Here are five of the best Korean dramas that have left a lasting impression on viewers all over the world.
With the new season of “K-drama Mountain” set to air this week, viewers are eagerly anticipating the new episodes. However, there is one other show that is vying for top spot in the ratings. This show is called “Running Man.” The show has been on the rise in recent years and has been making a name for itself by airing high-quality episodes that are well-made and entertaining. However, “Running Man” is not without its competition. One of the other popular shows on TV this year is “The Good Place.” This show has been gaining popularity due to its clever writing and funny moments. It also features some great actors, such as Ted Danson and Kristen Bell.
Korean dramas have been ratings gold for years, and this year is no exception. With the top 50 highest rated dramas, you can expect some of the most popular shows to stay on the air for a long time to come.
Best Korean dramas of all time! We’ve put together a list of the best Korean dramas of all time, based on our own personal preferences and what we believe are the most important factors when choosing a drama. We hope you find this list helpful and enjoy watching some of the best Korean dramas ever!
The United States has announced that it will withdraw from the Paris Agreement, a global treaty designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The decision comes as a result of President Donald Trump’s decision to pull out of the Paris Agreement, which was ratified by the US in 2015. The president said that he was “not happy” with the agreement and that it wasn’t doing enough to help American businesses. The Paris Agreement was designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The US withdrawal means that the target will be missed by about 1.5 degrees Celsius, which would mean an increase in global temperatures of up to 3 degrees Celsius.
50 – Ghost Doctor
Network – tvN
Rating – 7.953%
Final Episode Air Date – 22nd February 2022
The story follows two doctors, one from a wealthy background and one from a poor background, as they work together to fix the broken system in their city. They each have their own unique skills and personalities, which clash and complement each other in ways that are never fully revealed. The story is full of mystery and suspense, as they try to figure out what happened to the city’s most important citizens and why things have gone so wrong.
On the other hand you have Go Seung-Tak, a medical doctor who has a fear of blood. After an accident sees Young-Min comatose, he ends up possessing Seung-Tak’s body.
Ghost Doctor is a well written and entertaining romp that is worth checking out. ..
49 – The Devil Judge
Network – tvN
Rating – 7.960%
Final Episode Air Date – 22nd August 2021
The Devil Judge is an interesting social and political examination of what would happen if court cases were turned into a reality show. Not only does this show cleverly weave satire and drama together, it does so with a decent central mystery and some excellent acting. The show is well-made, with good writing, directing, and acting. It’s also interesting to think about what could happen if court cases were turned into reality TV shows. ..
Kang Yo-Han is a righteous man who punishing the corrupt and greedy men in society. However, he has a dark secret about his past which stops him from emotionally connecting with those around him.
When rookie judge Kim Ga-On crosses paths with veteran judge Park Seo-Jin, the pair find themselves challenging and growing together. ..
48 – Dear My Friends
Network – tvN
Rating – 8.087%
Final Episode Air Date – 2nd July 2016
In a world where hospitals are often the backdrop to stories of love and loss, one young couple must navigate the challenges of a hospital stay while trying to keep up with the demands of their busy lives. My Friends is a slice of life drama that leans heavily into melodrama, but despite its flaws, it’s an interesting and engaging read. If you’re looking for something to keep you entertained during your next hospital stay, My Friends is definitely worth checking out.
The Network ratings speak volumes about this show, but it’s not typically given the credit it deserves. This is a sad and powerful story that often goes unnoticed.
47 – Thirty Nine
Network – tvN
Rating – 8.122%
Final Episode Air Date – 31st March 2022
The story follows three friends, Park Seung-keun, Woo Ji-young and Kim Seung-kyu, as they navigate their way through high school and their first love. They are forced to confront the challenges of growing up and finding love in a world that is constantly moving on.
Jung Chan Young always wanted to be a famous actress but ended up having a career as an acting coach instead. Cha Mi-Jo comes from a wealthy family and is a successful dermatologist. Jung Chan Young always wanted to be a famous model but ended up having a career as an advertising model instead. Shy Jang Joo-Hee works in a department store as a cosmetic manager.
With Chan-Young’s terminal diagnosis hanging heavily over this series, many questions remain over how our characters will process this news. ..
46 – Lie After Lie
Network – Channel A
Rating – 8.203%
Final Episode Air Date – 24th October 2020
The show is a classic makjang drama that gets the right balance between soapy melodrama and more subdued moments of quiet reflection. The show is well-made and has a lot of heart, making it an enjoyable watch. ..
Ji Eun-Soo is the daughter-in-law of a chaebol family who appears to have everything. Unfortunately, her own life takes a turn for the worse when she’s accused of murdering her abusive husband and sentenced to ten years in prison. While there, she gives birth to a baby girl but is heartbreakingly forced to give her up. ..
Eun-Soo, a young woman, is killed in a hit and run accident. Suspecting foul play, her Father and journalist Kang Ji-Min reach out to each other for help in getting to the bottom of what happened. As the plot thickens, Eun-Soo’s death leads to further investigations that reveal a shocking truth. ..
This is a crazy drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You should definitely check it out.
45 – Familiar Wife
Network – tvN
Rating – 8.210%
Final Episode Air Date – 20th September 2018
The question at the heart of this novel is whether or not we can change the course of history, and if so, what would be the consequences? In familiar wife, author Sarah J. Mass takes readers on a journey through time, exploring the potential consequences of altering history.
