5 K-dramas to warm your heart this Christmas season

As the holiday season nears, there’s no better time to turn to heartwarming Korean dramas. From sweeping romance to lighthearted comedy and nostalgic classics wrapped in winter scenery, K-dramas are the perfect holiday comfort watches. From snowy backdrops to tender love stories and healing journeys, these titles capture the warmth and sentiment of the season.

Here are five K-dramas — widely available via streaming services — that would make ideal companions for your Christmas watch list, starting from the most recent release.

A poster for "King the Land" / Courtesy of JTBC

‘King the Land’ (2023)

“King the Land” makes for delightful holiday viewing thanks to its sweet romance and vibrant visuals. The story centers on hotel heir Gu Won (Lee Jun-ho), who has little to smile about, and cheerful hotel employee Cheon Sa-rang (Lim Yoon-a), known for her signature bright grin. Lighthearted comedic scenes — including a visiting Arab monarch falling for Sa-rang and Gu Won frantically intervening — add charm. The series also features travel appeal with scenes at Gyeongbok Palace and a romantic getaway in Bangkok.

A poster for "When the Weather Is Fine" / Courtesy of JTBC

‘When the Weather Is Fine’ (2020)

For viewers seeking a drama steeped in winter atmosphere, “When the Weather Is Fine” is an ideal match.

Set in a snow-covered rural town, the series follows cellist Mok Hae-won (Park Min-young) as she returns home after a difficult period in Seoul. While reconnecting with old friends and forging new bonds, she slowly heals from past wounds. Its gentle pacing, emotional warmth and wintry setting make it a soothing drama to enjoy during the Christmas season.

A poster for "Crash Landing on You" / Courtesy of tvN

‘Crash Landing on You’ (2019)

The global hit “Crash Landing on You” follows South Korean heiress Yoon Se-ri (Son Ye-jin), who accidentally paraglides into North Korea and quite literally lands on soldier Ri Jeong-hyeok (Hyun Bin). As he quietly helps her return home, the two fall deeply in love. Its romance and heartwarming tone make it a perfect holiday season pick, enhanced by stunning snowy scenery filmed in the Swiss Alps.

A poster for "Oh My Venus" / Courtesy of KBS

‘Oh My Venus’ (2015)

A charming romantic comedy, “Oh My Venus” is an uplifting choice for the Christmas season.

It follows lawyer Kang Joo-eun (Shin Min-a), once a celebrated high school beauty, who now seeks the help of Kim Young-ho (So Ji-sub), a Hollywood celebrity personal trainer. As he becomes her personal trainer, the two grow closer despite their different backgrounds. The final episode, featuring a December nighttime proposal with Christmas decorations glowing around them, adds to its seasonal appeal.

A poster for "Winter Sonata" / Courtesy of KBS

‘Winter Sonata’ (2002)

A beloved classic, “Winter Sonata” remains a must-watch during the winter holidays.

Filmed largely on Nami Island in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, the drama helped turn the scenic location into a major tourist destination. It tells the story of Jeong Yoo-jin (Choi Ji-woo), who lost her high school love Kang Jun-sang (Bae Yong-jun) in an accident, only to encounter a man identical to him a decade later. As painful memories resurface, the two find themselves drawn together again. Its emotional depth and iconic winter landscapes make it an enduring seasonal favorite.