Korean dramas (K-dramas) have captivated audiences worldwide with their compelling storytelling, rich character development, and profound emotional impact. Some of the saddest Korean dramas stand out for their heart-wrenching depth, leaving viewers in tears and resonating long after the screen fades to black.
Let’s explore some of the saddest Korean drama moments and series that have touched the hearts of K-drama fans and are guaranteed to make you cry.
The Sword Removal and Eun Tak’s Sacrifice – Goblin
Cast: Gong Yoo, Kim Go-Eun, Lee Dong-Wook, Yoo In-Na, and Yook Sung-Jae
One of the saddest moments in Goblin: The Lonely and Great God occurs during the emotional climax of the series, particularly in the final episodes.
In a poignant scene, Eun Tak (played by Kim Go-Eun) must confront the reality of Kim Shin’s (played by Gong Yoo) immortality. Their love story is marked by the inevitability of separation, and Eun Tak’s struggle to accept that she might lose him is heart-wrenching.
When Kim Shin removes the sword that has bound him to his immortal existence, he makes a promise to Eun Tak that he will return to her. This moment is filled with sadness as it signifies not only his liberation but also the painful truth that they cannot be together in the same way again.
Hae Soo’s Letters – Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
Cast : Lee Joon-Gi, IU, Kang Ha-Neul, Hong Jong-Hyun, Nam Joo-Hyuk , Baekhyun, Ji Soo
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is a historical Korean romance drama set in the Goryeo dynasty filled with political intrigue and passionate romances. One of the most heartbreaking moments occurs when Wang So discovers letters written by Hae Soo after her death. These letters reveal her profound love for him, a love that could never be fulfilled in their lifetime. The realization that they can never be together again, despite their deep connection, is profoundly heartbreaking, leaving viewers mourning the lost potential of their relationship.
Hi Bye, Mama!
Cast: Kim Tae-Hee, Seo Woo-Jin, Lee Kyoo-Hyung, Go Bo-Gyeol
Hi Bye, Mama! is a poignant K-drama that explores themes of life, death, and the bond between a mother and her child. The emotional weight of Cha Yu-ri (Kim Tae-Hee) finally being able to hold her daughter (Seo Woo-Jin) after her death is a powerful moment that sets the tone for the series. This scene encapsulates the longing and love a mother has for her child, making it deeply touching for viewers
An another heart-wrenching moment is when Yu-ri expresses her feelings of guilt and pain, stating, “Because of me, she had to leave in so much pain.” This introspection reveals her struggle with the consequences of her past and the burden of her emotions, resonating with anyone who has experienced loss.
Mr. Sunshine
Cast: Lee Byung-Hun, Kim Tae-Ri, Yoo Yeon-Seok, Kim Min-Jung
One of the saddest moments in Mr. Sunshine occurs in the final episodes, particularly during the climax of the series when the themes of love, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of war come to a head.
Set against the backdrop of late 19th century Korea, Mr. Sunshine follows the story of Eugene Choi (Lee Byung-Hun), a boy born into slavery who escapes to the United States during the 1871 Shinmiyangyo (U.S. expedition to Korea) falls in love with Ko Ae-shin (Kim Tae-Ri), an aristocratic woman who is deeply involved in the movement for Korean independence.
In the series finale, the emotional weight culminates when Eugene makes the ultimate sacrifice during a confrontation with Japanese forces. As he prepares to fight, he shares a final, heart-wrenching moment with Ae-shin. They exchange promises and heartfelt words, knowing that their love may not survive the impending conflict. Eugene’s determination to protect Ae-shin and his homeland leads him to face insurmountable odds, and viewers are left with the painful realization that their love story may end in tragedy.
Han-sung’s Death – Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth
Cast: Park Seo-Jun, Go Ara, Park Hyung-Sik, Minho, Kim Tae-Hyung, Seo Yea-Ji
The death of Han-sung in Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth is a pivotal moment that highlights the fragility of life and the impact of loss. Han-sung, a beloved character, meets a tragic end that leaves his friends and viewers alike in mourning. The scene is a stark reminder of the harsh realities faced by the characters in their tumultuous world, and it profoundly affects those who witness it, showcasing the series’ ability to blend historical drama with deep emotional resonance.
Youth of May
Cast: Lee Do-Hyun, Go Min-Si, Lee Sang-Yi, Keum Sae-Rok
Set against the backdrop of the Gwangju Uprising, Youth of May intertwines a love story with historical tragedy. The series emphasizes the emotional toll of political turmoil on personal lives, with moments that highlight the profound connection between the characters and the devastating impact of the events around them. The love story, set against such a tumultuous period, underscores the resilience and fragility of human relationships in the face of adversity.
