Before They Were in Tangerines—These K-Dramas Made the Cast Icons

The world of Korean dramas is rich with intricate plots, lovable characters, and unforgettable moments. One such show that captures hearts is When Life Gives You Tangerines , a heartfelt drama filled with love, loss, and healing. The series, with its compelling storytelling and a cast that exudes charisma, has become a must-watch for fans of emotional, slice-of-life K-dramas. But, once you’ve seen When Life Gives You Tangerines , you might find yourself wanting more – more stories featuring the talented cast, more moments that tug at your heartstrings, and more of the magic that these actors bring to the screen.

If you’re a fan of When Life Gives You Tangerines , then you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of movies and shows that feature the talented actors from this drama. Whether you’re a fan of Park Bo Gum’s irresistible charm or looking for more stories with the drama's cast members, here’s a guide to some must-watch titles.

Park Bo Gum’s performance in When Life Gives You Tangerines is undoubtedly one of the highlights. His portrayal of the lead character brings a perfect balance of warmth and depth, capturing the essence of the emotional rollercoaster the character goes through. But this is not the first time Park Bo Gum has charmed viewers with his exceptional talent.
Love in the Moonlight is arguably one of Park Bo Gum’s most famous roles. In this historical drama, he plays the role of Crown Prince Lee Yeong, who is caught in a delicate dance between duty, romance, and self-discovery. His effortless portrayal of the prince, especially his chemistry with the lead actress, Kim Yoo Jung, makes it a standout in the genre. With its engaging plot, stunning visuals, and incredible performances, this drama is a perfect choice for fans of Park Bo Gum who want to see more of his talent in a historical setting.
Another must-watch for Park Bo Gum fans is Reply 1988 , one of the most beloved Korean dramas of all time. This nostalgic show takes us back to the late 80s and follows a group of childhood friends, their families, and the poignant moments of growing up. Park Bo Gum plays the role of the cheerful and kind-hearted Choi Taek, a baduk (Korean board game) prodigy. His portrayal is endearing and relatable, and the show itself offers a perfect blend of humor, warmth, and deep emotions. Reply 1988 is one of those dramas that stays with you long after the final episode airs.

In Record of Youth , Park Bo Gum steps into the role of Sa Hye Joon, a young aspiring actor who must navigate the pressures of the entertainment industry while trying to live authentically. His performance is as heartwarming and inspiring as ever, as he portrays a character determined to chase his dreams despite the many obstacles he faces. This drama is not just for fans of Park Bo Gum, but for anyone who has ever felt the weight of pursuing their dreams. With its modern-day setting and relatable struggles, Record of Youth offers a fresh, yet deeply emotional experience.
While Park Bo Gum is the shining star of When Life Gives You Tangerines , the show also features a talented supporting cast that brings depth and complexity to the story. Let's take a closer look at some of the other actors and the remarkable works they've been part of.
Lee ji-eun plays a leading role in "When Life Gives You Tangerines", and her performance has drawn widespread acclaim—graceful, heartfelt, and nuanced as always.
If you loved her in Tangerines, here are some of IU’s best and most iconic K-dramas that truly made her a beloved actress in the K-drama world:

Role: Lee Ji-an
Why Watch: A gritty, emotional drama where IU plays a struggling young woman who forms a deep bond with an older man. It’s widely regarded as her best acting performance to date.

Role: Jang Man-wol
Why Watch: A fantasy romance where IU plays a glamorous, centuries-old ghost hotel owner. It showcases her range—from comic timing to deep emotion—with stunning visuals and a haunting OST.

Role: Hae Soo
Why Watch: A historical romance filled with heartbreak and political intrigue. IU stars alongside a powerhouse cast, and the show has a cult following even years later.

Role: Kim Pil-sook
Why Watch: Her acting debut! A musical drama about young aspiring idols. IU shines in a sweet, supporting role that showed her early charm and vocal talent.
For fans who are wondering, “What to watch after When Life Gives You Tangerines ?”, there are plenty of shows and films that will provide that same emotional satisfaction and feature the same brilliant performances.

Although it doesn't feature any of the cast from When Life Gives You Tangerines , Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo is an uplifting and heartwarming drama that resonates with the same themes of love, personal growth, and overcoming obstacles. The story follows a female weightlifter, Kim Bok Joo, and her journey to self-discovery while balancing her relationships and dreams. The chemistry between the leads, Lee Sung Kyung and Nam Joo Hyuk, is magnetic, making this a great pick for fans of coming-of-age dramas.

For fans of fantasy and romance, My Love from the Star is a must-watch. The drama tells the story of an extraterrestrial being, Do Min Joon, who has lived on Earth for centuries and falls in love with a popular actress. It's a beautiful blend of sci-fi and romance, with stunning performances by Jun Ji Hyun and Kim Soo Hyun. This show offers a mix of emotions and drama that fans of When Life Gives You Tangerines might enjoy.

If you're looking for a romantic drama with a captivating story, Crash Landing on You is another great recommendation. This drama centers around a South Korean heiress who accidentally lands in North Korea and falls in love with a North Korean officer. Featuring stunning performances by Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin, the series is both heartwrenching and heartwarming, with a good balance of humor, romance, and political tension.

When Life Gives You Tangerines is just the beginning of your journey into the world of K-dramas and films filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable characters. The talented cast of the show has been part of many other equally compelling stories, offering plenty of options for viewers who want to explore more of their work. Whether you’re following Park Bo Gum’s rise to stardom or discovering the brilliance of other cast members like Kim So-eun, the world of K-dramas holds something for everyone. So, go ahead, dive into these titles, and let the magic continue

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