Joo-Hyuk finds himself in a time loop where he is married to Hye-Won instead of Woo-Jin. Thanks to two magical coins, he is able to break the loop and return to his own time. ..
The Back To The Future vibes in this one work well to keep things engaging.
The cast is great and the tone is nicely balanced with a few light bites of comedy. This one is definitely worth a watch!
44 – Misaeng: Incomplete Life
Network – tvN
Rating – 8.240%
Final Episode Air Date – 20th December 2014
Jang Geu-Rae’s life revolves around the board game “Go.” When he fails to achieve his lifelong dream of becoming a professional player, Geu-Rae is forced to leave his isolated existence and enter the real world.
He quickly realizes that he has a lot to learn about the company and its culture. But even more important, he learns how to be a successful intern.
Gue-Rae meets a colorful cast of characters and begins to use what he’s learned in Go to better himself navigate the volatile world of the everyday workplace. ..
The story of a young woman’s journey from poverty to wealth is well-told and compelling, but at times it can feel a bit too long.
43 – Misty
Network – JTBC
Rating – 8.452%
Final Episode Air Date – 24th March 2018
Misty is a show that will forever be judged by its ending, which leaves things open rather than resolving everything with a neat bow. ..
The story of Go Hye-Ran, a popular anchorwoman for a prime time news show, is engaging and revolves around her being the suspect in a murder case. Despite working hard and being good at her job, one day she becomes the victim of a crime. Her husband, Kang Tae-Wook, is forced to try and defend her, which causes the pair to begin falling in love all over again. ..
The story is well-written and enjoyable, but it may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
42 – Graceful Family
Network – MBN
Rating – 8.478%
Final Episode Air Date – 17th October 2019
Graceful Family is a suspenseful melodrama revolving around the large company MC Group. At the heart of this is beautiful Seok-Hee, who’s the only child to her Father who runs the company. While she appears arrogant, she hides a softer core as she continues to be haunted by the memories of her Mother who was killed 15 years before. ..
When Seok-Hee meets Yoon-Do, a lawyer who solves problems for neighborhood residents at a restaurant, she learns about the mysterious circumstances surrounding her mother’s death. Working together, they uncover the truth and help restore peace to Seok-Hee’s neighborhood. ..
There are some great moments in this one and the acting between the cast is ultimately what helps this one stand out the most. ..
41 – What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim
Network – tvN
Rating – 8.665%
Final Episode Air Date – 26th July 2018
What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim is a forgettable romantic comedy that feels very much like a simple romantic comedy on paper. The film has little in the way of redeeming or original features, making it a forgettable experience.
Secretary Kim is a perfect example of why you should never judge a book by its cover. Between the glimpses of our lead character’s dark past, the real kicker with Secretary Kim comes from the characters.
The cast of “The Kissing Booth” is incredibly likable and there’s some wonderful humor in the film. The leads have excellent chemistry that help elevate this simple rom-com into something so much more profound and enjoyable than it otherwise would be. ..
40 – Record Of Youth
Network – tvN
Rating – 8.740%
Final Episode Air Date – 27th October 2020
The 16 episodes of “Reply” were a success, but the follow-up series, “Itaewon Class”, was not as well-received. The low ratings may be because the show tried to merge the two genres together and it didn’t work.
The film follows the journey of three friends as they grow up in a small town in South Korea. The trio of friends are Jeong-Ha, a wildcard love interest; Seung-Woo, the older brother; and Min-Soo, the younger brother. Jeong-Ha is the only one who has no idea what he wants to do with his life and is constantly exploring new opportunities. He is also struggling with his familial structure and whether or not he should follow his parents’ wishes to become a doctor. Meanwhile, Seung-Woo is trying to find his place in the world and make sense of his family. He is also struggling with whether or not he should pursue a career in medicine after graduating from college. Finally, Min-Soo is trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life and how he can make the most of it while still following his parents’ wishes.
Hye-Jun is our lead though and an established model. He wants to break free from these shackles and pursue a career as an actor. After leaving his company for greener pastures, Hye-Jun turns to the inexperienced but ever-loyal Min-Jae to manage his acting career.
Already well on his way to fame, Hye-Jun’s best friend Hae-Hyo is already making waves in the industry.
The third friend is Jin-U who dabbles with the idea of opening his own studio but mostly sticks to the background for large stretches of the show. This is a light, breezy show that, while enjoyable in the moment, isn’t one you’ll be likely to stick around with for the long haul. ..
Our thoughts on Record of Youth in our full season review: We loved this season’s Record of Youth! The story is engaging and the characters are well-drawn. We especially enjoyed the interactions between the different characters and the way that the story unfolds. The writing is clear and easy to read, which makes it a great choice for readers who want to learn more about world history.
39 – Lawless Lawyer
Network – tvN
Rating – 8.740%
Final Episode Air Date – 27th October 2020
The show is set in the fictional city of Gwangju, which is known for its legal system and its gangs. The show follows Bong as he defends himself and others from criminals and prosecutors. He also has to deal with the personal consequences of his actions, such as relationships with women and his own family.
This series is all about action and drama, which is what makes it so exciting. Unlike other K-dramas of its kind, Lawless Lawyer doesn’t get bogged down in big romances and contrived love triangles. Instead, it focuses much more on its action and drama. This makes for an exciting read.