The Hymn of Death
Cast: Lee Jong-Suk, Shin Hae-Sun
Based on a true story, The Hymn of Death portrays the tragic love between a singer Yun Sim-Deok and a writer Kim Woo-Jin during Korea’s colonial period. The series culminates in heartbreaking events that reflect the struggles and sacrifices of that era. The historical context adds depth to the emotional weight of the story, making it a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the impact of societal pressures.
Uncontrollably Fond
Cast: Kim Woo-Bin, Bae Suzy
Uncontrollably Fond is recognized as one of the saddest K-dramas for its deeply emotional narrative, making it a guaranteed good cry. The story revolves around the reunion of two former lovers, Shin Joon-Yeong (played by Kim Woo Bin) and Noh Eul (played by Bae Suzy), who confront their past while dealing with the reality of Joon-Yeong’s terminal illness.
One of the most heartbreaking moments occurs when Joon-Yeong records a message asking if Noh Eul is happy, reflecting his love for her even as he faces death. This poignant scene encapsulates the essence of their relationship and Joon-Yeong’s enduring feelings despite his condition.
Stairway to Heaven
Cast: Kwon Sang-Woo, Choi Ji-Woo, Shin Hyeon-Jun, Kim Tae-Hee
Stairway to Heaven follows the story of Han Jung-seo, a young woman who faces numerous hardships throughout her life. Childhood friends with Cha Song-joo, their bond deepens into a romantic relationship as they grow older.
In a particularly gut-wrenching scene, Jung-seo, who has been fighting cancer, learns that her condition has worsened and that she may not have much time left. As she and Song-joo share a tender moment, she expresses her fears and regrets about their love being cut short. The emotional weight of their shared memories and the pain of impending loss create a powerful atmosphere of sorrow.
It’s okay to not be okay
Cast: Kim Soo-Hyun, Seo Yea-Ji, Oh Jung-Se
The Korean drama Its Okay Not to be Okay follows Moon Gang-tae, working at a psychiatric hospital, who has dedicated his life to taking care of his older brother, Sang-tae, who has autism and is haunted by traumatic memories from their childhood. Their lives take a turn when they meet Ko Moon-young, a successful but troubled children’s book author with a dark past.
In the final episode, as Gang-tae prepares to leave the psychiatric ward, he shares a heartfelt farewell with his brother Sang-tae. This scene is especially poignant as Sang-tae expresses his fears of being abandoned, reflecting their complex relationship and the sacrifices Gang-tae has made for him. Gang-tae reassures Sang-tae that he will always be there for him, but the reality of their situation weighs heavily on both characters.
Jo Ji-ah & Kim Min-kyu Part Ways – I’m Not a Robot
I’m Not a Robot explores themes of love and identity through the unique relationship between Kim Min-kyu and Jo Ji-ah, who he believes is a robot. The heart-wrenching scene comes when Min-kyu must reset Ji-ah, effectively erasing the emotional bond they have developed. His feelings of love and the painful decision he faces create a deeply affecting moment, emphasizing the complexity of human emotions and the difficulty of making such a sacrifice
Jae-won’s Confession – Lovestruck in the City
In Lovestruck in the City, Jae-won’s heartfelt confession to Seon-a in a restaurant is a poignant moment of vulnerability and sorrow. As Jae-won confronts his feelings, his emotional breakdown reveals the depth of his heartbreak over their lost love. This scene speaks to the universal experience of longing and the pain of unrequited love, resonating with viewers who have faced similar struggles in their own lives.
Park Hye-jin Learns the Truth About Her Son – Squid Game
Squid Game is renowned for its intense and often devastating moments, and Park Hye-jin’s discovery of her son’s involvement in the deadly game is particularly harrowing. This moment combines high tension with emotional devastation, as a mother grapples with the harsh realities of her son’s choices. It highlights the show’s darker themes of desperation and the extreme lengths individuals will go to for survival, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
Conclusion
These sad K-drama moments exemplify the emotional storytelling that Kdramas are known for. They leave lasting impressions on viewers, offering profound reflections on love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Each scene is a testament to the power of storytelling in capturing the depths of human emotion, making K-dramas a beloved genre for audiences around the world.
If you’re in need of a good cry, these sad K-dramas are guaranteed to make you reach for the tissues and appreciate the beauty of bittersweet storytelling.