From Hate to Heartthrob: Must-Watch Enemy to Lovers K-Dramas

The “enemy to lovers” trope is a beloved and exciting narrative theme in K-dramas, offering a rollercoaster ride of emotions, witty dialogues, and unforgettable chemistry between characters. This genre typically revolves around two individuals who start as rivals or enemies due to their differing personalities, circumstances, or ideologies. However, through a series of events, misunderstandings, and inevitable confrontations, these characters eventually develop a romantic relationship. Their journey is filled with tension, emotional growth, and often plenty of humor.

The enemy-to-lovers narrative provides the perfect backdrop for character development. As the characters understand each other’s vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and strengths, their animosity transforms into mutual respect, affection, and sometimes, even love. The transformation from enemies to lovers is often messy, complex, and dramatic, but these elements make it so compelling. This genre also tends to highlight themes of personal growth, reconciliation, and the breaking down of barriers—whether those barriers are created by personal prejudice, societal expectations, or external conflicts.

In K-dramas, the “enemy” phase is typically filled with bickering, playful yet sharp insults, and situations where the characters find themselves constantly at odds. The chemistry between the lead characters is often intense, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating how these tensions will eventually give way to a blossoming romance. The journey from enemies to lovers often features misunderstandings, jealousy, and moments of vulnerability, all contributing to an emotional rollercoaster that fans of the genre adore.

Also Read: Best Rich Girl Poor Guy K-Dramas to Binge-Watch

1. Boys Over Flowers (2009)

“Boys Over Flowers” is one of the most iconic K-dramas in the enemy-to-lovers genre, based on the popular Japanese manga “Hana Yori Dango.” The story follows Geum Jan Di (played by Goo Hye Sun), an ordinary high school girl who gets entangled with the F4, a group of wealthy and powerful boys. The group’s leader, Goo Jun Pyo (played by Lee Min Ho), is initially arrogant, rude, and dismissive of Jan Di. However, as they spend more time together, their relationship begins to evolve. Despite numerous obstacles, including misunderstandings and class differences, the two slowly fall in love, transforming enemies into lovers one of the most heartwarming and unforgettable aspects of the drama.

• Release Date: January 5, 2009 – March 31, 2009
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix, Viki, and other streaming platforms.

2. Suspicious Partner (2017)

“Suspicious Partner” follows the story of Noh Ji Wook (played by Ji Chang Wook), a prosecutor, and Eun Bong Hee (played by Nam Ji Hyun), a prosecutor’s assistant. Initially, Ji Wook and Bong Hee have a rocky relationship, as she is wrongly accused of being involved in a murder. Despite their initial differences and animosity, they begin to work together on the case and form a bond. The drama intertwines crime-solving with their personal lives, as Ji Wook and Bong Hee deal with a complex mix of legal cases, personal issues, and romantic tension. As they unravel the truth about the murder and clear Bong Hee’s name, they also develop deep feelings for each other.

• Release Date: May 10, 2017 – July 13, 2017
• Where to Watch: Available on platforms like Netflix and Viki.

3. Shooting Stars (2022)

“Shooting Stars” focuses on the world of entertainment, where the drama follows Oh Han Byul (played by Lee Sung Kyung), a PR team leader working for a top entertainment agency. Her professional life intersects with that of a famous actor, Gong Tae Sung (played by Kim Young Dae), who is known for his arrogance and bad behavior. Despite their initial antagonistic relationship, the two characters begin to form a bond as they work together to manage the challenges in Tae Sung’s career. As they spend more time together, their interactions shift from antagonism to mutual understanding and romantic attraction. The series is filled with humor, romance, and a peek into the behind-the-scenes of the entertainment industry.

• Release Date: April 22, 2022 – June 11, 2022
• Where to Watch: Available on Viki and Kocowa.

4. So I Married an Anti-Fan

So I Married an Anti-Fan is a 2021 South Korean television series based on the webtoon of the same name. It follows the story of a famous K-pop idol, Hoo Joon, and a woman named Lee Geun Young, who becomes his “anti-fan” after being hurt by his actions. Geun Young is a journalist who, after a series of misunderstandings involving Hoo Joon, publicly expresses her disdain for him. The two are later forced into a fake marriage as part of a reality show, which leads to them living together.