38 – Uncle
Network – TV Chosun
Rating – 8.740%
Final Episode Air Date – 30th January 2022
Joon-Hyuk, a musician down on his luck, turns to his estranged sister for help. Joon-Hee is a successful businesswoman who has everything going for her - except for one thing: she’s never been able to connect with her brother. When Joon-Hyuk comes to her for help, she takes him in and helps him get back on his feet. ..
Joon-Hee has just come out of an abusive relationship. She moves into a cheap apartment and decides to try and make a fresh start. Unfortunately, her ex tries to take Ji-Hoo, her son, away. In order to try and sort all of this out, Ji-Hoo ends up living with Joon-Hyuk. Only, the child suffers from both OCD and anxiety.
Joon-Hyuk manages to turn the fate of his sister and nephew around while maintaining balance in his own life. You’ll have to watch to find out!
37 – Stranger 2
Network – tvN
Rating – 9.408%
Final Episode Air Date – 4th October 2020
The film’s biggest issue is that it feels like it’s trying too hard to be something it’s not. It has a strong sense of atmosphere and setting but the characters and their interactions feel forced and artificial. There are some great ideas here but they don’t quite gel together.
The showrunners have tried to improve on the first half of the season, but it’s not always easy. The mystery is intriguing, but the story can be confusing at times. There are references to politics and social issues that can be difficult to follow, but the ending seems to hint that we’ll be getting a third season at some point.
Stranger 2 is a movie that was released in theaters on October 4th. It is the sequel to the 2017 film Stranger Things, and it follows the characters from that movie as they continue their lives after the events of that movie. We thought our thoughts on Stranger 2 would be interesting to share, so we’ve put together a recap of our episode recaps for each of the eight episodes of Season 2. ..
36 – Love (ft. Marriage and Divorce) Season 1
Network – TV Chosun
Rating – 9.656%
Final Episode Air Date – N/A (Ongoing)
Love is a makjang in every sense of word but devoid of much drama. While that sounds like a bit of an oxymoron, that’s because it is. The main drama here stems from three couples split across three different age groups. All three men are cheating on their respective partners and look set to divorce their partners.
The final stretch of the drama slows things down as it jumps back in time to fill in the blanks over who these mistresses are and what drove the husbands to see them. ..
The first season of “Stranger Things” is much more tepid than the first season of “The X-Files.” ..
Our thoughts on Love (ft. Marriage and Divorce) in our full season review can be found here.
35 – Strong Girl Bong-soon
Network – JTBC
Rating – 9.668%
Final Episode Air Date – 15th April 2017
Strong Girl Bong-Soon is a part-fantasy, part comedic drama about a strong woman called Bong-Soon who was born with superhuman strength. Putting her abilities to good use, she’s hired by the CEO of a gaming company to be his bodyguard. It’s a simple premise on paper but one that’s propped up by a thick layer of comedy and romance. ..
K-drama “The Heirs” is a classic Korean drama treasure that is easy to look past in the wake of its fun and lovable storyline. The chemistry between the two lead characters is ultimately what helps this stand out, and if you haven’t already, this is definitely worth checking out. ..
34 – The Light in Your Eyes
Network – JTBC
Rating – 9.731%
Final Episode Air Date – 19th March 2019
The Light In Your Eyes is a JTBC time-manipulation drama that revolves around one specific incident. Kim Hye-Ma is our protagonist and using a special watch found at a beach as a child, realizes she can manipulate time. The only trouble is, it comes with a heavy price. Every time she uses the watch, she ages.
Joon-ha and Hye-Ja meet again after a long time. They had both grown up in the same town, but now they are different people. Joon-ha is now an old man, and Hye-Ja is a young woman. They talk about their childhood memories and how they have changed since then. They also share some of their thoughts on the current state of the world.
The Light in Your Eyes is a dark and suspenseful story that has you on the edge of your seat the entire time. The twist at the end is shocking, and makes for an interesting read.
33 – Bossam: Steal the Fate
Network – MBM
Rating – 9.759%
Final Episode Air Date – 4th July 2021
The show is set in the year 2036, and follows the story of a young woman named Fate who is forced to choose between following her heart or following her head. The show is split across 20 episodes, and each one focuses on a different part of Fate’s life.
This is a story about a man who gambles, steals fights, and engages in bossam. It’s also a story about how this man’s wife is being kidnapped and how he’s using his money to ransom her.
A young prince mistakenly kidnaps the Princess Soo-Kyung, leading to a lot of drama and excitement.
Bossam is a hit with its ratings, despite later steering into political waters. ..
32 – Another Miss Oh
Network – tvN
Rating – 9.991%
Final Episode Air Date – 28th June 2016
The show’s main story line is about a young woman named Park Ji-hyun who is trying to find her place in the world after being discharged from a mental hospital. The show has received high ratings for its Monday-Tuesday episodes and it seems like the audience is really enjoying the story. Although it can feel a little slow at times, the drama delivers some memorable moments.
Do-Kyung is a sound director who is about to get married. On the day of the wedding, his bride-to-be Hae-Young goes missing. A year later, Do-Kyung is told that Hae-Young is getting married again and this time to a young entrepreneur named Han Tae-Jin. Do-Kyung has mixed feelings about the new marriage and he tries to find out what happened to Hae-Young. ..
Do-Kyung sets out to sabotage Tae-Jin’s business and get his revenge, only to find out that the woman he’s targeting is actually just a stranger with the same name.
