Is “The Witch” K-Drama A Romance?

You think you’re settling in for a swoony, heart-fluttering romance, but before you know it, you’re emotionally wrecked, stress-eating snacks, and wondering why you willingly signed up for this heartbreak. Yeah, The Witch might do that to you.

One second, you’re swooning over a meaningful glance, and the next, you’re spiraling into a mystery so deep, you’re considering making a conspiracy board just to keep up. Classic K-drama move.

Here’s the deal—yes, The Witch has romance, but saying it’s a romance drama is like calling kimchi ‘a bit flavorful.’ It’s there, it’s strong, but it’s definitely not the main dish. It’s there, but don’t expect swoony rom-com clichés to take over.

Let’s dig into what this drama really offers.

Mystery First, Romance Second—With A Side Of Korean Cultural Depth

At its core, The Witch is a mystery drama wrapped in suspense, psychological twists, and societal fear.

The story follows Lee Dong-jin, a data analyst who embarks on a mission to uncover the truth about Park Mi-jeong, a woman feared by society due to a supposed curse that brings tragedy to those around her.

While Dong-jin’s unwavering devotion to Mi-jeong adds emotional depth, the romance isn’t exactly the heart-fluttering, fairy-tale kind you’d expect in a traditional K-drama love story.

While Dong-jin’s unwavering devotion to Mi-jeong adds emotional depth, the romance isn’t exactly the heart-fluttering, fairy-tale kind you’d expect in a traditional K-drama love story.

If you’re here for grand romantic gestures, stolen kisses in the rain, or chaebol heirs falling for quirky girls—this might not be your best pick. But if brooding stares, stolen glances, and an emotional tug-of-war wrapped in mystery sound like your kind of romance, then strap in—you’re in for a ride.

Love, Longing, And A Whole Lot Of Emotional Damage

So, where does the romance fit in? Let’s break it down.

1. A Love So Painful, You’ll Want To Scream

Lee Dong-jin isn’t just crushing—he’s fully invested in a love so tragic it should come with a warning label. The kind of devotion that makes you want to yell, ‘Sir, please, prioritize your emotional well-being!’

He’s had a thing for her since their school days, and even ten years later, his concern for her hasn’t wavered.

But is his love returned? That’s where things get complicated. Mi-jeong, burdened by her so-called curse, keeps people at arm’s length, including him.

If you’re a fan of “I’ll love you even if it destroys me” type of romances (hello, melodrama lovers!), you’ll find plenty to agonize over here.

2. Love, Loyalty, And The Ultimate Test Of Devotion

Forget the usual enemies-to-lovers or chaebol-meets-poor-girl tropes.

Instead, The Witch gives us a love story rooted in trust, perseverance, and self-sacrifice.

Dong-jin is determined to protect Mi-jeong, even when she refuses to let him.

And in true K-drama fashion, he risks everything—his safety, his career, his emotional sanity—to prove she’s not the monster society believes she is.

And in true K-drama fashion, he risks everything—his safety, his career, his emotional sanity—to prove she’s not the monster society believes she is.

This love story skips the coffee dates and cute misunderstandings—it’s all emotional warfare, heart-clenching silences, and the kind of turbulence that keeps you up at night, replaying every moment.

3. When Love Is The Subplot, But The Pain Is Real

While the emotional connection between Dong-jin and Mi-jeong is undeniable, their love story doesn’t drive the plot—it enhances it.

The central focus remains on uncovering the truth behind Mi-jeong’s past, her so-called curse, and how fear and superstition have shaped her existence.

Think of the romance as the deep, emotional undercurrent rather than the crashing waves—it’s there, it matters, but it’s not the main event. What makes this even more compelling is how it reflects an important aspect of Korean culture—the weight of societal expectations.

In Korea, reputation and perception can dictate someone’s entire life.

Mi-jeong’s treatment—being cast aside because of superstition and fear—echoes real-life Korean societal pressures, where rumors can dictate someone’s entire future.

Mi-jeong’s treatment—being cast aside because of superstition and fear—echoes real-life Korean societal pressures, where rumors can dictate someone’s entire future.

In a country where public perception can make or break careers, relationships, and even personal safety, the fear of the unknown isn’t just a theme in The Witch—it’s a deeply ingrained cultural reality.

This deeper cultural context adds another layer of meaning to the drama, making it more than just a mystery—it’s a reflection of real-world societal fears and prejudices.

Romance Or Not? The Verdict On The Witch

If you’re looking for a traditional K-drama romance, The Witch probably isn’t the best fit.

The love story is subtle, tragic, and woven into the overarching mystery rather than taking center stage.

But if you appreciate an emotionally complex connection that unfolds through pain, trust, and perseverance, then you’ll find a romance worth experiencing.

Final verdict? The Witch is a mystery drama first, with a side of romance that will quietly break your heart if you let it.

K-Dramas That Hit The Same Emotional Nerve As The Witch

If you enjoyed the emotional depth of My Mister, the eerie mystery of Strangers from Hell, or the slow-burn intensity of Beyond Evil, then The Witch should definitely be on your radar.

So, are you in this for the mystery, the romance, or are you just here for the emotional devastation like the rest of us hopeless drama addicts? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

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