Craving for the best K-drama fix but overwhelmed with the options?
K-drama offers an array of genres, from heartwarming romances to suspenseful thrillers. It’s the perfect escape from the daily grind and even better for bonding with loved ones.
We have compiled a list of the top 30 best Korean dramas to watch and that will have you hooked, eagerly anticipating each new episode.
Table of Contents
1. Happiness (2021):
- Genre: Thriller, Romance, Sci-Fi
- Episodes: 12
- Main Actors: Park Hyung-sik, Han Hyo-joo
- Where to Watch: Netflix
“Happiness” is a scary story set in a time where diseases spread easily. A deadly illness breaks out in a tall building, and people living there must fight to stay alive. Meanwhile, a detective and a soldier work together to stop the disease from spreading.
For me, “Happiness” is a gripping tale of bravery in scary times, with a touch of romance that keeps you on edge.
2. Through the Darkness (2022)
- Genre: Crime, Thriller, Psychological
- Episodes: 12
- Main Actors: Kim Nam-gil, Jin Sun-kyu
- Where to Watch: Viki
“Through the Darkness” is a TV show inspired by a real book written by South Korea’s first criminal profiler, Kwon Il-yong, and author Ko Na-mu. It’s about a group of detectives who start a criminal profiling unit in South Korea and chase after serial killers.
Personally, I love this series because it is such a thrilling show that delves into the thoughts of detectives and criminals alike. It puts me into this intense suspense into human behaviour’s darkest depths.
3. The King of Tears, Lee Jang-saeng (2023-2024)
- Genre: Historical, Drama, Political
- Episodes: Ongoing (20+)
- Main Actors: Rowoon, Kim So-hyun
- Where to watch: Viki
In the Joseon Dynasty, two princes get caught up in a intense power struggle. Their love and loyalty are put to the test amidst political schemes.
This best K-drama sheds light on Yi Bang-won, who played a key role in establishing the Empire of Joseon as the Goryeo Dynasty ended and the Joseon Dynasty began.
I enjoy this historical drama that is full of breathtaking visuals, intricate characters, and constant suspense. It kept me hooked and I was eager to find out who triumphs in the end.
4. Vincenzo (2021)
- Genre: Crime, Action, Comedy
- Episodes: 20
- Main Actors: Song Joong-ki, Jeon Yeo-bin
- Where to Watch: Netflix
In “Vincenzo,” a Korean-Italian mafia lawyer comes back to Korea to handle secret riches. He clashes with a corrupt company and a spirited lawyer, resulting in exciting confrontations and an unexpected partnership.
Definitely kept me hooked and engaged in the whole series. This series is packed with action, humor, and messages about society.
5. Hometown Cha Cha Cha (2021)
- Genre: Romance, Comedy, Slice of Life
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Shin Min-a, Kim Seon-ho
- Where to Watch: Netflix
Yoon Hye-jin, a successful dentist from Seoul, visits the serene seaside village of Gongjin on her late mother’s birthday following a rough patch in her life. On a whim, she decides to open a dental clinic there and befriends the versatile Hong Du-sik, also known as Chief Hong.
This romantic tale follows their blossoming relationship and explores the lives of the villagers of Gongjin.
If you love a heartwarming romance with beautiful scenery and relatable characters, then this is for you. While lighthearted, it also makes you tackle themes of community and self-discovery.
6. Uncanny Counter (2020-2021)
- Genre: Action, Fantasy, Supernatural
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Jo Byung-gyu, Yoo Jun-sang
- Where to Watch: Netflix
“Uncanny Counter” follows a team of counters who track down evil spirits inhabiting humans. Their ranks are bolstered by a young man who uncovers his own powers and must master them while battling to safeguard humanity.
“Uncanny Counter” offers a special mix of action, humor, and supernatural themes. The fight sequences are remarkable, and the characters are lovable.
7. Squid Game (2021)
- Genre: Thriller, Survival, Drama
- Episodes: 9
- Main Actors: Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo
- Where to Watch: Netflix
Driven by financial desperation, numerous cash-strapped individuals agree to participate in peculiar children’s games. However, the risks are lethal, and the contest becomes ruthless as they struggle to stay alive.
Squid Game has garnered global attention for its compelling reasons. No wonder it was once the best k drama to watch! It serves as a harsh yet thought-provoking critique of society cleverly masked within an exhilarating game show format.
8. A Superior Day (2022)
- Genre: Thriller, Action
- Episodes: 8
- Main Actors: Jin Goo, Ahn Bo-hyun
- Where to Watch: Netflix
A single father faces a life-or-death ultimatum: abduct his daughter’s classmate or risk losing his own daughter to a deadly threat. With just 24 hours to decide, he becomes ensnared in a complex conspiracy.
