The Best Korean Dramas About CEOs

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As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of Korean dramas, let me tell you, these series are nothing short of a rollercoaster ride through the heart! Each one offers a unique blend of love, laughter, and the occasional tear, leaving an indelible mark on viewers’ hearts.

Korean Dramas, or K-Dramas, have long had an audience in the Western world, but their popularity has skyrocketed recently thanks to hits like Squid Game and Alice in Borderland. Streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, and even Disney are now producing their own original K-Dramas to cater to this expanding fanbase. These dramas excel in creating suspenseful and chilling horror and thriller series, but they also have a massive following in the romance genre. Despite being somewhat cheesy, they offer an immensely enjoyable viewing experience that can keep you glued to your screen, reading subtitles until your eyes tire.

A popular plot device in Korean romance dramas often revolves around the Cinderella narrative, where a woman of lower social standing finds herself captivated by a wealthy, handsome man from a higher social echelon, such as a CEO, vice president, or heir to a conglomerate. This timeless theme continues to captivate audiences due to its abundant variations.

Here are some of the best Korean dramas about CEOs or other elite businessmen!

20 See You in My 19th Life (2023)

In my latest cinematic exploration, I find myself immersed in the captivating tale of “See You in My 19th Life.” This film transports us to a universe where reincarnation isn’t mere mythology, but an accepted reality. The protagonist, Ban Ji-eum, is no ordinary woman; she carries with her the memories of all her past lives, each one lived with unwavering dedication as she takes on new forms.

A Captivating Story of Reincarnation and Romance

In this engrossing K-drama, a series of unexpected turns and captivating supporting characters showcase the immense influence decisions can have on our lives. Blending love and fate seamlessly, it maintains viewer interest from beginning to end. Noteworthy are the compelling performances and palpable camaraderie between Shin Hye-sun and Ahn Bo-hyun. Their emotional nuances elevate the storyline, making “See You in My 19th Life” an essential watch. Catch it on Netflix.

19 Romance Is a Bonus Book (2019)

As a passionate admirer, I’d say: “Romance Is a Bonus Book” takes you on a thrilling journey through the glamorous and cutthroat world of publishing. I find myself drawn to Cha Eun-ho, a talented author and youngest editor-in-chief, who serendipitously crosses paths with Dan-i, a childhood friend and struggling advertising copywriter following a divorce. When he extends a job offer at his company, their bond deepens into something truly special.

An Office Romance with Second Chances

Experience the captivating and genuine drama, “Romance Is a Bonus Book“, which offers an accurate portrayal of the publishing world and allows its main character to adjust at her own pace in a corporate setting. This authenticity makes it heartwarming and easy to connect with. The actors, Lee Na-young and Lee Jong-suk, are perfectly suited for their roles and bring an appealing charm. The soundtrack, featuring songs like “Take My Hand” by Jannabi and “Rainbow” by Rothy, adds depth to the romantic storyline. Stream it on Netflix.

18 Tomorrow, with You (2017)

In the realms of time travel and romance, Tomorrow, with You presents an engaging and imaginative tale about Yoon So-ho, a thriving CEO of a property company, who possesses the power to traverse through time. Aware of his bleak future, So-ho finds himself single, unhappy, and discontented. In an attempt to alter his destiny, So-ho encounters Song Ma Rin, a lively and carefree photographer, and decides to wed her, hoping she can transform his gloomy future.

Features a Time-Traveling CEO

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t wait to dive into “Tomorrow, with You” tomorrow. It’s not a rollercoaster ride of unexpected twists or breakneck speed, but rather a thoughtfully crafted story that unfolds gradually, much like a beautiful melody revealing its depth over time. The unique time-travel premise is just the beginning; it’s the poignant moments between the main characters that truly make this series shine. Shin Min-a and Lee Je-hoon deliver performances that are nothing short of extraordinary, elevating this show to a league of its own within the genre. If you’re looking for a heartfelt drama to stream, “Tomorrow, with You” is available on The Roku Channel.

