You might get reported to HR if you strike up a romance in your office, but these guys are luckier. I have a soft spot for workplace romance, much more so than school romances. All of these recommendations have happy endings. And there’s one show with a throuple lurking in this list.
A Boss & A Babe
Premise: Cher gets an internship at a gaming company where the CEO sends him on countless, annoying errands.
The plot wanders but it’s entertaining. Cher’s surprisingly dark backstory could have been handled more sensitively. But if you like a grump and sunshine romance set in the office, it’s a fun watch.
Bed Friend
Premise: Uea doesn’t like his co-worker king but ends up in bed with him anyway. They become friends-with-benefits, with no strings attached.
This show makes consent sexy. It doesn’t completely stick the landing on trauma sensitivity, but it’s a fun attempt. If you like spicy shows and don’t mind a messy plot, you’ll enjoy their banter and dynamics at work. Plus, the chemistry really is great.
P.S. Don’t get attached to this BL actor pair…their partnership has ended.
Cherry Magic Thailand
Premise: When a man turns 30, he gains the power to read peoples’ minds. He discovers that the office hotshot has a huge crush on him.
A totally wholesome romance with a slow-burn and no toxic tropes. It’s silly in places, but the tension is fun. I haven’t seen the original, but I liked this remake and recommend it if you like office rom-coms.
Deep Night
Premise: A host club forbids employees from dating coworkers. But romance blooms anyway between a veteran host and a newcomer as the club faces challenges.
This is an uncomplicated love story with most of the conflict coming from a two-dimensional villain. But it’s fun to watch, and the chemistry is good. There’s lots of jealousy and a ton of kiss scenes, if that’s your vibe!
Love in Translation
Premise: To open his business, a Chinese man reluctantly partners with a Thai man who’s trying to win the heart of an influencer.
I remember this one fondly. It has a grump and sunshine dynamic with a taste of enemies to lovers. The stakes are a little absurd, but it was fun watching them fall in love. I also liked the arc for one lead and his relationship with his brother.
Ossan’s Love Thailand
Premise: A property consultant who doesn’t know how to say no gets mixed up in a chaotic love triangle with his boss and coworker.
This show is for people who enjoy silliness. It made me laugh so much. I did want to shake all three of the leads for being exceedingly stupid, but I still loved them. It’s entertaining, through and through.
Step By Step
Premise: A boss known for his strict demeanor falls for his new employee. He tries to counteract his feelings by becoming even more demanding.
This is a slow burn romance that truly takes things step by step, as promised by the title. I enjoyed their dynamic and also the professional development of the employee. If you don’t mind the power dynamics of boss and employee, it’s a rewarding watch.
Thamepo: Heart That Skips A Beat
Premise: Po is hired to document the final days of a boy group before they disband. As he documents their demise, he becomes close with the group’s leader, Thame.
This green flag romance is set against the backdrop of the music industry, where people are brands to commodify. At its core, it’s a story about chasing your real dreams, not the ones you expect or others expect of you. The band is played by real life Thai group LYKN and the music is super fun.
The Ex-Morning
Premise: A broadcaster is demoted after lashing out at a coworker on air. His company gives him a second chance, but only if he works with his ex-lover.
I love it when leads actually use their words. I was surprised by how honest and earnest some of their conversations are. The chemistry becomes enticing, and the characters are fun. A solid watch, especially if you enjoy second chance romances!
This article is written by Ruth’s Rec Room, adapted from one of her recommendation posts on Instagram.