Do-Kyung and Hae-Young are in a romantic comedy together. They refuse to marry, but their relationship grows stronger as they share more and more laughs. This series is full of laugh out loud moments that will make you smile.
31 – Memories of the Alhambra
Network – tvN
Rating – 10.025%
Final Episode Air Date – 20th January 2019
The series starts out with a bang, with the reveal of the Alhambra’s true purpose. It’s a secret government facility that is used to study time travel and other alternate universes. However, when two scientists at the facility are killed, their colleague, Park Seung-keun (Jung Woo-jin), begins to piece together what happened. He soon realizes that the Alhambra is not just a research center - it’s also home to a group of powerful people who use it for their own gain. As Park begins to investigate, he meets various characters along the way: an aspiring artist named Yoo Seung-kyu (Yoo Ji-hye), an enigmatic scientist named Han Joon-seok (Jung Hae-sung) and a beautiful woman named Choi Min-hee (Choi Seung-hee). Each character has their own secrets and agendas that complicate Park’s search for answers. The series quickly becomes action packed as Park tries to uncover the truth about the Alhambra and its occupants.
The rollercoaster ride ends with a devastating finale, leaving multiple threads open and a disappointing feel preventing re-watches. The reason it is on this list is because it is a rollercoaster that is not worth the time or money.
However, there are also some parts of the story that feel a bit too convenient and forced. The ending felt a bit too rushed and it was difficult to follow what was going on.
Despite the disappointing ending, Memories of the Alhambra is still an enjoyable ride worth taking if you haven’t already. ..
We thought the season was great, and we’d like to share our thoughts on Memories Of The Alhambra in our full season review. The show is set in a beautiful old palace in Spain, and it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in history. We loved the way the show used its location to explore different aspects of Spanish culture, and we were especially impressed by the way it showed how important music was to people of that era. We can’t wait to see what else the team has in store for us this year!
30 – Military Prosecutor Doberman
Network – tvN
Rating – 10.081%
Final Episode Air Date – 26th April 2022
Military Prosecutor Doberman tells the story of Do Bae-man, a man who initially became a military prosecutor for money and fame, looking forward to his retirement day. His counterpart is a woman called Cha Woo-in, who was born into a chaebol family and subsequently becomes a military prosecutor for revenge.
The ratings for this show are impressive given that it aired over Mondays and Tuesdays. ..
29 – Encounter
Network – tvN
Rating – 10.329%
Final Episode Air Date – 24th January 2019
Soo-Hyun decides to take a year off from her career to travel and explore the world. She meets a man named Park, who is also on vacation in Europe. They fall in love and decide to move to Europe together. However, their relationship is complicated by Soo-Hyun’s past and her husband’s affair. Despite all of this, they manage to make it work and eventually have a child together. Eventually, Soo-Hyun becomes a powerful politician after her husband’s death. She continues to face the challenges of her past but also finds new love and happiness. Park continues to be a part of her life, even though he may not always be easygoing or understanding.
Jin-Hyeok takes a trip to Cuba as a way of seeing out his 20’s. He meets Soo-Hyun, who is also on the trip, and the two wind up working together.
The show had a lot of heartwarming moments, but it was the dramatic beats that made it so enjoyable. The chemistry between the two leads was great.
27 – Show Window: The Queen’s House
Network – Channel A
Rating – 10.335%
Final Episode Air Date – 18th January 2022
Show Window, which started off with a modest rating of 2.049%, has steadily increased in popularity, making it number 25 on the top ranking leaderboard. That’s pretty impressive! ..
Han Sun-Joo is a happily married woman who lives with her husband and children. However, when she learns her husband has been having an affair with another woman, she supports the act without knowing the true nature of the relationship. This leads to Han Sun-Joo discovering a shocking truth about her own marriage. ..
This well-written and dramatic mystery novel is a definite hidden gem! The author has done an excellent job of creating a well-developed and exciting story that will keep the reader engaged from the very beginning. The writing is soapy and smooth, making it easy to read and enjoy. The plot is well developed and exciting, making it a surefire read for anyone looking for an enjoyable mystery novel.
26 – Mine
Network – tvN
Rating – 10.512%
Final Episode Air Date – 27th June 2021
Mine is an intriguing Korean drama – but it takes a while to get going. The first few episodes are slow-paced and lack excitement. However, once the story picks up, it becomes an engrossing watch. ..
As two new workers arrive at the Hyowon Mansion, they quickly start to clash with the women who have been in control for years. Yu-Yeon is a simple girl, but she quickly falls for Soo-Hyuk, a young master who has returned from a trip abroad. The women are not happy about this and begin to plot against each other, trying to consolidate power and take over the mansion.
Meanwhile, Ja-Kyeong shows up and she immediately becomes the tutor for Hi-Soo and her son Ha-Joon. Husband Ji-Yong clearly has a few skeletons in the closet, which is slowly revealed over time.
The biggest issue with “Mine” is that it takes too long to get going. Episode 8 finally establishes a consistent rhythm, but by then the show has lost much of its momentum. ..
25 – Jirisan
Network – tvN
Rating – 10.663%
Final Episode Air Date – 12th December 2021
The 25th Anniversary special on TVN was always bound to bring in a fair amount of views. The story is not without its flaws, but with dual timelines and an intriguing central mystery, there’s certainly enough to like with this one.