This best K drama delivers a pulse-pounding race against the clock, filled with constant action and moral quandaries that leave you questioning loyalties.
9. Taxi Driver (2021)
- Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Lee Je-hoon, Kim Do-am
- Where to Watch: Viki
An enigmatic taxi company provides an unusual service: vengeance. Customers dissatisfied with legal recourse engage them to punish offenders, resulting in high-octane confrontations.
I think this is an exhilarating tale of vigilante justice with a gratifying spin on cosmic retribution – another best k drama to watch!
10. Descendants of the Sun (2016):
- Genre: Romance, Melodrama, Medical
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Song Joong-ki, Song Hye-kyo
- Where to Watch: Netflix
In a war-torn land, a charming army captain and a talented doctor meet unexpectedly. Despite their diverse backgrounds and nationalities, they find themselves falling in love amidst the turmoil of war. Their journey is marked by challenges of duty and personal turmoil, making their romance both intense and heartrending.
No doubt this series has garnered global acclaim for good reason as the best k drama to watch! As a romance series lover, this series is a captivating love tale complemented by stunning visuals, top-notch production, and thrilling action.
11. Come Here and Kiss Me (2019)
- Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Comedy
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Kim Jae-wook, Jung So-min
- Where to Watch: Viki
In “Come Here and Kiss Me,” a renowned actress with a volatile temper shares an accidental kiss with a struggling webtoon writer, leading to the discovery that they can switch bodies whenever they lock lips. Hilarity and romance ensue as they try to navigate their swapped lives.
“Come Here and Kiss Me” is an enjoyable and unpredictable romantic comedy with a hint of fantasy. The body-swapping element creates uproarious situations, while the gradually developing romance brims with chemistry.
12. While You Were Sleeping (2017)
- Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Drama
- Episodes: 32
- Main Actors: Lee Jong-suk, Bae Suzy
- Where to Watch: Netflix
In “While You Were Sleeping,” a young woman with the ability to foresee future events in her dreams encounters a prosecutor who frequently appears in them, usually in perilous situations. Joining forces, they strive to avert these foreseen events, resulting in an exhilarating race against the clock.
This best k drama to watch is a delightful romantic comedy with a hint of the supernatural. The dream sequences inject suspense into the plot, while the characters’ development throughout the narrative is truly heartening.
13. Crash Landing on You (2019-2020)
- Genre: Romance, Comedy, Drama
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Hyun Bin, Son Ye-jin
- Where to Watch: Netflix
“Crash Landing on You” tells the tale of a South Korean paraglider who unintentionally lands in North Korea, where she meets a North Korean military officer. Despite the peril and cultural differences, he shelters and defends her, leading to an improbable love story.
I think it’s a very mesmerizing narrative of forbidden love amidst stunning landscapes, coupled with touches of humour that complement its deeper themes.
14. Mr. Sunshine (2018)
- Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama
- Episodes: 24
- Main Actors: Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri
- Where to Watch: Netflix
Taking place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, “Mr. Sunshine” follows a Korean-American soldier who comes back to his country and falls for a noblewoman. Their love faces challenges amidst political unrest and shifting historical dynamics.
An epic historical drama filled with a poignant romance. Its high production quality enhances the viewing experience while delving into themes of love, allegiance, and patriotism,
15. W – Two Worlds (2016)
- Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Mystery
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Lee Jong-suk, Han Hyo-joo
- Where to Watch: Viki
A webtoon artist finds her characters coming to life and enters their world, where her fate becomes linked with the main character’s.
“W” (Korean: 더블유) is a 2016 South Korean TV show starring Lee Jong-suk and Han Joo. The series revolves around two worlds: the real one and an alternate universe within a webtoon, which inspired its title.
It gained acclaim for its unique concept and debuted at the top of the Content Power Index during its first week. With modest ratings averaging 11.63%, it remained the most-watched show in its time slot throughout its run.
Another must-watch K-drama, showing an intriguing blend of genres and a fresh take on parallel universes! I found the romance to be both captivating and filled with suspense, keeping viewers engaged until the very end.
16. Stranger (2017-2020)
- Genre: Crime, Thriller, Mystery
- Episodes: 16 (2 seasons)
- Main Actors: Cho Seung-woo, Bae Doona
- Where to Watch: Netflix
A righteous prosecutor with a mysterious lack of empathy and a passionate police detective team up to battle corruption and unravel a web of conspiracies. Their unconventional alliance leads them to confront powerful figures determined to protect their secrets.
“Stranger” is an intelligent and suspenseful legal drama featuring intricate characters and a gripping storyline. It offers a thought-provoking exploration of justice, power, and the struggle for what’s right.