17 Introverted Boss (or My Shy Boss) (2017)

As a film enthusiast, I’d put it this way: Initially stumbling through its first steps but gradually picking up pace, the series titled “Introverted Boss” centers around Eun Hwan-ki, the CEO of a public relations company. This man is as shy and timid as they come, causing him to fluster easily in social situations, which unfortunately has solidified his image as an aloof boss. However, his life takes an unforeseen twist when Chae Ro-woon, a vibrant new hire, becomes determined to unmask his true character and exact her vengeance.

About Overcoming Insecurities and Fear

In essence, “Introverted Boss” is a delightful blend of humor and romance, but what sets it apart is its unexpected twist on revenge that intertwines the dynamic between Hwan-ki and Ro-woon. It skillfully portrays the CEO’s evolution from reserved to trusting others, a transformation that proves rewarding for the viewer. Additionally, it tackles themes of forgiveness in an engaging way. If you enjoy unconventional romantic comedies, this is definitely worth your time. You can stream it on The Roku Channel or Tubi.

16 Coffee Prince (2007)

The all-time favorite and significant K-drama, known as “Coffee Prince”, is a delightful romantic comedy series that chronicles the tale of Go Eun-chan, a young woman who adopts a tomboyish persona due to her attire, leading many to perceive her as male. Facing financial hardships, she capitalizes on this misconception and disguises herself as a man to secure employment at a coffee house owned by Choi Han-kyul, a wealthy and free-spirited bachelor who is set to inherit his grandfather’s company.

Charming, Award-Winning Romance

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but sing praises for Coffee Prince. It breaks the mold by offering a unique perspective on gender roles, proving that K-dramas don’t always have to be steeped in melodrama. Instead, this series serves up a delightful blend of warmth and humor, masterfully exploring the intricacies and hurdles of pursuing a new romance. The undeniable chemistry between Yoon Eun-hye and Gong Yoo adds an extra layer of allure as their friendship evolves into something more captivating. With its enduring popularity among K-drama enthusiasts, Coffee Prince is truly a classic that should not be missed. Tune in on Kocowa.

15 Crazy Love (2022)

Lee Shin-ah has never entertained ambitions such as climbing the corporate ranks, amassing great wealth, or engaging in deep romantic relationships. Instead, she finds contentment in her role as a reserved and quiet secretary to the CEO of GOTOP, the highly respected mathematics institute in South Korea. Interestingly enough, Noh Go-jin, who seems innocent and flawless on the surface, harbors a strong sense of pride regarding his position. When he begins receiving threatening messages, Go-jin feigns amnesia. Intriguingly, Shin-ah learns that her time is limited, so she cleverly utilizes Go-jin’s fading memory and announces herself as his fiancée.

Corporate Shenanigans and Romantic Chaos

Intriguing from beginning to end, this drama masterfully combines the intrigue of business and affluence with a captivating narrative of love. The unique storyline, the tangled web of deceit and mystery, and the electrifying chemistry between Kim Jae-wook and Krystal Jung leaves viewers spellbound. To put it simply, Crazy Love revolves around the flawed yet utterly enchanting romance between these two main characters. From humorous scenes to heartfelt portrayals of love, this drama is nothing short of extraordinary. So if you’re ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions, catch it on Hulu.

14 Kill Me, Heal Me (2015)

In the most unpredictable and extraordinary ways, dissociative identity disorder affects Cha Do Hyun, a wealthy Korean conglomerate heir. As a chaebol heir, he not only has to hide his condition but ensure that none of his seven personas surface in front of people or family. Fearing his condition worsening, Do Hyun employs resident psychiatrist Oh Ri Jin for treatment. A love triangle develops between Do Hyun, Ri Jin, and Shin Se Gim, the rising CEO who is competent and capable of managing the business.

Takes You on an Emotional Rollercoaster

Instead of many other Korean dramas, Kill Me, Heal Me stands out with its deep emotions and intricate storylines. It delves into the sensitive topics of mental health, providing a genuine depiction of the protagonist’s healing journey. As layers of secrets are peeled back and Ri Jin discovers the roots of Do Hyun’s childhood trauma, Kill Me, Heal Me transforms into a captivating exploration of the human psyche, showcasing how even severely damaged souls can find healing. Catch it on Kocowa or Viki Rakuten.

