Second Lead Syndrome
Second Lead Syndrome is real, painful, and there is no cure. Join me in my suffering.
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1. Pride and Prejudice
Korean Drama - 2014, 21 episodes
Such a sweetheart and looked out for her but because she was his noona, she didn't look at him romantically. Pretty obvious from the start it was one sided. Sigh.
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2. Kill Me, Heal Me
Korean Drama - 2015, 20 episodes
Is it possible to have SLS if the character is in the same body as the lead? I'll love Shin Se Gi forever & ever & ever. And a while after that too.
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3. While You Were Sleeping
Korean Drama - 2017, 32 episodes
A guy that loves comics so much he named his dog Robin, a strong moral compass, and is just an all around loyal, nice guy? Marry me.
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4. Moștenitorii Chaebolurilor
Korean Drama - 2013, 20 episodes
So I'm not really into bad boys but damn if my heart didn't skip a beat when Choi Yeong Do let his bangs down and got all soft.
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5. Heart to Heart
Korean Drama - 2015, 16 episodes
This second lead is pretty much perfect (up to episode 8--which is how far I've watched to date). He's supportive and oh so patient, he's kind, he's protective, he tells her she needs to love herself more and look out for herself. Why do dramas not have these wonderful guys as the main lead? WHY? I LOATHE the male lead in this show. I'm so frustrated.
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6. Răzbunare sau Dragoste?
Korean Drama - 2012, 20 episodes
Attorney Ahn's reserved nature hid a deep passion that fascinated me. I often wondered if being in love with a better woman might have negated some of his ruthlessness. Did his loyalty corrupt him or was that just who he was? I wish they'd explored his character and motivations more.
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7. The Bride of Habaek
Korean Drama - 2017, 16 episodes
I liked the male lead, but Shin Hoo Ye was so sweet even as he was so very lost. He broke my heart and I was seriously torn between the two men.
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8. Love Me If You Dare
Chinese Drama - 2015, 24 episodes
Who wouldn't adore the loyal, kind and very self aware Xun Ran? I almost wish he wasn't so astute and actually pursued her before Jin Yan showed up.
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9. Only Side by Side with You
Chinese Drama - 2018, 40 episodes
He wasn't perfect but that's what made him all the more realistic. There were some bad choices but he was protective, sweet, and utterly adored her.