As a devoted fan of K-dramas who has binge-watched countless series, I can confidently say that these two shows, “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God” (Goblin) and “Hotel del Luna”, stand out as exceptional gems in the realm of Korean fantasy television.
Experiencing a Korean drama feels like tumbling into a bottomless abyss – once you start, it’s hard to break free! Over the past few years, these captivating productions have spread across international borders, introducing us to the richness of Korean culture and their distinctive approach to storytelling. Often called K-dramas, they encompass a myriad of genres such as romantic comedies, historical tales, legal dramas, and more, each one leaving me eager for more!
Increasingly, people worldwide are drawn to K-dramas, particularly shows like “Squid Game“. The appeal lies in their compelling narratives, catchy soundtracks, and authentic portrayal of Korean culture. Moreover, for individuals studying the Korean language, watching K-dramas offers an engaging way to learn and improve their linguistic skills.
Over the years, many K-dramas have come out with higher quality than the last. Be it the actors, the story, or the OSTs — many K-dramas are now upping their standards to please more eyes of the audience. Here are a handful of the most addictive K-dramas in various genres that you should watch.
20 All of Us Are Dead (2022 – Present)
“Locked Down: High School Apocalypse
Gripping from the Opening Scene
Under the guidance of director Lee Jae-kyoo, this captivating series pulls you in right away with its pulse-racing action and nail-biting plot development. The well-developed characters and top-notch production quality are additional standout features. Every installment brims with intense drama, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, eager to find out what unfolds next. The talented young cast, including Yoon Chan-young and Park Ji-hu, deliver stellar performances. In summary, All of Us Are Dead is a welcome addition to the extensive catalog of K-drama zombie horror productions.
19 The Glory (2022 – 2023)
The Glory is a narrative about Moon Dong-eun, a woman who struggled to survive the harsh bullying in high school. Escaping a dangerous situation and dealing with trauma, she decides to take revenge on her tormentors by skillfully infiltrating their adult lives and causing tension among them. As Dong-eun carefully orchestrates her retaliation, she also grapples with ghosts from her past and tests herself in the present.
Revenge-Driven K-Drama With Arresting Visuals
The drama might not appeal to everyone due to its focus on heavy topics like bullying, its consequences, revenge, and trauma. However, if you’re interested in examining the grim aspects of human behavior, this series is remarkable for its gripping narrative and suspenseful twists. The acting, especially by lead actress Song Hye-kyo, provides a deep emotional layer and makes it an engaging watch. The Glory received acclaim for “shifting the plot from bordering on horror to melodrama to murder mystery.
18 Business Proposal (2022)
In a twist of fate, I find myself in an intricate predicament after I unwillingly take my friend’s place on a blind date, only to discover that my suitor is none other than the CEO of our company, Kang Tae-moo. What initially seemed like a deception to preserve my job, transforms into a whirlwind of romantic comedy, filled with sharp dialogue, misconstrued signals, and corporate drama, as our paths continue to cross more frequently.
Lighthearted Rom-Com with Charming Chemistry
“Business Proposal” is an enticing TV series that beautifully blends romance and work life. It initiates with the popular mistaken identity plot, keeping viewers on their toes. It also embodies the charm of a classic romantic comedy while infusing it with contemporary elements. The electric chemistry between Ahn Hyo-seop and Kim Se-jeong shines through as their characters navigate absurd circumstances, causing audiences to laugh uproariously one moment and be smitten the next. Warm and unforgettable from start to finish, “Business Proposal” is a hidden gem.
17 Squid Game (2021 – 2025)
The internationally acclaimed K-drama series, titled “Squid Game,” unfolds as a chilling dystopian thriller. It chronicles the lives of numerous individuals grappling with financial struggles, who are lured into participating in seemingly innocent children’s games for an enormous reward. However, they soon discover that their idyllic playground takes on a sinister twist when losing becomes a matter of life and death. As the boundary between amusement and reality dissolves, the dark secrets behind the game show’s organization gradually unveil themselves.
A Thrilling Examination of Society
As a movie enthusiast, I can confidently say that Squid Game, masterfully crafted by Hwang Dong-hyuk, delves even deeper into its intriguing concept, maintaining its captivating blend of suspense, drama, and a touch of surrealism. The series has garnered widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative, serving as a chilling commentary on the growing disparities in our society.
