Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Snarky K-drama examines a marriage under pressure.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Queen of Tears
What's the Story?
A corporate heiress named Hong Hae-in (Kim Ji-won) decides to go undercover and see what it's really like working for her family's department store in QUEEN OF TEARS. When a worker named Baek Hyun-woo (Kim Soo-hyun) sees her kicking the copy machine repeatedly, he steps in to try to help her. This kindness goes a long way in Hae-in's eyes, and they become romantically involved. Will their relationship survive the unique challenges they face? Will love win?
Is It Any Good?
Featuring dynastic infighting in a modern setting, this show has shades of historical Korean dramas, but courtesan restraint is definitely not on display. In fact, tantrums and rants play a big part in this soapy romance. The characters in Queen of Tears aren't as quirky or funny as in some other K-dramas, but they can be endearing for those who commit to the series.
This one's best for true K-drama fans, and it's fine for young teens and adults to watch together. The twists that intrigue do emerge -- if you hang on long enough.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about courage in Queen of Tears. What does it take to shake up people's expectations in this show? How do characters face their challenges?
Compassion is born out of ill-fated news. What inspires compassion in your life?
People who've climbed to the top of the social order in this show can be ruthless and cruel. How does humility play a role to help characters grow?
TV Details
- Premiere date : March 9, 2024
- Cast : Kim Soo-hyun , Kim Ji-won , Na Young-hee
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Humility
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate