The best K-dramas to watch on Netflix, Viki, and beyond

If you are a savvy entertainment enthusiast, it’s impossible to have not heard of one of the many Korean drama that have blown up over the last few years. And if you have — and not watched any of them yet — you’re probably wondering, Is there a reason for all the hype?

Well, why don’t you try answering your curiosity by watching some of the best K-dramas of all time? To help you do that, here’s a list of the best K-dramas from every genre that can turn you from a K-drama newbie to a K-drama super fan. You will be amazed at how many opportunities you are missing after you watch a few.

You will be hooked by these shows’ dynamic stories, creative cinematography and tuneful OSTs. They also feature stunning performances to bring the dramas to life.

It wasn’t easy to narrow down the number of K-dramas. Although this isn’t a complete list, it will give you a good idea of Korean entertainment. You should also watch the dramas in Korean with subtitles if you prefer. This will allow you to fully appreciate the subtleties and feel the show.

Satire

SKY Castle (2018)

Image courtesy of Netflix

Cast: Yum Jung-ah, Lee Tae-ran, Yoon Se-ah, Oh Na-ra, Kim Seo-hyung

Streaming platformsViki and Netflix

The reputable mother of SKY Castle has a lot to do. From raising top-performing children to ensuring that their husbands are distinguished barons.

SKY Castle is a luxurious area that many people aspire to live in, but it’s also home to a select few high-flyers. They are highly-strung elites, who view their children as status symbols and who want to make their families famous by getting in at the best universities. And as each family pulls all the strings it can to retain its high social position, the drama shows the extremes upper-class parents can go to, even if it comes at the cost of destroying others’ lives.

Expect the following: SKY CastleIt is a masterful satire, with an intricate plot and deft balance in comedy and mystery.

The show tackles many prevalent and sensitive issues like academic stress, mental health, parents’ sky-high expectations, status-obsessed elites and their tactics, and more. The drama has a lot of humor to balance the seriousness.

Law

Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022).

Image courtesy of Netflix

Cast: Park Eun-bin, Kang Tae-oh, Kang Ki-young

Streaming platform Netflix

If you liked Freddie Highmore in The Good DoctorPark Eun-bin is a great choice. Astonishing Attorney Woo too.

The most popular drama of 2022 Astonishing Attorney WooThis is the story of Woo Youngwoo (Park Eun) – a brilliant autistic lawyer. Be it laws or minute details of everyday life, her photographic memory expands beyond that of an average human mind’s capacity. Despite her rookie status, her exceptional IQ and remarkable problem solving skills make her an outstanding lawyer/prosecutor.

Her ingenuity is hampered by her difficulties with interpersonal relationships. This seeps into both her personal and professional lives.

Expect the following: Astonishing Attorney WooThis is an exquisitely crafted legal drama that focuses on autism and the difficulties in the lives of autistic people.

What’s in it for legal drama lovers? There are many things to love about legal drama, from piling case after case to intense courtroom fighting. Astonishing Attorney WooHas it all. You will learn a lot about Korean law from Woo’s focused approach to legalities and laws.

To keep the comedy going, there are chuckle-worthy scenes as well as sweet, innocent romances between the leads. It will be a lighthearted show that will warm your heart.

Juvenile Justice (2022)

Image: Swann Studio/Netflix

Cast: Kim Hye-soo, Kim Mu-yeol, Lee Sung-min, Lee Jung-eun

Streaming platform Netflix

Juvenile Justice is the story of Shim Eun-seok (Kim Hye-soo), an elite juvenile judge, who holds the adamant belief that young offenders’ punishment should befit the crimes they commit in order to instill fear (of law) and realization of the consequences that come with the damage they cause. Her frustration stems from her position that the lenient law — which emphasizes rehabilitation of juvenile offenders rather than incarceration — is a means of escape even when they commit heinous crimes.

And as the tough judge tackles complex juvenile crime cases, she faces opposition to her unyielding merciless stance, along with the challenge of balancing her detestation of young offenders while holding the beliefs of rehabilitation-focused juvenile justice and punishment that her duty demands.

Expect the following: Inspiration from real juvenile crimes stories, and portraying actual law Juvenile JusticeThis K-drama is darkly serious and focuses on the sensitive subject of juvenile crime and law.

Although the dramatic use of drama is creative, there are some real-life cases that were portrayed. The tough, female role of the lead is formidable. Just her strong eyes and performance will get you goosebumps.

Psychological

Mouse (2021).

Viki

Cast: Lee Seung-gi, Lee Hee-joon, Park Ju-hyun, Kyung Soo-jin

Streaming platform Viki

When a psychopath serial killer “hunts” in the streets of South Korea, a series of ruthless, blood-chilling murders ensues and puts the entire nation in fear.

