From melodrama to romance and comedy, Kdrama never fails to make the audience get their hearts broken over the second lead that doesn't reciprocate the overflowing love towards the protagonist.
Usually referred to as the "second lead syndrome," Kdrama fans feel a sudden burst of sympathy, leaving our emotions aching for their fates.
Although it's pretty common to most K-series, these five Kdramas gave us major second lead syndrome in 2021.
Chae Jong Hyeop in 'Nevertheless'
The JTBC series sparked the fandom of team potato and team butterfly as the webtoon-based Kdrama "Nevertheless" became hype.
Featuring Song Kang and Han So Hee, the romance series follows the story of Park Jae Eon, played by the "Navillera" star who is unafraid to express his love for Yoo Na Bi, portrayed by "MY Name" actress but was afraid to commit to a serious relationship.
In the middle of their budding romance comes Chae Jong Hyeop, who took the role of Na Bi's childhood friend, Yang Do Hyuk.
Unlike the third-year art student, Yang Do Hyuk exudes a boyfriend material vibe, but unfortunately, despite his genuine love for Na Bi, she still chose Jae Eon.
READ MORE: 'Nevertheless 2': Will Song Kang and Han So Hee's Webtoon-Based Drama Return for Season 2?
Lee Sang Yi in 'Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha' and 'Youth of May'
Lee Sang Yi has a double entry for 2021 KDramas that possess a second lead syndrome.
First is the historical romance "Youth of May" starring Go Min Si and Lee Do Hyun.
In the drama, the 30-year-old actor portrays Lee Soo Chan, who harbors deep feelings for Kim Myung Hee, played by Go Min Si.
Since Myung Hee was his sister's best friend, he had known her since they were little. When she mentioned that she wanted to go to Germany to study, he pulled off some strings to help her process the papers; unfortunately, it was hindered by Hwang Hee Tae's father.
Another Lee Sang Yi Kdrama that brought major second lead syndrome to viewers is the mega-hit series "Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha."
He played the second male lead Ji Sung Hyun, who is a star variety show production director.
He exudes the perfect second lead because of his bright personality and kind-hearted attitude and, interestingly, he can be a great confidante to the jack of all trades, Hong Doo Sik, played by Kim Seon Ho.
Gong Myung in 'Lovers of the Red Sky'
The fantasy romance Kdrama 'Lovers of the Red Sky" wowed the fans with its stunning visuals and a stellar cast lineup.
While lead stars Kim Yoo Jung, who plays painter Hong Chun Ki, and Ahn Hyo Seop, who took the role of blind astrologer Ha Ram mesmerized the viewers with their heart-fluttering romance, some rallied the unconditional love of Prince Yang Myung, played by Gong Myung.
He managed to resist his brother's wrongdoing to protect Hong Chun Ki and his father from the curse. Unfortunately, just like the usual second lead syndrome, she ends up choosing Ha Ram and lives happily ever after.
Bae In Hyuk in 'My Roommate is a Gumiho'
Released in May 2021, Lee Hyeri and Jang Ki Yong captivate the viewers' hearts with their delightful romance and on-screen in "My Roommate is a Gumiho."
However, Gye Sun Woo swooned us with his tall and good-looking appearance and developed feelings towards the female lead, Lee Dam.
He became her shoulder to cry on when the going gets tough, but obviously, Lee Dam chose Shin Woo Yeo, leaving Sun Woo to leave Korea and study abroad.
