Here Are 7 K-Dramas That Redefine Relationships By Unveiling True Friendship on Screen

Some of the most heartwarming connections in K-dramas transcend romance, highlighting the significance of platonic bonds. While iconic romantic pairings like those in Strong Woman Do Bong Soon and Boys Over Flowers showcase the allure of love, numerous Korean dramas place a strong emphasis on the beauty of friendship.

Whether in slice-of-life dramas or unexpected genres like horror, the portrayal of platonic relationships adds depth to the narrative. These friendships often serve as the driving force, defeating demons or enhancing the overall appeal, making each K-drama a delightful and compelling watch.

Let’s have a look at some of the special bonds portrayed by amazing characters in K-dramas that defined true friendship.

1) The Counters in ‘The Uncanny Counter’

In “The Uncanny Counter,” the Counters are individuals granted a second chance at life after falling into comas, bestowed with unique abilities to protect the world from malevolent spirits. The Counters form a family-like structure, with Mae-ok and Mo-tak serving as parental figures to So Mun and Ha-na, who have experienced the loss of their parents. As the series progresses into season 2, the bond among the Counters deepens with the addition of Jeok-bong. Their interactions mirror a realistic family dynamic, complete with banter and teasing, ultimately revealing the genuine care they have for each other.

2) Jo Eun-Tak & The Grim Reaper in ‘Goblin’

In the Korean drama “Goblin,” while the more prominent platonic friendship is often associated with the Reaper and Goblin, Ji Eun-tak’s camaraderie with the Reaper is equally heartwarming. Initially, their relationship is marked by dislike, given the Reaper’s duty to kill Eun-tak. However, as they spend more time together, becoming roommates and teasing the Goblin, their bond strengthens. Eun-tak becomes privy to the Reaper’s softer side, fostering a sibling-like connection between them. This dynamic is a significant contributor to the acclaim received by “Goblin” within the realm of K-dramas featuring Grim Reaper characters.

3) The Three Musketeers in ‘Missing: The Other Side”

In the Korean drama “Missing: The Other Side,” the camaraderie among Kim Wook, Lee Jong-ah, and Kim Nam-guk, who refer to themselves as the Three Musketeers, stands out as a poignant element. Even after Nam-guk’s untimely death at the series’ outset, the bond endures. Jong-ah makes a significant life change by leaving her job to manage Nam-guk’s pawn shop, while Kim Wook is driven to seek justice for his friend’s death. They memorialize their friendship with matching bracelets, and when Jang Pan-seok joins them, they fondly adopt the name the Four Musketeers. This familial relationship adds an extra layer of emotion to the already poignant narrative of “Missing: The Other Side.”

4) Run Bong-Hee & Ji Eun-Hyuk in ‘Suspicious Partner’

In the romance thriller “Suspicious Partner,” the camaraderie between Eun Bong-hee and Ji Eun-hyuk shines just as brightly as the romantic plot. United by the challenges of love, their friendship deepens throughout the series, providing them with a comforting space to share their romantic struggles over cups of coffee. While Bong-hee grapples with the classic K-drama scenario of falling for her boss Noh Ji-wook, who happens to be Eun-hyuk’s betrayed friend, their friendship serves as a stabilizing force amid a backdrop of betrayal and secrets. In the midst of turbulent times, the open and honest bond between Bong-hee and Eun-hyuk proves to be a grounding and supportive element in “Suspicious Partner.”

5) Kim Byung-Yeon & Hong Ra-On in ‘Moonlight Drawn By Clouds’

“Moonlight Drawn By Clouds,” a historical K-drama, beautifully depicts a sweet and platonic relationship between Hong Ra-on, the disguised eunuch for Crown Prince Lee Yeong, and Kim Byung-yeon, the Head of the Royal Guard. Despite Byung-yeon’s initial reluctance to open up to anyone beyond his friendship with Lee Yeong, Ra-on forges an unlikely and heartwarming bond with him. She becomes a significant presence in his life, even sharing living quarters. Byung-yeon’s usually reserved demeanor softens whenever Ra-on seeks his advice or assistance, showcasing the delightful and genuine connection they share in this historical tale.

6) Ryu Su-Yeol & K in ‘Bad And Crazy’

In “Bad and Crazy,” Ryu Su-yeol’s justice-obsessed alter ego, K, adds an intriguing dynamic to the storyline. Initially at odds, Su-yeol and K eventually form an unexpected partnership, working together to confront wrongdoers. Despite their clashes and Su-yeol’s initial annoyance with K, the two develop a unique and entertaining bond. K’s enthusiastic and righteous nature serves as a counterbalance to Su-yeol’s cynicism, creating a harmonious yet lively dynamic. Their constant bantering and bickering not only contribute to the show’s enjoyment but also highlight the well-matched nature of their characters, emphasizing the interesting interplay between Su-yeol and his alter ego.

7) Kim Gun-Woo & Hong Woo-Jin in ‘Bloodhounds’

In “Bloodhounds,” the heartwarming friendship between Kim Gun-woo and Hong Woo-jin serves as a central and endearing element. The rapid development of their friendship, sparked by a single boxing match, adds an adorable touch to the storyline. Woo-jin willingly supports Gun-woo in pursuing justice against Kim Myeong-gil, showcasing their inseparable bond. Throughout the series, Gun-woo and Woo-jin rely on each other, facing challenges together and never leaving the other to confront adversity alone. The strong connection between them is evident in Gun-woo’s mother treating Woo-jin like a second son. Despite the challenges and darker moments in “Bloodhounds,” the camaraderie between Gun-woo and Woo-jin contributes a light and uplifting aspect to the show.

In the rich tapestry of K-dramas, we’ve delved into the intricacies of some extraordinary bonds that go beyond romantic entanglements. These special connections defined true friendship and platonic bonds, offering viewers a refreshing perspective on relationships. From the enchanting friendships in “The Uncanny Counter” to the heartwarming camaraderie in “Goblin,” these K-dramas have skillfully portrayed the beauty and depth of non-romantic connections. As we celebrate these narratives that showcase the power of genuine friendships, it’s a reminder that K-dramas continue to captivate audiences not only with their romantic sagas but also with the heartening portrayal of platonic bonds that stand the test of time.