K-Dramas are infamous for their tear-inducing love triangles, but a few second leads have left audiences disappointed, calling for an alternate ending. From selfless sacrifices to unrequited love, these characters captured hearts—only to be left with a broken one.
1.True Beauty: Han Seo-jun’s never-ending love for Ju-kyung left viewers hoping he had a shot at happiness.
2.Boys Over Flowers: Ji-hoo’s goodness and devotion earned him a fan-favorite over the snobbish lead.
3.Start-Up: Han Ji-pyeong’s touching back story had viewers supporting him more than the male lead.
4.Reply 1988: Jung Hwan’s lost chances left fans pining for this lovable character.
5.Scarlet Heart: Ryeo: Tragic love of 8th Prince Wang Wook had everyone wishing for a better end.
K-Dramas have always been famous for their emotional complexity, and perhaps the most infuriating yet engaging phenomenon is the second lead syndrome—when a sweet, gentle, and usually more empathetic character is left broken-hearted for the sake of the lead. The fans become emotionally invested in these characters, only to see them mourn in silence or leave love behind.
In the past few years, a number of K-Dramas have been the subject of heated controversies among fans with many calling for alternate endings that would have brought second leads the happiness they were deserving of. One of the most favorite examples is True Beauty, where Han Seo-jun’s unwavering commitment to Lim Ju-kyung made him the favorite among the fans.
