The story of Eun Soo and Sun Woo in the drama Soundtrack #1 (2022) indeed struck a chord with the audience as they transitioned from being friends to gradually developing special feelings for each other. They had complementary personalities; Eun Soo was warm and affectionate, while Sun Woo was reserved and cool. Surprisingly, their personality differences drew them closer together.
Eun Soo was a struggling lyricist, passionately pursuing her dreams with unwavering optimism and determination. On the other hand, Sun Woo was an ambitious photographer, relentlessly striving for excellence in his career.
Their paths intertwined even more when Sun Woo was asked to photograph a music project involving Eun Soo. As they spent more time together, their feelings for each other grew stronger.
Sun Woo had been harboring feelings for Eun Soo for several years, but he kept them hidden, fearing that confessing his love would jeopardize their friendship. He was afraid that if Eun Soo didn't reciprocate his feelings, it would ruin their bond.
In the final episode, Sun Woo finally confessed his feelings to Eun Soo, and she admitted that she felt the same way. They decided to embark on a romantic relationship. Unfortunately, their beautiful story was limited to just four episodes, leaving the audience wanting more.
Eun Soo and Sun Woo's story ended happily as they overcame various obstacles to be together. Their love story serves as proof that love can indeed blossom from a foundation of friendship.
If you're addicted to "friends to lovers" stories and crave longer episodes, there are several similar-themed dramas that might pique your interest. These dramas narrate love stories that originate from friendships, offering heartwarming and touching narratives.
These stories are intriguing choices because they diverge from the typical romantic dramas. Instead of focusing on two people meeting and instantly falling in love, these dramas emphasize the gradual development of relationships between individuals who have known each other for a long time. This approach makes the stories more realistic and relatable to the audience.
1. Hospital Playlist Season 2 (2021)
- Release Year: June 2021
- Genre: Slice of Life, Romance, Friendship, Medical Drama
- Production: Egg Is Coming
- Director: Shin Won Ho
- Cast: Jo Jung Suk, Yoo Yeon Seok, Jung Kyung Ho, Kim Dae Myung, Jeon Mi Do
- Number of Episodes: 12
"Hospital Playlist Season 2" (2021) and "Soundtrack #1" (2022) share many similarities, especially in their portrayal of love stories that have their roots in friendship. In the second season of Hospital Playlist, the character Ik Jun, who had been harboring special feelings for Song Hwa for a long time, finally manages to win her heart.
What sets the development of Ik Jun and Song Hwa's relationship apart is the absence of excessive drama or over-the-top gestures. Ik Jun succeeds in winning Song Hwa's heart through sincere actions, without forcing or creating awkward situations. His patience in waiting for the right moment and providing support when needed proves to be the key to his success.
Both of them are renowned professors at Yulje Hospital, having achieved remarkable success in their careers. However, their love story didn't unfold easily. They have been friends since their college days, forging a strong bond over the years.
Throughout their long journey of friendship, each harbored the same feelings for the other, but various complex life considerations and obstacles hindered them from expressing those feelings. However, eventually, after navigating through different stages of life and overcoming all hurdles, Ik Jun and Song Hwa find happiness in each other's arms.
Their story is a tangible testament to the fact that love that grows from the foundation of friendship can be one of the deepest and most meaningful aspects of one's life. It is an inspiring journey that teaches us about patience, understanding, and how a relationship can evolve into something extraordinary when built on a solid foundation of friendship.
2. Reply 1988 (2015)
- Release Year: November 2015
- Genre: Slice of Life, Romance, Friendship
- Production: CJ E&M
- Director: Shin Won Ho
- Cast: Lee Hye Ri, Ryu Jun Yeol, Go Kyung Pyo, Park Bo Gum, Lee Dong Hwi
- Number of Episodes: 20
In Reply 1988 (2015) , falling in love with a friend isn't just about finding your soulmate. It's about finding someone who knows you better than anyone else in the world, someone who loves you unconditionally, and someone who will always be there for you. It's about finding someone who makes you a better person, and who helps you to become the best version of yourself, much like the atmosphere in Soundtrack #1 (2022).
