What K-Drama's Second Lead Syndrome Taught Me: My Journey Through Emotional Rollercoasters

My early days as a k-drama fan were nothing short of an emotional rollercoaster. It seems paradoxical to say, but many series have made me root for the main couple so wholeheartedly that the mere thought of the secondary lead getting the girl would send me into a state of shock. However, there are a few instances where the choice was so obvious that it left me searching for answers and wondering why the writers cast the 'wrong person' in the first place.

She Was Pretty - Torn Between the Leads?

She Was Pretty is a show that throws all the tropes out the window. I was never split between the main and second lead at any point. In fact, the second lead (SL) was simply more delightful and charming than the main lead (ML). The SL was genuinely kind and thoughtful, whereas the ML did not exhibit any redeeming qualities until it was too late in the series. The ML's behavior was so egregious that it didn't even warrant an internal redemption arc; he was just straight-up mean and sometimes cruel.

In the final moments, I almost believed that they might break the rule and have the SL end up with her, but alas, they did not. This was a show that emphasized qualities over looks, and the ML's mistreatment of the female lead was a significant factor in my decision to discontinue watching.

Start Up - Second Lead's Heartbreak

Start Up delved into the dynamics of a long-distance relationship that ended in a mutual, almost tragic, misunderstanding. The female lead (FL) and the second lead (SL) were fated to meet again in adulthood, with the SL remaining steadfast and supportive throughout her struggles. Meanwhile, the main lead entered the picture later, and just like that, the dynamic shifted. The SL, who had been the first love that she never forgot, was left behind, even though he had been there all along.

It is one thing to see a character move on to someone else, but it's another to see the person you have always loved being overshadowed. It was a heartwarming moment to see the chemistry between the FL and the SL, but it was devastating to see how the female lead’s choice disregarded the SL's unwavering support and devotion.

True Beauty - Second Lead's Forgotten Love

True Beauty highlighted the story of a woman who was left heartbroken by the main lead (ML) and then reunited with the second lead (SL), who had stayed by her side during the years of absence. However, the ML's return to her life overshadowed the SL's love and support, making me question why the SL was even in the picture.

The male lead (ML) was a perfect representation of going back to someone from the past and expecting everything to be the same. The only thing that seemed to matter was that the SL had left her, despite his unwavering dedication. This made me reflect on the importance of support and loyalty in a relationship, and why many shows romanticize the idea of a past love reuniting with one's present partner without acknowledging the actual dynamics involved.

Kim Seon-ho - The Childhood Friend and the Boy Stayed Behind

Start-Up introduced Kim Seon-ho, a childhood friend of the female lead (FL) who stayed by her side through thick and thin. Despite their chemistry and connection, the FL chose the main lead (ML) over the less successful and less attractive SL. This decision was hard for me to accept, as I had developed a deep connection with Seon-ho's character and the bond he had with her grandmother.

Seon-ho was a man who had grown up lonely and still had hopes of finding love and a family. Watching him get overlooked for the main lead was heartbreaking, especially given the way he had been by the FL's side. The choice to finally be with the ML and move on from Seon-ho, even for the sake of her own happiness, was tough to swallow, making me wonder about the importance of acceptance and growing as a person.

Chae Jong Hyeop - The Opposite Choice

Nevertheless introduced Chae Jong Hyeop, a character who was sincere, warm, and honest towards the FL. Despite his obvious feelings, he was ultimately left by the wayside in favor of the main lead (ML). This wasn't healthy or mature, and I felt a deep connection with Jong Hyeop's character, hoping that he would find happiness eventually.

The main lead did make a lot of sense for the FL most of the time, especially due to their chemistry and his handsome face. However, with Jong Hyeop, there was something deeply realistic and moving about the relationship that the FL had with him, despite the fact that a more traditional 'hero' was chosen. It was a reminder of the complexity of human feelings and the often misguided pursuit of a perfect match.

Alchemy of Souls - The Right Match for the Wrong Love

Alchemy of Souls had the second lead (Hwang Minhyun) as a character who was righteous and kind, but ultimately not the right match for the FL. This left me questioning the role of chemistry and looks in determining romantic choices, especially when the principle of mutual growth and transformation is deeply rooted in the plot.

While Minhyun was an amazing character, his connection with the FL was too perfect and one-dimensional. Meanwhile, the main lead was well-suited to her, with their chemistry and looks playing a significant role. But take away Song Kang's handsome face, and the choice wouldn't seem quite as valid.

Conclusion

My experiences with these k-dramas have taught me a lot about what makes someone a suitable romantic lead. It was a journey filled with emotional rollercoasters, heartbreak, and moments of joy. I've come to understand the importance of mutual growth, support, and the complexities of human interactions in the intricate world of romantic dramas. Whether it was a full-hearted devotion or an obvious lack of understanding, these shows shaped my perspective on what makes a great second lead and how they should be portrayed in k-dramas.

Keywords: second lead syndrome, k-drama, romantic drama