Jeong Ba Reum, a rookie police officer (Lee Seunggi), and Detective Ko Moo chi are pledging to eliminate the murderer. Jeong Ba’reum is closer to catching this criminal, but he uncovers horrifying truths that will turn his entire life upside-down.

Expect the following: This psychological drama is based on Incheon’s Elementary School Murder Case, which was filmed in 2017.

And with a 19+ rating for episodes 1 and 2, this is one show that doesn’t shy away from brutal murders, psychological torment and twists, and heart-wrenching crises. So, if that’s not your cup of tea, you might want to skip this one.

You can expect to be amazed by plot twists and turns that are mind blowing.

Zombie horror

Kingdom (2019).

Image courtesy of Netflix

Cast: Ju Ji-hoon, Bae Doo-na, Ryu Seung-ryong, Kim Hye-jun, Kim Sang-ho, Kim Sung-kyu, Heo Joon-ho, Jeon Seok-ho

Streaming Platform Netflix

When his father’s mysterious illness is deliberately kept a secret from him, Joseon Crown Prince Lee Chang (Ju Ji-hoon) ventures out to meet the physician who last treated his father, the king.

However, the inspection reveals that a plague has taken over the country. The young prince will have to shoulder the uncertainty of the kingdom’s fate in order to save it from its people who are now zombies.

Expect the following: Any Walking DeadFans, are you here? You are invited to watch this drama.

KingdomThe historical zombie thriller is sure to grab your attention due to its striking plot, spectacular visuals, sick swordplay and powerful characters.

Power-hungry politicians are planning evil schemes to keep their power over the kingdom amid all the zombie chaos. You’ll be able to say good bye to boredom until the end of the series.

Keep your calendar free and take a few snacks and a bottle of water with you. Because once you sit down to watch this drama, you will be unable to resist clicking on the “Next Episode” button. Before you know it you’ve binge-watched all of the episodes and even the Netflix special episode.Kingdom: Ashin the North).

Take Action

Vagabond (2019).

Image courtesy of Netflix

Cast: Lee Seung-gi, Bae Suzy, Shin Sung-rok

Streaming platform Netflix

Cha Dalgeon (Lee Seunggi) is devastated to lose his orphaned nephew, Lee Seunggi. The struggling stuntman values only truth.

But when the officials’ brief explanations and unwillingness to further explore the matter don’t satisfy him, he unofficially investigates the incident with the help of intelligence agent Go Hae-ri (Bae Suzy). His search uncovers an intricate conspiracy as he digs deeper into the mystery.

Expect the following: You can find everything from high-stakes conspiracies and secret murders. VagabondOne action-packed bomb will keep you on edge.

Bae Suzy, Lee Seunggi (virtuoso versatility) are the two main protagonists. This drama has lots of fast-paced action as well as loud explosions and gunfire. High suspense is paired with mind-boggling plot twists that will keep you on your toes.

The drama also has many lighthearted, humorous scenes to help balance out the growing tension.

My Name (2021

Photo: Min Jeehee/Netflix

Cast: Han Sohee, Ahn Bor-hyun and Park Heee-soon

Streaming platform Netflix

Yoon Ji-woo (Han Sohee), a revenge-driven Yoon Jiwoo, vows to find the murderer when her father is murdered right in front of her home. This becomes her sole purpose in life.

Our tough female lead seeks out Choi Mu-jin (Park Hee-soon) — her father’s best friend and leader of an organized drug ring — and seals her loyalty to him by joining the same underworld web her father was a part of.

And as she tries to uncover the mystery behind her father’s death, she discovers that her whole life was a lie.

Expect the following: You will be transported into the dangerous world of dark realities and drug cartels in this action-packed thriller. A vengeful woman drives this thrilling ride. Her power-packed punches, fast-spinning kicks, and powerful punches will leave any man in pain.

Expect police pursuits, unexpected reveals, heartfelt performances and an incredible OST.

Fun fact: Han Sohee was the one who did all of her stunts. It is just another reason this drama series is a must see.

Romantic comedy

Guardian: The Great and Lonely God (2016)

Image: Hwa&Dam Pictures

Cast:Gong Yoo Kim Go-eun Lee Dong-wook Yoo In-na Yook Sung-jae

Streaming platformsNetflix, Amazon Prime Video, Viki and Voot.

Kim Shin (Gong Yoo), a 940-year-old lonely goblin, is cursed with immortality and has lived his immortal life in retribution for those he had killed during war. The prophesied goblin bride who will take out his sword and free him from the curse awaits him.

Ji Eun-tak (Kim Go-eun) is a high school student who sees ghosts and is prophesied to be the goblin’s bride. Sunny (Yoo Inna) employs her as a part-timer in a restaurant. Sunny falls in love with a grim reaper (Lee Dong-wook), who is also the goblin’s housemate.

