Kapanlagi.com - Kapanlagi.com - Who can resist the charm of Korean dramas that highlight military life as the backdrop of the story? In South Korea, the military world is indeed very prominent, especially with mandatory military service being a part of many men's lives. However, interestingly, even though they focus on military themes, there are several dramas that successfully blend romantic elements into them. Curious about which romantic military Korean dramas can make your heart flutter?
South Korea is indeed skilled at creating stories that evoke emotions. Even in genres other than romance, the essence of love can still be found. Now, here are some titles of romantic military Korean dramas that are ready to warm your heart and make you feel. Not only do they present sweet love stories, but they are also interspersed with the tension from military elements that make the story even more exciting!
Let’s check out the list of romantic military Korean dramas that you must watch! (kpl/gen/psp)
1. MR SUNSHINE

MR SUNSHINE (credit: mydramalist)
"MR SUNSHINE" is a must-watch Korean drama for fans of romantic stories set against a military backdrop. Intriguing and captivating, this drama takes viewers back to the year 1871, when a young man dreams of becoming a soldier after witnessing the invasion of the United States Army in the Joseon Dynasty.
With a resolute determination, he leaves his homeland to sail to America, where he is trained to become a tough soldier. However, when the time comes to return to Joseon, he is faced with a complicated mission, which becomes even more intricate when he meets an aristocratic woman who manages to steal his heart. This story not only stirs emotions but also presents an unexpected conflict between love and duty.
2. SEARCH
A recommended romantic military Korean drama that should not be missed is "SEARCH." In this story full of tension and emotion, we follow the journey of Yong Dong Jin, a military sergeant who is also an expert tracker with his dog. His skills are proven when he successfully uncovers various mysterious cases.
However, his greatest challenge arises when he is assigned to investigate a case in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a border filled with secrets between North and South Korea. It is here that fate brings him back together with Son Ye Rim, a senior lieutenant who happens to be his former lover. This meeting not only tests his abilities as a soldier but also revives sweet and bitter memories of a love that once was.
3. CITY HUNTER

CITY HUNTER (credit: mydramalist)
In the list of recommended romantic military Korean dramas, "City Hunter" stands out as an adaptation of a very popular Japanese manga. Starring the handsome actor Lee Min Ho, this drama follows the story of Lee Yoon Sung, a smart young man and MIT graduate who dives into the Korean military as a member of the communications team.
However, behind his calm demeanor, Yoon Sung harbors a deep grudge against five politicians responsible for his father's death. Strategically, he begins to plan his revenge from within the military structure, until fate brings him to meet Kim Nana, a tough woman who is a member of the presidential guard, who slowly steals his heart.
4. CRASH LANDING ON YOU
Who doesn't know "CRASH LANDING ON YOU"? This Korean drama that combines military and romance elements has captured the hearts of drama fans and is considered one of the best of all time.
Its unique story tells of a forbidden love between a North Korean army captain and a South Korean businesswoman. It all begins when Yoon Se Ri, while paragliding, accidentally lands in North Korean territory. Fortunately, she meets Captain Ri, who immediately helps her without hesitation.
In the process of finding a way home for Se Ri, they are forced to live together, and this is where the seeds of love begin to grow between them, despite their stark differences in background.
5. THE KING 2 HEART

THE KING 2 HEART (credit: mydramalist)
The fifth recommendation for a romantic military Korean drama, THE KING 2 HEART, offers a colorful and emotional story, different from other military dramas. Set against the backdrop of a kingdom that separates South Korea and North Korea, we are presented with a complicated love story amidst political tension. The King of South Korea decides to send his crown prince to the North Korean military, hoping that the prince can become a disciplined and firm leader.
However, in enemy territory, he meets a beautiful officer who turns out to be the princess of North Korea, and they both find themselves caught in an unexpected web of love. Unfortunately, as the wedding approaches, the prince's identity is revealed, making the King of North Korea feel betrayed, and the situation between the two countries escalates.
6. DESCENDANTS OF THE SUN
"Descendants of the Sun" is a must-watch romantic military drama from Korea! The story focuses on Yoo Si Jin, an elite army leader who seems indifferent to the politics of his country. However, his life changes when he meets the beautiful military doctor, Kang Mo Yeon. From that unexpected encounter, their relationship develops into a romance filled with laughter and action.
With an emotionally stirring plot, "Descendants of the Sun" has captured the hearts of many viewers and has become one of the legendary K-dramas that is still remembered today.
7. MILITARY PROSECUTOR DOBERMAN (2022)

