Find your next Korean Drama to get lost in.
The South Korean made Squid Game came out in 2021 as one of the biggest global shows on Netflix. For many, Squid Game was the first taste of the brilliance of Korean Dramas, also fondly known as k-dramas. However, there is already a huge cult like fanbase for Korean Dramas. Each show is devoured as it’s released.
Why are Korean dramas so additive?
As you are watching a great Korean drama, you are being transported through an incredible emotional rollercoaster ride. K-dramas typically have intricate stories that don’t follow the usual Hollywood formula. Which means that you don’t know where the story is going to go.
A great K-drama will leave you guessing in every moment and end with a heart stopping cliffhanger. A great K-drama has a gut wrenching plot where your heart aches for the characters. It will make you want to sit down in a dingy Korean street bar, sipping soju by the glass. It will make you want to want to share a midnight ramyeon with your loved one. And, it will make you want to cry as love is lost or love is won.
If you have never before watched a K-drama or are itching to watch your next one, don’t fear. We have spent countless hours, watching each and everyone one of these next K-dramas on our list. Resulting in many red-eyed mornings, but our hearts are full.
1. Korean drama for die hard romantics
Crash Landing On You (2019)
One of the most highly rated of all time k-dramas, Crash Landing On You is the ultimate romantic comedy with a nail biting drama. It is a story of a South Korean heiress who accidentally finds herself in North Korea after a paragliding accident. She meets a handsome but strict, North Korean officer who tries to help her get back to South Korea. The unique North Korean characters she meets, bring a fantastic comedic element to the show. You will find yourself laughing from their hilarious antics.
In addition to the two main characters, it has two of the very best second leads which absolutely command every scene they’re in. As a result, you are completely invested in their story and championing their heroism.
On a side note, this drama has been praised for it’s accurate portrayal of life in North Korea. So, if you have ever wondered what life is like in the hermit kingdom, watch Crash Landing On You. And, grab the tissues, because Crash Landing On You will have you sobbing heavy tears in the best romantic show ever made.
Watch it now on Netflix.
2. Korean drama for enjoyable bromance
Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)
Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth is a Korean drama that tells the story of the creation of an elite warrior group of soldiers. These soldiers are known as Hwarang or the Flowering Knights after their noble beauty. The story takes place in the ancient kingdom of Silla, under the reign of Queen Ji-So. She forms Hwarang to protect her son, the next King of Silla. The Hwarang were historically an actual warrior group, therefore it is loosely based on actual events.
The standout in this Korean drama is the interwoven lives of the Hwarang warriors and their initial dislike for one another and eventual deep loyalty and respect for each another. There are great comedic scenes which have you in stitches. The warriors develop a deep friendship, loyalty and respect for one another and you are deeply invested in their individual stories, lives and loves.
Watch it now on Netflix.
3. Korean drama for gorgeous historical cinematography
Mr. Sunshine (2018)
Mr. Sunshine stands out for its exquisite portrayal of historical Joseon (the last Korean dynasty that lasted for 5 centuries). The cinematography is outstanding and transports you back to the early 1900s in Korea. It is the story of a Joseon orphan who was raised in the US, then returns to Joseon and becomes embroiled in the fight to retain Joseon’s sovereignty.
Mr. Sunshine is one of the most highly rated K-dramas and for good reason. We love the cinematography of sweeping landscapes of rural Joseon, its breath taking beauty and it’s coming of age into the 20th century. Once again, we are treated to powerful second and third lead characters, that have us longing for their success in finding love or overcoming their enemies. You will be instantly transfixed with the strong characters and their fight for Korea’s independence.
Watch it now on Netflix.
4. Korean drama to dream big
Itaewon Class (2020)
Itaewon Class is another highly successful k-drama. It is the story of a man, Park Sae-ro-yi, who lives by his strong morals, is unlawfully punished for them and tries to rise above his injustices. He is fuelled by this injustice and tries to run a successful business empire competing against his enemy.
You will be moved by the sheer determination of Park Sae-ro-yi and his drive to succeed against so many odds thrown at him. You will feel inspired and be deeply rooting for his success, and for him to defeat his enemies. It has a catchy theme song that makes you feel power, strong and unstoppable.
Watch it now on Netflix.
5. Korean drama for the ultimate in historical romance and drama
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)
If you loved Crash Landing On You, and if you love romance, you will whole heartedly love Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo. A modern day women finds herself transported back to the Goryeo Dynasty, founded in 918. There she meets the eight princes all in line for the throne. She is embroiled in their lives, their loves and their fight for the throne.
The exceptional part about this drama is that you become invested in all the characters and their lives. Each of the eight princes have unique characters, some charming that you fall in love with. And others, more menacing that you are fearful of. What is a Korean drama without romance and this one does it beautifully. You are aching for the prince and the girl and for their uniting love.
A sublime soundtrack is gifted to us with Scarlet Heart. The songs are beautifully intertwined in the story and get repeated in various scenes, which makes Scarlet Heart a real tear-jerker. Even at 2am in the morning, you won’t be able to turn this one off.
Watch on Amazon Prime Video or Viu.
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