Dear Diary, These Dramas Own My Heart (Rent-Free)

What pulled me in:
This was the drama that got me into Japanese dramas in the first place. Out of every Boys Over Flowers adaptation, this is my favorite version — the one that started everything, including my love for Matsumoto Jun and Oguri Shun. It was fun, dramatic, and immediately addictive.

The moment it became a favorite:
I was team second lead at first. Fully committed. And then Domyoji waited for Makino in the rain all night. At first, I told her to forget his butt — but the longer he stood there, soaked and unmoving, the softer my heart got until it was completely his.

The damage done:
When he got sick afterward, it was over. Goodbye second lead, hello male lead. Makino and Domyoji became a forever OTP for me. I cried, I yelled, I wanted to kick people, I suffered through their rough patches, and I celebrated hard when they found their way back to each other.

Why it’s forever:
Yes, the Korean version launched the franchise worldwide, but the Japanese version is the one that captured my heart. This drama put me through an emotional roller coaster and left a permanent mark. Forever favorite. No appeals.

What pulled me in:
This drama is hands down one of the cutest Japanese BLs ever, and it brought back all the fuzzy feelings I had when I first started watching Japanese dramas. It felt nostalgic in the best way — simple, gentle, character-driven, and full of heart. From the start, it gave me that warm, comforting feeling that only certain J-dramas can deliver.

The moment it became a favorite:
Adachi. That’s it. That’s the moment. He is the purest cinnamon roll on the planet. While watching, all I wanted to do was hug him, reassure him, and carry him around in my pocket for protection. And then there’s Kurosawa — the perfect person for him. Kurosawa understands Adachi, respects him, and loves him so sincerely. Watching how naturally he supports Adachi made my heart melt completely.

The damage done:
I fell deeply in love with them as a couple. Seeing Adachi slowly grow more confident in himself, with Kurosawa cheering him on every step of the way, was incredibly satisfying and emotional. Kurosawa is the biggest green flag ever, and together they were just… pure joy. This drama made me smile nonstop and left me feeling soft and emotional in the best way.

Why it’s forever:
Cherry Magic became a favorite not because of dramatic twists, but because of how it made me feel. It was sweet, funny, nostalgic, wholesome, and magical — like a fairytale romance. I would love to see them again someday, but even if it only happened once, it was enough. This drama reminded me why I fell in love with Japanese romances in the first place.

What pulled me in:
This was my very first Lee Min Ho drama, and it immediately started my Lee Min Ho fever. He was SO good here — honestly, I loved him more in City Hunter than I did in Boys Over Flowers. Sorry, not sorry. From the beginning, the drama had me hooked with its action, intensity, and strong emotional stakes.

The moment it became a favorite:
I realized I was fully invested when I was biting my nails watching the revenge plot unfold. The emotions were intense, the tension never let up, and I was locked in. Also, I will never forget how everyone kept yelling “City Hunter” — which unfortunately sounded like “shitty hunter” every single time. I cracked up through the stress. ?

The damage done:
I loved everything about this drama — the action, the revenge, the romance, and especially how well it was balanced. The writers deserve their flowers because the pacing, characters, and plot were handled so well. The romance never overtook the main story, which is something a lot of dramas fail at. Even when romantic moments happened, the revenge plot was always lurking in the background. You never forgot what this drama was really about.

Why it’s forever:
City Hunter stands out because it never lost focus. It wasn’t just a lovey-dovey romance — it was a revenge-driven story with emotional depth, action, and heart. The balance between plot and romance was near perfect, and the intensity stayed consistent from start to finish. This drama didn’t just introduce me to Lee Min Ho — it cemented him as a favorite and left a lasting impression. Forever favorite.

What pulled me in:
Oh Coffee Prince, oh Coffee Prince. I had already seen plenty of “girl dresses like a guy” dramas before this one, but none of them felt as believable as this... a soft boy, but a boy nonetheless. From the start, the story felt natural, grounded, and emotionally honest.

The moment it became a favorite:
The romance. Period. Watching the male lead go through his gay crisis was both hilarious and incredibly beautiful. His internal struggle felt real, sincere, and handled with so much care. And then that line — “I like you. Whether you’re a man or an alien, I don’t care anymore.” — absolutely destroyed me. I swooned. I folded. My heart was gone.

The damage done:
Beyond the romance, I loved the friendships in this drama. The entire cast felt like a group of lovable misfits, the kind of found family you want to sit with, laugh with, and belong to. Every interaction felt warm and genuine, which made the story even more special.

Why it’s forever:
Coffee Prince proved that not every great love story needs to be tragic or epic to be meaningful. Sometimes, magic lives in the simplest things — shared moments, quiet realizations, and loving someone for who they are, regardless of gender. This drama left a lasting imprint on my heart, and I’ll never forget how it made me feel. Love can begin anywhere… even in a coffee shop.