MILITARY PROSECUTOR DOBERMAN (credit: mydramalist)
Prepare yourself to be swept away by the intriguing story of "MILITARY PROSECUTOR DOBERMAN", a romantic military drama that is a must-watch! With a rating of 8.4/10 on Mydramalist, this drama has a duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes and consists of 16 episodes airing on tvN, iQIYI, Viki, and Netflix.
The story focuses on Do Bae-man, a successful military prosecutor trapped in his glamorous life, yet yearning for freedom from his duties. On the other hand, there is Cha Woo-in, a rookie prosecutor from a wealthy family, who is brave and unafraid to face power. With brilliant investigative skills, Woo-in's ambition is not only to excel but also to seek revenge. The touch of romance that colors their journey makes this drama even more captivating and widely loved!
8. VAGABOND (2019)
With an impressive rating of 8.5/10 on Mydramalist, "VAGABOND" is a must-watch Korean drama that combines thrilling military elements and romance. In this story, we will follow Cha Dal-gun, a stuntman who bravely investigates the mystery behind a plane crash that claimed the life of his nephew, suspecting a conspiracy behind the tragedy.
His adventure leads him to meet Go Hae-ri, an agent of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) who is also involved in the same investigation. From a rocky start, the two ultimately unite in this dangerous mission, building a closer bond amid the tension surrounding them. Airing on Netflix and SBS, this drama consists of 16 episodes, each lasting 1 hour and 10 minutes, waiting to reveal every hidden secret!
9. OH MY CAPTAIN (2018)

OH MY CAPTAIN (credit: mydramalist)
If you are looking for a Korean drama that combines military elements and romance, "OH MY CAPTAIN" is the right choice! With a duration of 20 minutes per episode and a total of 20 episodes, this drama presents an intriguing story about military obligations that are also undertaken by women in Korea.
The story focuses on Cha Song-jo, an enthusiastic and emotional female soldier who becomes a role model in her unit. Life at Camp Aram Division changes when Kim Soo-hyun, the son of an elite military family, arrives and catches the attention of the female soldiers. However, Captain Cha Song-jo remains steadfast and unaffected. Fate brings them together in a passionate moment that leads them to an unexpected love. Get ready to be swept away by this captivating story!
10. BRIDAL MASK (2012)
Don't miss the captivating Korean drama, BRIDAL MASK, which combines military vibes and romance wrapped in an exciting historical backdrop! Set in the 1930s during the Japanese occupation, this story follows the journey of Lee Kang To (played by Joo Won), a Korean officer caught in a dilemma between duty and love.
Although his mother opposes his choice, Kang To fights hard to lift his family out of the shackles of poverty. However, all his efforts are hindered by the presence of a mysterious masked figure known as Bridal Mask, adding tension and intrigue to his life. Don't miss a single moment!
11. ROAD NUMBER ONE (2010)

