Here are 7 summer-themed K-dramas to binge-watch this season

Photo from Netflix

Summer is the season when days feel endlessly long, the sun shines brightly, flowers bloom and every day feels like a fresh start. Yet, more often than not, we find ourselves staying indoors, cranking up the air conditioning and searching for something to binge-watch.

Definitely, we can never go wrong with K-dramas. So, here are seven K-dramas we recommend that will bring you a wave of nostalgic summer vibes.

‘Our Beloved Summer’

This 2021 K-drama, starring Choi Woo-shik and Kim Da-mi, has quickly become a fan favorite. If you’ve already watched this breakthrough series on Netflix, you might find yourself wanting to relive those moments again.

In essence, the series is a coming-of-age story about a former couple who are reunited when a documentary they filmed in high school goes viral. However, it offers much more than that, delving into themes of love, growth and reconciliation, making it a memorable and heartwarming watch.

‘Summer Strike’

One word to describe this series starring Im Si-wan and Seolhyun is “underrated.” It’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, offering a calming coastal provincial vibe and a light storyline.

In a nutshell, this 2022 K-drama, available on Netflix, tells the story of Yeo-reum (Seolhyun), who, after being dumped by her boyfriend and losing her mother in an accident, decides to move to a small village to do nothing.

‘Once Upon a Small Town’

Red Velvet’s Joy stars as the lead character in this 2022 series alongside Choo Young Woo. This K-drama doesn’t rely on grand or complicated plots; instead, it captivates viewers with its charming and relaxed vibe. The simplicity of the story allows the characters and their relationships to shine and reminds us of the beauty of a blooming summer.

In the story, a big-city veterinarian relocates to the countryside, where he meets a policewoman, a beloved town insider with a secret.

‘At a Distance, Spring is Green’

We get it, the title says “spring,” but the emotions felt after watching each episode of this drama are as warm as summer.

This series features some of today’s most beloved K-drama actors and actresses, including Park Jihoon, Kang Min-ah, Bae In-hyuk and Kwon Eun-bin, among many other promising young stars.

The story beautifully captures the moments we all experienced in high school and college with our best friends, while also navigating the complex emotions of our first love.

‘My First First Love’

Another “barkada” series that will make us cherish our real-life friendships even more, this 2019 drama follows a group of friends, due to personal reasons, moved into one house, as they navigate the ups and downs of love and the unbreakable bonds they share.

‘Run On’

One of the healthiest relationships in K-drama land can be found in “Run On.” Many K-drama viewers say that Im Si-wan’s character, Ki Seon Gyeom, is the ultimate green flag among male leads.

The story revolves around a track star who veers off his preset path and follows his heart after a film translator steps into his life. This series highlights a relationship built on mutual respect, open communication and emotional support, making it a refreshing and inspiring portrayal of love. That, of course, Song Kang’s character in “Nevertheless” can’t do.

‘Welcome to Samdal-ri’

Something new on this list is Ji Chang-wook and Shin Hye-sun’s latest drama on Netflix, filmed in the countryside, which will make you yearn to visit the setting.

The story follows a photographer who returns to her hometown after a setback, where she unexpectedly reunites with her childhood friend, reigniting a long-dormant romance.