Second Lead Syndrome: K-Dramas That Broke Our Hearts
- IMDb
Gaya Hidup, VIVA Banyuwangi – Ah, second lead syndrome – the familiar pang of heartbreak we feel when our favorite K-drama character doesn't get the girl (or guy). Let's dive into the world of unrequited love and relive some of the most memorable second lead stories that left us reaching for the tissues.
1. Start-Up (2020)
Han Ji-pyeong (Kim Seon-ho) stole hearts with his unrequited love for Seo Dal-mi (Bae Suzy). Despite being a mentor and brother figure to Dal-mi, his feelings deepened over time. Sadly, Dal-mi ultimately chose Nam Do-san (Nam Joo-hyuk), leaving Ji-pyeong with a broken heart.
2. Reply 1988 (2015)
This classic K-drama is known for its iconic love triangle. Kim Jung-hwan (Ryu Jun-yeol) harbored secret feelings for his childhood friend Deok-sun (Hyeri). However, his hesitation to confess his love led to Deok-sun ending up with Choi Taek (Park Bo-gum).
3. Extraordinary You (2019)
Baek Kyung (Lee Jae-wook) was the cold and aloof fiancé of Eun Dan-oh (Kim Hye-yoon) in this fantasy romance. Despite their arranged engagement, Baek Kyung eventually developed genuine feelings for Dan-oh. However, Dan-oh found true love with Haru (Rowoon), leaving Baek Kyung heartbroken.
4. Cheese in the Trap (2016)
Baek In-ho (Seo Kang-joon) was a troubled but talented pianist who fell for Hong Seol (Kim Go-eun). He provided comfort and support to Seol, but she ultimately chose the enigmatic Yoo Jung (Park Hae-jin). In-ho's unrequited love resonated with many viewers.
5. Strong Woman Do Bong-soon (2017)
In Guk-doo (Ji Soo) was a police officer and childhood friend of Do Bong-soon (Park Bo-young). He had long admired Bong-soon, but she fell for her eccentric boss, Ahn Min-hyuk (Park Hyung-sik). Guk-doo's unrequited love added a touch of melancholy to this otherwise lighthearted drama.
Second lead syndromes are a testament to the power of K-dramas to evoke strong emotions. These characters may not always get the happy ending they deserve, but their stories remind us of the complexities of love and the importance of cherishing those who care for us.