17. Signal (2016)
- Genre: Crime, Thriller, Mystery
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Lee Je-hoon, Kim Hye-soo, Cho Jin-woong
- Where to Watch: Viki
A present-day cold case detective stumbles upon a walkie-talkie that enables him to communicate with a detective from the past. Together, they collaborate to solve unresolved murders and prevent future tragedies, but their actions have unforeseen consequences over time.
This best K drama is an exceptional and suspenseful crime drama with an ingenious time travel element! The emotional bond between detectives from different periods enriches the narrative, while the conclusion leaves viewers pondering.
18. Hotel Del Luna (2019)
- Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Drama
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: IU, Yeo Jin-goo
- Where to Watch: Netflix
A centuries-old curse ties a proud hotel owner to a mystical hotel that serves ghosts. To break free, she must aid a thousand souls in finding peace and transitioning to the afterlife. When a compassionate manager arrives, their unexpected alliance results in heartening interactions with the ghosts and an opportunity for both to heal.
I like this charming and magical fantasy series with a poignant love story at its center. Despite the spectral visitors, it delivers a surprisingly heartwarming tale, delving into themes of loss, forgiveness, and letting go.
19. The Guest (2018)
- Genre: Fantasy, Thriller, Mystery
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Kim Dong-wook, Kim Jung-eun, Jung Eun-chae
- Where to Watch: Viki
In “The Guest,” a psychic teen who can see vengeful spirits joins forces with a priest and a social worker to banish demons and aid lost souls. While probing into puzzling deaths, they unearth a sinister entity with malicious intentions.
This series got me all super chilled. It is a supernatural tale filled with tension and emotion. The battle against malevolent spirits is both frightening and exciting, and witnessing the characters’ development is truly heartening.
20. Kingdom (2019-2021)
- Genre: Historical, Thriller, Political
- Episodes: 12 (2 seasons)
- Main Actors: Ju Ji-hoon, Bae Doo-na, Ryu Seung-ryong
- Where to Watch: Netflix
A mysterious disease spreads in Joseon Dynasty Korea, transforming deceased individuals into flesh-eating creatures. The crown prince, marginalized by the court, embarks on a quest to discover a remedy and regain his rightful rule amidst political chaos and a menacing new danger.
This K-drama absolutely blew me away! It’s a visual feast with a suspenseful and fresh historical setting. They manage to blend genres like nobody’s business—there’s political intrigue mixed with heart-pounding zombie outbreaks, so you’re hooked from start to finish.
21. Her Private Life (2019):
- Genre: Romance, Comedy, Drama
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Park Min-young, Kim Jae-wook, Ahn Bo-hyun
- Where to Watch: Netflix
Sung Deok-mi, a skilled curator at an art museum, secretly manages a fan club for a famous idol. When a charming art director joins the museum, a spark ignites between them. But Deok-mi faces the challenge of keeping her fangirl life hidden from him and the art world.
“Her Private Life” completely stole my heart! It’s such a refreshing rom-com with a plot I haven’t seen before. The way the lead actors bounce off each other is pure magic, and the movie’s love letter to fangirling had me grinning from ear to ear. If you’re looking for a feel-good escape with a side of swoon-worthy romance, this is your movie!
22. The Veil (2021)
- Genre: Spy, Thriller, Action
- Episodes: 12
- Main Actors: Namgoong Min, Park Ha-sun
- Where to Watch: Viki
A talented National Intelligence Service (NIS) agent vanishes mysteriously. A year later, she reappears with no recollection of her past and a puzzling tattoo. Branded as a traitor, she embarks on a quest to unravel the truth behind her disappearance and prove her innocence, all while evading pursuit from former allies and a formidable adversary.
“The Veil” absolutely blew me away! It’s not just a spy thriller, it’s an adrenaline rush with a mind-bending puzzle at its core. The action sequences are incredible, heart-pounding stuff, and the plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I seriously had no idea how it would all end until the very last moment.
If you’re looking for a gripping story with tons of action and a mystery that will have you guessing, “The Veil” is a must-read!
23. Black (2017)
- Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Melodrama
- Episodes: 18
- Main Actors: Song Seung-heon, Go Ara
- Where to Watch: Viki
In “Black,” a grim reaper suffering from amnesia takes on the role of a grim reaper dispatcher, assisting other grim reapers in gathering souls. He partners with a woman gifted with the ability to perceive impending death shadows. Together, they strive to rescue those not yet destined to perish, but they soon discover that challenging destiny exacts a steep toll.
“Black”, among the best k dramas to watch offers a captivating mix of fantasy, mystery, and romance. The idea of a grim reaper battling against fate is intriguing, and the emotional bond between the main characters enriches the narrative. However, brace yourself for some heart-wrenching moments!
