10 K-Dramas You NEED To Watch Now!

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Exploring the world of K-dramas can be quite overwhelming due to their diverse range and growing popularity among international viewers. With many Korean dramas often appearing in Netflix’s Global Top 10 Non-English Shows, it’s clear that these productions are capturing global attention. Ranging from timeless classics like “Coffee Prince” to modern blockbusters such as “Squid Game”, there’s an abundant selection to choose from for those new to this exciting genre.

Although many well-known K-dramas, particularly romantic ones, often rely on conventional themes like the transition from friends to lovers, the hostility-turned-love storyline, or office romances, they continue to introduce novel elements into their narratives. It is indisputable that romantic K-dramas are popular, but certain streaming services, such as Netflix, have also created darker K-dramas like “Hellbound”. To recommend Korean shows to a friend who’s new to the scene, I would suggest a mix of rom-coms, action-packed series, and suspenseful thrillers.

10. Hospital Playlist

2020

Medical dramas have provided enjoyment for numerous individuals, and luckily, Korean dramas (K-dramas) live up to this expectation. Among the numerous medical K-dramas, Hospital Playlist is an excellent choice for exploring this subgenre. The series centers around four friends who are doctors at the same hospital, navigating through the challenges that come with their high-pressure careers.

The TV series “Hospital Playlist” is a fantastic choice for enthusiasts of medical dramas. It offers intriguing medical cases and dramatic moments, all while providing insights into the lives of the dedicated doctors who care for their patients. This slice-of-life K-drama boasts a lively soundtrack that perfectly complements the show, enhancing its appeal as suggested by its title. Given the quality of “Hospital Playlist”, it’s no wonder that other medical K-dramas set in the same universe have emerged, such as “The Trauma Code: Heroes On Call” and “Resident Playbook”.

9. What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim

2018

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I can wholeheartedly attest to the multifaceted talent of Park Seo-joon, showcased through “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim.” This enchanting office romance follows the journey of Kim Mi-soo, a dedicated secretary contemplating her resignation to pursue other life passions, who finds herself unexpectedly smitten by her stern and aloof boss. However, “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” transcends the realm of just another sugary sweet K-drama. It ventures into profound realms, such as grappling with the complexities of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

In the realm of K-dramas featuring office romances, titles like Song Kang’s “Forecasting Love and Weather” abound. However, it is the series “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” that sets the bar for this subgenre. The chemistry between Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young in the show is palpable. Their characters in this romantic K-drama display an equal balance of strength and support, making them a perfect match. With its relatable everyday vibe, heartwarming love story, and profound themes, “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” is a must-watch for any newcomer to the world of K-dramas.

8. Under The Queen’s Umbrella

2022

If you’re in the mood for period dramas, there’s no better introduction than “Under the Queen’s Umbrella”. This historical Korean series follows the story of a queen determined to see one of her sons ascend the throne, amidst rivalry and intrigue from several concubines. “Under the Queen’s Umbrella” is an engrossing Korean TV show that promises an emotional ride. It offers a blend of humor, poignant moments, and even a touch of suspense.

In this captivating K-drama, every scene brims with intensity, thanks to its skillfully crafted cinematography and exceptional acting talent. Titled “Under the Queen’s Umbrella“, it offers viewers a compelling exploration of royal succession during the Joseon Era in South Korea, making it both enlightening and engaging. Moreover, woven within the political intrigue of the court is a heartwarming love story that adds an appealing romantic touch for those new to history-infused dramas.

7. Fight For My Way

2017

Following its debut, Fight For My Way propelled its actors to fame. With Park Seo-joon portraying Ko Dong-man and Kim Ji-won as Choi Ae-ra, this K-drama explores a relationship that blossoms from friendship into romance. Central characters Ae-ra and Dong-man are the main focus of Fight For My Way’s plot, but it also includes a secondary storyline featuring Baek Seol-hee (played by Sang Ha-yoon) and Kim Joo-man (portrayed by Ahn Jae-hong). Although there are multiple narrative threads in Fight For My Way, everything fits seamlessly together without feeling disjointed.

The K-drama “Fight For My Way” stands out as an exceptional piece of work, boasting no lulls from start to finish. The series excels in every aspect – its cast is superb, it’s filled with humor, and it delivers a touching romance. Ae-ra and Dong-man may act immaturely at times, but their relationship dynamic remains endearing even as they navigate their romantic journey together.

6. Crash Landing On You (2019)

The heartwarming Korean drama titled “Crash Landing On You” captivated audiences upon its release, shattering several viewing records along the way. As one of tvN’s top-rated Korean dramas, this romantic series unfolds a beautiful love story between a North Korean soldier and a South Korean heiress. For five years, “Crash Landing On You” held the title for tvN’s most-watched K-dramas until it was surpassed by “Queen of Tears” in 2024. Additionally, this drama garnered numerous accolades, primarily due to its distinctive romantic narrative.

