Netflix’s Top 15 K-Dramas – The landscape of global viewership has undergone a transformative shift, largely catalyzed by the rise of Korean dramas (K-dramas).
The days of discreetly enjoying a cherished Korean drama are long gone, as audiences worldwide unabashedly embrace this trend-setting change. The cream of the crop among Korean shows on Netflix has garnered immense global attention, considering Netflix’s status as a major Over-The-Top (OTT) platform.
A significant portion of Netflix viewers appreciates the unique flavor that Korean dramas bring to the streaming service.
Korean dramas, renowned for their unexpected twists and turns, have mastered the art of keeping viewers irresistibly hooked. Let’s delve into the realm of the most-watched Korean dramas on Netflix, an eclectic mix that has captivated audiences far and wide:
15. Love Alarm
Release Date: 22 August 2019
Cast: Kim So Hyun, Song Kang, Jung Ga Ram
Adapted from a webtoon of the same name, Love Alarm thrusts viewers into a world where an app dictates romantic connections by notifying users when someone harbors feelings for them in their vicinity. The narrative follows a high school student navigating life’s complexities while grappling with romantic sentiments and other obstacles.
In a world where love apps wield advanced influence, the question arises: does this make love easier or more challenging?
14. Twenty-Five Twenty-One
Release Date: 12 February 2022
Cast: Kim Tae Ri, Nam Joo Hyuk, Choi Hyun Wook
Prepare to reach for the tissues as Twenty-Five Twenty-One, a 2022 Korean drama, emerges as one of the highest-rated K-dramas.
Set in 1998, the story revolves around Na Hee Do, a determined teen fencer with ambitious dreams who refuses to be hindered by obstacles. Forced to change schools after her old institution closes down, she finds herself in a new setting where her idol also pursues studies. Meanwhile, Baek Yi Jin seeks to rebuild his life after his family faces bankruptcy.
13. D.P. (Deserter Pursuit)
Embarking on a narrative inspired by the webtoon “D.P.’s Dog Day” by Kim Bo Tong, this series delves into the unforgiving realities of mandatory military service.
The plot unfolds with a focus on a young private, Ahn Jun Ho, and Corporal Han Ho Yeol, who find themselves tasked with capturing AWOL (Absent Without Leave) soldiers. Over the course of two seasons, D.P. strives to shed light on the intricate challenges within the military system and among peers, leading to considerable mental pressure.
Release Date:
Season 1: 27 August 2021
Season 2: 28 July 2023
Cast: Jung Hae In, Koo Kyo Hwan, Son Suk Ku
12. Mask Girl
In the realm of black comedy and crime thriller, “Mask Girl” introduces audiences to a young woman seeking an escape from the monotony of her life. Driven by boredom, she adorns a mask, contemplating the journey of becoming an internet personality.
However, unforeseen circumstances catapult her existence into uncertainty, compelling her to make challenging decisions for survival. This gripping drama achieved notable success, securing a spot in Netflix’s top 10 across multiple countries.
Release Date: 18 August 2023
Cast: Lee Han Byeol, Nana, Go Hyun-jung, Ahn Jae-hong, Yeom Hye-ran
11. See You in My 19th Life
Injecting a dose of reincarnation with heartfelt romance, “See You in My 19th Life” adds a unique flavor to mundane existence. The storyline revolves around Ban Ji Eum, a girl who has experienced reincarnation for thousands of years, retaining memories of each past life. A sudden accident curtails her eighteenth life, prompting her to embark on a quest to reunite with the person she encountered in her nineteenth life.
Release Date: 17 June 2023
Cast: Shin Hye Sun, Ahn Bo Hyun, Ha Yoon Kyung, Ahn Dong Goo
10. The Silent Sea
Immersing viewers in a well-received sci-fi thriller, “The Silent Sea” unfolds against the backdrop of a crew on a mission to explore a facility and retrieve valuable samples in an apocalyptic world.
However, the mission proves to be rife with perils and the presence of enigmatic villains, challenging the crew more than they initially perceived. With elements of thrill, mystery, and betrayal, this show breathes fresh air into the K-drama landscape.
Release Date: 24 December 2021
Cast: Bae Doona, Gong Yoo, and Lee Joon
9. Kingdom
Emerging as one of the pioneers in captivating global audiences, “Kingdom” marked a watershed moment in Korean dramas. This historical period drama, infused with themes of plagues and zombies, stands out as a must-watch. Set during the Joseon era, the narrative unfolds as a mysterious illness jeopardizes life in Korea.
The crown prince, accompanied by a physician, soldier, and guard, embarks on a perilous journey to halt the spread of the disease and safeguard the throne.
Release Date: 25 January 2019
Cast: Ju Ji Hoon, Ryu Seung Ryong, Bae Doona, Kim Sang Ho
8. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
Capturing hearts with its lovable and heartwarming narrative, “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” weaves a tale of romance and personal growth. Ko Moon Young, a children’s book writer with a pronounced antisocial demeanor, finds herself entangled in a unique love story.
