Kissing scenes play a significant role in chemistry between leads in the energetic world of K-dramas. Some actresses shine in these moments, while others have built a reputation for not hitting all the right notes.
So, here are some of the Korean actresses who people believe are the worst kissers, based on Aisin-milkteas' post on Reddit.
1. Park Shin Hye
Park Shin Hye, famous for her roles in hit dramas such as "Heirs" and "Pinocchio," has been named a stiff kisser on multiple occasions by netizens.
Reddit user Fancy_Spite4535 stated, "Poor girl has always been known for bad kisses... I don't know if she is also being mocked for that in her home country." Although she is a good actor and has a good personality, many say her kiss scenes are not passionate enough.
2. Ha Ji Won
A fan favorite due to her roles in dramas like "Secret Garden" and "Empress Ki," Ha Ji Won's kissing skills have still left some fans wanting more.
User crazyforcaloy mentioned, "I was confused for most part of Secret Garden of why she is kissing like that and that too with Hyun Bin." She is charismatic and has a lot of talent, but her kissing skills can be a little bit too stiff or... just not convincing.
3. Song Hye Kyo
Arguably one of the most revered female actresses in K-drama history, especially after she drove hearts wild in "Descendants of the Sun," Song Hye Kyo has also been called out for her kissing scenes.
User Best-Establishment83 shared, "Worst kissers - Park Shin Hye, Song Hye Kyo. I just feel so uncomfortable watching them during kiss scenes." She receives mixed reviews for her kisses, with some viewers stating they lacked chemistry.
4. Kim Yoo Jung
While she is praised for her acting skills in dramas like "Clean with Passion for Now," Kim Yoo Jung has been noted for her awkward kiss scenes.
User [deleted] commented, "I think most of named them here, but I notice some actresses seem scared or uncomfortable kissing, which makes the scenes feel creepy." Many netizens believe her kisses come off as overly innocent or uncomfortable, making them feel less authentic.
5. Seo Hyun Jin
Although she has a strong following and impressive performance in dramas like "Another Miss Oh," the biggest complaint among fans is that Seo Hyun Jin's kissing scenes miss the mark.
User kdramaholic101 noted, "I think the kiss is only as good as the TWO actors involved," suggesting that chemistry plays a significant role in how kissing scenes are perceived.
6. Jo Bo Ah
Jo Bo Ah, who is recognized for her roles in dramas like Forest and My Strange Hero, often receives feedback that she's not so great at kissing. While she is admired for her acting, there are sentiments that her kisses come off as staged or lacking emotional depth.
7. Lee Na Young
Lee Na Young has had a successful career for years, but some have called her kissing scenes in "My Name is Kim Sam Soon" not convincing.
User muruku pointed out the age disparity in certain dramas, stating, "It bothers me that a 19-year-old is kissing a 30-year-old (even if it is acting)." Critics often note a lack of chemistry with male leads during these pivotal moments.
To be fair, kissing scenes are no easy feat to nail, and some actresses have struggled in this area; it doesn't mean, though, that they're not pretty talented in other areas of the craft.
The portrayal of romance is such a subjective matter, and these opinions expressed by netizens just go on to show that we all have varying degrees of acceptance over the portrayal of chemistry between the leads in Kdramas.