What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedWhat's Wrong with Secretary Kim
Park Joon-hwa · Series · 2018
If you loved What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, start with Working Girl (Mike Nichols, 1988) — a film on the same thread. Below: 4 books, 3 films and 2 podcasts, each matched to What's Wrong with Secretary Kim across media.
If the dynamic between an arrogant boss and a capable secretary kept you watching, explore these stories of workplace tension and power.
Books on the same thread
Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982
Cho Nam-Joo, Nam-ju Cho · Book · 2020
Explores: systemic misogyny, gender inequality, mental health.
While What's Wrong with Secretary Kim leans into romantic comedy, this book provides a grounded look at the societal expectations and systemic pressures that often shape a woman's professional journey.
Crazy Rich Asians (Crazy Rich Asians Trilogy)
Kevin Kwan · Book · 2018
Shares a thread with What's Wrong with Secretary Kim: Romantic Comedy.
Just as the wealthy and demanding Lee Young-Joon drives the plot of What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, this story explores the complexities of navigating life among the ultra-privileged elite.
Don Quixote (Translated with an Introduction by John Ormsby)
Miguel de Miguel de Cervantes · Book · 2018
Explores: Madness, Idealism vs. Reality, The Power of Imagination.
Much like the exaggerated arrogance of the lead in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, this classic satire examines the disconnect between a character's inflated self-perception and his actual reality.
Problematic Summer Romance
Ali Hazelwood · Book
Shares a thread with What's Wrong with Secretary Kim: Romantic comedy.
This story mirrors the workplace power dynamics found in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, focusing on the complicated romantic tension that arises when professional boundaries between colleagues begin to blur.
Films on the same thread
Working Girl
Mike Nichols · Film · 1988
Shares a thread with What's Wrong with Secretary Kim: Workplace Comedy.
If you enjoyed the secretary-focused narrative of What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, you will appreciate this film's take on a determined assistant seizing power after being underestimated by her boss.
Parasite
Bong Joon Ho · Film · 2019
Explores: Class Warfare, Social Commentary, Deception.
This film provides a darker, more cynical perspective on the class disparities and service-based relationships that underpin the central dynamic seen throughout What's Wrong with Secretary Kim.
My Sassy Girl
Kwak Jae-yong · Film · 2001
Shares a thread with What's Wrong with Secretary Kim: Romantic Comedy.
Fans of the playful, chemistry-driven romance in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim will recognize the same brand of endearing, high-stakes personality clashes that define this iconic Korean romantic comedy.
Podcasts on the same thread
Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast
Life.Church · Podcast · 2026
Explores: Mentorship, Team Dynamics, Professional Growth.
If the executive management themes in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim intrigued you, this podcast offers practical insights into the leadership styles and team dynamics that define corporate life.
K's DRAMA
Podcast
Explores: Korean culture, Television analysis, Entertainment industry.
Continue the conversation surrounding the tropes and character arcs established in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim by diving into this deep analysis of popular Korean television and celebrity culture.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is What's Wrong with Secretary Kim about a boss and his assistant?
Yes, What's Wrong with Secretary Kim follows the professional relationship between Lee Young-Joon, a wealthy and arrogant vice-president of a large company, and his long-time secretary, Kim Mi-So. The story centers on the complications that arise when Kim Mi-So decides to resign from her position.
What happens to the vice-president in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim?
In What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, Lee Young-Joon is a successful but arrogant executive who relies heavily on his assistant. His life is disrupted when his secretary, Kim Mi-So, chooses to quit her job after working for him for many years.
Who is the main secretary in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim?
The main secretary in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim is Kim Mi-So. She has served as the secretary to the vice-president, Lee Young-Joon, for years and is considered perfect for the role before she ultimately decides to resign from her position.
Is What's Wrong with Secretary Kim directed by Park Joon-hwa?
Yes, What's Wrong with Secretary Kim is a television series directed by Park Joon-hwa. The show, released in 2018, depicts the dynamic between an arrogant company vice-president and his dedicated secretary, Kim Mi-So, after she announces her intention to leave her job.