When it comes to Kdramas, one of the most captivating tropes that never fails to keep viewers on the edge of their seats is the fake marriage trope. Best Kdramas with fake marriage tropes often feature electrifying chemistry between leads or the hilarious misunderstandings that ensue, these Kdramas often set the stage for some of the most delightful romances on screen. These dramas often depict the transition from a contract marriage to genuine feelings, blending humour, tension, and heartwarming moments that make us fall in love with them time and time again. Here are six Kdramas that do the fake marriage trope justice, each with its unique twist and charm.
Best Kdramas With Fake Marriage Tropes That are Must Watch
No Gain No Love
Currently making waves among K-drama enthusiasts, No Gain No Love is the latest addition to the fake marriage genre. The drama stars Shin Min-ah as Son Hae-yeong, a practical and ambitious woman who believes in the value of money and success above all else. Her life takes a turn when a new job position at her company requires her to be married. Not wanting to miss this career opportunity, she recruits Kim Ji-uk, played by Kim Young-dae, to be her fake husband.
What makes No Gain No Love stand out is its humour and the undeniable chemistry between the leads. The witty banter and their evolving relationship provide a refreshing take on the classic trope. Watching Son Hae-yeong, who starts as a no-nonsense character, slowly soften and open up to the idea of love is both entertaining and heartwarming. The show balances comedy and romance, offering a light yet emotionally fulfilling narrative that keeps viewers hooked.
The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract
An exciting blend of historical and modern drama, The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract introduces us to Park Yeon-woo (played by Lee Se-young), a noblewoman from the Joseon era who finds herself transported to the modern world. To survive, she enters into a marriage contract with Kang Tae-ha (played by Bae In-hyuk), a modern-day CEO who’s looking for a partner for his own reasons. The clash of cultures, values, and the era creates numerous comedic situations, but it also leads to genuine moments of understanding and affection between the two. The drama’s imaginative plot and endearing characters make it a standout among other fake marriage dramas.
Because This Is My First Life
Because This Is My First Life beautifully intertwines the fake marriage trope with a deep exploration of modern relationships and the struggles faced by young adults. Starring Jung So-min as Yoon Ji-ho and Lee Min-ki as Nam Se-hee, the drama follows two individuals who decide to marry out of convenience to solve their personal problems—Ji-ho needs a place to stay, and Se-hee needs a roommate to share his mortgage. While their relationship starts out as purely transactional, the series delicately showcases how they slowly come to understand each other’s vulnerabilities and dreams. It’s a quiet, introspective take on love and companionship, perfect for those who enjoy a slow burn with meaningful conversations.
Fated to Love You
A classic that still resonates with fans of the genre, Fated to Love You brings a whirlwind romance between an ordinary office worker, Kim Mi-young (played by Jang Na-ra), and a wealthy chaebol heir, Lee Gun (played by Jang Hyuk). The drama begins with an unexpected one-night stand that leads to a fake marriage when Mi-young becomes pregnant. What follows is a rollercoaster of emotions as they navigate through misunderstandings, heartbreaks, and an undeniable attraction that turns their fake marriage into a real love story. The show’s ability to balance melodrama with light-hearted humour makes it an essential watch for Kdrama enthusiasts.
Love in Contract
For a more contemporary twist on the trope, Love in Contract features Park Min-young as Choi Sang-eun, a “contract marriage master” who helps people find temporary partners for social gatherings and life situations that require a “spouse.” Her life takes an unexpected turn when she gets involved with two men—Jung Ji-ho (Go Kyung-pyo), a mysterious client she’s been in a long-term contract marriage with, and Kang Hae-jin (Kim Jae-young), a superstar who suddenly becomes her new client. The drama’s unique premise and intriguing love triangle make it a refreshing watch. It stands out not only for its humour but also for its insightful commentary on marriage, commitment, and the societal pressures to conform.
Marriage Contract
If you’re looking for a more emotional take on the fake marriage trope, Marriage Contract offers a deeply moving story that explores themes of family, sacrifice, and love. When a single mother, Kang Hye-soo (played by Uee), finds herself in a dire financial situation due to her daughter’s illness, she agrees to a marriage contract with a wealthy restaurant owner, Han Ji-hoon (played by Lee Seo-jin), who needs a wife for his own reasons.
What starts as a practical arrangement slowly evolves into something more profound, with both characters learning to trust and lean on each other through their hardships. The series excels in depicting the raw emotions and depth of human connection, making it a must-watch for those who prefer a drama with more substance.
Let us know in the comments below which of these has been your favourite!
Also Read: No Gain No Love Episode 5 Review: Ji-uk and Hae-yeong’s Tumultuous Reunion and Rising Tensions