ROAD NUMBER ONE (credit: mydramalist)
With an impressive rating of 7.9/10 on Mydramalist, the Korean drama "ROAD NUMBER ONE" offers a perfect combination of romance and military action in a compact duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes. It tells the emotional journey of Lee Jang Woo (So Ji Sub), who is caught in an unprepared war, depicting his struggle to protect his true love, Kim Soo Yeon (Kim Ha Neul).
With support from his comrades and strong conviction, Jang Woo endures amidst the chaos. However, on the other side, the loyal Soo Yeon, waiting for Jang Woo's return, must face the bitter reality when she becomes engaged to Shin Tae Ho (Yoon Kye Sang). Witness this thrilling and emotional drama consisting of 20 episodes that you cannot miss!
12. IRIS (2009)
Prepare to be swept away by this captivating romantic military Korean drama! With a rating of 7.9/10 on Mydramalist and a duration of 1 hour and 20 minutes, this drama airing on KBS2, WeTV, and Netflix tells the story of the friendship between two soldiers, Kim Hyun-jun and Jin Sa-woo, who undergo rigorous training in South Korea before joining the NSS (National Security Service). However, everything changes when both fall in love with Choi Seung-hee, a woman who captures their hearts. Tension rises as Hyun-jun is unfairly transferred to Hungary, and their love triangle becomes entangled in political intrigue involving South Korea and North Korea. Don’t miss this emotional and conflict-filled story!
13. D.P. (2021)

D.P. (credit: mydramalist)
With an impressive rating of 8.8/10 on Mydramalist, this 50-minute drama offers six episodes full of tension that can now be watched on Netflix. Starring Koo Kyo Hwan and Jung Hae In, the story follows the journey of Jun Ho, a young Korean man undergoing mandatory military service without great hope.
However, everything changes when he is selected to join the military deserter capture team, turning his routine into a series of high-risk missions. In each task, Jun Ho confronts soldiers who choose to escape from unbearable pressure, leading him to a deep understanding of the reasons behind desertion and its impact on conscience and his views on the existing military system.
14. DUTY AFTER SCHOOL: PART 1 (2023)
With an impressive rating of 8.6/10 on Mydramalist, this 1 hour and 6 minutes drama presents a thrilling story about an alien invasion that shakes South Korea, forcing the military and third-year high school students to fight together. In a high-pressure emergency situation, they not only have to face university entrance exams but also train for combat in their school uniforms as a symbol of dual identity.
As time goes by, they learn to shoot and survive, while this experience has a profound psychological impact on them, changing their views on a future filled with uncertainty. Watch this drama on Prime Video, VIU, Viki, and TVING!
15. ROOKIE COPS (2022)

ROOKIE COPS (credit: mydramalist)
With a rating of 8.3/10 on Mydramalist, this drama airing on Disney+ invites us to explore the journey of two new students at the Korean National Police University. In 60-minute episodes divided into 16 parts, they strive to achieve their dreams with idealism and sincere aspirations.
However, the educational process is not as easy as it seems; a series of physical and emotional challenges, as well as intergenerational interactions, test their resilience. Over time, field experiences and campus life dynamics lead them toward maturity, where every failure and success becomes a valuable lesson about the responsibilities of pursuing the profession they dream of.
16. THE K2 (2016)
With an impressive rating of 8.2/10 on Mydramalist, this drama presents a thrilling story in 60-minute episodes across a total of 16 episodes that can be watched on various platforms such as QIYI, Prime Video, WeTV, VIU, and Viki.
It tells the story of Kim Je Ha, a former mercenary caught in intrigue and misunderstanding after being accused of murdering his girlfriend in Iraq. He is forced to return to Korea and take a job as a bodyguard for an influential political figure. However, his closeness to his employer's daughter creates a complicated moral dilemma as the truth begins to unfold, and every step of revenge he takes tests his principles and loyalty.
17. Questions Related to Recommendations for Military Korean Dramas
Q: What is the common thread in these state duty-themed Korean dramas?
A: All the dramas feature a cause in the form of duty or official assignments that then trigger inner conflicts and significant consequences for the characters.
Q: Why is the setting of military and police institutions often used?
A: This setting allows the story to explore systemic pressures and their impact on personal choices chronologically.
Q: What are the main impacts experienced by the characters in these dramas?
A: The impacts are seen in psychological changes, social relationships, and life direction as a direct result of the duties undertaken.
These are some recommendations for exciting romantic military Korean dramas that can make you feel emotional. Happy watching!
(kpl/psp)
Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.