In the melodramatic world ofKorean dramas, toxic love stories often take center stage, leaving viewers to wonder if love or therapy is the real solution! These addictive shows serve up a heaping plate of relationship drama with a side of absurdity. Picture this: steamy possessive glares, dramatic rain-soaked confrontations, and more misunderstandings than a game of charades in a foreign language class. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions where love is about as clear as mud, and therapists probably have a special discount for K-drama addicts. Here are some of the love stories that shouldn’t have existed, but they do.
My ID Gangnam Beauty (2018)
Due to its weirdly portrayed relationship dynamics between the main characters, Mi-rae and Kyung-seok, the drama made it to this list. Mi-rae and Kyung-seok’s interactions are fraught with misunderstandings, emotional distance, and moments that can be interpreted as manipulative. The drama relies heavily on the repetitive “knight in shining armor” trope, where Kyung-seok frequently rescues Mi-rae, leading to a one-dimensional portrayal of their relationship.
Furthermore, the series’ focus on beauty standards and plastic surgery, while addressing important issues, can also reinforce unrealistic beauty ideals. Critics argue that the characters’ limited personal growth throughout the show and Mi-rae’s persisting self-esteem issues contribute to a stagnant and somewhat toxic portrayal of romance.
Moon Lovers: Scarlett Heart Ryeo (2016)
Ha-jin, a modern-day woman, is transported back in time to the Goryeo Dynasty, where she becomes Hae-soo. Her romantic involvement with various princes, particularly Wang-so, is marked by emotional turmoil andtoxic dynamics. Wang-so’s transformation from a misunderstood, tragic character to one who resorts to violence and control in his relationship with Hae-soo is deeply problematic.
Additionally, the multiple love interests and intense rivalry among the princes contribute to a chaotic and unhealthy portrayal of love. The drama’s tragic and heart-wrenching outcomes further underline the toxicity of these relationships, makingScarlet Heart Ryeo, a compelling yet unsettling exploration of romance in a historical context.
Playful Kiss (2010)
The drama’s trope of enemies-to-lovers was anything but cute. Rather, the dysfunctional relationship between Ha-ni and Seung-jo is troubling. Ha-ni’s relentless pursuit of Seung-jo, despite his clear disinterest, raises concerns about stalking behavior and a lack of respect for boundaries. On the other hand, Seung-jo’s tendency to publicly humiliate Ha-ni after she confesses her feelings, is emotionally abusive and damaging, even if they weren’t a couple back then.
Additionally, the characters’ lack of healthy communication exacerbates their turbulent dynamic, further reinforcing the toxicity of their relationship. As a result,Playful Kissstruggles to resonate positively with audiences, instead highlighting concerning behaviors that should be approached with caution.
Secret Love (2013)
The entire plot ofSecret Loveis problematic to start with. Firstly, the central romance between Yoo-jung and Min-hyuk is surrounded by a disturbing backdrop – Yoo-jung serving prison time for her ex-boyfriend’s hit-and-run crime. This association with a tragic death creates an unsettling premise for a romantic relationship.
Secondly, their initial interactions are characterized by misunderstandings and animosity rather than love, which can be seen as an unhealthy foundation for a romantic connection. Moreover, the narrative seems to downplay the gravity of the hit-and-run incident, potentially sending a troubling message about the consequences of such actions.
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Tempted (2018)
Temptedencompasses all the elements necessary forriveting yet toxic drama. At its core, the story displays Kwon Shi-hyun, the quintessential playboy who views women as mere conquests, devoid of genuine emotion. His life takes a twisted turn when he engages in a bet to seduce Eun Tae-hee, a woman whose focus is on a virtuous and uncomplicated life, eschewing the complexities of romance.
While it’s inevitable that they fall for each other, their relationship’s foundation is a web of lies, deceit, and manipulation. This inherent toxicity stems from the morally questionable bet, creating a sense of unease and discomfort for the audience. The drama delves into the dark side of human relationships and lies.
Young Lady and Gentleman (2021)
While age gaps in Korean dramas are a common narrative device, a particular instance raised eyebrows among viewers. It is revealed that Park Dan-Dan, an independent woman in her 20s, had her first encounter with Lee Young-kook, a single father in his 40s when she was just 13 years old.
This revelation significantlyalters the perceptionof their relationship. While their interactions as adults may be viewed differently, the implications of this disturbing flashback scene, involving a teenager and an older man, cast a shadow over the entire plot. The audience was left deeply uncomfortable, labeling the relationship as creepy.
The World of the Married (2020)
The life of Ji Sun-woo, a successful doctor whose seemingly idyllic marriage changes when she discovers her husband’s infidelity. What ensues is a maelstrom ofdeceit, betrayal, and manipulationas the characters navigate the treacherous waters of their relationships.
While the drama is undeniably intense and engaging, it also displays deeply problematic dynamics, from rampant infidelity to revenge plots. The relentless pursuit of vengeance and the absence of healthy communication in the characters’ relationships contribute to a narrative fraught with tension and discomfort.
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Nevertheless (2021)
When it comes to the realm of K-drama, the most unbearable couples are those unapologeticallysteeped in toxicity, andNeverthelessundoubtedly falls into this category. The series unfolds with the charismatic player Jae-eon and the heartbroken art student Na-bi embarking on a tumultuous, friends-with-benefits arrangement.
Despite the casual nature of their relationship, Jae-eon consistently inflicts emotional harm on Na-bi by flirting with others and sending mixed signals. The more troubling part is that Na-bi, fresh out of an abusive relationship, fails to recognize these glaring red flags. Even a hurried attempt at redemption on Jae-eon’s part can’t salvage the profound toxicity of their bond.
The Heirs (2013)
Initially presenting itself as atypical romantic K-drama,The Heirs, takes a dark, troubling turn. The story begins with the wealthy Kim Tan falling in love with Eun-sang. However, as tension escalates, Eun-sang becomes the target of both bullying and unwanted attention, forcing Kim Tan to make a choice between her and his family’s business empire.
Regrettably, Kim Tan’s character embodies the essence of a perfect toxic boyfriend. He exhibits extreme possessiveness over Eun-sang, going to great lengths to maintain control over her, even resorting to hurting her and invading her privacy. What’s more concerning is his lack of willingness to change, which screams problematic on so many levels.
Boys Over Flowers (2009)
In the world of K-dramas, one of the leastappealing couplescan be found inBoys Over Flowers’Jun-pyo and Jan-di.This narrative revolves around the wealthy and conceited Jun-pyo and the only girl who dares to challenge him, Jan-di. Despite burgeoning emotions, their relationship is plagued by relentless drama that overshadows any love they might share.
Their initial encounter occurs when Jan-di must intervene to rescue a victim of Jun-pyo’s bullying, only to find herself becoming his next target. What’s particularly frustrating is Jan-di’s choice to be with Jun-pyo, opting for an abusive and problematic partner over a kind-hearted suitor.
