With all the amazing K-dramas that premiered this 2023, there are a lot of ideal couples that made us all yearn for a relationship like theirs. Beyond their compelling storylines, the undeniable chemistry between the actors and actresses portraying these characters is what captivated us.
“My Perfect Stranger” Couple
Yoon Hae Jun (Kim Dong Wook) and Baek Yoon Young (Jin Ki Joo) of “My Perfect Stranger” stand out as one of my favorite couples this year, despite being part of a timeslip mystery drama! Their love story unfolded unexpectedly as they both time-traveled and found themselves stuck in the year 1987. Along the way, they grappled with personal challenges, mutually supporting each other and discovering love in the process.
The second lead couple was equally remarkable. Initially introduced to us as Soon Ae’s middle-aged parents in 2021, we delved into their lives and history when they journeyed back to 1987. It was truly refreshing to witness the backstory of a couple who have been married for a long time.
“My Dearest” Couple
Lee Jang Hyun (Namkoong Min) and Ahn Gil Chae (Ahn Eun Jin) of “My Dearest” hold the top spot on this list, and it’s easy to see why. Set against the backdrop of a war in the Joseon Dynasty, their historical romance depicts one of the most beautiful love stories ever told. The combination of a man willing to risk everything and a woman from a privileged background learning to be independent resulted in a unique love story that transcends different eras. Moreover, despite the significant age difference, Namkoong Min and Ahn Eun Jin portrayed a chemistry that was undeniable.
“Joseon Attorney: A Morality” Couple
Kang Han Su (Woo Do Hwan) and Lee Yeon Ju (Bona) of “Joseon Attorney: A Morality” make an unusual yet captivating pairing in a historical fusion drama, featuring an attorney and a princess! Initially at odds, the two began as adversaries, constantly arguing due to misunderstandings. They eventually discovered a shared goal—to assist the underprivileged through the law, preventing them from being exploited by those in power during the Joseon era. The chemistry between Woo Do Hwan and Kim Ji Yeon (WJSN Bona) on-screen never fails to bring a smile to our faces.
“My Lovely Boxer” Couple
Kim Tae Young (Lee Sang Yeob) and Lee Kwon Sook (Kim So Hye) of “My Lovely Boxer” portrayed a sports agent and a brilliant boxer, illustrating the essence of love in this drama. Initially, their encounters were strained, but over time, they found solace and support in each other during their darkest moments. Witnessing Lee Kwon Sook’s need for someone to trust and root for her was truly heartwarming. Their romance developed gradually, and despite their age difference, Lee Sang Yeob and Kim So Hye’s chemistry is undeniable.
“The Real Has Come!” Couple
Oh Yeon Doo (Baek Jin Hee) and Gong Tae Kyung (Ahn Jae Hyeon) of “The Real Has Come!” crafted one of the most heartwarming love stories of the year. As a fan of the fake dating trope, their journey started with a false contract that led to a romance, pregnancy, childbirth, and child-rearing! Spanning 50 episodes in a KBS family weekend drama, their relationship evolved from bickering strangers to a deeply loving married couple, which was delightful to watch.
“Live Your Own Life” Couple
Lee Hyo Sim and Kang Tae Ho of “Live Your Own Life” emerged from one of the most inspiring dramas of the year, affirming the idea that it’s acceptable to prioritize oneself. Hyo Sim, who had prioritized her family since her father’s passing, finally learned to prioritize herself, with Tae Ho’s support. Their mutual influence on each other was heartening, showing us the beauty of a couple bringing out the best in one another.
“Numbers” Couple
Transitioning from colleagues to lovers, Jang Ho Woo (Kim Myung Soo) and Jin Yeon Ah (Yeonwoo) of “Numbers” displayed the subtleties of romance between a junior accountant and a senior associate within an accounting firm. Facing unfairness as a high school graduate accountant, Ho Woo found solace in Yeon Ah, the only person who trusted him. As they worked together, their bond grew, revealing a subtle yet endearing office romance.
“Taxi Driver 2” Couple
Kim Do Gi and Ahn Go Eun of “Taxi Driver 2” didn’t officially form a couple in the drama, but their profound connection made audiences root for them deeply. Lee Je Hoon and Pyo Ye Jin’s chemistry shone, especially when Do Gi and Go Eun pose as a married couple for an undercover case. Since the first season, their deep connection stemmed from shared losses and their work in the revenge call service. They strived to aid victims’ families when the law couldn’t.
So which of these 2023 K-drama couples are your favorites? Don’t forget that you can watch all of them on KOCOWA+!