What pulled me in:
This drama was unexpectedly fun from the start. Taiwanese dramas have a very different flavor compared to Japanese or Korean ones — especially when it comes to comedy — and Devil Beside You fully leaned into that silliness. I didn’t think I’d enjoy it as much as I did, but once it got going, I was hooked.

The moment it became a favorite:
The romance. I was shipping the main leads HARD — to the point where I genuinely wanted them to date in real life. Their chemistry was straight-up fire. Mike He, in particular, was setting my heart aflame in this drama, and I was absolutely gone.

The damage done:
Did I ever think I’d enjoy a drama about a “stepbrother” pursuing his “stepsister”? Absolutely not. And yet… here we are. If I remember correctly, he was already into her long before their parents got married, so I’ll allow it. ? The premise was bold, the romance was intense, and the chemistry carried everything effortlessly.

Why it’s forever:
Devil Beside You is one of those dramas that’s just pure fun. The silliness worked, the romance delivered, and the leads became a forever OTP for me. It’s the kind of drama that makes you want to rewatch it just to relive the vibes, the chemistry, and the unapologetic chaos. Forever favorite, no hesitation.

What pulled me in:
Another Taiwanese drama that completely won me over. I loved this one so much, and a huge part of that is Jerry and Ella. Their chemistry absolutely made the drama for me. And Ella? I adore her. She was such a cutie in this role and carried the tone of the show effortlessly.

The moment it became a favorite:
The premise alone had me laughing. The female lead pretending to be a lesbian while the male lead slowly falls for her anyway? Comedy gold. Watching him struggle with his feelings, fully confused and spiraling, led to some of the most hilarious moments. This drama is a straight-up hoot.

The damage done:
This show cemented my love for Taiwanese slapstick humor. I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I LOVE it, and Ella embraces that exaggerated comedy so well. On top of that, the romance stayed cute and charming, and the kids in the drama were absolutely adorable, adding even more heart to the story.

Why it’s forever:
I’ve watched Down With Love multiple times, and it never gets old. The humor still lands, the romance is still just as cute as I remember, and the chemistry remains fantastic. It’s one of those feel-good favorites that always delivers laughter and warmth. Forever favorite, no question.

What pulled me in:
This is the Thai remake of the Korean drama Full House, and while I love Rain, I love love LOVE this version. What truly made this drama for me was the leads. From the moment they were on screen together, the chemistry was undeniable and completely addictive.

The moment it became a favorite:
That ice cream scene.
I don’t even know how to explain how something as simple as eating ice cream turned into a moment so intense it had me falling to the floor. The chemistry was insane. Watching them together felt borderline steamy without actually being steamy, and I was DONE for.

The damage done:
I shipped them HARD. Like, “please date in real life” hard. I could not get enough of the main pairing at all. Every interaction, every look, every moment together had me fully seated and invested. The drama itself was fun, but the leads carried it to another level entirely.

Why it’s forever:
Full House (Thailand) is one of those dramas where the chemistry alone elevates everything. The story was enjoyable, the vibes were fun, and the main couple completely owned my heart. If these two ever announced they were working together again, I’d watch in a heartbeat. This drama is a favorite because it understood the power of a perfect pairing — and delivered.

The Spark:
I am actually a huge fan of murder mysteries — if a drama has crime, suspense, or investigation, I’m immediately interested. What I don’t do well with is supernatural horror. Ghosts? Spirits? Creepy, unexplainable things? Absolutely not my comfort zone. So when I started this drama, I knew the murder mystery would hook me… but the supernatural elements had me hesitating. Still, something told me to press play — and thank god I did.

The Moment It Became a Favorite:
This drama completely surprised me. The romance was beautiful, the chemistry was adorable, and the murder mystery was shockingly well-written. Every scene felt intentional, every clue mattered, and the story kept pulling me deeper in. I found myself thinking about it constantly and counting down the days until Friday. I never expected a BL to deliver a mystery this strong, but it absolutely did.

The Damage Done:
Now let’s talk about the horror — because this drama scared the life out of me. Supernatural horror is my weakness, and this show did not hold back. I screamed, I jumped, I questioned my life choices… but I still couldn’t stop watching. That’s how good it was. The tension, the pacing, the emotional weight — all of it worked. And somehow, in the middle of all that fear, I fell completely in love with the pairing. Their chemistry was sweet, natural, and unexpectedly powerful. I walked away a full-on fan.

Why It’s Forever:
This drama had everything: romance, suspense, heart, and a genuinely gripping mystery. The writing was tight, the cast was perfect, and the story stayed with me long after it ended. I never thought a supernatural murder mystery BL would become my #1 drama of 2025, but here we are. Scared, obsessed, impressed, and grateful. Flowers to everyone involved — this one lives rent-free in my head forever. 

What pulled me in:
This drama is completely outside my usual taste. I am a romance girlie through and through, and Gokusen had basically zero romance — and yet, I kept watching. That alone should tell you how good it was. Instead of romance, the story focused on a teacher trying to genuinely make a difference in her students’ lives, and it pulled me in immediately.