13 Celebrity (2023)

In today’s competitive and ruthless world of celebrity and social media, the Korean drama “Celebrity” focuses on Seo A-ri, who was once at the top but fell due to her family’s financial ruin. Driven to reclaim her status, A-ri turns to influencing and quickly gains a massive following on social media. However, she soon discovers that success in this realm brings not only fame and fortune but also deceit and envy. In her journey, she encounters Han Jun Kyung, the CEO of a major cosmetics company, and their relationship blossoms over time.

Dissects Fame and Influencer Culture

Step into the dazzling realm of stardom, fame, and high-profile personalities through this captivating series, as it sheds light on the deep-rooted effects of celebrity status on individuals’ lives. With a gripping plotline complemented by exceptional acting from talents like Park Gyu-young, Kang Min-hyuk, and others, the intricacies of their characters are masterfully portrayed. Praised for its exploration into the shadowy aspects of micro-celebrities or social media influencers, this series delivers a powerful punch across multiple popular genres. Stream now on Netflix.

12 I’m Not a Robot (2017)

The narrative of “I’m Not a Robot” revolves around Kim Min Kyu, a wealthy CEO of KM Financial, who battles intimacy issues due to an unusual allergy that intensifies with even minimal human contact. Consequently, he leads a solitary life devoid of any romantic involvements. However, Min Kyu’s existence undergoes a remarkable transformation when he encounters Jo Ji A, an ambitious entrepreneur. It turns out that Ji A’s former partner is a scientist who has created a sophisticated robot that mirrors her appearance. Intrigued by this robot, Min Kyu expresses interest in acquiring it. Unfortunately, before the robot could reach him, it sustains damage, leading Ji A to step in and impersonate the robot herself.

Unique Drama About Genuine Connections

In a delightful blend of romance, humor, and science fiction, “I’m Not a Robot” tells a heartwarming story about a woman striving to melt the CEO’s icy heart with her kindness, and ignite sparks in their relationship. This unique take on the CEO narrative offers a fast-paced ride into the lives of its eccentric characters, seamlessly interweaving humor throughout. Catch it streaming on Kocowa or Viki Rakuten.

11 King the Land (2023)

In the series titled “King the Land“, we follow Gu Won, a captivating heir to The King Group who appears calm and composed to many. However, beneath this cool facade lies unresolved trauma from his youth, causing him to dislike those who smile at him. This dynamic is challenged by Cheon Sa Rang, an employee of the company renowned for her radiant and cheerful demeanor. Initially startled by her, Gu Won eventually softens and allows her energetic spirit to ignite his own dormant emotions.

Romance Meets Corporate Rivalry

As a devoted film enthusiast, I’ve been captivated by “King the Land,” a Netflix-produced Korean drama that seems to follow a familiar enemies-to-lovers trope, but don’t let that fool you. This series boasts an engaging storyline, a well-orchestrated pace, and exceptional acting that has left viewers spellbound. It’s managed to enchant longtime K-drama fans while also drawing in new ones. Despite its predictable moments at times, you’ll find yourself invested in the fated romance between the two leads and appreciating the high-quality production and clever scriptwriting. So, if you’re looking for something new to stream, give “King the Land” a try on Netflix!

10 Lucky Romance (2016)

The series titled Lucky Romance revolves around Bo-nui, a woman who has consistently bad luck and places great faith in superstitions and fortune-tellers. Tragedy struck her family when both her parents died in a car accident, and her younger sister has been in a coma for the past two years. Struggling to cover her sister’s medical bills by working multiple part-time jobs, Bo-nui learns that her sister’s condition has worsened. In search of guidance, she consults a fortune-teller who advises her to sleep with a man born in 1986, the year of the Tiger. Coincidentally, she keeps crossing paths with Soo-ho, the CEO of a gaming company, in various unfortunate circumstances.

Stays True to Its Name

Enchanting Drama – This widely cherished series garnered numerous nominations at both the Korea Drama Awards and the MBC Drama Awards, thanks to its captivating narrative and irresistible romantic elements. Ryu Joon Yeol’s exceptional portrayal of Je Su Ho is truly memorable, while Hwang Jung-eum brings an endearing quirkiness to her character Shim Bo Nui. When it initially aired, the drama was met with tremendous acclaim for its original concept and repeat viewability. Watch now on Viki Rakuten.