They are all part of a larger play that fate has already determined.

Expect the following: The drama is full of everything, from tender and sweet love to hilarious humor to enchanting fantasy with an historical twist. If that isn’t enough, the bittersweet bromance of the goblin and the grim reaper, the unexpected plot twists, and the heart-wrenching moments will definitely leave you hooked on this timeless masterpiece.

You are at Risk (2019).

Image courtesy of Netflix

Cast: Hyun Bin, Son Ye-jin, Seo Ji-hye, Kim Jung-hyun

Streaming platform Netflix

It’s a love story between a South Korean chief executive officer and a North Korean admiral. Drama like this is what you get You are in danger.

Yoon Seri (Son Ye­jin), a happy businesswoman, crashes into North Korea. Here she is rescued by the North Korean officer Hyun Bin (emotionally reserved Ri) and helps her escape. Ri falls for her while in the hostile country. Yoon Seri is she safe to go home? Will she prefer her love to her country?

Expect the following: The series tells a story about a couple with humor and a plot that is fast-paced.

The drama is a thrilling romantic journey that takes you to a new place. You will be on the edge of your seats as the love between these characters and the increasing danger of Yoon Seri’s discovery by North Korean officials keep you awake at night.

Healthcare

Hospital Playlist for 2020

Image courtesy of Netflix

Cast: Jo Jung-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok, Jung Kyung-ho, Kim Dae-myung, Jeon Mi-do

Streaming platform Netflix

Hospital Playlist is a slice-of-life drama depicting the everyday lives of five doctors — also close friends since medical school — working at the Yulje Medical Centre.

Expect the following: Do you remember that feeling of warmth when hot chocolate is poured on a winter morning and you are surrounded by the warm sun?

That’s how watching Hospital PlaylistThis made me feel.

If you want a break from conventional K-drama tropes like a hero with a traumatic/complicated past, a wicked villain, dirty hospital politics, a revenge-driven plot, and a complicated love triangle, then this is your drama.

Not because Hospital Playlist diverges from conventional K-drama tropes doesn’t mean it’s monotonous and devoid of entertainment. The series is lighthearted with some serious, emotional scenes and plenty of hilarious moments. The series is enjoyable for all ages, including doctors.

Moreover, you can get a sneak peek into the lives of doctors at elite hospitals, as the series has numerous scenes where real doctors nod at the accuracy of medical techniques and terms and realistic portrayal of hospital procedures, doctors’ lives, doctor-patient interactions, hospital struggles, and more.

Dr. Romantic (2016)

Image courtesy of Netflix

Cast: Han Suk-kyu, Yoo Yeon-seok, Seo Hyun-jin

Streaming platforms Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Viki

Nicknamed “Hand of God,” Master Kim is an exceptionally skilled surgeon at an obscure and humble hospital named Doldam who can save even those on the brink of death. He is passionate about helping anyone who needs it, whether they are criminals or magnates.

Kim’s arch-enemy is Do Yoon-wan (Choi Jin-ho) — the Director of Geosan University Hospital (which also owns Doldam) — who puts profits before patients. Because of these clashing ideals Yoon-wan makes no effort to bring Master Kim down or to revoke the medical license.

Can Master Kim win with his small team of medical professionals from Doldam Hospital against Do Yoonwan?

Expect the following: You will be captivated by the dramatic scenes in this hospital drama, which includes lifesaving chest compressions and nerve-wracking complex surgery.

What’s more, the subtle and sweet romance, the complex relationships between the characters, and the matter-of-life-and-death decisions of the doctors with the patient on the operation table are plenty to fill your drama cup.

Additionally, medical scenes are shot under supervision by an emergency medicine specialist. This ensures that you will be able to trust the authenticity and realness of the portrayal of medical procedures. The drama will teach you the value of being an emergency medicine specialist, and you’ll leave the film wishing that you could be a surgeon.

Doctor Stranger (2014)

Image courtesy of Netflix

Cast: Lee Jong-suk, Kang So-ra, Park Hae-jin, Jin Se-yeon

Streaming platformsViki and Netflix

Park Hoon (Lee Jongsuk), a North Korean genius cardiothoracic surgeon is determined to escape North Korea. Song Jaehee, his girlfriend (Jin Seyeon), and he plan to flee the country. Park Hoon is alone in his escape and abandons his lover.

While he plans to be with his beloved, the genius defector starts working at Myungwoo University Hospital in South Korea. He is unaware that he has become part of Jae-hee’s larger political game.

Expect the following: Doctor StrangerThe multi-genre, medical drama blends comedy, romance, comedy and tragedy. This series is full of tension, from plotting to brew to nerve-wracking operations to life-threatening encounters.

Moreover, Park Hoon’s quirky character and the affectionate love between the leads give this medical series a lighthearted ambience.