If you're a fan of romantic dramas where the tables turn, and the usual dynamics flip, you're in for a treat! Be it a Korean drama where the female lead is bold and dominant or a Chinese drama where the man is adorably soft-hearted, these series have it all. Many fans love such romantic storylines where a dominant female lead takes charge, and a sweet, sometimes shy, male lead happily supports her.
If you've been searching through Netflix or other streaming platforms for a drama or movie where the man is submissive to a woman or want to watch the rare gems in K-dramas and C-dramas with this unique dynamic, this post has listed every genre drama! We usually see the male leads being in front but the trend of "female boss, male employee" relationships or just the role reversal, in general, brings humor, warmth, and a unique exciting twist to romance. Ready to watch? Here’s a list of must-watch dramas where love blossoms in the most unexpected ways.
K-dramas with Submissive Male and Dominant Female Lead
1. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo
This K-drama follows the journey of a weightlifting champion who is both physically strong and emotionally resilient. The male lead, Joon Hyung, is charmingly soft-hearted and very supportive of her, leading to a delightful dynamic where he eagerly lets her take the lead.
2. She Would Never Know
In this refreshing romance, a female marketing professional is both fierce and unapologetic, while her younger male colleague is smitten, always supportive, and gentle. Their boss-employee relationship brings a delightful twist to the usual romantic tropes.
3. Queen In Hyun's Man
"Queen In Hyun's Man" gives us a time-travel romance with a twist—the male lead is very smitten and will do whatever it takes for his queen! His tender yet strong personality gives her the confidence to lead, making him wonderfully supportive rather than dominant. If you love historical fantasy with a heart, this is the drama to watch.
4. Reply 1988
While not overtly focused on romance, "Reply 1988" introduces characters with such depth that you’ll see a fair share of submissive male leads. Their respectful admiration for their partners is heartwarming, and it’s a genuine take on what it means to love someone deeply. A slice of life full of nostalgic feels, it’s worth watching for more than just romance.
5. Strong Woman Do Bong Soon
Do Bong Soon is a small powerhouse who packs a punch, while her gentle, adoring love interest Ahn Min Hyuk often finds himself in need of saving. Their love story has laughs, heart, and a reversal of traditional roles, making it a memorable drama with a perfectly paired dynamic.
6. Run On
The second couple in "Run On" is where the story lies. The female lead is a former athlete turned businesswoman, cool and assertive, while the male lead is sweet and sensitive. Their relationship shows that being dominant doesn't mean overshadowing; instead, they support and balance each other perfectly.
7. Her Private Life
A K-drama in which the female lead, a dedicated fangirl and museum curator, is fierce and passionate, usually taking control of her relationship. Her boyfriend, though equally successful, finds himself charmed by her quirks and lets her lead in both love and life.
8. Dinner Mate
Featuring a female food therapist who isn’t afraid to speak her mind, this Korean drama follows her as she leads their relationship, while her male counterpart, a psychiatrist, is content to follow her example with charm and respect.
9. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
This romance follows a writer with an abrasive personality and a quiet, caring psychiatric nurse. Although she has her rough edges, he remains devoted, fulfilling a touching relationship with a tender male lead who embraces her unconditionally.
10. My Bossy Girlfriend
This lighthearted South Korean rom-com tells the story of Hwa-Jin, a bold and ambitious woman who knows exactly what she wants and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. The shy and reserved Hwi-so doesn’t stand a chance against her commanding personality, leading to many hilarious yet sweet moments where she takes the lead, and he’s happy following along.
C-dramas with Submissive Male and Dominant Female Lead
1. Blossoms in Adversity
This costume drama has a strong female lead, Hua Zhi (Zhang Jingyi), whose journey is one of courage and resilience as she revitalizes her family’s legacy. The male lead, Gu Yanxi (Hu Yitian), admires her strength and strong determination, and he loyally stands by her side, showing that support can come from an equal partnership rather than dominance. The romance develops naturally, with mutual respect and subtle hints of a role reversal that keeps viewers engaged.
2. My Fated Boy
In this age-gap romance, an older, successful woman and her younger, submissive male friend reconnect. He’s ready to follow her lead, bringing the beauty of unconditional love. The drama focuses on societal perceptions and their chemistry is heartwarming and fun, making this a must-watch for fans of role reversals.
3. Falling Into You
In "Falling Into You," the female lead is an assertive, independent woman who steals the show with her confidence. The male lead, while successful, is more passive and supportive, letting her take charge both in romance and in life. It’s a light-hearted watch that nicely balances romance with humor.
4. The Rational Life
Here, we see an older, successful woman paired with a much younger, soft-hearted subordinate who quietly supports her ambitions. It’s a sweet and empowering story that underscores their age gap but shows mutual respect and admiration in a workplace romance.
5. The Story of Minglan
A Chinese period drama where the female lead, Minglan played by the famous Zhang Liying, is determined and intelligent, managing family affairs with precision. Her husband, Gu Tingye, is devoted to her and stands back as she skillfully goes through the trials of the family and society.
6. My Bossy Wife
This historical C-drama puts a refreshing spin on the usual dynamic, with a powerful woman who’s unapologetically in charge. Her husband, however, is completely devoted, and their quirky, role-reversed relationship keeps audiences entertained.
7. The Sword and the Brocade
Set in historical China, this C-drama features a dominant female lead who, with intelligence and grace, manages her family’s household. Her husband may be the head of the family by title, but he defers to her strength and intuition. This period drama is a fan favorite for those who enjoy strong female characters in traditional roles but who are truly calling the shots.
8. Love the Way You Are
A perfect example of a “female boss, male employee” scenario. The older, experienced female lead supports her junior, who is sincere and kind-hearted, creating an age-gap relationship that feels genuine and sweet.
9. The Empress of China
Featuring Fan Bingbing as the Empress, this Chinese historical drama shows the power dynamics in a royal relationship. The Empress rules with wisdom and strength, and her male counterpart, though powerful in his own right, often takes a step back in admiration and respect for her abilities.
10. She and Her Perfect Husband
In "She and Her Perfect Husband," we see a career-centric female lead facing romance on her terms. The male lead is flexible, and sweet, and respects her ambition, adding maturity to their relationship. This Chinese drama is a unique portrayal of modern romance with a dominant female and a loving male lead.
