Korean dramas, or K-dramas, are known for their compelling romances, but in recent years, the focus has shifted to another kind of relationship: womances. A womance refers to a deep, meaningful friendship between women, and these relationships often become the heart of the story. From heartwarming bonds to empowering partnerships, here are 5 K-dramas with womances that steal the show:

1. “Thirty-Nine” (서른, 아홉)

Genre: Romance, Melodrama, Slice of Life
Starring: Son Ye Jin, Jeon Mi Do, Kim Ji Hyun

Plot:
Thirty-Nine follows the lives of three women who have been best friends since high school. Now in their late thirties, they navigate the challenges of career, love, and family while leaning on each other for support. Son Ye Jin plays Cha Mi Jo, a successful dermatologist; Jeon Mi Do stars as Jung Chan Young, an acting coach; and Kim Ji Hyun portrays Jang Joo Hee, a department store manager. When one of them is diagnosed with a terminal illness, their bond is tested like never before.

The Womance:
The friendship between Mi Jo, Chan Young, and Joo Hee is the heart of the drama. Their unwavering support for each other, even in the face of life’s toughest challenges, is both heartwarming and inspiring. Whether they’re sharing laughs over drinks or comforting each other during difficult times, their bond feels authentic and relatable. The show beautifully captures the essence of female friendship, proving that womances can be just as powerful as romantic relationships.

Why It Stands Out:
The chemistry between the three leads is phenomenal, and their performances bring depth and emotion to the story. Thirty-Nine is a celebration of friendship, resilience, and the beauty of life’s imperfections.

2. “Search: WWW” (검색어를 입력하세요: WWW)

Genre: Drama, Romance, Tech
Starring: Im Soo Jung, Lee Da Hee, Jeon Hye Jin

Plot:
Set in the competitive world of tech and search engines, Search: WWW follows three ambitious women who work at rival companies. Im Soo Jung plays Bae Ta Mi, a career-driven executive; Lee Da Hee stars as Cha Hyun, a confident and stylish team leader; and Jeon Hye Jin portrays Song Ga Kyung, a powerful CEO. As they navigate the cutthroat industry, they form unexpected friendships and alliances.

The Womance:
The relationship between Ta Mi, Cha Hyun, and Ga Kyung is a highlight of the drama. Despite being on opposite sides of the corporate battlefield, they develop a mutual respect and understanding that evolves into a strong bond. Their interactions are filled with witty banter, heartfelt moments, and empowering support. The show also explores the challenges women face in male-dominated industries, making their friendship even more impactful.

Why It Stands Out:
Search: WWW is a refreshing take on female empowerment and friendship. The womance between the three leads is both inspiring and relatable, showcasing the strength and resilience of women in the workplace.

3. “Be Melodramatic” (멜로가 체질)

Genre: Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life
Starring: Chun Woo Hee, Jeon Yeo Been, Han Ji Eun

Plot:
Be Melodramatic follows the lives of three women in their thirties who share an apartment and navigate the ups and downs of life, love, and career. Chun Woo Hee plays Im Jin Joo, a documentary producer; Jeon Yeo Been stars as Lee Eun Jung, a screenwriter; and Han Ji Eun portrays Hwang Han Joo, a marketing executive. Each woman has her own struggles, but they find solace and strength in their friendship.

The Womance:
The bond between Jin Joo, Eun Jung, and Han Joo is the heart and soul of the drama. Their friendship is portrayed with humor, honesty, and warmth, making it incredibly relatable. Whether they’re binge-watching dramas, sharing life advice, or simply being there for each other, their womance is a joy to watch. The show also tackles serious topics like mental health and grief, adding depth to their relationship.

Why It Stands Out:
Be Melodramatic is a heartfelt and humorous exploration of life and friendship. The womance between the three leads is authentic and uplifting, making it a standout in the world of K-dramas.

4. “Hello, My Twenties!” (청춘시대)

Genre: Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life
Starring: Han Ye Ri, Han Seung Yeon, Park Eun Bin, Ryu Hwa Young, Park Hye Soo

Plot:
Also known as Age of Youth, this drama follows the lives of five college students who share a house. Each woman has her own unique personality and struggles, but they form a close-knit bond as they navigate the challenges of youth. Han Ye Ri plays Yoon Jin Myung, a hardworking part-timer; Han Seung Yeon stars as Jung Ye Eun, a romantic and optimistic girl; Park Eun Bin portrays Song Ji Won, a free-spirited and quirky student; Ryu Hwa Young plays Kang Yi Na, a glamorous and mysterious girl; and Park Hye Soo stars as Yoo Eun Jae, a shy and introverted freshman.

The Womance:
The friendship between the five roommates is the heart of the drama. Their bond is tested by misunderstandings, secrets, and personal struggles, but they always come together to support each other. The show beautifully captures the ups and downs of female friendships, from hilarious moments to emotional breakthroughs. Their womance is a testament to the power of solidarity and understanding.

Why It Stands Out:
Hello, My Twenties! is a relatable and heartwarming portrayal of youth and friendship. The womance between the five leads is both entertaining and touching, making it a must-watch for fans of slice-of-life dramas.

5. “Work Later, Drink Now” (술꾼도시여자들)

Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life
Starring: Lee Sun Bin, Han Sun Hwa, Jung Eun Ji

Plot:
This drama follows the lives of three women who bond over their love for drinking. Lee Sun Bin plays Ahn So Hee, a TV writer; Han Sun Hwa stars as Han Ji Yeon, a yoga instructor; and Jung Eun Ji portrays Kang Ji Gu, a YouTuber. Despite their different personalities and careers, they find common ground in their shared love for alcohol and life’s simple pleasures.

The Womance:
The friendship between So Hee, Ji Yeon, and Ji Gu is the highlight of the drama. Their womance is filled with laughter, camaraderie, and heartfelt moments as they navigate the challenges of adulthood together. Whether they’re sharing drinks at their favorite bar or supporting each other through tough times, their bond is both relatable and inspiring. The show also explores themes of self-discovery and resilience, adding depth to their relationship.

Why It Stands Out:
Work Later, Drink Now is a fun and heartwarming celebration of female friendship. The womance between the three leads is both entertaining and uplifting, making it a standout in the world of K-dramas.

Conclusion

Womances have become a defining feature of modern K-dramas, offering a refreshing and empowering perspective on female relationships. Whether it’s the heartfelt bond in Thirty-Nine, the empowering partnership in Search: WWW, or the hilarious camaraderie in Work Later, Drink Now, these dramas prove that female friendships can be just as compelling as romantic relationships. So, if you’re looking for stories that celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of womances, these five K-dramas are a must-watch.