In the world of K-dramas, captivating storylines and dynamic characters often steal the spotlight. While many people are drawn to the swoon-worthy romances and heart-wrenching conflicts, it’s the male leads who serve as beacons of positivity. Here are a few K-drama male leads who are undoubtedly total green flags and set the bar high for love, life, and everything in between.
Gu Won – “King the Land”
Lee Junho’s portrayal of the compassionate and loving leader in “King the Land” exemplified so many attributes that make him a green flag. He exemplified integrity as well as selflessness and always put the best interest of Cheon Sa Rang (YoonA) before him. Despite his position in power, he never once made Sa Rang feel insecure about her being poor and not being in a high socioeconomic status—he just loved her, for her.
Ahn Min Hyuk – “Strong Woman Do Bong Soon”
Park Hyung Sik as Ahn Min Hyuk in “Strong Woman Do Bong Soon” is a true green flag as a result of his respectful and supportive demeanor toward Bong Soon (Park Bo Young). His consistency and unwavering love for Bong Soon from beginning to end showed his stability and commitment to her despite the obstacles they faced. Even though Bong Soon wasn’t sure about her feelings for Min Hyun at times and found it difficult to deal with the challenges that came with her powers, Min Hyun was still there for her.
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Choi Han Gyul – “Coffee Prince”
Gong Yoo as Choi Hang Gyul is an iconic character, and it’s all because of how much he loves Go Eun Chan (Yoon Eun Hye). He’s open-minded about love, and even though he initially struggles with his feelings for Eun Chan, he eventually accepts them, no matter her gender. His willingness to challenge society’s norms and embrace love in its truest form makes him a standout male lead, showing acceptance and inclusivity.
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Ryan Gold – “Her Private Life”
Kim Jae Wook as Ryan Gold in “Her Private Life” stole the hearts of every K-drama watcher. His sincerity and understanding of Sung Duk Mi (Park Min Young) and her fangirling over idols were so encouraging to watch. He respects her choices and would continually support her artistic endeavors wholeheartedly. His ability to communicate openly with her about whatever issues they have set an example of empathy that everyone can learn from.
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Im Eun Seob – “I’ll Go to You When the Weather Is Nice”
Im Eun Seob, played by Seo Kang Joon, is a green flag personified. He falls in love and continually stays in love with Mok Hae Won (Park Min Young) from high school onwards, and it’s more than evident that she is the only one he has his eyes on. Despite their past struggles, Eun Seob always makes an effort to make Hae Won feel safe, and he creates this space for her to heal and grow without ever making her doubt his love for her.
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Kang Tae Mu – “A Business Proposal”
In “A Business Proposal,” Ahn Hyo Seop’s character is sincere and shows genuine love for Shin Ha Ri (Kim Sejeong). Even though there is miscommunication and lies at the beginning of their relationship, he consistently shows honesty and loyalty, prioritizing Ha Ri over everything. His unwavering support and encouragement despite her reluctance in wanting to start a relationship with him shows just how trustworthy he can be.
Ri Jung Hyuk – “Crash Landing On You”
Hyun Bin as Captain Ri Jung Hyuk is a character whom many couldn’t help but fall for, and it’s no wonder as he exhibited everything perfect when it comes to a male lead. His love for Yoon Se Ri (Son Ye Jin) showed true commitment that transcended societal expectations. He even risked his life and traveled from North Korea to Seoul to ensure that she was safe!
Hwang Yong Sik – “When the Camellia Blooms”
In the hit series “When the Camellia Blooms,” Kang Ha Neul’s portrayal of Yong Sik is the epitome of green flag. Throughout the series, his unwavering feelings for Dong Baek (Gong Hyo Jin) and willingness to stand up for her when anyone was speaking ill of her showed his genuine respect for the woman he loves. His steadfast support for her was truly so beautiful to see, and his empathetic nature definitely sets the standard for a healthy relationship.
Lee Joon Ho – “Extraordinary Attorney Woo”
Another prime example of being a green flag in the world of K-dramas is Kang Tae Oh’s character Lee Joon Ho in the series “Extraordinary Attorney Woo.” As Lee Joon Ho, he showcases loyalty and genuine care towards Woo Young Woo (Park Eun Bin). Despite the challenges that Young Woo faces in society and in the workplace, Joon Ho makes sure that she is respected and understood, which makes him a stand up guy.
Cha Eun Ho – “Romance Is a Bonus Book”
Lee Jong Suk as Cha Eun Ho in “Romance Is a Bonus Book” is a swoon-worthy character who shows sincere love toward Kang Dani (Lee Na Young). When Dani is going through the most difficult part of her life, Eun Ho is there for her and tries to do everything he can to get her back on her feet. His persistence and willingness to make her happy shows his selflessness and ability to love wholeheartedly.
Hey Soompiers, are there any other K-drama leads who you think are green flags? Let us know in the comments below!
binahearts is a Korean-Canadian published author, content creator, and influencer whose ultimate biases are Song Joong Ki and BIGBANG, but has lately been seen obsessing over Hwang In Yeop. Make sure you follow binahearts on IG as she journeys through her latest Korean crazes!