Episodes & Where to Watch:

• Episodes: 16
• Release Date: April 30, 2021
• Where to Watch: Available on platforms like Viki, iQIYI, and Rakuten Viki.

5. Mr. Queen

Mr. Queen is a historical comedy series that takes the enemy-to-lovers concept in a unique direction. The show centers on a modern-day chef, who, through a bizarre accident, finds himself transported back in time into the body of a queen in the Joseon Dynasty. The chef, now inside the queen’s body, must navigate the royal court, including a strong-willed king who initially distrusts and dislikes him (in the queen’s form). Over time, the two characters begin to develop a bond that blurs the lines between hatred and attraction.

The show balances humor, drama, and romance as the chef (in the queen’s body) tries to manage royal duties, uncover court conspiracies, and deal with the king’s icy demeanor, eventually leading to a deep, affectionate relationship.

Episodes & Where to Watch:

• Episodes: 20
• Release Date: December 12, 2020
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix and TVING.

6. Our Beloved Summer

Our Beloved Summer is a 2021 romantic comedy that revolves around two former high school sweethearts, Choi Woong and Kook Yeon Soo. The two had a rocky breakup years ago, and their high school documentary, which portrayed them as an adorable couple, went viral. They are then forced to reunite to film a follow-up to the documentary.

While initially they can’t stand each other due to their past, as they spend more time together, old wounds start to heal, and they begin to rediscover the feelings they had for one another. The show captures the tension and emotional turmoil of reconnecting with an ex while also exploring the growth and maturity of both characters.

Episodes & Where to Watch:

• Episodes: 16
• Release Date: December 6, 2021
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

7. Crazy Love (2022)

This drama revolves around Noh Go-Jin (Kim Jae-Wook), a narcissistic and self-centered CEO of a top math institute, and his seemingly timid secretary Lee Shin-Ah (Krystal Jung). The story kicks off with Shin-Ah learning she has terminal cancer and planning revenge against her boss, who has been nothing but cruel to her. However, things take an unexpected turn when Go-Jin pretends to have amnesia to protect himself from death threats. Shin-Ah plays along, claiming to be his fiancée, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and unexpected romance.

Key Episode Highlight:

• Episode 8: This is the turning point where their emotional walls start crumbling. Go-Jin, despite his bravado, shows genuine care for Shin-Ah when he realizes her health struggles. Their banter transitions into heartfelt moments, marking the start of their romantic journey.

Release Details:

• Aired: March 7 – April 26, 2022
• Total Episodes: 16
• Where to Watch: Available on Disney+ and Viki.

8. Love to Hate You (2023)

This lighthearted yet poignant drama follows Yeo Mi-Ran (Kim Ok-Vin), a feisty lawyer who distrusts men, and Nam Kang-Ho (Teo Yoo), a superstar actor who despises women. Mi-Ran takes up a case involving Kang-Ho, and their initial disdain for each other sets the stage for a tumultuous relationship. As their forced proximity intensifies, they discover vulnerabilities, share their past traumas, and ultimately fall in love.

Key Episode Highlight:

• Episode 6: Mi-Ran and Kang-Ho are forced into a fake dating scenario, but their constant bickering gives way to authentic chemistry. Kang-Ho begins to see Mi-Ran’s strength and compassion, while Mi-Ran witnesses his unspoken kindness behind his cold facade.

Release Details:

• Aired: February 10, 2023
• Total Episodes: 10
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.

9. Strong Woman Do Bong Soon (2017)

This drama is a mix of romance, comedy, and suspense. Do Bong-Soon (Park Bo-Young) is a petite woman with extraordinary strength, which she tries to hide. She dreams of designing video games but ends up becoming a bodyguard for Ahn Min-Hyuk (Park Hyung-Sik), the CEO of a gaming company. Min-Hyuk is eccentric, playful, and initially dismissive of Bong-Soon’s abilities. Their dynamic gradually changes as Bong-Soon’s strength saves him multiple times, and Min-Hyuk becomes her biggest supporter.

Key Episode Highlight:

• Episode 9: Min-Hyuk realizes his growing feelings for Bong-Soon during a heated argument where she stands up to him. Her strength, both physical and emotional, breaks through his walls, leading to some of the most swoon-worthy moments.

