5 K-Dramas To Avoid if You’re Just Getting Into Them (but Are Worth Watching Later On)

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Korean dramas, or K-dramas, are incredibly popular right now. Thanks to streaming services like Netflix, it’s easier than ever to watch them. Many viewers get hooked on their intricate storylines, complex characters, and emotionally powerful stories, which often delve deeper than what’s usually seen in American TV shows.

Not all K-dramas are easy to get into. Some have complex storylines that can be confusing if you’re new to the genre, or if you aren’t familiar with Korean culture. While shows like Empress Ki are well-regarded, it’s better for beginners to start with something simpler and then try those more challenging dramas later.

5) Innocent Defendant

The series follows a Korean prosecutor who mysteriously finds himself on death row. With no recollection of the events that led to his imprisonment, he races against time to prove his innocence before his execution.

While the premise of Innocent Defendant might grab fans of American crime shows, it’s not the most accessible K-drama for newcomers. The story unfolds from the perspective of the main character, who’s lost his memory and struggles to understand the events surrounding his arrest. This narrative style, though intriguing, can also leave viewers confused, particularly those unfamiliar with K-dramas.

4) Save Me

Unlike many feel-good K-dramas, “Save Me” tackles difficult and potentially upsetting themes. The story centers on Sang-mi, a young woman whose family joins a dangerous religious cult after relocating. Following the death of her twin brother, Sang-mi and her parents are drawn into the cult, but a group of friends bands together to try and rescue her.

This Korean drama is exceptionally well-made, but it’s not a good starting point for those new to the genre. It’s a very intense and difficult watch, dealing with serious issues like sexual assault and violence, even involving a minor. This upsetting content could discourage new viewers from trying other, more enjoyable shows in the genre, which would be unfortunate.

3) The World of the Married

Because The World of the Married was incredibly popular in South Korea, many people are interested in watching it. However, those unfamiliar with this type of show might find it confusing, as it relies heavily on familiar plot devices within a very complex storyline.

This drama follows a doctor seeking revenge after discovering her husband’s infidelity. While it deals with a serious subject, it’s not quite as intense as Save Me. To fully appreciate the story, it helps to have some understanding of South Korean culture and the common themes found in K-dramas.

2) Sky Castle

Similar to the hit Korean drama The World of the Married, Sky Castle was incredibly popular when it originally aired in South Korea. The show’s story—about mothers fiercely determined to get their children into the best universities, no matter the cost—resonates with many viewers, including those in the United States.

This show isn’t a good starting point for people new to K-dramas. It assumes you already know a lot about South Korean culture, and the storylines will be confusing if you don’t understand the characters’ motivations. It’s better to watch this after you’ve gotten familiar with Korean culture through other shows.

1) Empress Ki

Empress Ki is a historical drama filled with palace conflicts and political maneuvering, taking place during the Goryeo and Yuan dynasties in Korea. Though it shares similarities with shows like Game of Thrones, it’s based on actual events from history.

Because Empress Ki is set in a specific historical period, it can be challenging for viewers unfamiliar with Korean dramas to understand. The show assumes knowledge of events well-known in Korea, but likely only briefly covered in American history classes. Without this background, the plot can be confusing. It’s best to watch other, more accessible dramas first, and maybe do some online research about the historical context before tackling this one.

What k-drama would you recommend someone not start with if they’re new to the genre? Share your thoughts and discuss it on the ComicBook Forum!

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2025-11-23 03:41