Spooky, Sweet, and Super Fun: K-Dramas with Friendly Ghosts You'll Love!

 10 K-drama recommendations featuring Ghosts

    Do you believe in ghosts? Whether you do or not, there's no denying the captivating allure of the spirit world. And if you're like me, you probably prefer your spectral encounters to be more heartwarming than hair-raising!

    Interestingly, many cultures have special periods dedicated to the supernatural. For instance, in some East Asian traditions, the time between August 23rd and September 21st is considered "Ghost Month." It's a fascinating concept where the veil between worlds is believed to be thinner, allowing spirits to visit the human realm.

    But don't fret! Not all ghost stories are about jump scares and terrifying apparitions. In the wonderful world of K-dramas, friendly ghosts are a delightful trope, often bringing humor, warmth, and even a touch of romance to the screen. If you're quirky, adventurous, and love a good supernatural tale with a twist, then buckle up! Here are some of my top K-drama recommendations featuring ghosts you'll actually want to hang out with:

1. Oh My Ghost (2015)

This drama is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good romantic comedy with a supernatural twist. Na Bong-sun is a timid and shy assistant chef who is secretly in love with her arrogant but brilliant boss. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes possessed by the ghost of Shin Soon-ae, a sassy and lustful virgin ghost who is determined to lose her virginity to escape her earthly ties! The hilarious situations and unexpected chemistry that ensue make this a truly charming watch.

Why you'll love it: A fantastic blend of comedy, romance, and a surprisingly heartfelt story about finding your voice and embracing life.

2. Bring It On, Ghost (2016)

If you're looking for a bit more action and a dash of mystery with your friendly ghost, then "Bring It On, Ghost" is perfect! Hyun-ji is a high school ghost who wanders the earth with no memory of how she died. She meets Bong-pal, a college student who has the ability to see and touch ghosts, and together they form an unlikely partnership: he helps her uncover the truth about her past, and she helps him exorcise other spirits. Their bickering and eventual bond are incredibly endearing.

Why you'll love it: A unique blend of ghost-hunting action, heartwarming friendship, and a compelling mystery.

3. Hotel Del Luna (2019)

Prepare for stunning visuals, an epic romance, and a hotel unlike any other! Jang Man-wol is the eternally cursed owner of Hotel Del Luna, a luxurious establishment that caters exclusively to ghosts before they move on to the afterlife. She's sassy, stylish, and carries a millennium of grudges. Her life changes when she's forced to hire Gu Chan-sung, a human, as her new general manager. This drama is a visual feast with incredibly diverse ghost characters, each with their own unique and often touching stories.

Why you'll love it: A visually breathtaking fantasy romance with rich lore, unforgettable characters, and a poignant exploration of life, death, and letting go.

4. Master's Sun (2013)

This classic rom-com with a horror twist is still a fan favorite! Gong-shil gains the ability to see ghosts after an accident, and these often-disturbing spirits constantly bother her. Her only refuge? Touching the cold, cynical CEO, Joong-won, who somehow makes the ghosts disappear. They strike a deal: she helps him with his haunted past, and he lets her cling to him for peace. Their developing relationship, as she helps ghosts find peace and he opens his heart, is truly captivating.

Why you'll love it: A perfect balance of spooky encounters, laugh-out-loud humor, and a swoon-worthy romance.

5. A Korean Odyssey (2017-2018)

Based on the classic Chinese novel "Journey to the West," this drama gives a modern, fantastical spin to the tale. Jin Seon-mi has the ability to see demons and ghosts. As a child, she freed Son Oh-gong, an immortal being, from his prison with a promise that he would protect her. Years later, he's a powerful but arrogant entity, and she's his unwilling protector. This drama is packed with action, humor, and a wide array of fascinating supernatural beings, including many "friendly" (or at least, less-than-malevolent) spirits.

Why you'll love it: A grand fantasy adventure with rich mythology, stunning special effects, and a compelling romance between a human and an immortal.

6. Ghost Detective (2018)

This one leans into the mystery and thriller genres, but still features a compelling supernatural element where the lines between the living and the dead blur. Lee Da-il is a former detective who becomes a private investigator. When he's wounded during a case, he becomes a ghost himself, visible only to his assistant, Jung Yeo-wool. Together, they try to solve cases, including the one that led to his own demise, encountering other spirits along the way.

Why you'll love it: A dark, intriguing mystery with a unique premise and a focus on solving the mysteries of the departed.

7. Missing: The Other Side (2020 & 2021)

This highly acclaimed series presents a captivating mystery where a village exists for missing deceased people whose bodies haven't been found. Kim Wook is a con artist who stumbles upon this village and discovers he can see its residents. He teams up with Jang Pan-seok, a mysterious man who has been searching for his own missing daughter for years, to help the spirits find peace and uncover the truth behind their disappearances in the living world.

Why you'll love it: A gripping and emotional mystery that explores loss, healing, and the enduring power of family.

8. Hi Bye, Mama! (2020)

Prepare for a heartwarming tear-jerker! Cha Yu-ri has been a ghost for five years, watching over her husband and young daughter. Given a 49-day reincarnation project, she has the chance to return to her family, but only if she can take her place back as his wife. This drama beautifully explores themes of motherhood, grief, and the profound impact one person has on the lives of those they leave behind. The various ghost characters Yu-ri interacts with in the afterlife are also incredibly endearing.

Why you'll love it: A deeply emotional and moving story about love, family, and the challenges of letting go.

9. Ghost Doctor (2022)

A brilliant but arrogant surgeon, Cha Young-min, gets into an accident, and his spirit ends up possessing the body of another doctor, Go Seung-tak, who has a completely different personality and medical skills. Unable to leave the hospital, Young-min's ghost must rely on Seung-tak to perform surgeries and continue his work, leading to hilarious and heartwarming situations as they navigate their shared professional life and uncover a deeper mystery.

Why you'll love it: A fun medical drama with a unique body-swapping concept, plenty of comedy, and a surprising amount of heart.

10. Oh My Ghost Clients (2025)

This brand-new series offers a unique and fresh take on the ghost genre. It follows a jaded labor attorney who, after a near-death experience, gains the ability to see ghosts. These spirits, each with their own unresolved workplace issues, become his new "clients," and he must help them find justice. The drama blends comedy, mystery, and fantasy in a workplace setting, making for a compelling and timely watch.

Why you'll love it: A unique premise that mixes a legal drama with supernatural elements and a touch of social commentary.

    So, whether you're celebrating "Ghost Month" or just looking for your next K-drama binge, these friendly ghost stories are sure to entertain, make you laugh, and maybe even shed a tear or two. Forget the scares and embrace the spectral charm!

Which friendly ghost K-drama is your favorite? Or do you have another recommendation? Let me know in the comments below!