Valentine Week 2025: 7 small-town romance K-dramas that will steal your heart

New Delhi: Big-city romances may have their charm but there’s something about small-town love stories that just hit differently. The slow-burn romances and some quirky townfolk create the perfect setting for heartfelt moments. There’s a reason why small-town romance K-dramas never go out of style.

Whether it’s a seaside village, a quiet countryside or a close-knit community where everyone knows each other’s business, small-town K-dramas deliver the right amount of warmth and an escape from the chaos of everyday life.

K-dramas to watch

If you’re in the mood for swoon-worthy love stories set against picturesque backdrops, here are the best small-town romance K-dramas to add to your watchlist!

1. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)

There’s a reason Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha became an instant classic. Set in the idyllic seaside town of Gongjin, the drama follows Hye-jin (Shin Min-a), a perfectionist dentist who moves from Seoul and Du-sik (Kim Seon-ho), the town’s lovable jack-of-all-trades. Sparks fly as their clashing personalities slowly give way to an undeniable romance. The K-drama captures the beauty of small-town life—where community matters and everyone has a story. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is a must-watch if you want some breathtaking ocean views and swoon-worthy chemistry between the leads.

https://www

2. Welcome to Samdal-ri (2023-24)

Returning to your hometown is never easy—especially when your childhood sweetheart is still there. Welcome to Samdal-ri follows Jo Sam-dal (Shin Hye-sun), a struggling fashion photographer who returns to Jeju Island after a scandal ruins her career. There, she reunites with her ex-boyfriend, Yong-pil (Ji Chang-wook), a weather forecaster who never left. The drama delivers heartwarming nostalgia, second-chance romance and stunning visuals of Jeju’s natural beauty. Plus, watching Ji Chang-wook in a cosy small-town setting? Yes, please!

https://www

3. Once Upon a Small Town (2022)

Imagine trading the city for a quiet village—sounds peaceful, right? Not for Han Ji-yul (Chu Young-woo), a Seoul veterinarian forced to take over his grandfather’s rural clinic. There, he meets Ahn Ja-young (Red Velvet’s Joy), a cheerful police officer who knows everyone and everything about the town. This lighthearted, feel-good drama features adorable animals, hilarious town gossip and a charming romance that grows naturally. If you’re looking for a short and sweet K-drama with countryside vibes, this one’s for you.

https://www

4. Our Blues (2022)

Our Blues takes a slice-of-life approach, unlike most romance K-dramas. The story is set on Jeju Island weaving multiple love stories, friendships and personal struggles into one emotionally rich bingewatch. With an ensemble cast including Lee Byung-hun, Shin Min-a, Kim Woo-bin, and Han Ji-min, the drama paints a realistic yet heartwarming portrait of small-town life. This one is perfect if you love multi-layered storytelling with a mix of romance, heartbreak and healing. Plus, the cinematography makes Jeju’s coastline look like something out of a dream vacation.

https://www

5. When the Camellia Blooms (2019)

A single mother running a bar in a small town? A local police officer who falls for her? A serial killer lurking in the background? When the Camellia Blooms is a mix of romance, comedy and thriller, making it one of the most unique small-town K-dramas out there. Gong Hyo-jin shines as Dong-baek, a woman trying to build a life for herself and her son while Kang Ha-neul’s character, Yong-sik, is possibly one of the most devoted K-drama male leads ever. Their slow-burning romance, combined with mystery and humour makes this drama a gripping watch.

https://www

6. When the Weather Is Fine (2020)

If you love cosy, introspective dramas, When the Weather Is Fine is for you. The story follows Mok Hae-won (Park Min-young), a cellist who leaves Seoul to escape her stressful life and finds solace in her hometown. There, she reconnects with Im Eun-seob (Seo Kang-joon), a quiet bookstore owner with a deep admiration for her. The drama is all about healing and love that feels as warm as a well-worn sweater on a cold day. Add in the snowy countryside scenery and you’ve got a K-drama that feels like a comforting hug.

https://www

7. 100 Days My Prince (2018)

If historical small-town romance is more your vibe, 100 Days My Prince is a hidden gem. The story follows Lee Yul (D.O.), a crown prince who loses his memory and ends up living in a small village as an ordinary man. There, he meets Hong-shim (Nam Ji-hyun), a strong-willed woman who runs a small business. Their love story unfolds with humor, warmth, and just the right amount of palace intrigue. Plus, seeing D.O. play a clueless amnesiac nobleman trying to adapt to simple village life? Priceless.

https://www

Whether it’s the beachside charm of Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha or the cosy bookshop romance of When the Weather Is Fine, these K-dramas remind us that sometimes, love is best found in the quietest of places. So, which one are you watching first?