The moment it became a favorite:
I realized I was fully invested when I stopped caring that there was no romance at all. The heart of the story, the humor, and the emotional moments were more than enough. I laughed, I felt moved, and I found myself rooting for every single one of those misfit students.

The damage done:
The characters were incredibly lovable, and the lessons woven into the story really stayed with me. It was funny without being shallow, emotional without being heavy-handed, and heartfelt in a way that felt sincere. And let’s be real — Matsumoto Jun being in this drama did not hurt. He was so young and adorable here, and watching him was an added bonus.

Why it’s forever:
Gokusen earned its place as a favorite because it proved that a drama doesn’t need romance to be impactful. It had heart, humor, meaningful lessons, and characters you genuinely cared about. This drama made me feel something in a completely different way, and that’s why it remains a forever favorite.

What pulled me in:
This drama completely took me by surprise. I usually spiral into rewatch obsession because of romance, but Guardians of the Dafeng pulled me in for a different reason — friendship, adventure, and watching Dylan (my forever boo) solve case after case like an absolute king.

The moment it became a favorite:
I knew I was gone when I kept rewatching it over and over again. So much so that my family — who doesn’t even watch Chinese dramas — now recognizes it. That’s how much this drama lived on my screen. The joy it brings me is instant.

The damage done:
The characters are everything. I love the male lead’s sidekicks and their dynamic with him — endlessly fun and entertaining. His family is hilarious, and Yan Yan became my favorite Gold Guardian without question. The world-building is also fantastic; everything has purpose, and I was fully invested in learning more about this universe. Even though romance isn’t center stage, it was still cute, and I absolutely adored the princess.

And yes — I need to properly fangirl. Dylan was unreal in this role. His charm, wit, and confidence made every scene a joy to watch. Whether he was solving cases, leading his crew, or just existing on screen, he radiated main-character energy. This drama cemented why he’s my ultimate favorite chinese actor.

Why it’s forever:
Guardians of the Dafeng is a forever favorite because it makes me genuinely happy. Every time I think about it, I start humming the Guardian theme song. The story, friendships, family moments, and world all work beautifully. And with a second season confirmed after that ending? I’m seated and ready for more.

What pulled me in:
Japanese dramas are known for quirky, slightly unhinged premises, and Hana Kimi absolutely delivered. A girl sneaking into an all-boys school… all for a boy? Classic. Ridiculous. Perfect. From the start, it was pure fun and embraced its chaos without hesitation.

The moment it became a favorite:
What really won me over wasn’t just the romance, but the friendships and nonstop comedy. This drama was an absolute blast to watch. The jokes landed, the energy was infectious, and I didn’t want it to end. Some of the humor stuck with me so hard that I still remember specific jokes to this day.

The damage done:
The characters made everything better. Oguri Shun was one of my favorites here — ridiculously cute and completely unhinged, especially in his “drunk kissing monster” era. This drama also introduced me to Ikuta Toma (Mr. Saving Water for the Planet), which felt like a blessing in itself. The cast chemistry was incredible, and every episode felt like hanging out with a chaotic friend group.

Why it’s forever:
Hana Kimi is funny, magical, and endlessly rewatchable. Even on rewatch, the humor still holds up exactly as I remember it. There’s a reason this drama got remade so many times — and yet, none of the remakes ever captured the same fun, heart, and charm of the original. This one is special, and it will always be a forever favorite.

What pulled me in:
This drama was an experience from start to finish. On paper, the premise is simple, but whatever magic the writers worked when this story came to life hit differently. This was my first ghost × human romance, and going in, I fully expected doom, heartbreak, and emotional devastation.

The moment it became a favorite:
Instead of being heavy and tragic, the story turned out to be incredibly sweet and warm. The relationship between the ghost and the human was soft, sincere, and unexpectedly hopeful. Their chemistry was adorable, and I fell in love with them almost immediately.

The damage done:
I felt everything in this drama — every fluffy moment, every ache, every quiet longing, and every tender scene where they just wanted to touch. I went full delulu, hoping for the impossible… and somehow, the drama rewarded that hope. It balanced emotion and sweetness so beautifully that I stayed completely locked in.

Why it’s forever:
He’s Coming to Me completely subverted my expectations. What I thought would be a gloomy, heartbreaking story turned into a fluffy, heartfelt romance with a happy ending. It’s a drama driven by feelings, tenderness, and genuine connection — the kind of love story I can rewatch over and over again without hesitation.

What pulled me in:
This drama holds a very special place in my heart because it introduced me to my ultimate Korean favorite actor — Lee Jong Suk. My forever fave. My ultimate babe. My man who can have chemistry with girls, boys, or inanimate objects. From the start, this drama felt different, and I was immediately pulled in by its tone and emotional depth.