9 Master’s Sun (2013)

The Series, Known as ‘Master’s Sun’, centers around Kong-sil, a woman who possesses the uncanny ability to see spirits, a result of an accident she survived in her past. Plagued by these apparitions and their unsettling presence, she finds herself unable to live a normal life. To escape this torment, she dwells in an inn, taking up various odd jobs to make ends meet. However, one fateful day, she crosses paths with the ghost of an elderly woman who refuses to leave her side, leading to an extraordinary encounter with Joong-won, a ruthless and aloof CEO of a shopping mall, who helps her regain her composure.

Exceeds Genre Expectations

Exploring themes from corporate management and the mystical world, Master’s Sun offers a unique blend of drama that showcases how even the most unconventional connections can help individuals heal from their deepest wounds. It boasts exceptional production quality, direction, and a compelling narrative that seamlessly merges emotional character growth with chilling supernatural elements. A massive success, Master’s Sun is highly recommended for fans across all genres. Watch it on Kocowa.

8 Start-Up (2020)

The narrative revolves around Dal-mi, a woman left behind by her mother and sister after their departure due to their father’s business failure. They move in with Dal-mi’s grandmother, and later, her father passes away. Growing up under her grandmother’s care, she develops a relationship with an orphan named Ji-pyeong, who maintains contact with Dal-mi but communicates under the pseudonym Do San. The plot thickens when Dal-mi encounters the actual individual known as Do-san, leading to confusion and revelations about their past connections.

An Inspiring Drama with a Hint of Romance

Exploring a lively realm of tech startups and driven personalities, the series Start-Up focuses less on romance and more on Dal-mi’s transformative journey to ascend as a CEO. Navigating various obstacles within the ruthless landscape of venture capitalism, she carves her niche in the industry, making it utterly compelling to witness Bae Suzy breathe life into her role. The ensemble cast, intricate love triangle, and multiple rewatch possibilities are all commendable aspects as well. Catch it on Netflix.

7 My Secret Romance (2017)

The storyline of our romance unfolds when Yoo-mi encounters the charismatic playboy, Jin-wook, at a resort, during her mother’s second wedding celebration. Sparking an immediate connection, they share a night together, but in the morning, Yoo-mi departs without saying goodbye or explaining her actions. Fast forward three years, and Yoo-mi lands a job as a nutritionist within Jin-wook’s firm, all while remaining oblivious to his presence there until their paths cross again. This reunion reveals that Jin-wook continues to harbor feelings for Yoo-mi.

A Light-Hearted Office Romance

What Makes My Secret Romance Special is its delightful blend of humor and tender emotions, told in a charming manner. The main characters, portrayed by Sung Hoon and Song Ji-eun, find themselves entangled in a past filled with awkwardness, all while discovering new feelings within their current work environment. Of course, there are hidden truths and romantic blunders along the way, but overall, it’s a joy to follow their story. The series has garnered acclaim for its fitting soundtrack, enhancing the romantic atmosphere of the production. Watch it on Viki Rakuten.

6 Crash Landing On You (2019)

Crash Landing On You buckles conventional K-Drama tropes by focusing on Se-ri, an ambitious female heir to a conglomerate. Her father was poised to announce her as his successor based on her business acumen when she got caught up in a paragliding mishap. A sudden tornado alters the trajectory of her flight, and instead of landing in Seoul, South Korea, she ends up in the DMZ – a restricted area dividing North Korea and South Korea. This unexpected turn of events leads to an encounter with Jyeong-hyeok, a North Korean army officer, and the blossoming of mutual feelings between them.

Mixes Political Tension With an Epic Romance

In 2019 and 2020, the K-drama “Crash Landing On You” became a global sensation, paving the way for K-dramas to be enjoyed by viewers worldwide. With its captivating plotline, intricate portrayal of complex political tensions, and the thrilling narrative surrounding Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin’s characters, it spun an unforgettable love story. The series garnered critical acclaim for its masterful mix of romance, suspense, and wit, solidifying its status as one of the most beloved K-dramas ever made. You can watch it on Netflix.

