In the captivating realm of Korean dramas, where romantic tension and sizzling connections often steal the show, not every pairing hits the mark. Despite stellar individual performances, some stars have faced backlash from fans and critics for failing to ignite that essential spark with their co-stars.

This listicle rounds up 13 such actors and actresses, highlighting specific dramas and pairings where chemistry fell flat, based on online discussions, reviews, and articles. These opinions are subjective, often stemming from mismatched acting styles, age gaps, or script issues, but they've fueled plenty of debates in the Kdrama community.

1. Lee Min-ho

In "The Heirs (2013)," Lee Min-ho's pairing with Park Shin-hye as Kim Tan and Cha Eun-sang drew criticism for possessive dynamics and a lack of genuine romantic connection, with fans noting the romance felt forced despite the hype. Critics pointed out his character's controlling behavior overshadowed any chemistry.

2. Park Shin-hye

Park Shin-hye faced similar flak in "The Heirs" for stale acting and flat expressions, contributing to the duo's unconvincing spark. In "Memories of the Alhambra" (2018) with Hyun Bin, their interactions were described as distant and lacking heat, more like a formal encounter than a romance.

3. Cha Eun-woo

Cha Eun-woo's roles often highlight his visuals, but in "My ID is Gangnam Beauty" (2018) with Im Soo-hyang, the pair's chemistry was called awkward and lacking emotional depth. Similarly, in "Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung" (2019) with Shin Se-kyung, their interactions felt superficial and more friendly than passionate.

4. Park Seo-joon

Despite his charm, Park Seo-joon was criticized in "Hwarang" (2016) with Go Ara for an unconvincing romance that felt forced and awkward. In "Itaewon Class" (2020) with Kim Da-mi, fans felt their dynamic was more platonic, with the age gap hindering romantic believability.

5. Bae Suzy

Bae Suzy's pairing in "Start-Up" (2020) with Nam Joo-hyuk received mixed reactions, with many fans arguing there was no chemistry and preferring her with the second lead. In "Doona!" (2023) with Yang Se-jong, the lack of convincing spark was highlighted, with her character's abrupt shifts making the romance unengaging.

6. Song Hye-kyo

In "The Glory" (2023), Song Hye-kyo's chemistry with Lee Do-hyun was deemed lacking, leading to criticism over an unnecessary kissing scene. Her role in "Now, We Are Breaking Up" (2021) with Jang Ki-yong was called out for minimal emotional display, making the couple unbelievable.

7. Song Kang

Song Kang faced backlash in "Forecasting Love and Weather" (2022) with Park Min-young for little to no chemistry, with the romance feeling silly. In "Nevertheless" (2021) with Han So-hee, the toxic dynamics and mixed signals amplified the perceived lack of genuine connection.

8. Nam Joo-hyuk

Nam Joo-hyuk's chemistry in "Start-Up" with Bae Suzy was criticized as flat, with fans rooting for alternative pairings. In "The Bride of Habaek" (2017) with Shin Se-kyung, the romance lacked magic, feeling underwhelming despite individual performances.

9. Im Soo-hyang

In "My ID is Gangnam Beauty" with Cha Eun-woo, Im Soo-hyang's pairing was faulted for lacking spark and emotional depth. Her role in "Kokdu: Season of Deity" (2023) with Kim Young-dae drew complaints for seriously lacking chemistry amid script inconsistencies.

10. Lee Jung-jae

Lee Jung-jae's upcoming drama "Nice to Not Meet You" (2025) with Lim Ji-yeon has already faced harsh criticism for awkward chemistry in promo shots, with netizens noting a father-daughter vibe due to the age gap.

11. Lim Ji-yeon

Similarly, in "Nice to Not Meet You," Lim Ji-yeon's visuals with Lee Jung-jae were panned for zero chemistry, exacerbated by production choices like costumes and lighting that failed to bridge the perceived disconnect.

12. Hyun Bin

In "Memories of the Alhambra," Hyun Bin's chemistry with Park Shin-hye was described as a dud, with interactions feeling distant and unable to convey a believable romance despite the star power.

13. Han So-hee

Han So-hee's role in "Nevertheless" with Song Kang was criticized for toxic elements that overshadowed any chemistry, with fans noting the relationship's red flags made it hard to root for the pair.