[Ishani's Picks] 5 Romance K-Dramas That Are Driven By Choice Rather Than Destiny

Tired of romance dramas that are obsessed with the concept of fate and star-crossed lovers? Would you rather spend your time indulging in some realistic love stories? I've got the perfect list for you!

 

"Yumi's Cells"

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Adapted from the immensely popular webtoon of the same name, "Yumi's Cells" explores the life and relationships of Kim Yu-mi, played by Kim Go-eun.

Through the course of two amazing seasons, we follow Yu-mi as she falls in and out of love with Go Woong (Ahn  Bo-hyun) and Yoo Ba-bi (Park Jinyoung), entirely by her own choice and conviction. Perhaps, this is why the second season ends with Yu-mi happily single and fulfilled in her own way.

"When the Weather Is Fine"

"When the Weather Is Fine", starring Park Min-young and Seo Kang-joon, gives off the illusion of destiny but instead rests upon entirely human choices. Years of longing culminate in a brief romance that is unfortunately deferred by circumstances. By the end of the drama, we're not sure of our central couple's future but we do know that they are in a better place in their lives.

"Twenty Five Twenty One"

The K-Drama that broke millions of hearts this year, "Twenty Five Twenty One" is the prime example of how a simple choice can change lives. Na  Hee-do (Kim Tae-ri) prioritizes her mental health whereas Baek  I-jin (Nam Joo-hyuk) would rather focus on his career. Even though there's love in the equation, it gets pushed to the side in favour of personal goals. Not only is this a mature and realistic portrayal of modern relationships but also incredibly poignant.

"Because This Is My First Life"

A cult classic in the truest sense of the word, "Because This Is My First Life" is an excellent study of institutions like marriage and societal pressures that frame the same. For Nam  Se-hee (Lee Min-ki) and Yoon  Ji-ho (Jung So-min), marriage comes first, love second, and finally, individuality third. This journey is something you do not want to miss.

"Lovestruck in the City"

Much like the mockumentary format this drama is made with, "Lovestruck in the City" is a painfully real portrayal of the complexity of romantic relationships. When placed against concerns of identity, fated romance might not stand too strong of a chance. The only reason Park  Jae-won and Lee  Eun-oh end up together is because they do the inner work necessary to be complete individuals in their own right before pursuing a sincere relationship. This drama is truly one of a kind.

By Ishani Sarkar.