16 Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo (2016)
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo is a heartwarming tale that revolves around the main character, Bok-joo. As a university weightlifter, she aspires to excel professionally, but faces numerous hurdles in sports, academics, and love. Her path crosses with Jung Joon-hyung, a talented swimmer whom she has known since childhood. The series beautifully depicts her personal growth and the lessons she learns along the way.
Uplifting and Unforgettable Coming-of-Age Story
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo captivates viewers with its compelling core romance between the leads, portrayed beautifully by Lee Sung-kyung and Nam Joo-hyuk. This series isn’t just a love story; it delves into the heartwarming experiences of adolescence, friendship, first love, the challenges, and victories of a young athlete longing for a typical childhood. The humor is spot-on, and the supporting characters are relatable. The ending is fulfilling, making Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo a cherished addition to K-drama fans’ hearts.
15 Mr. Queen (2020 – 2021)
In a narrative, we encounter Mr. Queen, who spins a tale about a renowned chef named Kim So-yong (portrayed by Shin Hye-sun), who once cooked for prominent South Korean politicians. Unexpectedly, her spirit is transported to the Joseon era in Korea and inhabits the body of a young queen, also named Kim So-yong. The reigning monarch, King Cheoljong (Kim Jung-hyun), presides over this historical period with numerous secrets. The fusion of modern elements from Kim So-yong’s spirit and the ancient era results in exciting, amusing escapades for the characters.
Cleverly Combines History and Humor
In my opinion, Korean historical dramas can occasionally be heavy with a serious and political tone that might make them a bit tough to engage with. But when it comes to the 2020 K-drama, “Mr. Queen,” I’d say that rule doesn’t apply here! This delightful series offers a refreshing mix of humor, lightheartedness, and exceptional writing, making it impossible to turn away. The chemistry between the main characters is nothing short of extraordinary, giving the impression they were destined for these roles. If you’re seeking an entertaining escape into a fresh and captivating world, “Mr. Queen” is just the ticket to spend your precious leisure time on. Many viewers rave about its humor and fantastic soundtrack – more incentives to give it a whirl!
14 Alchemy of Souls (2022 – Present)
In the Joseon era, individuals with souls mismatched to their physical forms form extraordinary bonds. Among these is Jang-Uk (Lee Jae-wook), a rebellious nobleman’s son, who encounters Mu-deok (Jung So-min), a powerful warrior confined in a weak servant’s body. Together, they navigate their challenging path within the kingdom’s walls. As various influential families vie for power across the land, each character’s enigmatic past could potentially alter everything drastically.
Visually Stunning Fantasy Filled With Action
2022 saw the debut of Alchemy of Souls, a captivating series split into two parts thus far. The visual spectacle, coupled with its soundtracks, is simply breathtaking, while the balance of suspense and romance keeps viewers hooked. The intricate set design vividly portrays the enchanting yet treacherous world inhabited by our main characters, enhancing their multifaceted and emotional odysseys. From its very first episode, audiences were drawn in by the rapid pace, themes of deceit and atonement, and jaw-dropping plot twists. And let’s not forget about the chemistry – it’s consistently through the roof!
13 Flower of Evil (2020)
In the realm of K-dramas, the thriller/detective genre has gained significant popularity, particularly in recent times. One noteworthy example is the captivating series titled “Flower of Evil“, which features Lee Joon-gi from “Moon Lovers” as Baek Hee-sung, a seemingly ordinary husband to detective Cha Ji-won (played by Moon Chae-won). Unbeknownst to her, he has been living under a false identity, hiding his tumultuous past. As the story unfolds, she must suppress her emotions to uncover the truth about her husband’s enigmatic and unsettling past.
Exhilarating and Unforgettable
K-dramas possess a distinctive approach to storytelling within the genre, scattering subtle hints across episodes that consistently catch viewers off guard. Each installment of “Flower of Evil” becomes increasingly gripping, featuring stellar performances and intriguing narrative progression. Lee Joon-gi’s character serves as both a captivating daydream and terrifying nightmare, while Moon Chae-won’s character’s intellect and exceptional detective abilities effectively propel the storyline and momentarily transport audiences away from their own reality.
