6 Enemies-to-Lovers K-Dramas That Turned Rivalry Into Romance

What’s a K-drama without a dash of enmity, a clash of ideas and ideals, a fiery war of words, endless bickering, and of course—the ultimate “we can’t stand each other, but secretly we’re obsessed” tension? Over the years, Korea has blessed us with some of the most iconic enemies-to-lovers stories, complete with gorgeous leads who collide under unusual circumstances. Their eyes lock, sparks fly, hearts flutter, and an electrifying chemistry ignites—all while they pretend to despise each other. Here are six unforgettable K-dramas that turned rivalry into romance and hate into destiny.

1. Love To Hate You (2023)

This fiery rom-com dives into the explosive chemistry between top movie star Nam Kang-ho (Yoo Teo), famous for his swoon-worthy romantic roles, and Yeo Mi-ran (Kim Ok-vin), a bold, free-spirited lawyer who despises sexist men and has no interest in serious relationships. When her job forces her into the world of celebrity scandals—particularly Kang-ho’s—the two are thrown together in a clash of egos, ideals, and undeniable attraction. With just 10 fast-paced episodes, Love To Hate You is a binge-worthy weekend watch, brimming with sharp banter, fiery tension, and unforgettable sparks.

2. Our Beloved Summer (2021)

Some rivalries last years, and some romances last a lifetime—and Our Beloved Summer beautifully captures both. Choi Ung (Choi Woo-sik) and Kook Yeon-soo (Kim Da-mi) were once high school sweethearts who swore never to cross paths again. But when an old documentary featuring their bickering teenage selves suddenly goes viral, the two exes are unwillingly thrown back into each other’s orbit. What begins as lingering resentment slowly unravels into something tender, as old wounds, first love, and unshakable chemistry resurface. With its blend of bittersweet nostalgia, youthful summers, and heartfelt romance, this drama feels like a love letter to growing up—and growing back together.

3. So I Married an Anti-Fan (2021)

What happens when Korea’s hottest star is forced to live under the same roof as his biggest hater? Sparks, chaos, and unexpected romance. Hoo Joon (Choi Tae-joon), a top singer, collides with Lee Geun-young (Choi Soo-young), a magazine reporter who loses her job after a disastrous run-in with him—one that ends with her throwing up on the star himself. Convinced he’s to blame, she stages a protest outside his agency and quickly earns the title of his “anti-fan.” A reality show producer sees the drama unfold and decides to capitalize on it, bringing the two together for a program where a celebrity and his anti-fan must live together. Filled with classic K-drama tropes, sharp banter, and a sweet-but-spicy romance, So I Married an Anti-Fan is a delightful guilty pleasure.

4. Because This Is My First Life (2017)

Enemies-to-lovers stories often feature fiery, outspoken leads—but Because This Is My First Life takes a refreshing turn by pairing two introverted, emotionally complex characters. Nam Se-hee (Lee Min-ki), a socially awkward IT professional, enters into a marriage of convenience with Yoon Ji-ho (Jung So-min), a struggling writer desperate for both a home and stability. What begins as an uncomfortable arrangement laced with quiet misunderstandings gradually evolves into something tender as they discover they share similar struggles with societal expectations and family pressures. A slow-burning romance that unfolds gently yet deeply, this drama is charming, thoughtful, and quietly unforgettable.

5. Doctor Slump (2024)

It’s refreshing to see two high school rivals cross paths again as adults, proving that enemies-to-lovers isn’t just a playful trope but can blossom into a story of lifelong companionship. Yeo Jeong-woo (Park Hyung-sik) and Nam Ha-neul (Park Shin-hye), once fierce academic competitors, find themselves reconnecting years later. What begins as a clash rooted in old rivalries gradually turns into mutual support as they help each other navigate life’s pressures, rediscover friendship, and slowly fall in love. Rather than relying on fiery tension, Doctor Slump stands out for its warmth, tenderness, and the genuine bond between two people who evolve from rivals into partners.

6. Crash Course in Romance (2023)

Crash Course in Romance is delightfully deceptive—in the best way. At first glance, it plays like a classic enemies-to-lovers tale, centering on Nam Haeng-seon (Jeon Do-yeon), a spirited banchan (side-dish) shop owner, and Choi Chi-yeol (Jung Kyung-ho), the star instructor at the elite Pride Academy. Their clashes aren’t driven by ego but by the fierce instinct to protect the people they care about most. While the drama delivers plenty of playful banter and sparks, it goes deeper than the usual rom-com, blending tender moments of vulnerability with themes of family, sacrifice, and second chances. Both heartwarming and entertaining, Crash Course in Romance proves that love can bloom in the most unexpected places.

Which is your favorite enemies-to-lovers K-drama? Let us know in the comments below!

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