AthenaTheStorierX

Now hear me out, I am well aware of the very BIG differences between these 2 series. Cherry Magic is really clean (everything happened behind closed doors, and is kept to a minimum), has a dash of magic realism, and is a BL romance on top of that. Rinko-San shows multiple intimate scenes on screen, is much more grounded in a realistic plot, and they are definitely straight.

But the driving premise, being a virgin well past the age that the average person is, is performed pretty similarly. And our main characters have such humorously similar imaginations and reactions to their romantic interests being forward with them. Not to mention, they both explore that workplace romance trope with established coworkers (rather than new ones), have friends inside and out of the workplace, with a friend that acts as a bit of a "love-guru" to the main.

So despite the pretty obvious differences, I couldn't help but be reminded of Cherry Magic when watching Rinko-San.

Both BL series center around the residents of an apartment complex falling in love with each other, as well as the eccentric antics of their kathoey (Thailand’s 3rd gender including transgender people, crossdressers, and effeminate gay men) landlords. Both series also have a similar approach to comedy - including cartoonish emphasis inserts from time to time.

Both being Japanese school dramas, they both have a very similar atmospheres. And they both pursue an underlying narrative of understanding others. Some of the character types resemble each other (although in a more serious manner in Shujin-Ko). While there is a BL storyline in both, it’s a side story in shujin-ko, rather than the main relationship (like it is in Kieta Hatsukoi), but the concerns and conclusion of both resemble each other greatly.

Another simple, lighthearted school BL centered around finding and accepting your feelings. They both have similar pacing, and the relationship dynamic is also similar: one entertainingly honest and caring character - paired with a more cold and quiet athlete.

This recommendation is based solely on character types. The personalities of the characters in Love with Benefits feel like younger/cutesier versions of those found in We Best Love.

Both series contain enemies-to-lovers-esque tropes and explore how feelings between coworkers can complicate professional moves forward - especially in industries that are so fandom facing.

The pace and tone of both Wish You and My Sweet Dear make for very similar viewing experiences. Both sets of mains show great love and passion towards their respective crafts and dreams, and their new, healthy relationships only add to their growth in their fields. And the way both series maturely and realistically handle the plot conflicts are very refreshing.

While Second Chance features relatively known actors and Friend Forever consists mainly of new faces, the production style of both series are very similar, making both simple and easy to watch. Likewise, the characters have to learn similar life lessons from their relationships.

The dynamic between the leads are very similar. They both tease each other a lot and fate makes sure that they run into each other everywhere. And i think that if Pat and Pran’s friend groups were less hateful, they would very much resemble the friends in Siew Sum Noi.

While the plots are very different, the chemistry and dynamic between the leads are very similar. So if you like the flirtatious, teasing, but fond dynamic of Bad Buddy, you'll probably like the how the relationship in 1000 Stars develops.

Despite the very different plots, the emotional complexity and the way that the story holds on to you is very reminiscent of each other. Friend dynamics are also very similar.