Atypical Male Leads

Kang Pil Sung is a detective who is portrayed as a regular guy. He's not overly strong, smart, charming, or even skillfully. Basically, he's far from perfect and that's exactly what makes him so lovable. He's a man who is sweet, friendly, rough around the edges, hardworking but also fearful when it comes to risking those he holds dear. He's hands-down my favorite Male Lead.

Jang Bong Hwan is a modern-day highly successful male chef who, after a close call, ends up getting a second chance at life. The price? He ends up inhabiting the body of a young queen from Korea’s past, Kim So Yong. That alone already sets this character apart! Of course, hilarity ensues!

Yook Dong Sik is a 34-year-old office worker who's so weak and timid, everyone around him takes advantage. He's portrayed as a quiet pushover with low self-esteem. After an accident, he loses his memory and, due to a series of events, ends up believing he's a serial killer. Hilarity ensues as our Male Lead gains confidence in the weirdest of ways!

Ki Sun Gyeom is a man who, despite being born to a wealthy family, has not had an easy life. His lonely upbringing made him a socially awkward man who struggles to understand people as much as others struggle to understand him. However, beneath that laidback exterior, lies a man who hasn't learned to love himself, yet who's willing to take a look and find his place in life. What makes him stand out is the fact that he's constantly struggling to find his place in the world, rather than have everything automatically given to him. He's a breath of fresh air for sure!

Go Ji Suk is a constabulary chief at a subway station. He's introduced as a careful man who avoids dangerous cases and seeks stability above everything else. However, in the reason behind his carefulness lies a heartwrenching story. Ji Suk is a man who's constantly facing difficulties. Although he tries to appear aloof, he's really standing in quicksand. And it's the fact that life is not easy for him that makes him relatable.

Oh Ji Soo is a smart student with a solid plan. Abandoned by his father, he's figured out a way to fend for himself which involves providing security for underage girls who make a living by selling themselves. What makes Ji Soo different from your typical K-Drama ML is the fact that, although he's smart, he breaks under pressure and proves incapable of getting himself out of difficult situations. The show gives us a bit of a role-reversal, wherein the FL is the one doing the rescuing.