The moment it became a favorite:
I’m pretty sure this was my first older woman × younger man drama — don’t quote me on that, but it definitely sent me down a spiral looking for more. I’ll admit, at first I was a little unsure about the romance, but Mr. “I have chemistry with everyone” completely convinced me. The chemistry was undeniable, the swooning was real, and that kiss scene — you know the one — sealed the deal for me.

The damage done:
Beyond the romance, this drama delivered one of the most memorable villains I’ve ever seen. He was genuinely terrifying. The kind of villain that makes you nervous for your favorites and leaves you wondering if they’re even going to survive. He dominated every scene he was in and stayed threatening until the very end. And when it finally came time for his downfall? Absolute chef’s kiss. The writers didn’t dumb him down or infantilize him — he was defeated in a way that felt earned, smart, and incredibly satisfying.

Why it’s forever:
I Hear Your Voice earned its place as a forever favorite because it did everything right. The romance worked, the chemistry was strong, the emotional stakes were high, and the villain was unforgettable. It introduced me to an actor I will love forever and delivered a story that kept me fully invested from start to finish. This drama didn’t just entertain me — it left a lasting mark.

What pulled me in:
This drama is soulmate-level good. From the start, the pairing had a chemistry so natural that I could watch them do the most ordinary, slice-of-life things and still be completely captivated. There was something deeply romantic about how effortless they felt together.

The moment it became a favorite:
The chemistry between them was so strong it made even the quiet moments feel magical. Their love felt like my forever person, my soulmate, the one I’d choose in every lifetime. 

The damage done:
The story itself was simple, but the love was profound. This was the kind of romance Shakespeare could write an ode to — love that’s true, steady, and deeply felt. Watching them navigate the fear of ruining a friendship by taking a chance on love hit close to home. Their kisses, their conversations, their shared silence — everything about them together moved me.

Why it’s forever:
I know some people found the story too simple, but for me, In Time With You was pure magic. It was relatable, heartfelt, and quietly powerful. It reminded me that sometimes the greatest love stories aren’t loud or dramatic — they’re about choosing courage, taking the risk, and realizing that the right person has been there all along. This drama touched my heart in a way I’ll never forget.

What pulled me in:
This drama introduced me to my ultimate favorite Chinese actor — Dylan Wang — and honestly, that alone already sealed my fate. He was so good in this role that I was practically swooning every time he appeared on screen. From the story to the visuals, I was hooked immediately.

The moment it became a favorite:
The love story. It was epic, sweet, and the kind of romance that makes you wish this type of love existed in real life. Forbidden love always hits harder, and this drama executed it beautifully. I’ve watched this drama an embarrassing number of times — and every rewatch still hits the same.

The damage done:
Everything worked. The entire cast delivered, not just Dylan. I loved the female lead — she was adorable and brought so much warmth to the story. The OST? Pure emotional damage. Every time I hear the main theme, my hands are in the air like I’m listening to gospel music. The feelings come flooding back instantly. Even the unexpected bromance between the male lead and second lead during their time in the human world was fun and charming to watch.

Why it’s forever:
Love Between Fairy and Devil is a forever favorite because it was everything and then some. The forbidden love was chef’s kiss, the male lead was dreamy, the female lead was lovable, and the supporting cast elevated the story even more. This drama didn’t just win my heart — it kickstarted my love for xianxia dramas altogether. Truly unforgettable.

What pulled me in:
This drama is such a cute love story, and from the start it felt comforting, warm, and easy to love. The tone was light, the romance was clean, and it gave me that feel-good happiness that makes you want to keep watching without stress.

The moment it became a favorite:
Xiao Nai. Period. That man is a dream. He never doubted the female lead, always had her back, always believed in her, and never once let her stand alone. He doted on her openly and confidently. I still remember the moment he casually gave her his wallet like it was nothing — sir??? Excuse me??? Of course Wei Wei fell in love with him. Who wouldn’t?

The damage done:
The romance between Xiao Nai and Wei Wei was perfect for me — supportive, trusting, and full of quiet affection. I loved watching them together, and their relationship felt healthy in a way that made me swoon nonstop. On top of that, I adored the side characters just as much. And honestly? This was probably my first BL-coded side couple experience. Hao Mei and K.O. were clearly meant to be together, and while censorship said “no,” the novel girlies assured me they end up together — and that was enough for my heart.

Why it’s forever:
Love O2O remains a forever favorite because it delivers pure romance without unnecessary angst. It’s sweet, comforting, and filled with characters you genuinely want to root for. Xiao Nai set the bar dangerously high, the love story felt secure and joyful, and the drama left me smiling long after it ended. This one is soft happiness, forever cherished.

What pulled me in:
Let’s be honest for half a second — I was practically swooning over the male lead’s face. That man had me tripping in almost every scene. Beautiful. Distractingly so. BUT — and I swear this — that wasn’t why this became a favorite.

