[Ishani's Picks] Top 10 K-Dramas With The Most Cheerful Male Leads

Have you ever fallen in love with a K-Drama character simply because they're a ray of sunshine? The light and laughter they bring to the screen can cure all our blues in an instant. Such characters always stay with us long after the drama is over and comfort us during tough times. Here are 10 K-Dramas with the most cheerful male leads to brighten up your day!

Advertisement

"Welcome to Waikiki"

"Welcome to Waikiki" is the type of K-Drama that never gets old, even if you've rewatched it a hundred times. When the world seems particularly glum, you can comfortably turn to Kang Dong-goo, played by Kim Jung-hyun, and laugh your heart out.

"When the Camellia Blooms"

"When the Camellia Blooms" is the feminist liberation diary of Oh Dong-baek, played by Kong Hyo-jin, but it would never be complete without our golden retriever male lead Hwang Yong-sik, played by Kang Ha-neul. After all, who wouldn't want a friend or a lover as loyal, dedicated, and warm as him?

"Strong Woman Do Bong-soon"

When it comes to male leads who know how to be both adorable and protective, playful yet fierce, Ahn Min-hyeok, played by Park Hyung-sik, is the best of the best. His smile has a radiant glow and his positive energy is contagious, to say the least.

"Shopping King Louis"

A K-Drama that proves the unbelievable versatility of Seo In-guk, "Shopping King Louis" is a true romantic comedy. Seo In-guk plays Louis / Kang Ji-seong, a spoiled, rich chaebol heir who suddenly loses his memory and ends up living with a country girl. Needless to say, hilarity ensues. The quirky naivete of Louis will win your heart in no time!

"Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo"

One of the best campus romances of all time, "Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo" features some of the most colourful and layered characters we have ever seen. The male protagonist, Jeong Joon-hyeong, played by Nam Joo-hyuk, makes it a point to lead a cheery, happy life even if he's struggling with deep-seated trauma, and if that's not inspiring, I don't know what is.

"Hospital Playlist"

Arguably the most successful medical drama to come out of the Korean entertainment industry, "Hospital Playlist" stars an ensemble cast for its multiple leading characters. The 4 male leads, Lee Ik-joon, Ahn Jeong-won, Kim Joon-wan, and Yang Seok-hyeong (played by Cho Jung-seok, Yoo Yeon-seok, Jung Kyung-ho and Kim Dae-myung respectively), have professions of extreme gravity and yet, they're full of vibrance and zest. Everyone needs colleagues like them in the workplace.

"Modern Farmer"

If you're looking for a good old situational comedy with a stress-free storyline, "Modern Farmer" is your best bet. Lee Hong-ki is incredible as Lee Min-gi, evoking riotous laughter with his comedic timing. With his unwavering optimism despite the unlucky circumstances, you cannot help but root for him.

"Reply 1988"

This list would not be complete without the sweetheart of the "Answer Me" series, Choi Taek, played by Park Bo-gum. Choi Taek is not just cheerful and innocent but also honest and considerate. Just his presence could light up a room. It isn't surprising, therefore, that he is the comfort character of innumerable viewers all over the world.

"My Secret Romance"

Another romance protagonist that is just as dreamy as he is funny, Cha Jin-wook from "My Secret Romance", played by Sung Hoon can be bright and clueless at the same time and it is this discrepancy that makes him so endearing. As a matter of fact, there's a certain childishness to him that makes him even more charming.

"Ghost Doctor"

Just as the title suggests, "Ghost Doctor" tells the story of an elite surgeon Cha Yeong-min (played by Rain), who goes into a coma and exists as a " ghost " and his subordinate, a young resident Go Seung-tak (played by Kim Beom), who can see spirits. Go Seung-tak is laid-back, empathetic, and kind with a heart of gold. Not only is he beloved within the story, but it is also a genuine delight to watch him on screen, especially since he can lift your mood with one smile.

By Ishani Sarkar.