12 Big Mouth (2022)
In a more conversational style: An inept attorney, Park Chang-ho, also known as “Big Mouth” (played by Lee Jung-suk), finds himself in the thick of a high-stakes murder case. Unbeknownst to him, his excessive talking lands him in hot water when he’s mistakenly identified as the culprit. His brilliant and dedicated wife, Ko Mi-ho (Im Yoon-ah), a nurse, stands by his side through every challenge, even when he’s falsely accused of criminal activity. She tirelessly works to clear his name amidst all evidence pointing against him.
Delivers Humor and Justice Without Skipping a Beat
2022’s K-drama series “Big Mouth” captivates viewers with a gripping storyline that leaves them guessing about the true identity of “The Big Mouth.” The compelling narrative, exceptional acting, and palpable chemistry contribute to its popular success. However, some spectators find the abrupt resolution of 16 episodes’ worth of suspense in mere minutes to be perplexing; yet, you’ll need to watch it yourself to understand. Furthermore, Jung-suk delivers a standout performance that truly embodies the show’s clever dialogue and exhilarating plotline.
11 Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)
Woo Young-woo, played by Park Eun-bin, is a remarkably intelligent young attorney on the autism spectrum. Her unique perspective allows her to approach cases from unconventional angles, solving seemingly impossible situations. However, she finds it challenging to grasp human emotions and social cues, which can lead to amusing or awkward interactions with clients. Yet, this doesn’t deter her from chasing lofty ambitions.
Spreading Awareness with Warmth and Wit
It’s been found that viewers enjoy watching K-dramas that delve into the justice system from various viewpoints such as lawyers, prosecutors, victims, or offenders. Although many dramas within this genre are typically intense and emotional, the 2022 drama Extraordinary Attorney Woo breaks the mold by being neither heavy nor emotional yet still highly captivating and enjoyable to watch. This groundbreaking series offers insights into neurodiversity and autism while also excelling in its humor and dialogue.
10 Law School (2021 – Present)
As a passionate cinephile, I found myself utterly captivated by the intricate web of legal drama unfolding in this gripping tale. At its heart are three dynamic characters: Yang Jong-hoon, a former prosecutor turned law professor (played masterfully by Kim Myung-min), his brilliant student Kang Sol A (Ryu Hye-young), and the enigmatic Han Joon-hwi (Kim Bum). This trio, bound together in their pursuit of justice, finds themselves embroiled in a case that is anything but straightforward.
Offers a Refreshing Look At Procedural Tales
If you’re drawn to intense courtroom action featuring compelling, forceful characters who excel at resolving complex problems, I’d recommend giving Law School a try. Initially, it takes its time to get going, but once it picks up speed, it rolls along smoothly, much like a gathering snowball. The series provides an authentic portrayal of South Korean law and courtroom proceedings, while also injecting some extra drama to keep things interesting. The show’s characters are richly developed and the actors deliver captivating performances as they delve deeper into their roles throughout the cases.
9 Reply 1988 (2015 – 2016)
1988’s “Reply 1988,” set in South Korea, weaves a tale of friendship, family, love, and aspirations that are frequently hindered by hardships and traditional norms of the older generation. The series revolves around five high school friends who share an incredibly strong bond: Sung Deok-sun (played by Lee Hye-ri), Kim Jung-hwan (Ryu Jun-yeol), Sung Sun-woo (Go Kyung-pyo), Ryu Dong-ryong (Lee Dong-hwi), and Choi Taek (Park Bo-gum). These characters are not just neighbors, but have formed close friendships through their shared experiences, with some even finding love. Their friendships are unique, forged during life’s challenging times.
A Nostalgic Trip Down Memory Lane
1988’s Reply series delves deep into the experiences of youth in South Korea during a period of transformation and progression. Each character has their unique aspirations, and it’s touching to witness their growth as they support one another rather than compete. The friendships and family tales evoke a comforting and nostalgic sensation, mending parts of your soul you didn’t realize were fractured. With its meticulous attention to detail, the drama effortlessly transports you back to a more straightforward era, eliciting laughter and tears alongside the characters.
