Korean dramas, also known as K-dramas, have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with their unique storytelling, beautiful cinematography, and talented actors. From romantic comedies to historical epics and thrilling mysteries, there is a K-drama for every taste. In this list, we will take a look at the 10 best Korean dramas that have left a lasting impression on viewers and set a high standard for the genre. So, get ready to dive into the world of K-dramas and discover some of the best shows that Korean entertainment has to offer.
1. Alchemy of souls (2022) (IMDb - 8.8)
The Hong sisters, who have worked on Hotel Del Luna, wrote Alchemy of Souls. The story is set in Daeho, a place that is not documented in history books or maps, and follows the lives of mages who derive their powers from the elements. The mages of Daeho have a crucial rule: they must not use their skills to practice ‘alchemy of souls’, which is the transfer of souls from one body to another.
2. Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022) (IMDb - 8.7)
This drama follows the story of a talented lawyer named Woo, who works at a law firm that takes on difficult cases. The drama combines elements of legal thriller, romance, and comedy. The acting is good, and the storyline is engaging and keeps the audience on edge.
3. Under the Queen's Umbrella (2022) (IMDb - 8.5)
This historical drama follows the story of a queen who falls in love with a scholar, but their relationship is threatened by political conflicts and conspiracies. The costumes and sets are beautiful, and the acting is great. The drama offers an interesting look into the royal court of the Joseon dynasty.
4. Crash Landing On You (2019) (IMDb - 8.7)
This drama is a romantic comedy that follows the story of a South Korean heiress who accidentally lands in North Korea and falls in love with a North Korean army officer. The drama is well-written, and the chemistry between the leads is excellent. It is also notable for its portrayal of life in North Korea.
5. My Name (2021) (IMDb - 7.8)
This drama follows the story of a woman who joins a drug gang to avenge her father’s death. The acting is great, and the storyline is fast-paced and action-packed. It also offers an interesting look into the underworld of South Korea.
6. My Liberation Notes (2022) (IMDb - 8.3)
My Liberation Notes (MLN) is about three siblings with a silent, hard-working father and a talkative mother who tries to prevent conflicts at the dinner table. The family works with a mysterious man named Mr. Gu (played by Seon Seok-ku) in the production of cabinet-fitted sinks. Despite being an extra hand, no one knows anything about him, including his origin or identity.
7. All Of Us Are Dead (2022) (IMDb - 7.5)
This horror-thriller series follows the story of a group of high school students who are trapped in their school during a zombie outbreak. The acting and production value are good, and the series is engaging and suspenseful.
8. Business Proposal (2022) (IMDb - 8.1)
Business Proposal is a recent rom-com series that proudly embraces familiar tropes throughout its 12-episode run, making it comfortable to watch. Despite being released in February and March alongside other shows, it led Netflix’s global non-English series rankings toward the end of its run. With few contemporary rom-coms released recently, it has filled a gap in the market and remains the second most-watched show on Netflix India two weeks after its finale.
9. The Glory (2022) (IMDb - 8.1)
This drama follows the story of a young man who dreams of becoming a professional e-sports player. The acting is good, and the storyline is engaging and offers a unique look into the world of e-sports.
10. Kingdom (2019) (IMDb - 6.6)
A historical horror-thriller set in the Joseon period, “Kingdom” follows the crown prince as he investigates a mysterious plague that turns people into flesh-eating monsters. The show offers a captivating storyline, breathtaking visuals, and well-executed action scenes.
