K-dramas have a knack for hooking viewers with gripping stories, swoon-worthy romances, and jaw-dropping twists. But even the most devoted fans will admit that some of the biggest hits come with narrative gaps you could drive a truck through. Whether it's time travel that makes no sense or characters rising from the dead without explanation, these plot holes are hard to miss. Yet, somehow, they don't ruin the fun. Here are eight K-dramas that are so entertaining, you'll forgive their logical lapses—even if you can't stop rolling your eyes.
'The King: Eternal Monarch' (2020)
Lee Min-ho and Kim Go-eun sizzle in this fantasy romance about a Korean emperor who discovers a portal to a parallel world. The premise is fascinating, and the production is lavish, but the rules of the parallel universe are so confusing that even critics threw up their hands. The Korea Herald noted the series fails to explain its own world-building, and the time-travel logic seems to shift at will. Still, fans were thrilled to see Lee Min-ho back after military service, and the epic romance keeps you glued to the screen.
'The Penthouse: War in Life' (2020–2021)
This makjang drama is the definition of guilty pleasure. Set in a luxury 100-floor apartment complex, it follows wealthy families who will do anything—including murder—to secure their children's success. The show's writer, Kim Soon-ok, has openly admitted her plot defies logic, joking that dead characters return like zombies. Secret doppelgängers, faked deaths, and impossible schemes pile up over three seasons. But the sheer audacity makes it addictive. Fans love to hate the villains, and the cliffhangers are masterful.
'Reborn Rich' (2022)
Song Joong-ki stars as a loyal secretary murdered by a chaebol family, only to be reborn as their youngest son. For 15 episodes, it's a brilliant revenge thriller—until the finale reveals the rebirth wasn't what it seemed. The twist renders most of the plot meaningless, leaving viewers frustrated. There's also the nagging question of how the hero, shot in the head, walks around like nothing happened. Based on a web novel with a clearer ending, the drama's finale sparked debate, but the journey is undeniably gripping.
'Start-Up' (2020)
This Netflix original follows Seo Dal-mi (Bae Suzy) as she chases her dream of becoming a tech billionaire. The first half is emotional and vibrant, with Kim Seon-ho stealing scenes as venture capitalist Han Ji-pyeong. But the second half abandons his intricate arc and fumbles the emotional stakes. The childhood letter-swapping premise also raises questions about identity and timing that never get resolved. Despite the flaws, the cast's chemistry and the start-up world's energy make it a likable watch.
For more on shows that defy logic, check out our list of superhero shows with plot holes so big they break their own rules. And if you're in the mood for tighter storytelling, see our top 10 perfect TV dramas of the last 20 years.
Other K-dramas with notable plot holes include 'Big Mouth,' where the hero's transformation strains credibility, and 'Vincenzo,' whose tonal shifts sometimes defy logic. But like the shows above, they remain fan favorites because of their charisma, twists, and sheer entertainment value. Sometimes, a great story is worth a few logical leaps.