5 Protect the Boss (2011)

Defending the Executive

Quirky Comedy About Growth

This captivating drama stands out for its unique twist on the conventional CEO role, presenting a socially awkward protagonist grappling with his idiosyncrasies, while an extraordinary female character steps up to shield him. The endearing and compassionate performances by Choi Kang-hee and Ji Sung are hard to resist. Moreover, it offers compelling character development and a heartwarming, impactful romantic plotline that further enhances its allure. Don’t miss it on Kocowa.

4 Business Proposal (2022)

Title Proposal: The Story of Ha-ri

It All Starts With a Hilarious Misunderstanding

Leveraging the beloved fake-dating narrative, the delightful and captivating K-drama called “Business Proposal” offers an entertaining experience. The storyline and performances are funny from the start, and as the series unfolds, it introduces surprising twists in its romantic plotlines, involving both main characters and supporting actors. Kim Se-jeong and Ahn Hyo-seop have a noticeable chemistry that enhances the show’s cheerful vibe. Watch it on Netflix.

3 What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim (2018)

The series “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” revolves around the character Mi-so, a highly competent and intelligent secretary working for Vice President Young-joon of his family’s company. Despite his high position, Young-joon isn’t as adept at his job as people believe, leading to frustration for Mi-so after nine years of service. Tired of his arrogance, she decides to leave, leaving Young-joon in a state of confusion. Recognizing his dependence on her, Young-joon then endeavors to win back his secretary by expressing the love he’s harbored for her all this time.

Features a Power Couple in the Making

Instead of weaving love triangles for added drama like some CEO romances do, What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim focuses solely on the charismatic and genuine relationship between its leads, Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young. Their on-screen chemistry is electrifying as they skillfully navigate their blossoming romance. The show’s clever dialogue, iconic moments, catchy soundtrack, and engaging narrative have made it a beloved choice among viewers. Stream it on Hulu.

2 Strong Woman Do Bong-soon (2017)

In “Strong Woman Do Bong-soon,” we encounter Bong-soon, a lady who possesses extraordinary strength, a trait passed down through the women in her family. Her long-held aspiration is to develop a game centered around her unique abilities. An encounter with Min-hyuk, the head of a gaming firm, takes place when he witnesses her shielding a bus driver from a gang of ruffians. While Bong-soon finds herself at the police station as a result, Min-hyuk steps in, deceiving the officers to free her. He then extends an invitation for her to work as his bodyguard and potentially join the creative team within his gaming company.

Superhuman Strength and Delicate Romance

This drama, Strong Woman Do Bong-soon, offers a captivating mix of action, humor, and romance. The talented Park Bo-young brings the strong-willed, ambitious, and endearing character Bong-soon to life, while Park Hyung-sik charms as the responsible CEO with a soft spot. Watching their love story unfold is truly heartwarming. When it first aired, it quickly became a hit, earning praise for its unique premise, intriguing plot developments, and endearing one-of-a-kind romance. Catch it on Viki Rakuten.

1 Secret Garden (2010)

The storyline of The Secret Garden revolves around Ra-im, a self-reliant stuntwoman who shines in her profession. An error occurs when she’s mistaken for the actress she was doubling, leading to an encounter with Joo-won, a rich and haughty department store CEO. To conceal their supposed relationship, he escorts her to a hotel. In the following events, they run into each other once more at a tea house named “The Secret Garden” during a rainstorm. Upon waking up the next morning, they mysteriously discover that they’ve exchanged bodies.

A Sweeping, Timeless Favorite

Exploring the enchanting theme of love’s transformative power and fate’s unpredictability, Secret Garden has earned its title as a timeless classic. With an ethereal ambiance, it delves into themes such as social boundaries and personal insecurities, while maintaining a lighthearted tone marked by humor, suspense, and romance throughout. Starring captivating performances from Hyun Bin and Ha Ji-won, this series is renowned for its unforgettable scenes and an OST that includes popular tracks like “That Man” by Hyun Bin and “That Woman” by Baek Ji-young. Catch it on Kocowa.

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2024-11-25 04:34