The moment it became a favorite:
The romance. Fully and completely. This was a love story about a man who was willing to defy everything for the woman he loved. Rules? Expectations? Other people’s opinions? Irrelevant. He chose her every time. And listen — a man who will defy everything for you and stand against the world without hesitation? That’s my kind of guy.

The damage done:
The chemistry between the leads was absolute fire. Every interaction hit. The female lead was genuinely fun to watch, and I loved her energy just as much as his devotion. Their relationship felt intense, emotional, and deeply satisfying. I was fully invested in them as a couple.

Why it’s forever:
Love of the Divine Tree earned its place as a forever favorite because it did what so many Chinese dramas fail to do — it delivered a truly satisfying ending. A real one. A happy one. No rushed wrap-up, no vague “interpret it yourself” nonsense. The ending surprised me in the best way possible. China, please take notes — this is how you close a love story.

What pulled me in:
Japanese dramas really had me watching the quirkiest premises, and this one is a prime example. A grown-ass gangster going back to high school. That’s it. That’s the plot. It sounds ridiculous — and yet somehow, it works perfectly.

The moment it became a favorite:
I knew I was done the moment the comedy fully kicked in. There’s this scene where the gangster is sitting in class, and the teacher starts picking students to answer questions. His internal monologue is basically begging the universe not to be chosen, paired with those ridiculous facial expressions — I DIED. It was painfully relatable. Nobody wants to be picked in class… unless you’re the teacher’s pet. The accuracy alone took me out.

The damage done:
This drama committed fully to being silly, and that’s exactly why it worked. It didn’t half-ass the humor or try to be cool about it — it went all in. Every episode was packed with laugh-out-loud moments, absurd situations, and that chaotic energy that makes you forget about everything else for a while.

Why it’s forever:
My Boss, My Hero is pure joy. It’s the kind of drama I’d pick when I need a pick-me-up, a laugh, or just something fun and comforting to watch. It knows exactly what it is, embraces its ridiculousness, and delivers comedy without shame. That confidence is why I love it — and why it remains a forever favorite.

What pulled me in:
This drama is one of my favorite dramas ever, and it pulled me in immediately with its beautiful, swoon-worthy love story. Both main leads absolutely delivered, and the emotional pull was instant. From the start, it felt special — romantic, dramatic, and completely absorbing.

The moment it became a favorite:
Jun Ji Hyun. Period. She completely killed it in this drama and became an instant favorite actress for me. She was an absolute joy to watch — chaotic, fun, dramatic, and full of personality. I normally swoon over the male lead only, but this drama gave me a full-on girl crush. She was goals in every way.

The damage done:
The male lead was just as compelling. He was supportive, steady, and caring, even when he tried to pretend he didn’t care at all. Their chemistry was undeniable and made the romance feel powerful and sincere. And then there was the villain — terrifying. To this day, I get goosebumps thinking about him. I once watched an interview where the actor casually dropped that health line from the drama, and I nearly passed out. MY HEALTH IS PERFECTLY FINE, SIR. THE HEALTHIEST. ?

Why it’s forever:
My Love from the Star earned its place as a forever favorite because it delivered on every level — romance, chemistry, iconic characters, and unforgettable moments. It gave me swoons, laughter, fear, and admiration all at once. This drama didn’t just entertain me; it left a permanent imprint, and I still feel it whenever I think about it.

What pulled me in:
This drama is nostalgic with a capital N. It reminded me so much of my own school life, and to this day, I still consider it one of the best Japanese school dramas ever. The premise was simple — just school and friendships — but the way it was told made it feel special and deeply relatable.

The moment it became a favorite:
When I realized the story wasn’t about popularity or romance, but about friendship and growth. There was no love story here — just people trying to figure themselves out. It felt real in a way that stuck with me. Everyone had flaws, even the popular kid, and no one had their life fully together. That honesty made the drama feel magical.

The damage done:
I loved the friendship between the leads so much. It was messy, awkward, funny, and heartfelt — just like real school friendships. Akira quickly became my favorite character. He was such a lovable, quirky guy, and “Akira Shock” made me laugh way more than it should have. This drama was also my first time seeing YamaPi and Kazu-chan — both instant favorites.

Why it’s forever:
Nobuta wo Produce is a drama full of feelings. No romance, no flashy twists — just pure friendship, character development, and nostalgia. It captured a moment in life so honestly that it stayed with me. This drama didn’t need big drama to be impactful; it was quietly powerful, and I love it deeply for that.

What pulled me in:
Real talk — I skipped over this drama multiple times because I thought it looked lame and boring. I only finally gave it a chance out of pure boredom, and wow… I was so wrong. This drama became a lesson in never judging a book by its cover, because it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

The moment it became a favorite:
I didn’t expect the love story to hit the way it did. The male lead initially thought the female lead was a total lame duck and wasn’t interested in her at all. But slowly — just like him — I started seeing her charm. And before I knew it, I had completely fallen for her. She was quirky quirky, but in the most charming and lovable way.

