We love seeing LGBTQ+ representation in Korean dramas!! While LGBTQ Korean dramas are still not as common as we’d love them to be, there are several gems out there!
In this list, we are talking about all of the very best Korean dramas with LGBTQ+ characters or storylines, covering everything from sweet coming-of-age romances to heartwarming friendships and everything in between.
Get cozy, grab some snacks, and let’s dive in!
The Best LGBTQ Korean Dramas & BL Korean Dramas
1. Where Your Eyes Linger (2020)
Genre: BL, Romance
Episodes: 8 (Short series)
This short series became a major milestone as one of the first Korean BL (Boys’ Love) dramas to go mainstream. “Where Your Eyes Linger” follows the story of Han Tae-joo, a privileged young man, and his loyal friend Kang Gook. Their relationship shifts from friendship to something deeper, giving us a beautiful look at first love.
2. To My Star (2021)
Genre: BL, Romance
Episodes: 9 (Short series)
“To My Star” revolves around an actor who ends up sharing an apartment with a down-to-earth chef. Sparks fly in ways they both didn’t expect! It’s a refreshing take on a romantic drama with solid performances and a unique charm that draws you in from the very beginning.
3. The School Nurse Files (2020)
Genre: Fantasy, Comedy, LGBTQ+ subtext
Episodes: 6
This fantasy-comedy series follows Ahn Eun-young, a school nurse who can see supernatural “jellies.” Alongside the more surreal elements, the series features a range of characters with different gender identities and orientations, showing subtle LGBTQ+ representation.
> To find more Kdramas like this on Netflix, click here!
4. Itaewon Class (2020)
Genre: Drama
Episodes: 16
“Itaewon Class” took the K-Drama world by storm with its bold themes and characters. Among them is Ma Hyun-yi, a transgender chef working in the protagonist’s restaurant. Ma Hyun-yi’s journey is a huge part of the show and was a rare moment of trans representation in mainstream Korean drama.
5. You Make Me Dance (2021)
Genre: BL, Romance
Episodes: 8
This sweet gay Korean drama revolves around two men with vastly different personalities who end up cohabiting: a free-spirited dancer and a reserved loan officer. With heartfelt storytelling and a unique storyline, “You Make Me Dance” is a must-watch for romance fans.
6. Our Dating Sim (2023)
Genre: BL, Romance, Slice of Life
Episodes: 10
“Our Dating Sim” follows two friends who are reunited when tasked to create a dating simulation game. The audience follows as sparks fly in their relationship turning into more than “just friends.”
7. Reply 1997 (2012)
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Coming-of-Age
Episodes: 16
Though “Reply 1997” isn’t centered on LGBTQ+ themes, it does feature an important storyline involving one character’s journey of self-acceptance regarding his orientation. Set against a nostalgic ’90s backdrop, this drama does a great job exploring the complexities of youth and friendship.
8. Love With Flaws (2019)
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Episodes: 32
“Love With Flaws” features a lighthearted and refreshing approach to LGBTQ+ representation. With a cast of quirky characters, the show delves into themes of acceptance and the highs and lows of love.
9. Mine (2021)
Genre: Mystery, Drama, Thriller
Episodes: 16
Though primarily a thriller, “Mine” includes an LGBTQ+ storyline that touches on women’s complex relationships. This addition makes the drama unique as it explores themes of self-discovery and courage against the backdrop of a suspenseful plot.
10. Handsome Tigers (2020)
Genre: Reality Show
Episodes: 12
While not a scripted drama, “Handsome Tigers” is a reality series that broke some norms. With several contestants openly discussing their sexualities, the show highlighted camaraderie and acceptance, contributing to a conversation about representation.
11. My Dream Class (2018)
Genre: BL, Youth
Episodes: 2 (Short series)
A charming web drama, “My Dream Class” tells a unique story of friendship and attraction in a high school setting. It’s short but impactful, making it a go-to if you’re looking for a quick watch that’s heartfelt and light.
12. Wish You: Your Melody From My Heart (2020)
Genre: BL, Romance, Music
Episodes: 8 (Short series)
This drama follows a budding relationship between a keyboardist and a musician. With a focus on music and dreams, “Wish You” combines romance with the pursuit of artistic passion, capturing viewers with its touching story and characters.
13. Color Rush (2020)
Genre: BL, Fantasy, Mystery
Episodes: 8 (Short series)
A unique twist on BL drama, “Color Rush” follows Yeon Woo, who sees the world in grayscale, and his “probe,” Go Yoo Han, who brings color into his life. It’s a beautifully crafted story that merges fantasy with romance and has quickly become a fan favorite.
14. A Person You Could Know (2017)
Genre: Slice of Life, Romance
Episodes: 10
“A Person You Could Know” revolves around a woman piecing together memories from a relationship. It subtly addresses LGBTQ+ relationships, showing the journey of self-acceptance and moving forward.
15. Night Flight (2014, Movie)
Genre: Drama, Coming-of-Age
Episodes: Movie
While not a series, “Night Flight” is an intense, realistic portrayal of teenage friendship, love, and hardship. Its LGBTQ+ storyline highlights the challenges that gay teens face, especially in more conservative settings. The film stands out as a powerful, emotional journey that sheds light on LGBTQ+ issues in Korean society.
16. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)
Genre: Romance, Slice of Life, Comedy
Episodes: 16
While Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha primarily follows the charming story of Yoon Hye-jin, a city dentist who moves to a small seaside village, and her evolving relationship with the lovable odd-job expert Hong Du-sik, it also includes a beautifully understated LGBTQ+ storyline. One of the supporting characters, who initially seems like just another villager, reveals a hidden love story that’s both touching and significant.
This storyline is brief but wonderfully handled, capturing the quiet acceptance and understanding in the small community of Gongjin. It was a refreshing representation of LGBTQ+ themes in a popular drama, handled with grace and warmth. It’s a perfect example of how even a short storyline can make a big impact, leaving viewers with a sense of hope and inclusivity.
