K-Dramas have a special place in many hearts around the world, including in the Philippines. Their mix of captivating stories, charming actors, and unique style has inspired Filipino creators to put their own spin on these beloved shows. If you’re curious about how Filipino adaptations of popular K-Dramas work, this guide is for you. We’ll explore some exciting local adaptations and what makes them stand out.
What’s Inside
- Ako Si Kim Samsoon (2008)
- My Girl (2008)
- All About Eve (2009)
- Only You (2009)
- Lovers in Paris (2009)
- Stairway to Heaven (2009)
- Full House (2010)
- Endless Love (2010)
- Coffee Prince (2012)
- Temptation of Wife (2012)
- Two Wives (2014)
- My Fair Lady (2015)
- Baker King (2015)
- My Love From the Star (2017)
- Descendants of the Sun (2020)
- Encounter (2021)
- The Broken Marriage Vow (2022)
- Flower of Evil (2022)
- Start-Up (2022)
- What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim (2024)
1. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (2008)
Ako Si Kim Samsoon is the Filipino adaptation of the popular 2005 Korean drama “My Lovely Sam Soon”, starring Hyun Bin and Kim Sun-A. This local version follows Samsoon, a talented but struggling pastry chef, as she navigates love and self-esteem challenges. The adaptation retains the original’s blend of romance and comedy while infusing it with Filipino humor and cultural elements. The lead role of Samsoon is portrayed by the best-selling Filipino pop singer and talented actress, Regine Velasquez with Mark Anthony Fernandez playing the male lead. Their performances bring a fresh, relatable twist to the beloved story. The show aired on GMA Network from June to October 2008.
2. My Girl (2008)
My Girl is the Filipino remake of the popular Korean drama, starring Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson which aired on ABS-CBN from May to September 2008. Jasmine (Chiu) supports her gambling father, Chito, until he abandons her. She then pretends to be Julian’s (Anderson) long-lost cousin to fulfill a family wish, leading to a web of lies. As their secret comes out, Jasmine and Julian navigate misunderstandings and fall for each other, echoing the original’s charm with Lee Da Hae, Lee Dong Wook and Lee Joon Gi. A dubbed version of the original My Girl was also aired on ABS-CBN.
3. All About Eve (2009)
The Filipino remake of All About Eve is based on the classic Korean drama of the same name. It revolves around two women, Nicole (Iza Calzado) and Erika (Sunshine Dizon), whose rivalry intensifies as they both aim for success in the competitive world of broadcast journalism. Nicole is ambitious but kind-hearted, while Erika is willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead, even if it means playing dirty.
Their intense rivalry is filled with drama, jealousy, and a quest for power, making this adaptation an engaging watch for fans of the original story. The Filipino version keeps the core plot intact while adding its own local flavor and flair, making it relatable for Filipino audiences. The original All About Eve stars Chae Rim, Kim So Yeon, Jang Dong Gun, and Han Jae Suk.
4. Only You (2009)
Only You is the Philippine adaptation of the Korean drama which aired on ABS-CBN in 2009. It tells the story of Jillian (Angel Locsin) who pursues her dream of becoming a chef and heads to South Korea with her best friend, Jonathan (Diether Ocampo). There, she meets TJ (Sam Milby), a wealthy businessman searching for his mother—the same woman Jillian needs to find. After a brief, tense encounter that leads to a one-night stand, they part ways. Jillian later discovers she’s pregnant and puts her dreams on hold. Six years later, fate reunites them in the Philippines, bringing unresolved issues back to the surface.
Unlike the original version with Han Chae Young, Jo Hyun Jae, and Lee Chun Hee, which was partly filmed in Italy, the Filipino remake filmed its first half in South Korea.
5. Lovers in Paris (2009)
The original Lovers in Paris, starring Kim Jung Eun, Park Shin Yang, and Lee Dong Gun, was a huge hit in the Philippines when its Filipino-dubbed version aired, quickly becoming a must-watch every night. Its popularity also paved the way for more Korean dramas on local channels in the country. The drama was further brought to life by Kitchie Nadal’s song “Huwag Na Huwag Mong Sasabihin,” which served as the soundtrack for the Filipino dubbed version.
Its success led to a Filipino adaptation in 2009, starring KC Concepcion, Piolo Pascual, and Zanjoe Marudo. This version follows Vivian (Concepcion), a hopeful woman who moves to Paris and becomes an assistant to wealthy businessman Carlo (Pascual). Their romance gets complicated with the involvement of Carlo’s nephew, Martin (Marudo), adding a unique Filipino touch to the original drama’s charm.