The damage done:
They became such a fun, cute, and unexpected couple. Watching their dynamic evolve felt natural and incredibly satisfying, and the romance swept me off my feet without me even realizing it. On top of that, the music in this drama was absolutely beautiful. It made me appreciate classical music in a whole new way and added so much depth to the story.

Why it’s forever:
Nodame Cantabile earned its place as a forever favorite by surprising me at every turn. It was funny, heartfelt, romantic, and full of personality. What I thought would be dull turned out to be magical, and that transformation alone made it unforgettable. This drama didn’t just win me over — it completely changed my mind.

What pulled me in:
This drama found me at a point in my life where I really wanted to believe in second chances. That alone made it hit differently. The story centers on a guy who keeps going back in time, again and again, trying to get a second chance with the one who got away — and I was immediately emotionally invested.

The moment it became a favorite:
I realized how deeply it affected me when I saw how much I understood the male lead. His regret, his hesitation, and that aching desire to redo moments he got wrong felt painfully relatable. Wanting just one more chance to say the right thing, to act differently, to not miss your moment — that feeling hit me hard.

The damage done:
The story was genuinely cute and heartfelt. I loved the romance, I loved watching him try again and again, and I loved how emotional yet hopeful the journey felt. Every reset carried weight, because it wasn’t just about changing the past — it was about learning from it.

Why it’s forever:
Operation Love is a favorite because of its message. It’s about believing in second chances, growth, and the courage to face your regrets head-on. The timing of when I watched it, combined with its sincerity and sweetness, made it unforgettable. This drama didn’t just tell a story — it met me where I was and stayed with me.

What pulled me in:
I loved this drama from the jump, especially the guessing game around who the female lead’s husband would be. That mystery alone made it so much fun to watch, and I was fully engaged trying to piece everything together along the way.

The moment it became a favorite:
The romance hit in full force. The chemistry was so good, so natural, and so emotionally satisfying. And yes — I guessed right. ? That made the experience even sweeter. Watching the love story unfold alongside the mystery was incredibly rewarding.

The damage done:
What really made this drama special was the nostalgic atmosphere it created. Even though this wasn’t my era, it reminded me so much of my own youth — loving boy bands, fangirling hard, and forming intense emotional attachments to things you love. I could relate completely. On top of that, the way the writers wove romance, friendship, and family together felt like art. Every piece fit.

Why it’s forever:
Reply 1997 earned its place as a forever favorite because of how heartfelt and complete it felt. The cast absolutely outdid themselves, and this drama made Seo In Guk an instant favorite for me — he’s such a good actor, and I’ve loved him ever since. This story didn’t just entertain me; it made me feel understood, nostalgic, and deeply satisfied all at once.

What pulled me in:
This drama made me wish — truly wish — that I had my own Thada. Yes, I said it. This man is an absolute dreamboat. Green flag behavior across the board. Supportive, devoted, patient, and attentive — everything Armin wanted and more, Thada delivered. And then some.

The moment it became a favorite:
Once I got past the first five episodes (because listen… Armin and his mouth had me STRESSED ?), the drama settled into a pure love story. Thada’s unwavering support, understanding, and devotion completely won me over. That’s when I knew I was emotionally cooked.

The damage done:
The chemistry between these two is insane. I replayed their kisses an embarrassing number of times — especially that one kiss scene. The way Thada kisses Armin? Sir. I swoon every single time. I have genuinely prayed for a romance like this one. No shame. Additionally, I loved the supporting characters — the bodyguard Veynai and Armin’s assistant Janine absolutely stole my heart. I would 100% watch a whole series just about them.

Why it’s forever:
Reset is a forever favorite because it delivered everything I crave in a romance — devotion, chemistry, tenderness, and emotional payoff. This drama is a strong contender for my drama of 2025, and honestly, I can’t even make up my mind because the competition is fierce. I just know this one left a deep impression on me. I need these leads paired up again. I’m not done with them.

What pulled me in:
This one surprised me because it’s a Korean school drama — and normally, I get my school-drama fix from Japan. But School 2013 completely knocked it out of the park. From the start, it felt heavier, more grounded, and more emotionally intense than I expected.

The moment it became a favorite:
The bromance. Period. The friendship between the two male leads was everything. Watching their bond break, fall apart, and slowly find its way back to each other was just as satisfying — if not more — than most romance stories. I was fully invested in their relationship and rooting for them every step of the way.

The damage done:
This drama didn’t shy away from reality. The school bullying was shocking and hard to watch, and I was absolutely ready to put belt to ass on several characters. ? But that rawness made the story hit harder. The friendships, the pain, the growth — all of it felt real. This drama made me cry, made me smile, and made me hope.

Why it’s forever:
School 2013 earned its place as a forever favorite because of its heart. It’s a story about friendship, resilience, and finding your way back to the people who matter most. It inspired me, moved me, and reminded me that powerful stories don’t need romance to be unforgettable. This drama left a lasting impact, and I’ll always hold it close.

