October is horror season, but for K‑drama lovers it's also a season heavy with plenty of romantic options involving comedic timing, heartfelt moments, and two leads that ooze so much chemistry whenever they are on the scene together. If you want to fall into a spiral of romance between two captivating leads finding their way to each other while they navigate circumstances to slowly craft a meaningful relationship, here are romantic Korean dramas releasing this October, from Between Steps, and Merry Berry Love to Take Charge of My Heart.
This list highlights five romantic K‑dramas releasing in October as an alternative to horror-themed content. The mentioned dramas include Between Steps, Merry Berry Love, Take Charge of My Heart, and Love in Disguise.
Release date: October 5
Where to stream: ENA and Disney+
Two people slowly heal each other, finding new passion and strength as a union. Park Min‑jae (Choo Young‑woo) was forced to abandon his beloved swimming career after losing his leg to illness. Now a PhD student in robotics, he encounters Yoo‑jin, a master's student starting over. Both must face the trials of graduate study in robotics while slowly finding new purpose.
Release date: October 7
Where to stream: Hulu and Disney+
Korean designer Lee Yu‑bin suffers a professional failure and flees to a remote Japanese island for a fresh start. There, he meets a strawberry farmer dealing with her own challenges. Their story shows that love can cross all sorts of cultural crevices.
Release date: October 9
Where to stream: Netflix
Based on a web novel, this eccentric comedy has a touch of fantasy. It stars Kim Young‑kwang and Chae Soo‑bin. He's a corporate heir kept alive by an artificial heart with limited power. When he discovers her ability to conduct electricity can power it, he recruits her to keep him sustained. Soon, other feelings start stirring between them, with all the facets of a classic K‑drama that will have you gushing.
Release date: October 15
Where to stream: TVING
A woman with a very traditional, conservative view of dating enters a professional relationship with a high‑profile CEO, a notorious figure behind a bold, modern startup. Their views clash, sparks fly, and the result is plenty of scorching looks and intense chemistry.
Release date: October 19
Where to stream: tvN and Prime Video
If you've ever loved the trope of a man falling for a woman disguised as a boy, aka Mulan, this one will have you giggling. A conglomerate heir is the prime suspect in the murder of his previous secretary. To assess his guilt and find evidence, an experienced police officer takes the job as his new secretary and bodyguard. Expect plenty of comic situations and misunderstandings.
This October, the leads dance through a range of emotions, from sweet to comedic. Let others stick with their horror; for K‑drama enthusiasts, romance is where the true fun erupts.