Korean dramashave become an obsession within the past few years. These series, which are easily binge-watchable and tend to consist of pretty short seasons compared to their Western counterparts, have been at the forefront of many discussions, whether they’re the most ironic Korean dramas orSquid Game, which was dubbed in many different languages. Despite the one-inch-tall barrier of subtitles, the streaming age has created a truly globalized world of content and what people can consume daily. Streaming platforms have also increasingly recognized this want and have catered to the rising popularity of foreign-language television and movies.
Because of that, many have their favorite Korean dramas, but it has become undeniable that some of these television shows have become classics over the years. Their influence runs deep regardless if one person is a fan of the show or not. Whether they are one of the original shows that brought Korean television to the attention of the broader world or a show that came out to acclaim throughout recent years, these television shows have proved they can stand the test of time and attain the status of “classic.” The following twenty shows have done just this throughout the years.
Updated on January 25th, 2024, by Soniya Hinduja:This article has been updated with additional content to keep the discussion fresh and relevant with even more information and new entries.
35Dr. Romantic (2016)
Among the few long-running K-dramas out there isDr. Romantic. It centers around Boo Yong-joo, who was once a top surgeon in all of Seoul, his triple-board certified role making him a force of nature. However, after a tragic incident, he changes his identity to Kim Sa-bu and exiles himself to the small provincial town of Gangwon, where he works as a doctor. He lends his surgical expertise to the underprivileged people of Doldam Hospital and even trains his juniors.
A Perfect Combination of Medical Drama and Romance
Despite beinga medical drama,Dr. Romanticis a standout in the genre for instilling elements like romance, heartbreak, and massive character development. The three-season drama stars Han Suk-kyu in the title role. Accompanying him in the first season are Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin, while the second and third seasons bring fan-favorite names like Ahn Hyo-seop and Lee Sung-kyung to the mix. The series is one that warms the heart with its complex and flawed heroes and engages the mind with expert surgeries.
Stream on Hulu
34Alchemy of Souls (2022)
InAlchemy of Souls, Naksu is a gifted mage and an elite assassin whose fate is thrown into a cauldron after the use of a forbidden magic spell. Now, she is stuck in the weak body of Mu Deok, who is a servant to one of the most powerful families of mages in the fictional country of Daeho. Bound to the influential heir, Jang Uk, she must accept her destiny. Meanwhile, Jang Uk harbors a dark secret that could forever change the Jang Family.
Wonderfully Romantic and Thematically Rich
One of the most beloved K-dramas among both Korean and Western audiences,Alchemy of Soulsinvites you into its enchanting world of magic and romance. The way it fuses historical elements with that of fantasy is beautiful. The primary cast is made of talented actors, Lee Jae-wook and Jung So-min, who add layers of nuance to their roles. The drama has also been praised for its impeccable world-building and lavish historical details, like the costumes and set pieces.
Stream on Netflix
33The Red Sleeve (2021)
Transporting you to the elegant world of the royal court,The Red Sleeveis a historical romance drama set in the 18th-century Joseon era. The protagonist, Prince Yi San, is a passionate heir to the throne, but also scarred by the brutal murder of his father. Eager to rule the kingdom following his grandfather’s death, he strikes a connection with Sung Deok Im, an intelligent young woman. Yi San believes their union could transform the realm for good.
A Subversive Take on Familiar Tropes
In the K-drama landscape, there are numerous historical romances. ButThe Red Sleevesubverts pre-established tropes and carves a touching story of an unconventional love between two troubled souls. Beingset in the Joseon eraallows the narrative to make piercing commentary on equality, lack of feminism, and how literature can bring change. The glorious set pieces and costumes make it more compelling. But most importantly, the drama is anchored by emotionally rich performances from Lee Jun-ho, Lee Se-young, and Kang Hoon.
Stream on Rakuten Viki
32Signal (2016)
Anothertime travel drama, but one laden with crime and mystery-solvingSignalis set across a gap of fifteen years. On one hand, there’s Hae Yeong, a brilliant yet traumatized criminal profiler who investigates the most brutal crimes in his area. On the other hand, there is Detective Lee Jae Han, another officer in the past. One day, Hae Yeong stumbles upon a walkie-talkie that connects him to Jae Han. After learning about the parallels in the cases they’re solving, they band up with fellow police officers to unravel more secrets.
An Edge-of-Your-Seat Crime Drama
Director Kim Won-seok has created a phenomenal science fiction crime procedural that’s probably the best in the genre.Signaldraws inspiration from real-life incidents of crime in Korea. But in the vein of true K-dramas, it also creates affectionate portraits of its complex characters. They are brought to intriguing life by Lee Je-hoon, Kim Hye-soo, and Cho Jin-woong. Filled with flashbacks and plot twists, the series plays out like a well-written and captivating thriller. Which is why, almost a decade later, the show hasn’t lost its popularity.
Stream on Paramount+
31The Light in Your Eyes (2019)
Lauded for its clever writing and exploration of human emotions,The Light in Your Eyesis a time-travel romance that first introduces us to 25-year-old Kim Hye Ja, living a beautiful life with her father and the love of her life. Hye Ja is in possession of a magic watch that can turn back time. One day, out of desperation to save her father’s life, she turns the dial too many times and ends up aging herself and becoming 70 years old. With families and friends no longer recognizing her, Hye Ja tries to make the most of her situation.
