The Most Tragically Beautiful Korean Dramas Ever
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The Most Tragically Beautiful Korean Dramas Ever

Molly Gander
Updated March 12, 2025 294.7K views 73 items

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44.4K votes
13.6K voters
13 reranks
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Vote on the saddest Korean dramas of all time.

If you're looking for tearjerker shows, here are the saddest Korean dramas of all time. Featuring stories about amnesia, betrayals, and unrequited love, this list of sad K-dramas includes popular shows, like Stairway to Heaven, Winter Sonata, and Moon Lovers. For those looking to cry or wanting an emotional melodrama, these tragic Korean dramas will have you grabbing the tissues. 

Vote up the best sad Kdramas worth watching, and add other tear jerking Korean dramas if they're missing from the list.

Most divisive: Scent of a Woman
Over 13.6K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Most Tragically Beautiful Korean Dramas Ever
Ranked by
  • Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
    1
    Lee Joon-gi, IU, Kang Ha-neul
    4,627 votes

    A historical romance that sweeps you off your feet, this drama takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions. With a star-studded cast including Lee Joon-gi, IU, and Kang Ha-neul, the show will have you reaching for tissues. Time travel, love triangles, and political intrigue make this Korean drama a must-watch, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

    • Premiered: August 29, 2016
    • Network: ALLTVP
  • My Mister
    2
    Lee Sun-kyun, Lee Ji-eun (IU), Go Doo-shim
    1,961 votes

    Featuring a poignant narrative and a heart-wrenching relationship between the lead characters, this drama revolves around the theme of healing and redemption. The outstanding performances by the cast, including Lee Sun-kyun and IU, will leave viewers teary-eyed and emotionally invested in their journey.

    • Premiered: 2018
    • Network: tvN
  • Youth of May
    3
    Lee Do-hyun, Go Min-si, Lee Sang-yi
    866 votes

    A bittersweet tale of love and loss set during a turbulent era, this drama showcases the exceptional talents of Lee Do-hyun and Go Min-si. It captures the essence of youthful passion amidst societal unrest, leaving a lasting impact on those who watch.

    • Premiered: 2021
    • Network: KBS2
  • Uncontrollably Fond
    4
    Kim Woo-bin, Bae Suzy, Lim Ju-hwan
    3,113 votes

    A tale of love and tragedy unfolds as two celebrities struggle with their past and present. With compelling performances by Kim Woo-bin and Bae Suzy, this melodrama will tug at your heartstrings, making it difficult to keep the tears at bay.

    • Premiered: 2016
    • Network: KBS2
  • Hi Bye, Mama!
    5
    Kim Tae-hee, Lee Kyu-hyung, Go Bo-gyul
    1,973 votes

    The story of a mother's love transcends the boundaries of life and death in this emotional rollercoaster. Kim Tae-hee delivers a heart-wrenching performance as a ghost trying to protect her daughter while dealing with unresolved issues from her past life.

    • Premiered: 2020
    • Network: tvN
  • Mr. Sunshine 
    6
    Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri, Yoo Yeon-seok
    1,290 votes

    Set against the backdrop of the late 19th century, this epic love story delves into themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and longing. Starring Lee Byung-hun and Kim Tae-ri, the drama's breathtaking cinematography and heartrending plot will leave viewers in awe.

    • Premiered: July 7, 2018
    • Network: KRTVN