Release Details:

• Aired: February 24 – April 15, 2017
• Total Episodes: 16
• Where to Watch: Available on Viki and Netflix.

10. It’s Okay, That’s Love (2014)

Jang Jae-yeol (Jo In-sung), a bestselling mystery writer and radio DJ, is confident, self-centered, and emotionally guarded due to a traumatic childhood. Ji Hae-soo (Gong Hyo-jin), a psychiatrist, is compassionate yet struggles with intimacy issues stemming from her past.

The two meet when Hae-soo becomes a panelist on Jae-yeol’s radio show, and their personalities clash immediately. Their antagonism grows as they’re forced to live together in the same house shared with other quirky tenants. Over time, they realize their hostility stems from their insecurities and traumas. The series explores mental health, love, and healing as they help each other confront their deepest fears.

• Key Episode (Ep. 8): The tension shifts when Hae-soo admits her feelings during an emotional moment where Jae-yeol’s vulnerability is exposed.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix and Viki.
• Total Episodes: 16.

11. Secret Garden (2010)

Kim Joo-won (Hyun Bin), a wealthy and arrogant CEO, meets Gil Ra-im (Ha Ji-won), a humble and fiercely independent stuntwoman, under unusual circumstances. Joo-won’s condescending attitude towards Ra-im and her profession sparks animosity. However, he finds himself inexplicably drawn to her.

Their relationship takes a fantastical turn when they accidentally swap bodies after drinking a mysterious potion in a magical forest. Forced to live each other’s lives, they develop empathy and understanding, gradually falling in love. The series is a rollercoaster of emotions, blending comedy, fantasy, and romance.

1. Key Episode (Ep. 10): The body-swapping leads to a hilarious and heartfelt moment where Joo-won, in Ra-im’s body, stands up for her against critics.
2. Where to Watch: Available on Netflix, Viki, and Prime Video.
3. Total Episodes: 20.

12. Crash Course in Romance (2023)

Nam Haeng-sun (Jeon Do-Yeon), a former athlete who now runs a small banchan (side dish) shop, finds herself in constant conflict with Choi Chi-yeol (Jung Kyung-ho), a renowned and perfectionist math instructor. Their clash begins when Haeng-sun decides to enroll her niece in Chi-yeol’s exclusive tutoring program, leading to misunderstandings and heated exchanges.

The animosity slowly evolves into mutual respect and affection as they navigate their struggles and unexpected challenges, including a murder mystery surrounding Chi-yeol’s students. The drama delves into themes of second chances, familial bonds, and finding love amidst chaos.

• Key Episode (Ep. 12): Haeng-sun and Chi-yeol share an intimate conversation after a near-death experience, marking the turning point in their relationship.
• Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
• Total Episodes: 16.

13. Start-Up

“Start-Up” revolves around a group of young entrepreneurs navigating the challenges of launching and running a tech startup in South Korea’s Silicon Valley. The story centers on Seo Dal-mi, an ambitious young woman with big dreams, and Nam Do-san, the awkward but brilliant founder of Samsan Tech.

Dal-mi initially admires Do-san due to her misunderstanding that he wrote her childhood letters. When they meet, she discovers the lie (fabricated by her grandmother and Han Ji-pyeong, who wrote the letters). Dal-mi feels betrayed and skeptical of Do-san, creating tension.
Over time, as they work together to grow their startup and face adversities, Dal-mi sees Do-san’s genuine qualities—his kindness, determination, and love for her. This gradual realization leads to mutual respect, trust, and eventually, love.

Episodes to Watch:

• Episode 1-4: Initial misunderstanding and discovery of the truth.
• Episodes 8-12: Emotional growth and deepening of their relationship.

Where to Watch: Netflix

14. Business Proposal

Shin Ha-ri goes on a blind date in place of her friend Jin Young-seo, intending to scare off her potential suitor. However, the man turns out to be Kang Tae-moo, her company’s CEO. Chaos ensues as Tae-moo decides to marry her to avoid future blind dates.

Tae-moo is furious when he learns Ha-ri deceived him and works at his company. He accuses her of being untrustworthy and unprofessional. Ha-ri finds him arrogant and impossible to deal with.
However, as they’re forced to interact due to Tae-moo’s schemes, their bickering turns into playful banter. Tae-moo’s sincerity, protectiveness, and charm eventually win Ha-ri over, and they fall in love.

