Top 10 Best Korean Shows to Binge on Netflix
#10: “My Name” (2021)
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This dark revenge thriller is as suspenseful as it is satisfying. After Yoon Ji-woo witnesses the murder of her gangster father, she joins his old gang, hoping to toughen up and track down the killer. When she’s ordered to infiltrate the police, it affords her opportunities to investigate, but also leads to a complicated double life. Actress Han So-hee gives an intense and physical performance that carries the show. With brilliant twists and thrilling fight scenes packed into its eight episodes, “My Name” is a gritty crime drama that needs to be binged.
#9: “The Silent Sea” (2021)
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Early astronomers thought that the moon’s dark plains might be oceans. Taking its name from the lunar Sea of Tranquility, “The Silent Sea” is also all about water. The Earth has dried up, and our only hope lies in an expedition sent to retrieve a mysterious sample from an abandoned lunar research station. Based on a short film, this sci-fi mystery series is sometimes a slow burn, but nonetheless makes for a gripping watch. The story is elevated by the performances of leads Bae Doona and Gong Yoo. It might fumble a bit at the end, but if you like science fiction and space dramas, “The Silent Sea” shouldn’t be missed.
#8: “Hellbound (2021-)
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Imagine: suddenly, an angel tells you you’re bound for hell. At the appointed time, demons emerge out of nowhere to beat you bloody and take your soul. It’s a twisted and terrifying premise that “Train to Busan” director Yeon Sang-ho explores by focusing on the moral decisions made in response; while the monsters make an impact, the way people react to this new phenomenon is what takes center stage. When the demons attack, there are scenes of shocking violence. But even more disturbing is the human judgment and vigilantism that follows. The result is a fascinating look at misinformation, religious cults, and online mobs. Despite a somewhat jarring time jump, the twists and turns of its six episodes are definitely worth the binge.
#7: “Itaewon Class” (2020)
Based on the beloved webtoon of the same name, “Itaewon Class” follows ex-convict Park Sae-ro-yi and the social outcasts he brings together to open a street bar in Seoul’s colorful Itaewon district. Sae-ro-yi hopes to start a franchise to defeat a local food company, whose CEO’s son caused his father’s death. But while this revenge plot provides the premise, “Itaewon Class” is first and foremost about its diverse cast of characters, who must learn to work together and accept their differences. Their friendship buoys the series, making its sixteen episodes a breeze to binge.
#6: “Vincenzo” (2021)
This crime dramedy begins with a bang. However, it quickly changes gears into slapstick comedy and courtroom drama. These tonal shifts can be jarring. But once the show settles into a rhythm, it’s hard to tear yourself away. After the death of his boss, mafia consigliere Vincenzo (played by Hallyu heartthrob Song Joong-ki) returns to Seoul to recover gold stashed underneath a plaza. Unexpectedly, he finds himself joining forces with the plaza’s tenants and a ruthless attorney against a corrupt company that wants the building. Vincenzo’s enemies soon learn that he fights fire with fire. If you’re expecting a realistic, grounded depiction of the mafia, or lawyers … this is not it! But “Vincenzo’s” 20 episodes offer drama aplenty to keep you hooked.
#5: “All of Us Are Dead” (2022-)
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#4: “Sweet Home” (2020-)
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Despite the slew of apocalyptic horror series around, “Sweet Home” still manages to stand out. Another webtoon adaptation, it follows a band of survivors in a rundown apartment complex beset by monsters. The main focus is depressed high school student Cha Hyun-soo, who - after a tragic accident - planned to end his own life. At its best, “Sweet Home” is gory, effects-filled fun that keeps you wondering: who will die next? The monsters steal the show, each one unique in its own special way. However, through its large cast of flawed characters, the series also reflects on our own dark and monstrous desires. All in all, it’s a thrilling ride through the end times.
#3: “Crash Landing on You” (2019-20)
This one is for the rom-com fans! It’s easy to get swept up “Crash Landing on You’s” tale of forbidden love. When South Korean heiress and businesswoman Yoon Se-ri crashes her paraglider in North Korea, she finds herself falling for the taciturn Captain Ri Jeong-hyeok. The problem of course is the long-standing conflict between their two countries. Screenwriter Park Ji-eun worked with defector Kwak Moon-wan to pen the dramedy, which offers a surprisingly thoughtful look at life in North Korea. Just as entertaining as the leads are Captain Ri’s soldier buddies. The runtimes of its sixteen episodes might seem a little long for binge-watching. But once the show draws you in, you’ll fly through them.
#2: “Kingdom” (2019-)
Netflix's first original Korean series is also one of the best! Based on the webtoon “The Kingdom of the Gods”, this period horror series combines political intrigue with zombie carnage. The story follows Crown Prince Lee Chang as he investigates a deadly plague and struggles to survive the machinations of his rivals. It’s a unique blend of genres that expertly balances its horror and political elements, while telling a gripping story built around memorable characters. With just six episodes per season, it’s also eminently bingeable. If you’re hungry for more, there’s also a 90 minute sidequel, “Ashin of the North”. Before we unveil our top pick, here are some honorable mentions.
“Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” (2021)
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“Start-Up” (2020)
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“D.P.” (2021)
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“Mr. Sunshine” (2018)
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“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” (2020)
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#1: “Squid Game” (2021-)
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This survival thriller took the world by storm, captivating audiences with its visceral spectacle, compelling drama, and sharp social commentary. The premise is simple enough: in a secret facility, 456 players in dire financial straits compete for a cash prize. The macabre twist is that the competition consists of popular children’s games with fatal consequences for the losers. “Squid Game” nails the human drama, with well-written characters, and all the alliances and betrayals the premise suggests. It also works in timely themes about class struggle and capitalism. With a first season of just nine episodes, it’s quite easily the most bingeable K-Drama on Netflix!