This masterpiece by director Shin Won Ho and writer Lee Woo Jung revolves around the genuine friendship among Sung Duk Seon, Kim Jung Hwan, Sung Sun Woo, Choi Taek, and Ryu Dong Ryong, a bond that has been nurtured since childhood. They are true friends from Ssangmun-dong, growing up together and sharing everything, as if they were each other's family.
In this group, Sung Duk Seon is the sole female member, and yet, she doesn't receive any special treatment. However, among her male friends, it's only Choi Taek who sees Duk Seon as a woman. The reserved young man successfully captures Duk Seon's heart with his sweet gestures and respectful demeanor.
The story revolves around the strong bond of friendship and the love that grows among these characters. As viewers follow their journey, they are treated not only to a beautiful love story but also to heartwarming and humorous moments that can only be found in true friendships.
As a Korean drama enthusiast, "Reply 1988" will undoubtedly provide an unforgettable experience, reminding us that deep friendships and love that blossoms among close friends are truly precious treasures in life.
3. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo (2016)
- Release Year: November 2016
- Genre: Romance, Friendship, Coming of Age, Sports Drama
- Production: Chorokbaem Media
- Director: Oh Hyun-jong
- Cast: Lee Sung Kyung, Nam Joo Hyuk, Lee Jae Yoon, Kyung Soo Jin
- Number of Episodes: 16
In the story of "Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo" (2016), which revolves around the theme of sports, we discover a sweet love story between two old friends who eventually become a couple. Kim Bok Joo and Jung Joon Hyung have been friends since elementary school, forging an unbreakable bond. However, fate brings them together once again in university, bringing happiness and significant changes into their lives.
When they first meet at university, even though they initially don't recognize each other, it doesn't take long for them to feel familiar, just like in the old days. Bok Joo, with her passionate heart, once had special feelings for Joon Hyung's older brother, Jung Jae Yi. However, as often happens in love stories, Joon Hyung frequently teases Bok Joo about this, until eventually, feelings of love between them begin to develop naturally.
Their love story unfolds beautifully, following their journeys as they strive to achieve their respective dreams. Bok Joo, a dedicated weightlifter, and Joon Hyung, with his strong competitive spirit, both fight for success in their sports careers. They are not only loving partners who support each other but also true friends who grow together and inspire each other.
Their love story serves as a sweet reminder that love can grow and flourish between old friends, and even amidst the challenges of pursuing their dreams, love remains the binding force that keeps them together.
4. Fight for My Way (2017)
- Release Year: May 2017
- Genre: Romance, Friendship, Coming of Age, Sports Drama
- Production: Pan Entertainment
- Director: Lee Na Jeong
- Cast: Park Seo Joon, Kim Ji Woon, Ahn Jae Hong, Song Ha Yoon
- Number of Episodes: 16
The next drama that is similar to Soundtrack #1 (2022) is "Fight For My Way" (2017). Starring Park Seo Joon and Kim Ji Woon, this drama stands out because it doesn't revolve around extravagant and expensive dates, which are often seen in typical romantic stories.
In this story, we are invited to follow the journey of four main characters: Go Dong Man, Choi Ae Ra, Kim Joo Man, and Baek Seol Hee, from their childhood to adulthood. Their close-knit friendship has been forged since childhood, and as they face various challenges and obstacles as they grow older, their friendship remains a strong foundation in their lives.
Interestingly, Go Dong Man and Choi Ae Ra were not particularly close initially; in fact, they often bickered since childhood. What makes this story stand out is when one of them feels hurt or faces difficulties, the other is always ready to provide unwavering support and assistance. For example, Ae Ra couldn't truly hate Dong Man despite their frequent conflicts. Their caring and attentive attitudes toward each other slowly transform the dynamics of their relationship.