Episodes to Watch:

• Episodes 1-6: Blind date disaster and office tension.
• Episode 9-12: Confession and romantic moments.

Where to Watch: Netflix

15. Clean with Passion for Now

The story follows Jang Sun-gyeol, a wealthy CEO with severe germophobia, and Gil Oh-sol, a carefree, messy young woman who joins his cleaning company.

Sun-gyeol initially despises Oh-sol due to her unhygienic habits and carefree attitude. He finds her presence unbearable and her actions disruptive to his orderly life.
As they spend more time together, Sun-gyeol discovers Oh-sol’s resilience and warmth, which challenge his rigid worldview. Her influence helps him overcome his fears, and his respect for her transforms into love.

Episodes to Watch:

• Episode 1-5: Sun-gyeol’s extreme germophobia and clashes with Oh-sol.
• Episode 8-12: Heartfelt moments as Sun-gyeol begins to change.

Where to Watch: Viki

16. The Heirs

Kim Tan, the heir to a massive conglomerate, falls for Cha Eun-sang, a working-class girl. The story explores class struggles, romance, and family conflicts. Eun-sang resents Tan for his privileged and entitled attitude, while Tan initially sees her as just another commoner. Their differences create friction, especially as Tan’s family intervenes to keep them apart.
Tan’s persistence and genuine affection eventually break down Eun-sang’s defenses. She realizes Tan’s struggles with his family and how deeply he cares for her, leading to a deep and heartfelt connection.

Episodes to Watch:

• Episodes 3-6: Class conflicts and misunderstandings.
• Episode 12-20: Emotional breakthroughs and resolution.

Where to Watch: Netflix

17. Pinocchio

The drama follows Choi In-ha, who has “Pinocchio Syndrome” (she hiccups when she lies), and Choi Dal-po, a talented but underappreciated reporter, as they navigate the world of journalism.

In-ha and Dal-po have a tense relationship early on due to their conflicting ideals about journalism and Dal-po’s hidden resentment toward her family. In-ha’s straightforwardness and Dal-po’s deep-seated emotions often lead to clashes.
Their shared passion for uncovering the truth and standing up for justice brings them closer. Dal-po eventually forgives In-ha’s family, and In-ha’s earnestness wins over Dal-po’s heart.

Episodes to Watch:

• Episodes 1-4: Tension and confrontations.
• Episode 9-16: Trust and mutual admiration blossom into romance.

Where to Watch: Viki

18. Tale of the Nine-Tailed (2020)

This fantasy romance follows Lee Yeon, a gumiho (a mythical nine-tailed fox), and Nam Ji-ah, a courageous TV producer investigating paranormal activities. Their relationship begins as one of suspicion and antagonism. Ji-ah suspects Lee Yeon is linked to her parent’s mysterious disappearance. Lee Yeon sees her as an interference in his quest to eliminate a malevolent spirit.

• Why They Hate Each Other: Ji-ah is determined to uncover Lee Yeon’s secrets, often disrupting his plans. He dismisses her as a pesky human meddler.
• Turning Point: As they team up to face a common foe, their grudging respect turns into deep care. Lee Yeon realizes Ji-ah’s connection to his tragic past, and Ji-ah sees the vulnerabilities behind his aloof demeanor.
• Where to Watch: Viki, Netflix
• Episodes & Release: 16 episodes, October 7 – December 3, 2020.

19. Doom at Your Service (2021)

Tak Dong-kyung, an ordinary woman with a terminal illness, inadvertently summons Myul Mang, a deity of destruction. Their paths clash when Myul Mang offers her a contract that could save her life at the cost of ending the world.

• Why They Hate Each Other: Dong-kyung resents Myul Mang’s cold detachment and his role in her suffering. He views her as just another pawn in the cosmic game.
• Turning Point: Their constant clashes reveal their mutual loneliness and yearning for connection. Despite his destructive nature, Myul Mang learns compassion through Dong-kyung’s humanity.
• Where to Watch: Viki, iQiyi
• Episodes & Release: 16 episodes, May 10 – June 29, 2021.

20. The Legend of the Blue Sea (2016)

This drama tells the love story of a mermaid, Shim Cheong, and Heo Joon-jae, a suave con artist. Their initial encounters are marked by chaos, as Shim Cheong disrupts Joon-jae’s meticulously planned schemes.

