-Hyun), a poor but resourceful man who cons his way into becoming her personal assistant. Through clashes and compromises, Hye-na learns to care for others, and Dong-chan finds a way to thaw her frosty exterior. Their comedic and heartfelt journey is a classic story of opposites attracting.
Where to Watch:
- Available on Viki and Amazon Prime Video.
Release Details:
- Aired from August 19, 2009, to October 8, 2009.
- Total Episodes: 16.
8. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
Moon Gang-tae (played by Kim Soo-hyun) is a caregiver working at a psychiatric hospital, burdened with the responsibility of looking after his autistic older brother, Sang-tae. He meets Ko Moon-young (played by Seo Ye-ji), a popular children’s book author with a troubled past and antisocial tendencies. Though their worlds couldn’t be more different, their shared trauma and emotional wounds bring them together in a journey of healing and self-discovery.
Also Read: K-Dramas That Tackle Mental Health Disorders and Syndromes
Where to Watch:
- Streaming on Netflix globally.
Release Details:
- Aired from June 20, 2020, to August 9, 2020.
- Total Episodes: 16.
9. Ugly Alert
Gong Joon-soo (played by Im Joo-hwan) is a kind-hearted man who sacrifices everything for his family, even taking the blame for a crime he didn’t commit. Despite his unfortunate circumstances, Joon-soo meets Na Do-hee (played by Kang So-ra), a rich, career-focused woman who initially disdains him but grows to admire his perseverance and selflessness. Their relationship blossoms against the backdrop of societal prejudices and family dynamics.
Where to Watch:
- Available on SBS World’s YouTube channel and Rakuten Viki.
Release Details:
- Aired from May 20, 2013, to November 29, 2013.
- Total Episodes: 133 (Daily Drama).
Final Thoughts
These dramas remind us why the “rich girl, poor guy” trope endures—it’s the perfect mix of romance, drama, and social commentary. While the premise might be familiar, each series manages to bring something unique to the table. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let these K-dramas sweep you off your feet.
Kavita Mishra is a dynamic writer and passionate Korean entertainment enthusiast, combining her love for K-pop and K-drama with a flair for storytelling. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Kavita crafts articles that capture the pulse of K-pop idols, chart-topping hits, and the most buzz-worthy dramas taking over screens worldwide.