Because there’s no moving on. We’re still emotionally wrecked over Gwan-sik and Ae-sun.
Sepanx? You’re definitely not alone. We all thought we had our fair share of emotional trauma with IU’s Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo back in 2016—those final episodes? Still not okay. Or maybe it was Reply 1988 that had us ugly crying from the nostalgic scenes and heart-hitting family moments with Park Bo-gum. But nothing could’ve prepared us for the emotional rollercoaster that was When Life Gives You Tangerines.
With its slow, comforting pace and relatable storylines, the series felt deeply personal. The characters felt like people you actually knew. It tugged at our hearts in ways that were both painful and healing.
From Gwan-sik’s quiet, enduring love to Ae-sun’s free-spirited but vulnerable soul—it gave us all the feels. Yes, all of them. Add a talented cast, life lessons that hit home, and subtle nods to Korean history and culture. Top it off with chef’s kiss cinematography, and it’s no wonder Filipinos are still reeling from the emotional aftermath.
Here Are More K-Dramas Set in Jeju Island to Heal Your Heart
But one element that added a whole other layer of magic to the series is Jeju Island.
This island, lovingly dubbed “The Island of the Gods,” was the perfect backdrop for everything that had transpired. With its peaceful charm, unique traditions, and jaw-dropping landscapes, Jeju added depth and emotion to every scene. From the pastel sunrises over Seongsan Ilchulbong and the dramatic views of Hallasan Mountain to the simple moments in the fields, every shot whispered, “Slow down, breathe, feel.”
And honestly, it’s no surprise that Jeju is a dream destination for many Filipinos. Even better, it’s now more accessible—Filipino tourists can visit Jeju visa-free for up to 30 days, making those K-drama daydreams feel a little more real.
But if hopping on a plane isn’t quite on the cards yet, here are some other K-dramas series set in Jeju Island that’ll give you the same healing vibes and heartfelt stories you loved in When Life Gives You Tangerines.
1. Our Blues
This gem tells multiple interconnected stories, all centered around the lives of people living in Jeju. One of the most moving is about the main character, Min Seon-ah, a woman escaping her past as she seeks refuge on the island with her child.
She crosses paths with Lee Dong-seok, a local who has lived in Jeju all his life. As they slowly open up to each other, you’ll find yourself rooting for their healing and quiet connection. Our Blues captures the bittersweetness of life in a way that’s raw, gentle, and oh-so-relatable.
2. Welcome to Samdal-ri
If you’re craving something light but meaningful, this one’s for you. It follows Cho Sam-dal, a successful fashion photographer who hits rock bottom and returns to her hometown of Samdal-ri in Jeju.
There, she reconnects with Cho Yong-pil, her childhood friend-turned-weather forecaster. What starts as awkward run-ins slowly turns into rekindled romance, peppered with small-town chaos, laughs, and life lessons. This drama is healing in the way a warm cup of tea is—comforting and surprisingly deep.
3. Extraordinary Attorney Woo
While not entirely set in Jeju, one unforgettable episode takes Woo Young-woo and her colleagues to the island for a case that beautifully blends local culture with heartfelt storytelling.
Park Eun-bin’s portrayal of a brilliant young lawyer on the autism spectrum shows the power of empathy, diversity, and finding your own path—even when the world feels too loud. The Jeju episode in particular adds a calming, nature-soaked vibe that will linger long after the credits roll.
4. Jewel in the Palace
For the OGs, this one needs no introduction. Based on the true story of Jang-geum, the first female royal physician in the Joseon Dynasty, the drama explores themes of resilience, tradition, and empowerment.
Some parts of the story take us to Jeju, where Jang-geum is exiled, and we see a rawer, untouched side of the island. The food, the medicine, the customs—it’s a historical deep dive wrapped in heartfelt storytelling.
5. Boys Over Flowers
Ah, the beginning of the Lee Min Ho fever. Boys Over Flowers, the Korean adaptation of the iconic Meteor Garden and Hana Yori Dango, follows Geum Jan-di—a bright, optimistic girl from a modest background—who finds herself enrolled in an elite high school.
There, she crosses paths with the infamous F4, a group of wealthy, powerful boys led by the arrogant yet secretly soft-hearted Gu Jun-pyo. What starts as bullying slowly transforms into an unforgettable love story. The series was filmed in several stunning locations, including the scenic beauty of Jeju Island, adding that extra dreamy flair to the romance.
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably still nursing a tangerine-shaped ache in your chest. And that’s okay. Maybe this is your sign to take a break—watch a new series, call someone you love, go on a nature walk, or even daydream about a future Jeju trip. Sometimes healing doesn’t come in big, dramatic moments, but in quiet little ones. Just like the series reminded us, “Find your own happiness.” One small moment at a time.
You deserve that.
Cover image credit: Netflix