6. Stairway to Heaven (2009)
The Filipino adaptation of Stairway to Heaven is a remake of the beloved Korean drama that became a fan-favorite in the Philippines. Starring Dingdong Dantes as Cholo and Rhian Ramos as Jodi, this remake follows the story of the original version about childhood best friends who are separated by tragic circumstances. As they grow up, fate brings them back together, but not without obstacles, including deceit, jealousy, and a love triangle. The adaptation stays true to the heart-wrenching romance and intense drama of the original, while adding a distinctly Filipino flavor to the timeless tale.
7. Full House (2010)
The original Full House, starring Song Hye Kyo and Rain, quickly captured Filipino audiences when it aired as a dubbed series on GMA Network in 2005. The Philippine remake, which premiered in 2010, stars Heart Evangelista as Jessie, an aspiring writer who is tricked into selling her house to Justin (Richard Gutierrez), a famous actor. To reclaim her home, Jessie agrees to a fake marriage with Justin, leading to a series of comedic clashes that evolve into an unexpected romance. This adaptation maintains the original’s humor and charm while adding a fresh, local twist, making it a hit with viewers.
8. Endless Love (2010)
Endless Love is a heartfelt Filipino adaptation of the classic Korean drama “Autumn in My Heart”, starring Marian Rivera as Jenny and Dingdong Dantes as Johnny. The story follows siblings who discover they were switched at birth, leading to a dramatic separation. Years later, their paths cross again, and they fall in love, unaware of their tragic past. However, their love faces countless obstacles, including illness, family secrets, and unresolved emotions. This version brings a distinctly Filipino touch to the tear-jerking, tragic romance that made the original a huge hit across Asia.
9. Coffee Prince (2012)
In Coffee Prince, a playful mix of romance and mistaken identity drives the story. Aljur Abrenica stars as Arthur, a wealthy bachelor managing a coffee shop, while Kris Bernal plays Andy, a spirited woman who pretends to be a man to land a job. As Andy joins Arthur’s team, their bond grows, but confusion and unexpected feelings arise when Arthur starts questioning his own emotions. Similar to the original version, starring Yun Eun Hye and Gong Yoo, the Philippine blends humor, heartfelt moments, and a touch of drama in a way that resonates with viewers.
10. Temptation of Wife (2012)
Temptation of Wife is a gripping Filipino adaptation of the hit Korean drama, with Marian Rivera taking on the dual roles of Angeline and Chantal. The story centers on Angeline, a devoted wife betrayed by her husband and best friend, who conspire to get rid of her. After surviving their attempt to kill her, she returns with a new identity as Chantal, determined to seek revenge. Packed with twists, deceit, and intense drama, this adaptation captivated audiences with its portrayal of betrayal, empowerment, and ultimate redemption.
11. Two Wives (2014)
Two Wives is a Filipino remake of the popular 2009 Korean drama of the same name, that dives deep into the complexities of love, betrayal, and rivalry. The story revolves around Yvonne (Kaye Abad), a devoted wife who faces heartbreak when her husband Victor (Jason Abalos) falls in love with another woman, Janine (Erich Gonzales). The situation spirals into a messy love triangle, leading to intense confrontations, unexpected twists, and emotional battles. The show explores themes of forgiveness, revenge, and the struggles of holding onto or letting go of love, making it an engaging watch for fans of drama-filled stories.
12. My Fair Lady (2015)
My Fair Lady is a Filipino adaptation of the Korean drama with the same title, starring Jasmine Curtis-Smith as Audrey and Vin Abrenica as Hero. The story centers on Audrey, a spoiled heiress with a cold demeanor, who meets Hero, a street-smart guy hired as her personal assistant. As Lucas helps Audrey navigate her complicated life, their constant clashes gradually turn into affection. Through humor and heartwarming moments, this adaptation offers a fresh take on the classic “rich girl meets poor guy” trope while showcasing the character growth and chemistry between the leads.
13. Baker King (2015)
In Baker King, the Filipino remake of Bread, Love and Dreams, Takgu, the illegitimate son of Lee Han Seong Bread Factory’s president, is rejected by the Lee family. After his mother is kidnapped, he lives on the streets searching for her. Takgu finds his way to Lucky Bakeshop, where he faces off against his half-brother Michael. Starring Mark Neumann, Akihiro Blanco, Inah Estrada, and Shaira Diaz, the series mixes inspiration and drama as Takgu hones his baking skills and learns about life and love, blending determination and sweetness on screen.