A Unique Premise Offers Unique Introspection
Perhaps few other K-dramas are as devastatingly beautiful asThe Light in Your Eyes. With a narrative that explores themes of love, friendship, memories, and the bond shared by parents and children as well as other family members, the show’s minimalist sets and philosophical musings immerse the viewers in its magical world. Han Ji-min, Kim Hye-ja, and Nam Joo-hyuk are simply stunning in their roles, carrying the raw and outstanding plot to great heights.
30Boys Over Flowers (2009)
The F4, a group of wealthy and handsome high school teenagers, rules over the prestigious and exclusive Shin Hwa High School. They’re not necessarily bad guys, but the school is sure under their iron fist. However, everything changes when free-spirited Jan Di transfers to the school on a sudden swimming scholarship. Despite facing bullying from F4, Jan Di stands up for what she believes and ends up falling for one of the boys. Meanwhile, Goo Joon Pyo, the leader of F4, develops feelings for her.
An Irresistible Love Triangle
Featuring one ofthe most compelling love trianglesever seen in K-dramas,Boys Over Flowerscements itself as a classic in the romance genre. If you ask any Korean drama aficionado, they’d name the series as a must-watch. The reason? It tackles themes of social class differences and school bullying in a stylish and romantic way. It showcases the fashion and the privilege of the ultra-rich but its heart lies in the ordinary.
29Kill Me, Heal Me (2015)
Kill Me, Heal Meis another beautiful drama. It follows Cha Do Hyun, a wealthy chaebol with a traumatic childhood that led him to develop dissociative identity disorder. Now living with seven different personalities including the real one, he finds it difficult to deal with so many emotions. So, he secretly hires Oh Ri Jin as a resident psychiatrist to integrate his alter egos and heal him.
A Mental Health-Focused Romance
By shining a light on mental health issues, the show breaks new ground and resonates with an even wider audience. The depiction of each distinct and fully-formed alter ego of Cha Do Hyun is what entertains the fans. Both Ji Sung and Hwang Jung-eum are phenomenal as the lead characters, and their chemistry is truly captivating. Moreover,Kill Me, Heal Meallows a glimpse into the process of healing.
Stream on Viki Rakuten
28She Was Pretty (2015)
InShe Was Pretty, Hwang Jung-eum and Park Seo-joon play childhood best friends Kim Hye-jin and Ji Sung-Joon. Throughout the years, Sung-joon has harbored a one-sided crush on her pretty best friend. Years later, when a chubby, broken-hearted Hye-jin reunites with her now-successful best friend, Sung-joon does not recognize her. So, she keeps her identity a secret, lands a job at his company, and meets Kim Shin Hyuk, who accepts her the way she is.
A Humorous But Not Shallow Romance
Hwang Jung-eum andPark Seo-joon are two very charming leads, and with a chemistry such as theirs, the series is bound to be a rom-com filled with humor and heart. After all,She Was Prettyhas everything – playful banter, healthy misunderstandings, a palpable will-they-or-won’t-they tension, and a compelling love triangle that leads to a swoon-worthy finale. But beyond that, there’s also the ultimate message that true beauty is what’s on the inside.
27Hotel Del Luna (2019)
InHotel Del Luna, Jang Man-wol is the manager of the titular hotel, a place that houses ghosts and spirits and eventually guides them to the afterlife. So she has full responsibility for making sure the ghosts work out their regrets before passing on. Jang Man-wol is stuck in her position because of a grave sin she once committed, but to have an ambitious multinational hotel corporation employee, Goo Chan-seong, become part of the deal is solely her doing. Man-wol introduces Chan-seong to the “ghostel” and its peculiarities, and soon they form a connection with one another.
Truly Never Been Done Before Premise
The fantasy genre never ceases to amaze us. Just when you think that every possible narrative has been with, creators come up with something fresh and exciting. Led by powerhouse actors Yeo Jin-goo and IU, the series takes ghostly chills and otherworldly thrills and blends them seamlessly with a heartwarming romance. From the former’s charm and good heart to the latter’s icy cold exterior, there’s a perfect balance that makesHotel Del Lunaso iconic.
26It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020)
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Back when it was released in 2020,It’s Okay to Not Be Okaytook the K-drama fandom by storm by being so touching. It tells the story of Moon Gang-tae and Ko Moon Young. The former is a supportive caretaker working at a psychiatric facility. She enjoys the simple pleasures of life and is empathetic and kind towards all. The latter is a celebrated children’s book author who seems to have it all in control but is harboring unresolved trauma that makes him rude and arrogant. As their relationship deepens, they both learn to accept and care for each other.
Intertwining Themes of Mental Health Care and Romance
Romance is a genreoften known for sugarcoating certain truths. ButIt’s Okay to Not Be Okaynot only subverts tropes but also addresses mental health with great care and nuance. Putting your heart out on the line, showcasing your inner demons, and being compassionate are parts of being human and the drama does not soften that reality.
