Before the beginning of any (hopefully healthy) obsession, is the one catalyst that starts it all. For K-drama enthusiasts, it’s that one show that finally convinces them to binge-watch at least 50 more, whether it’s a timeless classic like Full House or a relatively recent fan favorite like Crash Landing on You. However, if you’ve yet to jump on the K-drama train like the rest of us, don’t lose hope!
Below, we asked celebrities for the TV series that turned them into full-fledged K-drama fans. Make sure to read up because their answers might just finally win you over, too.
Mariel Padilla
"Crash Landing On You!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The kiliggggg is reaaaaal!!!! Hahaha I enjoyed it so much that I watched it over and over again and felt like I couldn’t watch another K-drama because it would feel like cheating on Captain Ri & Yoon Seri. Hahahahaha!"

Denise Laurel
"So I would watch K-dramas lightly through the years. I also did the Filipino OST for a K-drama called Winter Sonata when I was a kid, LOL. But what really sealed the deal for me were Itaewon Class and What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim."

Arci Munoz
"It was Full House!!! I just got hooked instantly. I love the natural chemistry between Rain and Song Hye Kyo, and up to now I can say it's still my favorite K-drama of all time. Hehe."

Glaiza De Castro
"I remember watching Full House before and feeling so kilig over Song Hye Ko and Rain’s chemistry. But Fight for My Way was the reason why I got more interested in K-drama series because it’s one of the most well written stories I’ve ever watched. The actors were brilliant, I like the balance of romance, drama and comedy, and the direction is very well executed."

Lissa Kahayon
"I started watching K-dramas in 2018 but never really got hooked til Crash Landing On You! That was late 2019 then, of course, COVID happened which gave me a lot of time to check out other shows. I need to watch at least one episode of a series or a Korean variety show each day. It has become my way of de-stressing and now I’m taking up Korean lessons! Haha hopefully one day I can watch without the subtitles."

Patricia Prieto
"The very first K-drama I watched was Weightlifting Fairy: Kim Bok-Joo and let’s just say I was instantly hooked. I watched it in like two or three days, I think. I loved the butterfly feelings it gave me, and I’d catch myself smiling while watching. It was a fun escape and I’m glad I gave K-Dramas a chance ‘cause now I’m absolutely hooked!"

Janeena Chan
"It’s Strong Girl Bong Soon!! It’s super hilarious and the kilig vibes just kept coming. The actors were so committed to their roles and it’s an overall feel-good, fun, binge-worthy series to watch!!"

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