• Why They Hate Each Other: Joon-jae finds Shim Cheong’s naïveté and antics exasperating, while she is frustrated by his cynicism and greed.
• Turning Point: As Joon-jae discovers Shim Cheong’s innocence and otherworldly origins, he softens toward her. Their shared past-life connection deepens their bond.
• Where to Watch: Netflix
• Episodes & Release: 20 episodes, November 16, 2016 – January 25, 2017.

21. Hotel del Luna (2019)

Jang Man-wol, the grudging owner of the titular ghostly hotel, is cursed to manage souls before they pass on. Goo Chan-sung, a Harvard graduate with a pragmatic outlook, becomes her reluctant assistant.

• Why They Hate Each Other: Chan-sung resents being dragged into the supernatural world, while Man-wol mocks his rigid and materialistic nature.
• Turning Point: As Chan-sung helps Man-wol confront her tragic past, they develop a profound respect and affection. Her icy demeanor melts as she begins to trust him.
• Where to Watch: Netflix
• Episodes & Release: 16 episodes, July 13 – September 1, 2019.

22. The Moon That Embraces the Sun

This drama narrates the love story of King Lee Hwon and a noblewoman, Yeon-woo, amidst political conspiracies and tragic circumstances. Yeon-woo is presumed dead but returns years later as a shaman with no memory of her past.

Yeon-woo and Hwon were childhood sweethearts, but fate and political betrayal tore them apart. Years later, Hwon is a king who mistrusts everyone, including Yeon-woo, whom he initially sees as an imposter and a threat to his throne. Their love rekindles as Hwon uncovers the truth about her identity and the conspiracy that separated them.

• Genre: Historical, Romance, Fantasy
• Release: January 4, 2012 – March 15, 2012
• Episodes: 20
• Available on: Viki, Netflix

23. Mr. Sunshine

Set in the late Joseon era, Eugene Choi, a Korean slave turned American soldier, returns to Joseon, only to fall for Go Ae-shin, a noblewoman secretly fighting for independence. Their love story is laced with sacrifice and patriotism.

Eugene initially detests Ae-shin for her privileged status, believing she embodies the aristocracy that oppressed him. Similarly, Ae-shin views Eugene as an outsider who cannot understand her dedication to Joseon’s cause. Their mutual respect grows through shared struggles for freedom, transforming animosity into love.

• Genre: Historical, Action, Romance
• Release: July 7, 2018 – September 30, 2018
• Episodes: 24
• Available on: Netflix

24. Love in the Moonlight

Crown Prince Lee Yeong falls for Hong Ra-on, a girl disguised as a eunuch in the palace. As secrets unravel, love blossoms amidst political chaos.

Yeong initially despises Ra-on for her clumsiness and what he perceives as her insolence. Ra-on, on the other hand, finds Yeong arrogant and overbearing. Over time, Yeong is charmed by her wit and kindness, while Ra-on sees his softer, caring side.

• Genre: Historical, Romantic Comedy
• Release: August 22, 2016 – October 18, 2016
• Episodes: 18
• Available on: Viki, Netflix

25. The King’s Affection

After the crown prince dies, his twin sister Dam-yi assumes his identity. She navigates court politics while falling for Jung Ji-woon, her tutor, who is unaware of her secret.

Ji-woon initially sees “the prince” as a distant and authoritative figure, while Dam-yi finds him annoyingly carefree. Their interactions deepen as they realize shared values and vulnerabilities, leading to a poignant romance.

• Genre: Historical, Romance
• Release: October 11, 2021 – December 14, 2021
• Episodes: 20
• Available on: Netflix

Conclusion

The Enemy to Lovers K-drama genre is a timeless favorite among fans for its heartwarming transformation of conflict into romance. Whether it’s through witty banter, unexpected moments of vulnerability, or the slow burn of mutual attraction, these dramas offer a satisfying and emotional journey. With beloved series like “Suspicious Partner,” “Boys Over Flowers,” and “Shooting Stars,” viewers are treated to unforgettable character arcs and a captivating mix of love, humor, and drama. These K-dramas highlight the beauty of relationships that begin with animosity but blossom into something deeper, showing that love can truly bloom even in the most unexpected of places.