The Jirisan National Park is a vast and mysterious place, filled with unexplored regions that the rangers and other employees of the park explore. This book tells the story of these employees, who climb through these regions in order to find new and exciting ways to enjoy the park.
24 – My Kids Give Me a Headache
Network – JTBC
Rating – 10.715%
Final Episode Air Date – 17th March 2013
The Ahn family is one of the most diverse in Korea. They are a single mother, her two kids, and their grandparents. The show follows the family as they navigate through their everyday lives, and the struggles that come with being different in a society that is often intolerant of difference. ..
Reply 1997 was a popular Korean drama that aired on JTBC. It was a simple enough drama with ideas and concepts that made it well worth watching. Reply 40 is a similar but more complex drama that aired on JTBC. It’s a great watch if you want to learn more about South Korea’s history and culture.
23 – The Crowned Clown
Network – tvN
Rating – 10.851%
Final Episode Air Date – 4th March 2019
The Crowned Clown is a dramatic, politically charged series that is full of tension, twists and turns. The ending is satisfying and the cinematography throughout is impressive. This show makes for an impressive viewing experience.
As the Royal family struggles to maintain order, a power struggle for the throne quickly ensues. Lee Hun rules with an iron fist while the Queen Dowager, along with close advisor Sin Chi-Soo, plot to overthrow the King and snatch the throne for themselves.
When an entertainer arrives in town bearing the exact same face as the King, Lee Hun switches places with the pretender as a way of avoiding any assassination attempts. Unprepared and in over his head, Ha Sun takes on the throne and tries to navigate the murky waters of deceit and deception while avoiding being found out as an imposter. ..
The Crowned Clown is a gripping, fast-paced read that will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time. You’ll never know what’s going to happen next, and the ending is sure to leave you breathless.
We thought The Crowned Clown was a great show this season. It was dark and twisted, but also had a lot of humor. We loved the way it explored the different layers of society and its politics.
22 – The Uncanny Counter
Network – OCN
Rating – 10.999%
Final Episode Air Date – 24th January 2021
The Uncanny Counter is a web comic that follows the story of a young man named Kyeongirowoon Somoon as he tries to save the world from an evil organization known as The Counter. The story is full of action, dramatic plot beats, and an intriguing enough story to keep you watching right through to the end.
Mun is a teenage boy who has been chosen by the Counters to help them in their fight against the evil spirit dwelling within humans. He is joined by his best friend, a young girl named Choi-Yi, and they work together to track down the spirit and free it from its human host. The story follows their journey as they try to find the spirit and defeat it before it can take over more lives.
Mun is a young man who has lost his parents in a tragic accident. He sets out to find the person responsible for their deaths, but the truth is much more shocking than he could have imagined. Mun must face his emotions and learn to control them in order to continue living.
If you’re looking for a gripping, well-made Korean drama to watch this year, Uncanny Counter is definitely worth your time. The second season has already been greenlit and looks set to be even better than the first. ..
In our full season review, we discuss the new season of The Uncanny Counter and how it fared.
21 -Prison Playbook
Network – tvN
Rating – 11.195%
Final Episode Air Date – 18th January 2018
This series follows the everyday lives of inmates in a maximum security prison, from the guards who keep them safe to the inmates themselves. It’s a unique look at prison life that’s sure to keep you entertained for seasons to come.
Playbook is a new anime series that takes a light-hearted approach to the genre. Instead of leaning in on the melodrama and soapy elements, Playbook doubles down on the comedy to give it much more of a campy real-world version of an anime. This makes for an enjoyable show that is perfect for fans of both genres. ..
The Prison Playbook is a gripping, emotional drama that will keep you hooked from the first episode to the last. The writing is excellent and the characters are well-developed, making for an enjoyable experience. There are some serious emotional hammer blows along the way, but don’t be fooled by the comedy - this is a serious drama with heartbreak, tension and dark comedy at its core. This show definitely doesn’t miss a beat.
20 – Reply 1994
Network – tvN
Rating – 11.509%
Final Episode Air Date – 28th December 2013
In Reply 1994, we follow the lives of a group of people who are living in Korea during the early 1990s. We follow their everyday lives as they experience cultural events that are interwoven into their day-to-day lives.
This is a typical residential neighbourhood in the middle of Seoul. Dong-Il and his wife Il-Hwa live out their life with their daughter Na-Jung. Using their home as a boarding house for students, this 21 episode drama deliberates through a pretty slow, breezy pace with plenty of plot twists and dramatic moments along the way.
Reply 1994 is a great drama that is still popular today.
19 – Twenty-Five, Twenty-One
Network – tvN
Rating – 11.513%
Final Episode Air Date – 3rd April 2022
Thematically, Twenty Five Twenty One is a powerful story about the power of forgiveness, innocence and the harsh realities of life. The run-time changes as Hee-Do and her friends get older, making the problems they face more important.
The show starts with the challenges of school exams and training woes, but by the end it takes a tragic turn as 9/11 is mentioned. PTSD, mental health and depression take the story in a very different direction. ..
Twenty Five Twenty One is an excellent K-drama that is one of the best released in 2022.
18 -Hotel del Luna
Network – tvN
Rating – 12.001%
Final Episode Air Date – 1st September 2019
Hotel Del Luna may not be the strongest drama on the list, but it does pack one heck of an emotional punch. It arguably trumps every other drama from 2018 for its soundtrack. IU is also a masterclass in acting. ..