One intriguing moment in the story is when Ae Ra becomes uncomfortable seeing her ex-boyfriend coming and going without clear feelings. This triggers jealousy and breaks down the walls between Ae Ra and Dong Man. It's from this point that the seeds of love begin to grow, and their unique love story unfolds. This drama teaches us that love can develop in relationships initially filled with arguments and rivalry, as long as there are genuine feelings and deep closeness between them.
5. Reply 1997 (2012)
- Release Year: July 2012
- Genre: Romance, Friendship, Coming of Age, Slice of Life
- Production: CJ E&M
- Director: Shin Won Ho
- Cast: Jung Eun Ji, Seo In Guk, Hoya, Shin So Yul
- Number of Episodes: 16
The first installment of the Reply Series, Reply 1997 (2012), is an unmissable gem that unfolds a tapestry of beauty in its narrative. This drama weaves a tale of the lives of six friends who reside in the vibrant city of Busan, navigating the tumultuous seas of their high school years.
Among these friends, two souls stand out, Sung Shin Won and Yoon Yoon Jae. Their connection carries an enchanting essence, one that deepened after Yoon Jae faced the heart-wrenching loss of his parents and found solace in the companionship of Shin Won. Despite his reserved demeanor, Yoon Jae basks in the limelight of popularity at school, yet none could capture his attention, save for the radiant presence of Shin Won.
Fast forward several years, and destiny orchestrates a reunion of these six friends, a gathering infused with nostalgia and unanswered questions. It's in this poignant moment that an unexpected announcement ripples through the gathering – a forthcoming wedding. A pivotal query looms large: Could Yoon Jae and Shin Won, amidst the sands of time, find their way to each other? How will the long-held emotions buried deep within them shape the course of their relationship? These unresolved emotions add layers of tension to a story already brimming with cherished memories.
6. Romance is a Bonus Book (2019)
- Release Year: January 2019
- Genre: Romantic Comedy
- Production: Story & Pictures Media
- Director: Lee Jeong Hyo
- Cast: Lee Na Young, Lee Jong Suk, Jung Yoo Jin, Wi Ha Joon
- Number of Episodes: 16
Kang Dan-I and Cha Eun Ho, separated by a five-year age gap, have forged a strong friendship since childhood. However, like the flow of water in the river of life, destiny steered them in different directions as they entered adulthood. Kang Dan-I found love in the form of marriage with someone else, and from that union, a child emerged, becoming the beacon of her life.
Yet, unfortunately, fate doesn't always favor love. Despite her efforts, her marriage eventually fractured beyond repair. Dan-I, now shouldering the role of a single mother, decided to rekindle her dream as a talented advertising copywriter.
The lives of Dan-I and Cha Eun Ho seemed to be on vastly different paths. Cha Eun Ho had achieved the pinnacle of success as the editor-in-chief of a renowned publishing company. They reunited under the same roof when Dan-I got the opportunity to work in the same company as Eun Ho. Amidst returning to the world they once shared as childhood friends, Dan-I began to experience unexpected surges of emotions towards Eun Ho.
Love and nostalgia, that's what grew in Dan-I's heart as she navigated the currents of her life once more. The story of their long-forged friendship might now find a new angle in their narrative.
7. Reply 1994 (2013)
- Release Year: October 2013
- Genre: Romance Comedy, Slice of Life, Coming of Age, Friendship
- Production: CJ E&M
- Director: Shin Won Ho
- Cast: Go Ara, Jung Woo, Yoo Yeon Seok, Kim Sung Kyun
- Number of Episodes: 21
The backdrop of 1994 sets the stage for the beautiful narrative that unfolds in "Reply 1994" (2013). This drama tells the tale of a tight-knit friendship among six college students who choose to live together in a shared boarding house. Yet, one of the most profound bonds within this story is the friendship that has grown since childhood between Sung Na Jung and Sseui Re Gi.
Sung Na Jung and Sseui Re Gi have been intertwined since their teenage years. They are not just friends; they are more like siblings. However, as time passes and they transition into adulthood, both find themselves embarking on their college journeys and living under the same roof. This change introduces new dynamics to their already close relationship.
