Have you ever seen a K-drama parent and thought to yourself, 'Why is this person like this?' Why do they treat their own child in such a way? K-dramas are packed with heartwarming moments, swoon-worthy romances, and inspiring character arcs, but sometimes, it’s the parents who end up stealing the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Few things rile up viewers more than overbearing mothers who manipulate, guilt-trip, and emotionally wreck their children.
Whether it’s a chaebol mom trying to tear apart a romance, a parent whose obsession with status pushes their child to the edge, or one whose abuse leaves lasting scars, these mothers made audiences furious every time they appeared on screen.
Here’s a look at K-drama mothers who truly tested our patience and earned the title of worst parents ever.
Jin Ah’s Mother ('Something in the Rain')
Her mother is emotionally distant and judgmental, constantly pressuring her daughter about her career and relationships. Her controlling nature and lack of support push Jin Ah into moments of insecurity, leaving viewers frustrated with her cold and unsympathetic attitude.
Do Hye Jae ('It’s Okay to Not Be Okay')
Ko Moon Young’s mother is one of the darkest characters in the drama. She emotionally and verbally abused her daughter, isolating her and leaving her unable to connect with others. When she could no longer control Moon Young, she resorted to even more extreme and destructive measures.
Han Seo Jin ('Sky Castle')
Her life revolves entirely around getting her daughter into a top medical school, no matter the cost. She manipulates, pressures, and emotionally blackmails her child, all while hiding dark secrets about her own past. Watching her go to such extreme lengths for her ambitions made viewers both angry and captivated.
Sanha’s Mother ('Family by Choice')
Kim Sanha’s mother is a painful example of a parent who fails their child when it matters most. She blames him for his younger sister’s death and abandons him when he is still very young. Even years later, she ridicules and emotionally abuses him, projecting her own bitterness and failures onto him.
Kang Hee Soo ('Boys Over Flowers')
Hee Soo, Jun Pyo’s mother, is remembered as one of the most feared chaebol moms in K-drama. She schemes endlessly to keep her son away from Jan Di, whom she deems unworthy of their family. While she believes she is protecting her company and reputation, she only ends up hurting Jun Pyo and driving a wedge between him and the person who makes him happiest.
Cheon Seo Jin ('The Penthouse: War in Life')
Cheon Seo Jin is manipulative, narcissistic, and power-hungry, willing to use anyone, including her own daughter, to maintain her image and control. She schemes, gaslights, and even commits murder, cementing her place as one of the most chilling mothers in K-drama history. In the end, karma catches up with her, giving viewers the satisfaction of watching her face the consequences.
So, which K-drama mother made your blood boil the most? Was there one who made you feel genuinely sorry for their child? Share your thoughts and the names not mentioned here.
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