Hotel Del Luna is a hotel that is used as a gateway between the real world and the after life. This drama takes place in the hotel and following a bright opening act, a lot of the middle episodes fall into an episodic format until the third act starts to ramp up the drama, light horror elements and emotion.
The finale of “Descendants of the Sun” is one of the most emotional episodes of Korean TV in quite some time. The supernatural elements and world building are excellent throughout, and the cinematography is really impressive too. ..
We thought Hotel Del Luna was a great choice for our stay in the city. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the room was clean and comfortable. We would definitely recommend this hotel to others!
17 -The Lady in Dignity
Network – JTBC
Rating – 12.065%
Final Episode Air Date – 19th August 2017
The Lady In Dignity is a dark and dramatic show that follows Ah Jin, a beautiful woman who enjoys her luxurious life married into a rich family. Through her wits, she gains the truth of President Ahn, who happens to be her Father-in-law and the head of the house. The show is split across 20 episodes and is full of suspense and excitement.
When the pair look for a caregiver, they stumble upon Bok-Ja, who seems like the perfect fit for her family. However, Bok-Ja has other plans and after seducing President Ahn, aims to take over the household.
The story is about a group of people who are all struggling to find their place in the world. The characters are all interesting and the dynamics between them are compelling. The story itself is okay but the main draw here are the characters, who all do a great job in their respective roles.
16 -Our Blues
Network – tvN
Rating – 12.541%
Final Episode Air Date – 12th June 2022
Our Blues is a slice of life K-drama which follows the story of multiple characters all living on Jeju Island and are interconnected through their romance and friendships.
Our Blues is a beautiful drama set on Jeju Island that tackles real-life issues in an in-depth way. The episodes spread out across various different chapters following these characters, and the setting is beautiful. ..
15 -Signal
Network – tvN
Rating – 12.544%
Final Episode Air Date – 12th March 2016
The story follows a detective named Park Seung-keun as he investigates a series of murders that take place in the city of Seoul in 1989. The murders are connected and seem to be committed by someone who knows the future, but the detective is unable to figure out who or what is behind the killings.
The team of Hae-Young and Soo-Hyun work together to catch the killer. With the gift of hindsight and foresight at their disposal, they work to try and prevent these atrocious crimes from ever taking place.
The crime drama elements of this show work really well with the timelines to make for a really engaging watch. The show’s setting and story are both interesting and unique, and the characters are well-drawn. While not an outright sci-fi proposition, the crime drama elements work really well with the timelines to make for a truly engaging watch.
14 -Hometown Cha Cha Cha
Network – tvN
Rating – 12.544%
Final Episode Air Date – 17th October 2021
Hometown Cha Cha Cha is a light, breezy k-drama that is rife with romance, comedy and light bites of drama. It is the perfect small town weekend treat and an undeniably fun watch from start to finish. ..
Chief Hong Du-Sik is the town’s unofficial leader and he’s not too happy about Hye-Jin’s arrival. He doesn’t trust her and thinks she’ll only cause trouble for the town. However, over time, Hye-Jin proves herself to be a valuable member of the community and Chief Hong eventually comes to accept her. ..
Du-Sik is a handsome and suave man who is officially unemployed but undeniably busy. He helps out all the different residents and gives Hye-Jin some sound advice. As one may expect, the duo start to grow closer together and across the episodes each grow and evolve over time. ..
The show is set in the small town of Hometown Cha Cha, and revolves around the relationships between its residents. The show has a large ensemble of characters, and each one has their own story to tell. The show is warm and inviting, and will make you feel right at home.
Our full season review of Hometown Cha Cha Cha is available here. ..
13 -Hospital Playlist 2
Network – tvN
Rating – 14.080%
Final Episode Air Date – 16th September 2021
The hospital playlists I’ve collected offer a unique and enjoyable experience that manages to strike a great balance between feeling grounded in realism but dramatic enough not to steer into unbelievable melodrama.
The series follows the heartwarming dedication of five surgeons and their different methods toward their patients, while we follow their lives and relationships unfold across the twelve episodes.
The five surgeons are Kim Jun-Wan, Ahn Jeong-Won, Yang Seok-Hyeong, and Rhee Ji-Won. They are all heart surgeons who sometimes act coldly towards their patients while pediatric surgeons, with alternate plans to become priests. Rounding out the quintet is gentle Yang Seok-Hyeong who is a divorced obstetrician and cares deeply about his mother.
The series follows these five doctors as they start working in the same hospital, sharing their days together and interacting with the other doctors and students. They deal with many different medical cases across the episodes while blowing off steam after work by rehearsing for their fun musical band. The writing is well done and also looks set to have a follow-up second season at some point too.
Our thoughts on the Hospital playlist continue in our episode recaps. ..
12 -Hospital Playlist
Network – tvN
Rating – 14.142%
Final Episode Air Date – 28th May 2020
Hospital Playlist is a new medical drama that brings simplicity back to the genre, serving up an enjoyable story which manages to strike a great balance between feeling grounded in realism but dramatic enough not to steer into unbelievable melodrama. ..
The series follows the heartwarming dedication of five surgeons and their different methods toward their patients, while we follow their lives and relationships unfold across the twelve episodes.
