K-Dramas have a unique way of pulling us into the world they create, and one of the reasons we love these dramas so much is the chemistry between the actors. If the actors and their characters can sell the audience magical chemistry, the drama has won half its battle. In 2024, we were blessed with some unforgettable on-screen pairs who made us laugh, cry, and swoon. Here’s Team Namaste Hallyu’s roundup of the best K-Drama couples of the year!
1. Im Sol and Ryu Sun Jae in ‘Lovely Runner’
Any list of the best couple of the year is incomplete without Im Sol and Ryu Sun Jae from ‘Lovely Runner‘. These two characters took over the hearts of everyone right at the beginning of the year, and Team NH was not immune to their charms. While Nirmiti couldn’t get enough of this adorable pair and their on-screen rapport, Anjali loved the couple and “the way they acted in the drama back and forth and not leaving us bored in any episode.” Eeshna was another admirer of their “heartwarming screen presence!” Clearly, ‘Lovely Runner’ owes much of its charm to this delightful couple.
2. Hong Hae In and Baek Hyun Woo in ‘Queen of Tears’
Another couple that made waves this year is Hong Hae In and Baek Hyun Woo, and Team NH agrees. Their chemistry felt incredibly real, with Ranjana calling them “admirably adorable.” Tannu described their bond as “genuine and comforting,” while Kshitija confessed, “Their chemistry felt so real that I shipped them so hard. Their acting made me laugh and cry throughout the drama.” Kim Ji Won and Kim Soo Hyun, who brought these characters to life, delivered a masterclass in romantic chemistry. Nandini gushed, “My woman slays every time. She literally has the best chemistry with anyone and everyone.” This duo undoubtedly brought depth and brilliance to this angsty, lovable, rollercoaster ride of a drama, making it a fan favorite.
3. Kim San Ha and Yoon Joo Won in ‘Family by Choice’
An adaptation of the Chinese drama ‘Go Ahead,’ all eyes were on ‘Family by Choice‘ in 2024. Not to mention, we were all ready for Hwang In Youp‘s main lead era. And boy, he delivered! The chemistry between the Chinese counterparts of Kim San Ha and Yoon Joo Won was one of the best parts of the original drama, so the pressure to deliver was high. But Hwang In Youp and Jung Chae Yeon delivered in spades. The pair radiated an effortless charm that made them look like the perfect match. From being best friends to lovers, San Ha and Joo Won’s relationship was authentic throughout the drama. For Stuti, ing, “The chemistry between them was so good. I really liked it when they cared about each other; it looked so real and adorable.” Their heartfelt interactions in ‘Family by Choice’ left a lasting impression.
4. Haejo and Jo Jaemi in ‘Mr. Plankton’
Woo Do Hwan and Lee Yoo Mi’s ‘Mr Plankton‘ quickly made a spot in everyone’s heart when it was released. Despite a not-so-happy ending, the audience was sat firmly all through the ten episodes. While the story and the acting were undoubtedly good, the undeniable spark between Hae Jo and Jo Jae Mi made ‘Mr. Plankton’ a must-watch. Shivani summed it up perfectly: “The chemistry was absolutely chemistrying.” Their electric performance ensured they stood out among this year’s stellar K-Drama couples.
5. Bok I Na and Han Joon Woo in ‘The Atypical Family’
Bok I Na and Han Joon Woo are hands-down the cutest couple on the list of 2024’s best K-Drama couples. This teenage couple from the fantasy drama ‘The Atypical Family‘ had my heart and soul. I Na is a teenager struggling to fit in, especially since she has the unique ability to read minds through direct eye contact. However, when she meets her classmate, Joon Woo, she finds an unexpected confidant and friend in him. It’s also heartwarming to see I Na’s personal growth and self-confidence with Joon Woo’s support. The youthful charm of these teenagers makes Bok I Na and Han Joon Woo an unforgettable couple.
6. Hong Hee Joo and Baek Sa Eon in ‘When the Phone Rings’
Though an ongoing drama, ‘When the Phone Rings‘ is probably one of the best K-Dramas of 2024, and its lead couple Hong Hee Joo and Baek Sa Eon are definitely one of the best couples of the year. Their relationship, which started as an arranged marriage, is rooted in mystery and is marked by emotional distance and a lack of communication. However, as new forces threaten them, the couple finds themselves opening up to each other and slowly transitioning from strangers to true partners. Their transformation from emotional detachment to genuine love is both heartwarming and inspiring, adding layers of depth to this compelling drama.
7. Jeong Mo Eum and Kang Dan Ho in ‘Love Next Door’
Jeong Mo Eum and Kang Dan Ho are the secondary couple in one of 2024’s biggest dramas ‘Love Next Door‘. Mo Eum is a hardworking and kind-hearted paramedic who dreams of being a hero, while Dan Ho is a dedicated reporter and single father who wants to do right by his daughter. When the two meet, there is unexpected chemistry, playful banter, touching moments, and, of course, an accidental kiss—the perfect recipe for a good romance. I love Mo Eum and Dan Ho’s charm and playfulness, and how their relationship is a balance of lightheartedness and emotional connection.
8. Joo Hye Ri and Kang Joo Yeon in ‘Dear Hyeri’
The dynamic between Joo Hye Ri and Kang Joo Yeon brought an emotional depth to ‘Dear Hyeri.‘ Joo Hye Ri, a resilient and positive character navigating the challenges of dissociative identity disorder, found a supportive and grounding partner in Kang Joo Yeon. Their evolving relationship showcased themes of healing, trust, and personal growth, making them one of the most compelling couples of the year. This is probably one of the few times I was rooting for the second lead in a K-Drama, and I was sad he didn’t get the girl.
This year’s dramas showcased an array of memorable couples, but these eight stood out for their impactful performances and chemistry. Whether through playful banter, heartfelt connections, or deeply emotional moments, these pairs remind us why we keep coming back to K-Dramas year after year. Which couple was your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
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