What pulled me in:
This drama was hilarious from the start. Hyun Bin was so much fun to watch, and that sparkly tracksuit? Iconic. The tone was playful, over-the-top, and immediately entertaining. I knew early on this was going to be a wild ride.

The moment it became a favorite:
The romance completely won me over. It was cute, funny, and full of heart. And then there was that moment — when Hyun Bin’s character gets into an accident, loses his memory, and forgets the female lead… only to fall for her all over again. Watching “new” him still choose her and say she was the one? Absolutely melted me. That scene lives rent-free in my heart.

The damage done:
The body swap was comedy gold and made the drama even more fun. Oscar, the second lead, was also hilarious — I loved him so much. This drama had me laughing one minute, crying the next, and then swooning immediately after. The writers really outdid themselves with this script.

Why it’s forever:
Secret Garden had everything that makes a drama special — humor, magic, romance, emotional moments, and unforgettable characters. It was fun, heartaching, swoony, and completely entertaining from start to finish. This drama delivered on every level, and that’s why it remains a forever favorite.

What pulled me in:
This drama came with a warning label, and I knew before I even started that it was going to be a trainwreck of emotions. And yet… here I am. Sometimes you see the disaster coming and still walk straight into it. This drama was one of those experiences.

The moment it became a favorite:
Ju Byeong Hui. Lee Min Ki completely ruined me. I knew from the beginning — even before pressing play — that he wasn’t meant to be the male lead. But did that stop me from falling in love with him anyway? Absolutely not. He became my everything, my fictional soulmate, and when he was gone… I cried buckets.

The damage done:
The heartbreak was so real that I actually stopped watching the drama for a couple of weeks. I needed time to grieve. Once I finally gathered myself and came back, the story swept me off my feet all over again. The bromance was incredibly strong and ended up selling the drama for me. The friendship between the boys was amazing. And yes — I loved the romance too. It just hit differently after everything.

Why it’s forever:
Shut Up: Flower Boy Band earned its place as a forever favorite because it made me feel everything. Love, loss, heartbreak, healing, and connection. Even knowing the pain ahead didn’t soften the impact — it only proved how deeply I was invested. This drama hurt me, healed me, and stayed with me long after it ended. Forever favorite, scars and all.

What pulled me in:
This drama pulled me in with its story and setting, but what truly made it special for me was the group dynamic. From early on, it felt like a story about misfits finding each other and forming something real, and that immediately caught my heart.

The moment it became a favorite:
While the romance was good — no complaints there — the friendship completely stole the show for me. The bond between the group, especially Goo Yong Ha and Moon Jae Shin, was everything. Their dynamic was fun, magical, and an absolute joy to watch.

The damage done:
I became fully invested in the bromance. The banter, the loyalty, the quiet understanding between them — it all worked so well. Every scene with the group together made the drama richer and more memorable. I loved them so much that the friendships alone carried the emotional weight of the story for me.

Why it’s forever:
Sungkyunkwan Scandal is a forever favorite because of its heart. The friendships felt genuine, warm, and deeply satisfying. I honestly could watch an entire season two based purely on the friendship and bromance, and I would be seated without hesitation. That’s how much this group meant to me.

What pulled me in:
Let’s not lie to ourselves — this drama was toxic as heck. Red flags everywhere. Neither of them was Mr. Green Flag, not even a little. And yet… I was pulled in immediately because the tension and intensity between the leads was undeniable.

The moment it became a favorite:
The romance. Plain and simple. Tharn and Type were down bad for each other in a way that was impossible to ignore. Yes, they were messy, problematic, and chaotic — but together, it somehow worked. The push and pull, the obsession, the emotional intensity — it all hooked me.

The damage done:
There were definitely eyebrow-raising moments, and I fully acknowledge that. But this is fiction, and I’m judging it as such. What mattered most was the chemistry — and wow, was it fire. This was their first time working together, and the connection they brought to the screen felt electric.

Why it’s forever:
TharnType earned its spot as a favorite because the leads were the perfect mess for each other. Toxic? Yes. Complicated? Absolutely. But the romance was exceptional, the chemistry was undeniable, and their story stayed with me. Sometimes favorites aren’t about perfection — they’re about impact. And this drama definitely had it.

What pulled me in:
This drama was a complete random pick for me. I didn’t know the cast, didn’t have high expectations, and thought the plot sounded just… fine. Nothing special. And then it turned out to be an absolute hidden diamond.

The moment it became a favorite:
The romance hit me hard. What I thought was going to be a simple love story completely swept me off my feet. The writing was so good, the emotions were so well-paced, and I realized very quickly that this drama was doing everything right.

The damage done:
The characters were rich, layered, and incredibly lovable. The cast delivered performances that stuck with me long after the drama ended. The chemistry between the leads was dripping all over the place — fun, romantic, intense, and effortless. And listen… the male lead was unexpectedly hot. Very much daddy energy. Yes, I said it. ??