The doctors in this story are all different, with different skills and interests. Kim Jun-Wan is a heart surgeon who sometimes acts coldly towards his patients while Ahn Jeong-Won is a very caring paediatric surgeon, with alternate plans to become a priest. Rounding out the quintet is gentle Yang Seok-Hyeong who is a divorced obstetrician and cares deeply about his mother.
The series follows five medical students as they start working together at the same hospital. They deal with a variety of medical cases in each episode, and also have fun by rehearsing for their musical band. This series is well written and looks like it will have a second season. ..
Hospital Playlist is a great way to spend your free time. Whether you’re looking for something to keep you entertained or to learn new things, Hospital Playlist has something for you.
11 – 100 Days My Prince
Network – tvN
Rating – 14.412%
Final Episode Air Date – 30th October 2018
100 Days My Prince is an intriguing Korean drama that while it doesn’t necessarily do anything outstanding, it does tick all the usual boxes one would expect from a period drama. ..
Hong Sim helps Lee Yool find his way back to the world and learns about the dangers of assassination. Together, they work to stop a series of assassinations that are targeting high-ranking officials in Joseon.
The show is a period drama that blends comedy, romance and history together. The mystery is engaging and the chemistry between actors is really good too. ..
10 – Vincenzo
Network – tvN
Rating -14.636%
Final Episode Air Date – 2nd May 2021
The show is set in the future, where a virus has caused the death of most of humanity. In its place, a new society has arisen where comedy is the main form of entertainment. Vincenzo follows two friends as they try to survive in this new world and find their place in it. The show is full of humor and tension, and manages to keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time.
A court case in South Korea has turned into a battle of lawyers, with each side doing their best to gain an advantage. The case revolves around a building called Geumga Plaza, and the drama is packed full of shocking twists and comedy. Vincenzo’s episodes last nearly 90 minutes, and they are sure to keep you entertained. ..
Vincenzo is a talented player who can create chances for his team. He was a key part of the Fiorentina side that reached the Europa League final last season, and he will be looking to build on that success this season. ..
9 – Itaewon Class
Network – JTBC
Rating – 16.458%
Final Episode Air Date – 21st March 2020
This conventional 16 episode Korean drama combined important themes around acceptance, belief and racism when it aired earlier this year. While some of the middle chapters run out of steam before picking up toward the end, this drama is still an important look at these topics that will continue to be talked about long after its airing.
Sae-Ro-Yi is a rebellious high school student who finds himself entangled in a blood feud with Geun-Won following the shocking death of his Father. The two share a mutual dislike for each other, but their rivalry soon turns into a full-blown war.
In a city full of tourists and businesses, Sae-Ro-Yi finds himself the outcast. He’s been thrown in prison for revenge crimes he didn’t commit, and now he’s stuck in a hostile environment. With no one to help him, Sae-Ro-Yi must team up with the eccentric Yi-Seo to open a pub in Itaewon in order to usurp the Chairman and Jangga Co.
The main plot line of this novel is engaging and well written. The soundtrack is also incredible.
We thought Itaewon Class was a great experience this season! The staff was friendly and the classes were interesting.
8 – Love (ft. Marriage and Divorce) Season 2
Network – TV Chosun
Rating – 16.582%
Final Episode Air Date – 8th August 2021
Love is a makjang in every sense of word but devoid of much drama. While that sounds like a bit of an oxymoron, that’s because it is. The main drama here stems from three couples split across three different age groups. All three men are cheating on their respective partners and look set to divorce their partners.
In the second season of “The Mistresses,” the mistresses come into contact with the wives, filling in some of the blanks over who they are and what drove their husbands to see them. The story jumps back and forth in time, filling in the gaps as needed.
The show is a hit with viewers and it’s now TV Chosun’s highest-rated drama of all time.
Our thoughts on Love (ft. Marriage and Divorce) in our full season review can be found here.
7 -Mr. Queen
Network – tvN
Rating – 17.371%
Final Episode Air Date – 14th February 2021
The Joseon Dynasty is a fascinating time period to watch, and Mr Queen is a hilarious, well written body swap comedy set deep in the heart of the Joseon Era. Despite some missteps along the way, this historical drama is undeniably a really solid and enjoyable watch.
The story follows Bong-Hwan, an arrogant chef who finds himself suffering from a head injury which tumbles him back through time. When he awakens, he’s trapped inside the body of the new Queen, So-Yong. With political powers conspiring to thwart her at any moment, Bong-Hwan does his best to play up his role while desperately searching for a way back to the present.
Shin Hye-Sun and Kim Jung-Hyun are absolutely fantastic in this show, with some truly electric scenes when they share the spotlight. This one is definitely worth watching. ..
Our thoughts on Mr Queen in our full season review are here!
6 – Mr. Sunshine
Network – tvN
Rating – 18.129%
Final Episode Air Date – 30th September 2018
This is a really well written period piece that combines impressive visuals with a really well written story. Exceptionally well written infact. Coupled with some brilliant casting, this is one Korean drama not to be missed.
Sunny, a Korean-American man, returns to his hometown in 1871 as an American soldier. He struggles with the conflicting emotions of returning home and being an American soldier in the Joseon period. The show was one of the best shows of 2018. ..
The show is brilliantly paced, even across the extended 24 episode run, and the show backs up its solid writing with some excellent production design and set pieces. Given this one is available to watch on Netflix, Mr Sunshine is another must-watch.