The theme of forbidden love is commonly found in Korean romantic dramas, and the popularity of “Crash Landing on You” underscores this. Unlike traditional romances, this Korean series centers around a topic considered taboo – a North Korean soldier falling for a South Korean individual. However, what truly sets “Crash Landing on You” apart is its portrayal that love knows no bounds. Se-ri not only discovers love in North Korea but also forms friendships that become like family to her. The romantic storyline, family drama, and found family concept of “Crash Landing on You” make it an excellent choice for beginners of K-dramas.

5. Goblin

2016

Under the guidance of stars Gong Yoo and Kim Go-eun, the Korean series Goblin achieved both domestic and international acclaim. This fantastical drama follows the story of Kim Shin, a 1000-year-old goblin on a quest for his bride. K-dramas often blend multiple genres, and Goblin is a prime example of this, offering not only the romantic tale between Kim Shin and Ji Eun-tak, but also captivating fantasy, historical elements, and an undeniable chemistry between its main characters. Newcomers to K-dramas will find much to enjoy in this Korean series.

The supernatural series “Goblin” is not just amusing but also boasts some heart-tugging emotional scenes. One factor contributing to its widespread acclaim is the captivating romance between its side characters, played by Lee Dong-wook and Yoo In-na, who portrayed Wang Yeo and Kim Sun in “Goblin”. Their exceptional performances led them to work together again three years later in another K-drama titled “Touch Your Heart”.

4. Extraordinary Attorney Woo

2022

Extraordinary Attorney Woo is a delightful K-drama that skillfully blends the aspects that make Korean shows so appealing to watch. What sets Extraordinary Attorney Woo apart is its sensitive representation of neurodiversity. This series follows a lawyer with autism as she navigates the challenges of her profession.

In a compelling manner, Extraordinary Attorney Woo highlights and relates to viewers the unique characteristics of its title character, Woo. This captivating K-drama delves into intriguing legal matters while shedding light on the challenges Woo faces in gaining recognition from her peers.

3. Boys Over Flowers

2009

When “Boys Over Flowers” debuted, the Korean Wave was already thriving, yet this 2009 series significantly amplified global interest in Korean dramas. The narrative of “Boys Over Flowers” revolves around Geum Jan-di, a financially struggling girl who enrolls at the elite Shinwa High and finds herself smitten with the wealthiest chaebol student there. Key actors from “Boys Over Flowers,” such as Lee Min-ho, subsequently achieved notable success and graced numerous other prominent Korean dramas.

Exploring the genre through Boys Over Flowers is like taking a delightful dip. This Korean coming-of-age drama features a heartwarming romance that delves into how economic disparities can influence relationships. The charm of the series lies in Geum Jan-di and Gu Jun-pyo, who despite numerous obstacles, harmoniously coexist and support each other. Their relationship brings humor to the storyline while also presenting intricate characters grappling with adolescence and young love.

2. All Of Us Are Dead

2022

Korean producers and content creators have mastered what makes the zombie genre compelling. A prime example of this is “All of Us Are Dead,” the hit Netflix original K-drama that follows a group of students forced to survive after a zombie outbreak at their school. If you’re a fan of shows or films centering around the undead, then “All of Us Are Dead” should definitely be on your watchlist. What sets this K-drama apart is its innovative take on the genre by introducing zombies with unusual abilities.

I’ve found myself utterly engrossed in “All of Us Are Dead,” a thrilling K-drama that never disappoints. It’s packed with non-stop action, but what sets it apart are the intricate characters and an unexpected twist. Each episode is a rollercoaster ride filled with suspenseful moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat. “All of Us Are Dead” showcases just how far people will go to survive, making it a gripping watch from start to finish. If you’re new to K-dramas like me, this is an excellent introduction!

1. Squid Game

2021

As someone who’s always eager for the next binge-worthy series, it’s hard to ignore the hype surrounding “Squid Game.” Netflix’s all-time blockbuster, this gripping K-drama has captured both viewers and critics with its unique concept. The story revolves around individuals drowning in debt, who find themselves competing in childhood games with life-or-death stakes, in the hopes of winning a fortune.

Characters within Squid Game find themselves in such a predicament due to financial hardships, making them pawns for the amusement of the wealthy. The series also delves into the destructive power of greed, as demonstrated when players choose to continue the games despite knowing more lives will be lost. These timeless themes resonate with global viewers, positioning Squid Game as an exceptional choice for those new to Korean dramas.

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2025-05-19 06:49