8 Hospital Playlist (2020 – 2021)
At Yulje Hospital, a team of five esteemed surgeons/professors from various departments, who’ve been friends since their university days, each possess unique quirks that make their camaraderie endearing. The K-Drama Hospital Playlist boasts several well-known actors in its cast: Jo Jung-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok, Jung Kyung-ho, Kim Dae-myung, and Jeon Mi-do. Their friendship, nurtured since their first year at university in 1999, continues to flourish as they now work together at Yulje Hospital. The series delves into their daily lives as both professors and surgeons, offering a glimpse into hospital culture, friendships, family dynamics, and romantic entanglements.
A Comforting Medical Drama About Friendship and Life
Watching Hospital Playlist is like spending quality time with cherished friends, leaving you enamored with the charming and grounded medical team. The harmonious cinematography and heartwarming storyline make it an effortless viewing experience. An intriguing aspect is that these beloved five professors have formed a band, where they rehearse and perform their favorite tunes from yesteryears. Their renditions of classic Korean songs give the OSTs of this two-season K-drama a distinctive and memorable touch. Hospital Playlist offers an array of themes: camaraderie, romance, family, humor, and, without question, medical drama.
7 Fight for My Way (2017)
Among many beloved shows, one titled “Fight for My Way” focuses on the romance between two young adults navigating their lives, filled with career pursuits, ambitions, and love. Fresh from high school, Dong-man joins the military while Choi Ae-ra competes on a TV show, but neither achieves their initial goals. When destiny brings them together again, both have undergone transformations. Dong-man now holds an ordinary job, and Ae-ra works as a receptionist.
Relatable Struggles About Growing Up
The South Korean drama series “Fight for My Way” initially gained popularity for its captivating charm in portraying romantic comedies. The principal characters, Park Seo-joon as Ko Dong-man and Kim Ji-won as Choi Ae-ra, are characterized by an excessive lack of maturity and seriousness. Despite this, they both harbor a tender affection for each other. This innovative approach to romance and adulthood offers a unique perspective, leaving viewers with mixed feelings as their love story deepens. The series employs the ‘best friends turning lovers’ plot device, which some may find uncomfortable as their affection intensifies.
6 Our Beloved Summer (2021 – 2022)
Romantic comedies featuring enemies-to-lovers themes are widely enjoyed, including shows like “Our Beloved Summer“. This series stars Choi Woo-shik and Kim Da-mi as two contrasting characters from high school – Choi Ung, a carefree individual with no concern for grades, versus Yeon-soo, an ambitious student aiming for a prestigious career and financial security. In their final year of high school, they were assigned to collaborate on a documentary together, marking the beginning of their relationship. However, they split up soon after. After five years, the original documentary resurfaces online, causing them to reunite once more – this time as former lovers while shooting a sequel.
An Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
In “Our Beloved Summer,” we delve into the bittersweet feelings of long-lost love and rekindled passion as two high school sweethearts reconnect in adulthood. The classic enemy-to-lovers dynamic unfolds, sparking a renewed connection between them. This heartfelt tale of love, while tinged with some sadness, offers more warmth than heartache. The exceptional performances, effortless camaraderie, and emotional depth transport viewers back to their own cherished memories and allow them to share in the sweetness anew.
5 Crash Landing on You (2019 – 2020)
The narrative of “Crash Landing on You” unfolds around Yoon Se-ri, a prosperous South Korean CEO (portrayed by Son Ye-jin), who inadvertently lands in North Korea. She finds herself at the residence of Captain Ri Jeong-hyeok from the DMZ (played by Hyun Bin), who takes her under his care to shield her from the harsh repercussions that would ensue. As their relationship blossoms swiftly, it is abruptly halted when Se-ri manages to return to South Korea. Despite numerous obstacles, their unconventional love prevails in the end.
Love That Transcends Borders and Divides
Crash Landing on You stands out as one of the finest and most acclaimed romantic Korean dramas, captivating audiences worldwide due to its intricate backdrop, electrifying chemistry, and an emotionally tense will-they-won’t-they love story. The show is so touching, heartbreaking, and delightful that the actors Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin found themselves falling in love off-screen after filming concluded. They are now blissfully married and parents to a newborn child. If you’re looking for a tearjerker with an uplifting finish, this K-drama is just what you need.
