A Preview of Ongoing & Upcoming Kdramas This August 2024

August 2024 is a treasure trove for Kdrama fans, offering a mix of romantic comedies, mystery thrillers, and family-oriented dramas that will keep viewers glued to their screens. Whether you're in the mood for heartwarming romance or edge-of-your-seat suspense, this month’s lineup has something for everyone.

(1) Bad Memory Eraser

Currently Airing on MBN Network, Viki, and U-Next

"Bad Memory Eraser" is a romantic comedy that follows four characters on their journey of self-discovery and healing through love. At the center of the story is Lee Goon, portrayed by Kim Jae Joong, a former tennis prodigy who loses his confidence after a career-ending injury. Jin Se Yeon stars as Kyung Joo Yeon, a neuropsychiatrist who manipulates Lee Goon's memories, becoming his fake first love. The series began airing on August 2 and continues to capture hearts with its unique blend of romance and emotional depth.

(2) Romance in the House

Currently Airing on JTBC and Netflix

"Romance in the House" is a family and romance drama that tells the story of Byun Moo Jin (played by Ji Jin Hee), a father who returns to his family after 11 years apart, now a wealthy man determined to reunite with his loved ones. Kim Ji Soo plays Geum Ae Yeon, his ex-wife, who has endured countless hardships while raising their children alone. This drama, which began airing on August 10, showcases a tender middle-age romance that is both lovely and heartwarming, with a cast including Son Na Eun as their daughter and Choi Min Ho as her love interest.

(3) The Tyrant

Premiered on August 14, 2024, on Disney+

"The Tyrant" is an action-packed series that delves into a secret government project aimed at creating a superhuman gene drug to be used as a bioweapon. Cha Seung Won stars as a former agent turned hitman, tasked with eliminating those behind the Tyrant Project. Alongside him, Kim Seon Ho plays Director Choi, who oversees the project, while Kim Kang Woo represents the US intelligence trying to dismantle it. Jo Yoon Su adds intrigue as a lab technician embroiled in the scheme. With its gripping storyline and high-stakes action, "The Tyrant" has captivated audiences since its premiere on August 14.

(4) Perfect Family

Premiered on August 14, 2024, on KBS2 and available for streaming on Viki and Viu in selected regions

"Perfect Family," based on a popular webtoon, tells the story of a seemingly happy family whose hidden tensions surface when their adopted daughter becomes entangled in a murder case. Kim Byung Chul and Yoon Se Ah star as devoted parents who go to great lengths to protect their daughter, played by Park Ju Hyun, who is accused of killing a friend. Park Ju Hyun's portrayal of Choi Sun Hee introduces a major twist, adding layers of complexity to this intense mystery thriller. Since its premiere on August 14, the show has kept viewers on the edge of their seats.

(5) Black Out

Premiered on August 16, 2024, on MBC

"Black Out" is a gripping crime thriller based on the German novel Snow White Must Die by Nele Neuhaus. The series explores the psychological turmoil surrounding a mysterious murder case. Byun Yo Han stars as a brilliant student who, after being wrongfully accused of murdering two classmates, spends 10 years in prison. Now, as a 30-year-old man, he is determined to clear his name and uncover the truth, even if it means facing dangerous consequences. Since its premiere on August 16, "Black Out" has drawn viewers in with its intense narrative and compelling performances.

(6) DNA Lover

Premiered August 17, 2024, on TV Chosun

Switching back to the romantic comedy genre, "DNA Lover" tells the story of genetic researcher Han So Jin, played by Jung In Sun, who discovers a way to find her perfect match through genes after a series of failed relationships. Super Junior’s Choi Si Won stars as a charming obstetrician who struggles with commitment, only to find himself irresistibly drawn to Han So Jin. These lighthearted promises to bring back the classic rom-com vibes with a modern twist.

(7) Love Next Door

Premiered August 17, 2024, on TVN, TVING and Netflix

"Love Next Door" is another romantic comedy gem featuring Jung So Min and Jung Hae In as childhood friends who reconnect after years apart. Their story, filled with humorous misunderstandings and nostalgic memories, follows Bae Seok-ryu (Jung So Min), now a successful product manager, and Choi Seung-Hyo (Jung Hae In), an architect and CEO. As they rekindle their relationship, viewers will be taken on a journey of love, laughter, and rediscovery. 

(8) Pachinko Season 2

Premieres August 23, 2024, on Apple TV+

Following the phenomenal success of its first season, "Pachinko Season 2" continues the epic saga of a Korean immigrant family. Lee Min Ho reprises his role as Koh Hansu, who reunites with Sunja (Kim Min Ha) during the turbulent times of World War II. This season delves deeper into the family's struggles for survival and dignity amidst the chaos of war, offering viewers more heart-wrenching drama and a richly woven narrative of courage and resilience.

(9) Cinderella at 2 AM

Premieres August 24, 2024, on Coupang Play

Inspired by the popular web novel by Aigome, "Cinderella at 2 AM" is a fresh romantic comedy starring Shin Hyun Been and Moon Sang Min. Shin Hyun Been plays Ha Yoon Seo, a realist who breaks up with her wealthy boyfriend, only to be pursued relentlessly by Moon Sang Min’s character, Seo Joo Won. As their story unfolds, viewers are treated to a modern take on the classic Cinderella tale, where romance and reality clash in unexpected ways.

(10) No Gain No Love

Premieres August 26, 2024, on TVN and Amazon Prime Video

Closing this list is "No Gain No Love," TVN’s second rom com in August, starring Shin Min A and Kim Young Dae. Shin Min A plays Son Hae Young, a woman who fakes a marriage to avoid financial loss, while Kim Young Dae plays Kim Ji Wook, her fake husband who agrees to the charade out of kindness. This drama promises to deliver a delightful mix of humor and romance, making it a must-watch as it premieres on August 26.

***

Which Kdrama are you currently watching or most excited to catch up on? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear what’s on your watchlist!