24. Whistleblower (2014)
- Genre: Crime, Thriller, Political
- Episodes: 32
- Main Actors: Choi Min-sik, Kim Hyun-joo
- Where to Watch: Viki
In “Whistleblower,” a corrupt assemblyman and an honest investigative reporter cross paths as targets of a formidable conglomerate. Together, they unite to uncover the company’s unlawful deeds and governmental corruption. However, their pursuit of justice exposes them to formidable adversaries determined to silence them.
Another best k drama to watch offers a gritty and authentic depiction of corruption in Korea. With phenomenal performances and a suspenseful, thought-provoking storyline, it’s a drama that leaves a lasting impact even after it ends.
25. Whisper (2017)
- Genre: Crime, Thriller, Legal
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Lee Bo-young, Lee Sang-yun
- Where to Watch: Viki
A corrupt law firm employs unlawful tactics to shield its affluent clientele. A principled judge and a former informant unite to uncover the firm’s misdeeds and ensure accountability. However, their investigation reveals a labyrinth of corruption extending to the highest echelons of authority.
I would 100% recommend you watch this series! “Whisper” is a gripping legal drama delving into the shadowy facets of the legal system. With intricate characters and intense confrontations, it’s a narrative that will have you riveted, while its societal reflections enrich the storyline.
26. Defendant (2017)
- Genre: Crime, Thriller, Mystery
- Episodes: 18
- Main Actors: Ji Sung, Seo Kang-joon
- Where to Watch: Viki
A prosperous prosecutor is wrongly accused of killing his wife and daughter. With his memory shattered and his profession ruined, he struggles to clear his name while facing a life-threatening trial. Delving into the truth, he unravels a startling plot, endangering himself and those he cares about.
Another gripping legal thriller with an intriguing mystery! Ji Sung’s portrayal of the desperate prosecutor is intense, and the relentless twists will keep you questioning whom to believe.
27. Mouse (2021)
- Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Sci-Fi
- Episodes: 20
- Main Actors: Lee Seung-gi, Lee Hee-jun
- Where to Watch: Viki
In a society where DNA tests can predict psychopathic traits in babies, a detective and a cop with enigmatic backgrounds join forces to apprehend a serial murderer. As they dig deeper into the investigation, they ponder the concepts of morality and ethics surrounding genetic manipulation.
Well, while this is a gripping thriller, I personally think it lacks the thrill that makes me want to watch the whole series.
28. Hyena (2020)
- Genre: Legal, Drama, Social Commentary
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Kim Hye-soo, Joo Ji-hoon
- Where to Watch: Netflix
Two fierce lawyers from opposing firms, each with different approaches and moral codes, are forced to collaborate on important cases. Amidst the ruthless environment of corporate law, their rivalry transforms into reluctant admiration and maybe even something deeper.
Another best k drama to watch featuring powerful female protagonists and incisive societal observations! The legal conflicts are gripping, and the romantic subplot between the main characters adds depth to the narrative.
29. The King of Disposition (2017)
- Genre: Crime, Comedy, Thriller
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Seo In-guk, Kwon Nara
- Where to Watch: Viki
A brilliant con artist, grappling with a gambling habit, joins forces with a fiery prosecutor to dismantle corrupt corporations and influential individuals. Together, they embark on a series of uproarious schemes and adrenaline-pumping action sequences, championing justice through their unconventional methods.
“The King of Disposition” is a captivating fusion of genres, among the best k dramas that caters to diverse tastes that you gotta watch! Its seamless integration of comedy and suspense keeps viewers engaged, while the undeniable chemistry between the protagonists adds an extra layer of appeal.
30. Flower of Evil (2020)
- Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Romance
- Episodes: 16
- Main Actors: Moon Chae-won, Lee Joon-gi
- Where to Watch: Viki
A detective’s seemingly flawless life takes a dark turn when her husband’s history resurfaces. Delving into an old case, she discovers a maze of deception and a startling revelation about her husband’s true self. Caught between love and obligation, she faces a dilemma: to what lengths will she go to shield her loved one and unearth the truth?
If you are craving a gripping slow-burner with a layered mystery, this series is for you! The intricate dynamics between the couple are both captivating and disquieting, and the ongoing guessing game will keep you engaged right up to the finale.
Conclusion
Now that you have the 30 best Korean dramas to choose from, you have a ton of entertainment just waiting for you. Whether you’re into intense thrillers or sweet romantic comedies, there’s the best K-drama for everyone.
So, grab your snacks, get comfy, and enjoy a binge-watching session full of Korean drama magic! And don’t forget, there are plenty more amazing K-dramas out there to explore. Keep searching and find even more favorites that’ll keep you hooked. Have fun watching!