Why it’s forever:
The Greatest Love is a forever favorite because it completely exceeded my expectations. It was beautiful, funny, romantic, and heartfelt all at once. The writers truly outdid themselves, and the love story was perfection. This drama reminded me why taking random chances sometimes leads to the best experiences.

What pulled me in:
I genuinely don’t have words for what this drama did to me. The feelings I had while watching The Untamed are hard to explain — it wasn’t just another drama, it was the drama for me in 2019. From the very beginning, I knew I was watching something special.

The moment it became a favorite:
Let’s be clear — this wasn’t just a bromance. This was a love story. China and its dumb rules can call it whatever they want, but we all felt it and we all know the truth. The love between the two leads was epic, powerful, and deeply emotional. It was everything a romance should be — even without kisses. The connection was undeniable.

The damage done:
This drama put me through the trenches. Emotionally, spiritually, mentally — all of it. The acting was perfect for me. The two male leads embodied their characters to the absolute T. The side characters added so much heart, especially Wen Ning, who was incredibly lovable. And of course, there were characters I wanted to drop-kick into the sun (looking at you, Meng Yao). The story had pain, loyalty, sacrifice, love, and loss — everything.

Why it’s forever:
The Untamed is a forever favorite because the love still shone through despite censorship. If China ever loosened those rules, they would dominate the BL scene — because this drama, labeled a “bromance,” was already being called the best BL of 2019. That says everything. The love was real, the bond was real, and the impact was undeniable. This drama owned 2019 for me, and it will always hold a permanent place in my heart.

What pulled me in:
This drama was an experience. I don’t think I’ve ever been as obsessed with a male lead the way I was with Akin. From the moment he appeared, I was gone. Completely. And plot twist — I’m usually a seme girlie, but nope. The uke swept me away this time. Akin was pure keyboard smash energy and an absolute joy to watch.

The moment it became a favorite:
I realized I was done for when I couldn’t stop thinking about Akin. He owned every scene. Apparently, this drama was based on a very toxic manga, and I am SO glad they changed that because I cannot imagine Jin ever hurting my baby. Jin’s devotion to Akin was everything — soft, sincere, and endlessly sweet.

The damage done:
Their love story was so good. I loved them together, truly. The chemistry between them was enough to set my computer ablaze. And listen… that honey scene? I will never see honey the same again. Fan self. Emotional damage accepted. This drama gave me obsession, romance, and moments I will never forget.

Why it’s forever:
TopForm is a forever favorite because it hit me exactly where it needed to. The romance worked, the devotion worked, and Akin completely stole my heart. It breaks my heart knowing the leads will never act together again (see my fight list if you want details ?), but what we got was perfect for me. This drama is a strong contender for my drama of 2025 — easily.

What pulled me in:
This drama was just fun. The premise alone hooked me — a girl intentionally dressing up as her twin brother to help him keep his spot in a boy band. Right away, I knew we were in for chaos, comedy, and a whole lot of fangirl moments.

The moment it became a favorite:
The cast completely won me over. Every character was lovable, but Jeremy especially stole my heart. He was my favorite without question — sweet, funny, and impossible not to adore.

The damage done:
The romance was adorable and swoon-worthy, balanced perfectly with humor. Watching the female lead navigate idol life while hiding her identity led to so many hilarious and heartwarming moments. The drama fully leaned into its quirky setup and executed it beautifully.

Why it’s forever:
You’re Beautiful is a forever favorite because it delivered exactly what it promised — laughter, romance, lovable characters, and pure fun. It made me smile, swoon, and fall in love with the whole experience. This drama is fangirl joy from start to finish.

What pulled me in:
Let me be honest — my love for Matsumoto Jun had me watching dramas I would never have tried otherwise, and this was one of them. The premise alone had my eyebrows in the sky. Hiring someone as your “pet”? Excuse me?? I was here purely for Jun and absolutely not for the plot… or so I thought.

The moment it became a favorite:
Somewhere along the way, I realized this drama was doing a lot more than showcasing questionable life decisions. It quietly revealed itself as a story about two lost souls healing each other, while refusing to cave into society’s rigid definition of success. I did not expect it to go that deep, and it caught me completely off guard.

The damage done:
I walked away from this drama with a different perspective on life and relationships. It challenged the idea that life has to follow a straight line or a checklist. As someone who has always marched to the beat of her own drum, this story reassured me that it’s okay not to fit into the cookie-cutter box society tries to shove us into. It was more than romance — it felt like an unexpected life coach delivering pearls of wisdom when I wasn’t looking.

Why it’s forever:
You’re My Pet is quirky, fun, and oddly comforting, but it’s also deeply meaningful. I loved watching them together, and yes — I may have briefly wanted my own human pet. LORD JESUS. What I really wanted was Momo… aka my Jun. ? In the end, this drama earned its place as a favorite because it reminded me that it’s your life, and you’re allowed to live it on your own terms — no permission needed.