She follows her love interest, Moon Gang Tae, to his hometown, where he dedicates his life to caring for his autistic older brother, Moon Sang Tae. This uplifting drama delicately navigates mental health issues, trauma, and the profound journey towards personal growth.
Release Date: 20 June 2020
Cast: Kim Soo Hyun, Seo Yea Ji, Oh Jung Se, and Park Gyu Young
Taking a refreshing turn from conventional romantic tales, “Destined with You” infuses its narrative with curses, fantasy, and echoes of past lives.
Jang Shin Yu grapples with an incurable disease linked to a century-old curse in her family. The key to breaking the curse lies with Lee Hong Jo, the true owner of a mystical book. Bound by destinies that cannot be severed, they unite against formidable odds, fighting together to ensure their love prevails.
Release Date: 23 August 2023
Cast: Jo Bo Ah, Rowoon, Ha Jun, and Yura
6. King the Land
A record-breaking sensation on Netflix’s top 10, “King the Land” ventures into the realm of romantic comedy. The narrative unfolds as the grumpy heir of a luxury hotel, Gu Won, discovers meaning and happiness in life through the influence of the sunshine-like hotelier, Cheon Sa Rang.
Despite initial clashes and their inability to stand each other, their relationship evolves as the show progresses, culminating in a love story that unfolds helplessly.
Release Date: 17 June 2023
Cast: Lee Jun Ho and Im Yoon Ah
5. Celebrity
Dive into the riveting world of “Celebrity,” a thrilling drama that skillfully balances romance, capturing the hearts of a vast viewership. Beneath the glossy facade of today’s social media influencers and celebrities lies a realm filled with dark secrets, potent enough to threaten lives.
However, the central theme revolves around the relentless pursuit of safeguarding stardom, depicting a constant race against time and challenges. The protagonist, Seo Ah Ri, must navigate the cutthroat world of celebrities to ensure her survival in this enthralling drama.
Release Date: 30 June 2023
Cast: Park Gyu Young, Kang Min Hyuk, Lee Chung Ah, Lee Dong Gun
4. Nevertheless
A monumental hit globally, “Nevertheless” quickly captured the audience’s attention post-release. This tale unfolds as two individuals, both having given up on love, embark on an unconventional journey when they delve into a friends-with-benefits relationship. Yu Na Bi and Park Jae Eon, scarred by past relationships, grapple with skepticism about falling in love again.
The narrative navigates the complexities of maintaining a platonic connection amidst the blurred lines of emotions.
Release Date: 19 June 2021
Cast: Han So Hee, Song Kang, and Chae Jong Hyeop
3. Business Proposal
Experience the epitome of romantic comedy with “Business Proposal,” a heartwarming narrative that swiftly garnered swoons from viewers worldwide. The story revolves around Kang Tae Mu, an all-work-no-fun workaholic president of GO Food, and Shin Ha Ri, a dedicated researcher in the same company.
Caught in an unexpected lie, Shin Ha Ri finds herself on a fun-filled blind date with Tae Mu, leading to a series of delightful events that will undoubtedly evoke ‘Aww!’ moments.
Release Date: 28 February 2022
Cast: Ahn Hyo Seop, Kim Se Jeong, Kim Min Kyu, and Seol In Ah
2. The Glory
Indulge in the unforgettable saga of “The Glory,” a thriller series that etched its mark with a colossal viewership, shattering records with 622.8 million hours viewed.
Focused on a meticulously crafted revenge story, Moon Dong Eun, a survivor of ruthless bullying, meticulously unfolds a slow and vengeful plan against her tormentors. This series emerged as a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its well-thought-out narrative.
Release Date: 30 December 2022
Cast: Song Hye Kyo, Lee Do Hyun, Lim Ji Yeon, Yeom Hye Ran, Park Sung Hoon, Jung Sung Il
1. Squid Game
In the realm of Korean dramas, the undeniable phenomenon “Squid Game” takes center stage. With a cult following, this series thrusts viewers into a world where life is an immense hardship.
Struggling with nothing to lose but their lives, participants engage in deadly children’s games, vying for a staggering prize of 45.6 billion won. Boasting 1.65 billion viewed hours, the show surpasses many illustrious titles, keeping audiences on the edge with an ever-present sense of impending doom on the contenders.
Release Date: 17 September 2021
Cast: Lee Jung Jae, Park Hae Soo, Wi Ha Joon, Jung Ho Yeon, O Yeong Su, Heo Sung Tae, Anupam Tripathi, and Kim Joo Ryoung
If you haven’t delved into these captivating Korean dramas yet, now is the perfect time to add them to your watchlist and embark on an immersive binge-watching experience.
With genres ranging from romance and comedy to thriller, revenge, survival, horror, and action, Korean dramas offer a diverse and engaging package. So, don’t hesitate – pick one and discover if they capture your heart as they have for countless others!
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