The Best Korean Dramas and Movies for a Cozy Night In

Because This Is My Life

If you’ve ever had an unconventional living situation or found yourself in an unexpected relationship, this drama will feel like a comforting hug. It’s about two strangers who become housemates—each bringing their own quirks and baggage. Through their interactions, they discover more about love, friendship, and the challenges of adulthood. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll probably end up wanting to watch it again.

Our Beloved Summer

Our Beloved Summer is a heartwarming and bittersweet story about love, growth, and second chances. Choi Woong (Choi Woo-shik), a free-spirited illustrator, and Kook Yeon-su (Kim Da-mi), a determined PR professional, are reunited years after their breakup when a documentary they filmed as high schoolers unexpectedly goes viral. Forced to confront their past, the two navigate awkwardness, unresolved feelings, and the bittersweet nostalgia of what could have been. Through its seamless blend of past and present storytelling, the drama paints a realistic picture of how youthful dreams and first loves evolve over time.

With gorgeous cinematography and a soulful soundtrack featuring BTS V’s “Christmas Tree,” the drama evokes a tender, nostalgic vibe that lingers long after the credits roll. The characters’ relatable struggles with forgiveness, self-discovery, and healing make their journey deeply compelling. Whether you’re a fan of second-chance romances or heartfelt slice-of-life stories, Our Beloved Summer is the perfect choice for a cozy and emotional viewing experience.

Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha

Set in a charming seaside town, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha follows Yoon Hye-jin (Shin Min-a), a dentist who moves to the village of Gongjin, where she meets Hong Du-sik (Kim Seon-ho), a local handyman. Despite their differences, a blossoming romance develops between them as they navigate the quirks and warmth of small-town life.

The drama is light-hearted, sweet, and full of lovable characters, capturing the charm of a close-knit community. With its beautiful coastal setting and perfect mix of romance, humor, and emotional moments, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is the ideal drama for a cozy, feel-good night in.

Reply 1988 (2015-2016)

Reply 1988 is a masterpiece that captures the warmth of family, friendship, and the nostalgia of the late 80s. This slice-of-life drama takes you back to a simpler time, where the streets are filled with laughter, and every moment feels significant. Set in a cozy neighborhood, the show revolves around five childhood friends and their families, offering a heartfelt exploration of their relationships, dreams, and the challenges they face growing up. From the small joys to the big milestones, every episode is filled with moments that remind you of the beauty of everyday life.

What makes Reply 1988 so special is its authentic portrayal of family dynamics and deep connections. The characters are endearing, and their experiences resonate with anyone who’s ever felt the love and comfort of close-knit relationships. The drama effortlessly blends humor, emotion, and nostalgia, making it the perfect choice for those seeking a comforting, feel-good experience. With its beautifully nostalgic setting and timeless themes, Reply 1988 is the kind of drama that stays with you long after it ends.

Jung Hae-in: Master of Tender Romantic Dramas

Jung Hae-in has a unique ability to bring tenderness and depth to his roles, making him a standout in romantic dramas. In Something in the Rain, One Spring Night, and Love Next Door, he portrays love with authenticity and subtlety, capturing both the joy and vulnerability of relationships. His performances effortlessly pull viewers into slow-burn romances, creating a genuine emotional connection that lingers long after the drama ends. A Piece of Your Mind (2020) adds another layer to his versatility, where he plays a soft-spoken AI programmer dealing with complex emotions, particularly love and loneliness. Jung Hae-in’s charm lies in his ability to portray the quiet moments that make love so special, making each drama a memorable and heartfelt experience.

Welcome to Waikiki

Sometimes, you just need a good laugh, and Welcome to Waikiki is here to deliver. This comedy-drama is about three friends who run a guesthouse, and the chaos that ensues when they have to juggle their personal lives with running a business. It’s fun, light-hearted, and filled with plenty of goofy moments that’ll keep you grinning.

King the Land

For a little luxury mixed with romance, King the Land is an elegant choice. The drama follows a hotel heir and a cheerful employee who start off with a tense relationship, only to find their hearts softening toward one another. It’s filled with stunning cinematography and a romance that builds beautifully over time. If you’re looking for a mix of drama and tenderness, this one’s for you.

Something About 1%

This drama is the perfect blend of romantic comedy and a classic “contract marriage” trope. Two very different people—one cold-hearted and the other warm—enter into a contract marriage, only to find themselves falling for each other. It’s witty, fun, and full of delightful moments, making it an easy choice when you want something lighthearted.

Ji Chang-wook: A Star Who Delivers Both Thrills and Heartwarming Moments

If you’re looking for a versatile actor who can make you laugh, cry, and sit on the edge of your seat, Ji Chang-wook’s dramas are a must-watch. For a dose of action and romance, Healer (2014-2015) is a perfect pick, blending mystery with a heartwarming love story as a night courier partners with a reporter. Similarly, Suspicious Partner (2017) mixes suspense, comedy, and romance as he plays a lawyer solving a murder case with his charming co-star.

Fans of fast-paced action will love The K2 (2016), where Ji Chang-wook shines as a bodyguard caught in a web of political intrigue and romance. For a more emotional vibe, If You Wish Upon Me (2022) tugs at your heartstrings with its story of hope and healing at a hospice. If you’re in the mood for something cozy and feel-good, Welcome to Samdalari (2024) takes you to a small town full of quirky residents and heartfelt connections. And for a fun, offbeat pick, Melting Me Softly (2019) delivers a unique romance involving a cryogenic experiment gone wrong.

Ji Chang-wook’s ability to tackle diverse roles ensures there’s something for everyone, making his dramas a perfect addition to any cozy night in.

20th Century Girl

This coming-of-age movie set in the 90s will leave you feeling nostalgic for first love and the simplicity of youth. It’s tender, sweet, and just the right amount of emotional. If you want a movie that makes you reflect on love and growing up, 20th Century Girl will take you on a beautiful ride.

On Your Wedding Day

On Your Wedding Day is a beautiful coming-of-age film that explores the complexity of young love, loss, and the passage of time. The story follows the relationship between Woo-yeon (Kim Young-kwang) and Seung-hee (Park Bo-young), from their high school years to adulthood. Their love story is filled with sweet, tender moments, but also the heartache and confusion that often come with growing up. The film’s emotional depth is enhanced by its ability to capture the little things that make love unforgettable—whether it’s a stolen glance or an unexpected gesture.

What makes On Your Wedding Day particularly poignant is its realistic portrayal of love, showing how it evolves with time and life’s circumstances. The characters’ growth and the changes in their relationship mirror the bittersweet experience of watching love transform. The film strikes a perfect balance between humor and emotional weight, making it both relatable and deeply moving. It’s a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved and lost, leaving you reflecting on the fleeting nature of time and the people who shape our lives.

Tune in for Love (2019)

Tune in for Love is a beautifully crafted film about fate, timing, and second chances. The story follows Mi-su (Kim Go-eun) and Hyun-woo (Jung Hae-in), whose paths cross repeatedly over the years, experiencing love, loss, and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of the 1997 financial crisis, the film’s nostalgic vibe and tender romance create a timeless and emotional atmosphere.

The film captures the bittersweet nature of love, with the relationship evolving naturally over time through missed opportunities and chance encounters. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, and their heartfelt performances make the story’s moments of connection feel genuine. Tune in for Love is a poignant film about the power of fate and love that endures through life’s ups and downs.