4 My Name (2021)
If you’re seeking an engaging and thrilling narrative that keeps you hooked from start to finish, the action-packed world of K-dramas could be just what you need. One notable example is My Name, a gripping series starring Han So-hee as Yoon Ji-woo, a determined young woman who sets out to avenge her father’s untimely death. As she digs deeper into the mystery surrounding his demise, she finds herself working with the police, risking her own safety in the process. However, being a strong-willed individual, Yoon Ji-woo is relentless in her pursuit of justice, refusing to back down until she gets the answers she seeks.
A Phenomenal Action-Revenge Drama
This compact 8-episode series, titled My Name, is perfect for viewers seeking a swiftly resolved K-drama packed with top-notch action and mystery. In just eight episodes, it delivers pulse-pounding actions, cunning betrayals, and unexpected plot twists that keep you on tenterhooks. The series also includes unexpected (and arguably unjust) character deaths that linger in your thoughts for days. Remarkable acting and soundtracks make this K-drama an enduring memory for the audience.
3 The K2 (2016)
Previously a soldier turned into a bodyguard, known as K2 (Ji Chang-wook), is employed to safeguard a prominent family concealing a secretive daughter, Go An-na (Im Yoon-ah). Simultaneously, his job serves as a guise for him to seek vengeance against those who falsely accused him of murder. However, when he develops a friendship with An-na and romantic feelings emerge, the situation becomes intricate as political matters and obligations interfere.
Layered with Intrigue and Suspense
The K2 swiftly draws viewers into its gripping tapestry of mystery. An adrenaline-fueled drama, it centers on high-stakes secrets, strategic decisions, and retribution. The narrative is powerfully engaging as it intertwines K2’s current political responsibilities with his haunting past experiences as a soldier. Tough choices abound, and the consequences of these sacrifices linger heavily. The masterful martial arts sequences and breathtaking landscapes cinematography contribute to an authentic feel and enrich the series’ exploration of corruption.
2 Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (2016 – 2017)
The Lonely and Great God, more commonly known as “Goblin”, narrates the tale of Kim Shin, a soldier who was turned into an immortal goblin for centuries. At 900 years old, he yearns for his bride to release him from eternal life. His bride is Ji Eun-tak, a high school student with a challenging family situation reminiscent of Cinderella. Initially helping each other out of necessity, their bond quickly evolves into a passionate romance that satisfies their longing for one another. A single candle is all she needs to summon the Goblin.
Timeless Romance with a Dash of Fantasy
In a fresh and imaginative way, K-dramas consistently excel in the realm of fantasy with their unique storylines. The stunning visual effects, which breathe life into a captivatingly beautiful landscape, enhance the charm of this genre. At the heart of it is a compelling and poignant romantic tale, complemented by top-notch acting and amusing exchanges between the Goblin and his roommate, the Grim Reaper (Lee Dong-wook). With its mix of whimsy and emotion, Goblin is well-known for its memorable soundtracks and a plot that serves as an excellent gateway into the fantasy genre of K-dramas.
1 Hotel del Luna (2019)
A unique hotel located in Seoul catering exclusively to spirits preparing for the afterlife – Hotel del Luna – boasts an eclectic clientele with amusing, heartbreaking, and downright tragic backstories. The hotel’s proprietor, Jang Man-wol (played by Lee Ji-eun), is a ghost herself, bound to the hotel for millennia, unable to pass on. One fateful day, she encounters a new and inquisitive manager named Koo Chan-sung (portrayed by Yeo Jin-goo). Together, they embark on various escapades to maintain order among their spectral patrons while uncovering mysteries about her past life.
One of the Best Fantasy K-Dramas
The TV series “Hotel del Luna” showcases a captivating romantic dynamic between its main characters, who hail from entirely distinct realms. Their relationship is marked by both terrifying and hilarious moments, as well as heart-pounding swoons. Keep in mind that you may find yourself shedding quite a few tears during “Hotel Del Luna“. Love transcending worlds can be both soul-crushing and exhilarating, but their tender and comical romance makes it all worthwhile.
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2024-10-12 00:13