Our thoughts on the show Mr. Sunshine are that it was an enjoyable watch and well worth your time. ..
5 – Guardian: The Lonely and Great God
Network – tvN
Rating – 18.680%
Final Episode Air Date – 21st January 2017
The Lonely & Great God is a Korean drama that is one of the best that has ever been made. The cinematography is excellent, and the chemistry between the cast and the soundtrack is fantastic. The journey from start to finish is wonderful, and it should be watched by fantasy fans.
This story is about a 939-year-old immortal who is best friends with a Grim Reaper and a student called Eun-Tak with a tragic past. As fate would have it, Eun-Tak happens to be his bride who’s destined to break Shin’s immortal curse.
The story is well-made and has a lot of twists and turns. It manages to nail every aspect of its production. When it comes to K-Dramas, this one sets the bar very high. ..
Our thoughts on Goblin in our full season review: Goblin is a new and exciting show that we enjoyed watching this season. The story is well-told and the characters are well-developed. We thought that the show had potential to be even better, but we were disappointed with some of the choices that were made. Overall, we thought that Goblin was a great addition to our TV lineup this season.
4 – Reply 1988
Network – tvN
Rating – 18.803%
Final Episode Air Date – 16th January 2016
Reply 1988 is a real trip down memory lane – and perfect to wash down the bitter trip that is Penthouse. Nestling itself in nicely alongside other dramas of its kind, Reply 1988 adopts a light, breezy tone but finds strength in its characters who are all well written and have lots of dramatic moments.
There are some surreal and hilarious moments here too (“Aigoo Kim Sajang!”) mixed in with more heartfelt and touching segments across this expansive story. This is a well-done documentary that tells the story of a family from South Korea who immigrate to the United States in search of a better life. The film has both heartwarming and humorous moments, as well as an interesting look at life in America for immigrants from South Korea. ..
This 20 episode series is split into feature-length episodes as we follow a dozen or so characters from 1988 up to 1994. There’s a blend of romance, comedy and drama here too, meaning fans of Firefly Lane should definitely love this one. ..
Our thoughts on Reply 1988 in our full season review: Reply 1988 was a great show that we enjoyed watching this year. The acting was top-notch and the story line was interesting. We would definitely recommend this show to others!
3 – Crash Landing on You
Network – tvN
Rating – 21.683%
Final Episode Air Date – 16th February 2020
Many people are calling Crash Landing On You 2020’s crowning jewel. It’s also arguably the gateway drama that attracted a whole new crowd of people to experience Korean dramas thanks to Netflix’s desire to showcase more of these wonderful shows. Crash Landing On You manages to effortlessly blend romance, action and comedy together into one heady cocktail of delight. ..
The show is called “K-Drama” and it’s a show that manages to keep you on the edge of your seat with every episode. It features twists and turns that leave you speechless, in tears, elated or even all three! While some may find the ending frustrating, this K-Drama successfully crashes onto our list for all the right reasons. It’s also one of the must-watch shows of 2020.
In our full season review, we talk about how Crash Landing On You is a great new show that is sure to keep you entertained.
2 -Sky Castle
Network – JTBC
Rating – 23.779%
Final Episode Air Date – 1st February 2019
Sky Castle had a long-standing reputation for being one of the highest rated channels in the UK. This was especially true after it held that title for many years until it was beaten by rival channel BBC One in 2020. It’s a remarkable feat, especially when you look back and see how much drama there was on Sky Castle with its opening episode.
The women are desperate to get their kids into university no matter the cost, even if it means sacrificing their own happiness. They are determined to make the best of their situation, even if it means going against the grain. But as they all try to figure out how to make the most of their unique lives, they quickly realize that there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Sky Castle is a well-done Korean drama that examines class and culture. It also has thought-provoking discussions around parental pressure to excel in school. This makes Sky Castle one of the best Korean dramas out there and a must-watch for any K-drama lover! ..
1 -The World of the Married
Network – JTBC
Rating – 28.371%
Final Episode Air Date – 16th May 2020
The World of the Married is a show that is loved by many Koreans for its well written characters and its evolving plot. The show has been praised for its ability to balance well written characters with an evolving plot over time.
The World of the Married is a gripping show that follows a married couple who are betrayed by one another and go on a wild revenge spree. The story is full of suspense and heartache, making it an excellent choice for viewers looking for an intense show to watch.
The Baeksang Arts Awards (Korean: 박사학생대회) are an annual award ceremony that rewards excellence in the arts in South Korea. The show, “It’s also worth noting”, won Best Actress at the Baeksang Arts Awards, and the show bagged itself the Best Director award too. It’s certainly one of the best Korean dramas of 2020 and well worth watching if you haven’t already.
- “The Moon Embraces the Sun” (1951)
- “The Three Musketeers” (1957)
- “The Man Who Knew Too Much” (1965)
- “The Return of Sherlock Holmes” (1937)
- “Dracula” (1897)
- “The Three Musketeers II: The Two Noble Knights” (1958)
- “A Tale of Two Cities” (1859)
- “Wuthering Heights” (1847)
- “Anna Karenina” (1867)
- “Life of Pi” (2014)
- “Kiss the Girls!” (2005)
- “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” (1995)
- “Moby Dick!"(1951)* *Note: This list is not in chronological order
This is a survey of Korean dramas that were aired on television in 2017. The survey was conducted by the website “Korea Herald.”
