The holiday season is drawing to a close, which can leave many nostalgic for the warmth and joy of festivities. For those looking to extend the holiday spirit, a collection of K-dramas offer perfect escapes. Series such as Winter Sonata and That Winter, the Wind Blows capture the essence of winter while incorporating heartwarming holiday elements. Many of these shows are feel-good K-dramas that intertwine romance within their plots, ensuring a cozy transition into the new year.
However, it’s not just romantic dramas that evoke holiday cheer; family-centered K-dramas also provide comfort and warmth. If you’re searching for a series to fill the gap left by the festive season, consider these delightful K-dramas as your starting point.
10 The One And Only (2021)
This Murder Mystery Takes Place In The Winter
The One and Only tells the compelling story of three women who have each been diagnosed with terminal illnesses, which may not sound festive at first glance. However, the series dives deep into their complex struggles while intertwining their lives with a mysterious hitman. As the drama unfolds, they confront the importance of valuing life and the connections made along the way.
This meditation on life resonates strongly during the Christmas season, akin to the classic film It’s a Wonderful Life. With its winter setting, it deftly captures the reflective moments of the holidays.
9 Uncontrollably Fond (2016)
Tragedy And Heart Are At The Center Of This K-Drama
Uncontrollably Fond draws viewers into a poignant love story between Shin Joon-young, a celebrity, and Noh Eul, a documentary filmmaker. As their relationship unfolds, viewers get an intimate look at the pain and beauty of their connection, from their school days to their complicated present.
With a standout performance from Bae Suzy, who won a Best Star Award, this K-drama navigates themes of loss amid the beauty of winter—juxtaposing snowflakes with blooming blossoms, evoking the emotional depth characteristic of the season.
8 Winter Sonata (2002)
This K-Drama Is Over 20 Years Old
Winter Sonata follows the intricate relationships among a close-knit group of friends, beginning with the tragic tale of Joon-sang, who suffers a grave accident after finally finding love. Believed to be dead, his love interest, Yoo-jin, must move on, only for the story to reveal that Joon-sang has survived—with amnesia.
This classic was groundbreaking at the time of its release and has been adapted into various formats, including anime and stage productions. Its winter motif serves as a pivotal backdrop, providing emotional depth to the narrative and remaining a staple for K-drama fans.
7 Doom At Your Service (2023)
Romance Can Be Both Heartwarming And Tragic
Doom at Your Service introduces viewers to Tak Dong-kyung, who faces devastating truths on her parents’ death anniversary, including her own impending demise. In a moment of despair, she wishes for the world to end—an appeal that draws the attention of a godly messenger.
Much like the iconic It’s a Wonderful Life, this K-drama underscores life’s value, mingling heartwarming and heartbreaking moments throughout. Its supernatural twist makes it a standout choice for fans of the holiday genre.
6 That Winter, The Wind Blows (2013)
This K-Drama Is Based On A 2002 Japanese Series
Based on the 2002 Japanese show Forget Love, That Winter, the Wind Blows follows a gambler, Oh Soo, as he seeks to entwine himself with a blind heiress for her fortune. However, as their relationship develops, deeper emotional connections form against a picturesque winter backdrop.
Centered on themes of vulnerability and love, this K-drama artfully blends frosty exteriors with heartfelt narratives, ensuring viewers experience a touching story as they watch.
5 My Mister (2018)
A Miserable Start Leads To A Happy Finish
My Mister chronicles the lives of Dong Hoon and Ji An, who navigate the hardships of life together. The series, filled with heart-wrenching moments, showcases the power of companionship amidst despair, culminating in emotional healing.
Recognized with accolades, including Best Drama at the 55th Baeksang Arts Awards, this series captures the solitude some feel in winter, resonating strongly during the chilly months.
4 I’ll Go To You When The Weather Is Nice (2020)
Winter Plays A Big Role In This K-Drama
This K-drama beautifully weaves winter into its story as it tells the tale of Mok Hae-won and her former classmate, bookstore owner Im Eun-seob. Their bond rekindles against the backdrop of the wintry season, making for a charming and cozy romance.
Winter serves more than just an aesthetic; it’s integral to the characters’ emotional journey, inviting introspection associated with the holiday season. This delightful series embodies the warmth and nostalgia one seeks during this time of year.
3 Healer (2014)
This Action Series Takes Place During Winter
More thrilling than most winter-themed K-dramas, Healer follows five friends as they operate an illegal pro-democracy broadcasting station, linking to a series of historical murders. With its complex narrative unraveling during winter, the show builds tension and suspense heightened by the season’s chill.
Airings during the Christmas season enhance its haunting atmospheres, providing an alternative feel for those craving action while also being festive.
2 My Roommate Is A Gumiho (2021)
This Supernatural Romance Is Perfect For The Holidays
My Roommate is a Gumiho follows college student Lee Dam as she becomes entangled with a Gumiho, a mythical nine-tailed fox. Their whimsical romance unfolds as comedic and heartfelt adventures ensue, particularly as winter approaches.
This show captures the holiday spirit with its festive scenes adorned with winter lights, creating a delightful backdrop for the romance that blossoms between the characters.
1 Guardian: The Lonely And Great God (2016)
Squid Game’s Gong Yoo Stars In This Tragic Romance
Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, starring Gong Yoo, tells a haunting story of a god cursed to immortality, compelled to witness the loss of his loved ones consecutively. The narrative escalates when he meets Ji Eun-tak, a girl who may hold the key to his freedom.
This acclaimed drama, lauded for its exceptional writing and acting, resonates deeply during the holiday season, with themes of loss and redemption intricately woven throughout, making it a poignant choice for viewers longing for emotional depth during this time.
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