14. My Love From the Star (2017)
What happens when a centuries-old alien crosses paths with a clumsy but lovable superstar? In this Filipino remake of My Love from the Star, Jennylyn Mercado takes on the role of Steffi, a famous actress who unknowingly falls for Matteo (Gil Cuerva), an alien who has been living on Earth for centuries. As their worlds collide, Matteo struggles with his impending departure while Steffi remains clueless about his true identity. The show blends sci-fi with romance, delivering a fresh local take while capturing the quirky charm and heartfelt moments of the original, starring Jun Ji Hyun and Kim Soo Hyun.
15. Descendants of the Sun (2020)
Descendants of the Sun was reimagined in the Philippines with Dingdong Dantes and Jennylyn Mercado leading the cast. The story centers on Captain Lucas (Dingdong Dantes), a dedicated soldier, and Dr. Maxine (Jennylyn Mercado), a passionate surgeon, whose love is tested by their clashing worlds—one built on saving lives, the other on taking them to protect others.
With thrilling missions, heartfelt moments, and a love that defies the odds, this adaptation brings a fresh local spin to the hit Korean drama, starring Song Hye Kyo and Song Joong Ki, while keeping all the intensity and charm that made the original a fan favorite.
16. Encounter (2021)
A chance encounter changes everything—Encounter weaves the story of two people from different worlds who meet by fate. Selene (Cristine Reyes), a heartbroken CEO, finds herself drawn to Gino (Diego Loyzaga), a free-spirited young man she meets during a trip abroad. Back in their complicated realities, their connection grows into a tender romance that defies social norms and tests their willingness to take risks for love. The Filipino adaptation adds a local touch while keeping the original’s mix of magic and bittersweet moments.
17. The Broken Marriage Vow (2022)
The Broken Marriage Vow is the gripping Filipino adaptation of the hit Korean drama The World of the Married. Jodi Sta. Maria takes on the role of Dr. Jill Ilustre, a successful doctor whose seemingly perfect life unravels when she discovers her husband David (Zanjoe Marudo) is having an affair with Lexy (Sue Ramirez), a much younger woman. The series dives into themes of betrayal, revenge, and the consequences of broken trust, offering an intense drama filled with raw emotions and powerful confrontations. Set against the scenic backdrop of Baguio, this adaptation stands out with its cultural nuances, captivating viewers with its mix of drama, suspense, and strong performances.
18. Flower of Evil (2022)
Flower of Evil adds a dark twist to Philippine primetime with its adaptation of the hit Korean drama. Piolo Pascual and Lovi Poe star as Jacob and Iris, a seemingly perfect couple whose lives are upended when Iris, a detective, begins to suspect her husband of being connected to a series of unsolved crimes. As secrets unravel, their marriage becomes a tense game of deception and emotional turmoil. This Filipino remake, featuring the original Korean stars Lee Joong Gi and Moon Chae Won, captures the suspense and depth of the original while infusing it with a gripping local flavor.
19. Start-Up (2022)
Start-Up immerses you in the dynamic world of tech and ambition. Bea Alonzo and Alden Richards star as Dani and Tristan, two driven professionals chasing their dreams in the start-up scene. Alongside them, Jeric Gonzales and Yasmien Kurdi add depth to the story. Dani aims to build her own tech company, while Tristan, a reserved tech genius, has his own goals. This Filipino adaptation blends innovation and heartfelt moments, offering a fresh local twist on the original, which featured Bae Suzy, Nam Joo Hyuk, Kim Seon Ho, and Kang Han Na.
20. What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim (2024)
What happens when a top executive’s world is turned upside down by his devoted secretary’s sudden resignation? In the Filipino remake of What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?, Kimberly Liwanag (Kim Chiu) quits her demanding boss, Brandon Manansala (Paulo Avelino), after nearly a decade. Her sudden departure throws his life into chaos, making him reevaluate everything he knew about her. The series combines humor and romance with a local twist, capturing the same comedic and heartwarming spirit as the original, starring Park Min Young and Park Seo Joon.
Filipino K-Drama adaptations mix the drama you love with a local twist. It’s like seeing your favorite story through a new lens—familiar yet refreshingly different. Dive in and enjoy the blend of global hits with a Filipino flair!