Sung Na Jung, the daughter of the boarding house owner, feels an undeniable connection to two men in this story, Re Gi and Chilbong. The lingering question is: which of these two men will become Na Jung's husband in the future? The precious moments within this narrative make the stories of love and friendship even more touching and unforgettable.
8. Wednesday 3:30 PM (2017)
- Release Year: May 2017
- Genre: Romance Comedy
- Production: SBS Plus
- Director: Lee Jung Hoon
- Cast: Lee Hong Bin, Jin Ki Joo, Ahn Bo Hyun, Cha Jung Won
- Number of Episodes: 15
In the journey of love and moving on, some find themselves in the depths of heartache, and Sun Eun Woo is one of those souls. The pain of parting with a lover cuts deep, making it challenging to simply move forward. For her, healing and taking steps forward become an arduous task, one that demands extraordinary determination. Perhaps that's why she persists, striving relentlessly to recapture the love she once had. Fortunately, in this tumultuous journey, she has a steadfast friend by her side, Yoon Jae Won, who has been her companion since childhood.
In her pursuit to forget her ex-lover, Eun Woo and Jae Won embark on a daring scheme. They decide to feign a romantic relationship, like a staged play of false love performed on the social stage of their lives. Eun Woo diligently uploads numerous pictures of blissful moments with Jae Won on her social media, hoping to ignite jealousy in her former flame. This plan becomes her final attempt to gain control over her tumultuous emotions.
Yet, in the enigmatic realm of love, there are no guarantees that plans will unfold as expected. Sometimes, emotions initially feigned evolve into something much deeper and sincere. The love that was supposed to be mere theatrics between them transforms into the thread that binds the hearts of Eun Woo and Jae Won. This unforeseen twist marks the beginning of a new chapter in their love story, one filled with surprises and resilience.
9. My First First Love (2019)
Yun Tae-o unexpectedly found himself in a situation where he had to allow three of his friends, Choe Hun, Han Song-I, and O Ga Rin, to stay in his house. They had all lost their temporary living arrangements, and Tae-o generously opened his doors to them. While Tae-o might have initially been anxious about how his life would change with their presence, he quickly realized that the companionship of his friends added color and vibrant stories to his life.
However, amidst this emotional chaos, Tae-o also found himself caught in a dilemma of feelings. He had shared a close friendship with Han Song-I since childhood, and he never imagined that his childhood friend would develop special feelings for him. At the same time, Tae-o was also becoming interested in Ryu Se Hyeon. This dilemma presented a profound question in his life about love, friendship, and how to choose between the two.
10. The Time We Were Not in Love (2015)
- Release Year: June 2015
- Genre: Romance Comedy, Drama
- Production: iWill Media
- Director: Jo Soo Won
- Cast: Ha Ji Won, Lee Jin Wook, Yoon Kyun Sang, Choo Soo Hyun
- Number of Episodes: 16
The Korean drama "The Time We Were Not In Love" (2015) unfolds as an adaptation of the beloved Taiwanese drama "In Time With You" (2011). This series delicately weaves a tale of two dear friends who eventually discover love blossoming within the cocoon of their friendship. Ha Ji Won and Lee Jin Wook take on the lead roles, breathing life into their characters with perfection.
Choi Won and Oh Ha Na represent a rare gem of a friendship. They've been inseparable since their school days, navigating the ups and downs of life together. As time flows, 20 years swiftly pass by, yet their friendship remains as steadfast as ever. They become each other's confidants, sharing stories that include the trials and tribulations of their respective romantic relationships. Their closeness leads to a unique pact: a promise to marry each other before they reach the age of 35.
This pact reflects the sincerity of their bond and underscores the profound truth that true love can indeed sprout from the fertile soil of a deep-rooted friendship. In this drama, the audience is invited to witness how their decades-long friendship evolves into something deeper and more meaningful. It raises profound questions about what truly transpires when friends embark on a romantic journey together, inviting us to ponder the essence of love, friendship, and the beautiful spaces in between.