Top 20 Korean Drama Series of All Time
#20: “Suspicious Partner” (2017)
“Suspicious Partner” might not be as instantly recognizable as the other dramas on this list, but it’s still a must watch. While yes, the main couple, prosecutor Noh Ji-wook and trainee Eun Bong-hee, is definitely a pair we can root for, this drama also has an amazing supporting cast and plot. Each actor deftly plays their part perfectly, from the surprisingly likable antagonists and killers to Ji-wook’s intelligent and headstrong ex-girlfriend Cha Yoo-Jung. Part thriller part comedy part romance, there’s something for everyone in this drama.
#19: “My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho” (2010)
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Although this drama came out in 2010, it’s still as heartwarming now as it was when it was originally released. Our male protagonist Cha Dae-woong is spoiled but well-meaning. His life is turned upside down once he stumbles into a temple and meets the beautiful but eccentric Gumiho, a legendary nine-tailed fox who presents herself as a beautiful young woman. Although they get off to a somewhat rocky start, their relationship eventually blossoms into a romance - but their time together is unfortunately limited. This drama is the epitome of cute with a dash of fantasy sprinkled in.
#18: “Pinocchio” (2014-15)
One of most compelling aspects of “Pinocchio” is its, often-times heart wrenching, exploration of various human relationships, ranging from platonic to romantic. Dal-po and In-ha both become reporters with complex feelings towards their families. The two slowly and almost unintentionally develop feelings towards each other in a way that feels natural and unstaged. In fact, most of the plot felt as though it flowed perfectly. The sequencing and pacing were well planned and the writers really knew how to draw in their audience because every episode was filled with laughter, tears, and drama.
#17: “Playful Kiss” (2006)
Based on the chaotic relationship of students Oh Ha-ni and Baek Seung-jo, this series kicked off with one heck of an insult. With the two leads of “Playful Kiss” being seemingly polar opposites, they learn to understand and help each other once an earthquake brings their families in close proximity. Then, through education and the turmoil of others, a true romance develops. Given the high school to college narrative and the blossoming talent of both Jung So-min and Kim Hyun-joong, “Playful Kiss” connects on a grand scale. It’s a light-hearted drama and the inherent naughtiness makes it even more intriguing.
#16: “Coffee Prince” (2007)
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For 17 episodes, this dramedy investigated how external perceptions can affect one’s inner truth. And more specifically - homosexuality in Korean culture. Fed up with Grandma’s nitpicking and conflicted about a former flame, Choi Han-kyul finds refuge at the “Coffee Prince.” And he even hires an employee to be, well, his “boyfriend.” But there’s a catch, and the truth is that Go Eun-chan isn’t gay at all, but is actually a girl who’s perceived to be more masculine than she really is. And so, the two learn how to handle their feelings and societal pressures. Filmed on location in Seoul, “Coffee Prince” earned numerous accolades, including the Excellence Award for both leads at the 2007 MBC Drama Awards.
#15: “Strong Girl Bong-soon” (2017)
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Do Bong-Soon is proof that you can never judge a book by its cover. Bong-Soon is a remarkable lead because she not only possesses physical strength but mental strength as well. She's a far cry from the stereotypical meek and naive damsel in distress. Her chemistry with the male lead Ahn Min-hyuk is undeniable, and it's what makes watching the two of them work together throughout the drama so enjoyable. As the two work together to track down a kidnapper, they find themselves inadvertently becoming closer. This drama perfectly mixes the pair's dark mission with their adorable budding relationship.
#14: “You’re Beautiful” (2009)
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Building on the theme of sexual tension, this Korean musical rom-com drama focuses on the dynamics of a “unique” K-POP band. In dual roles, Park Shin-hye plays both Go Mi-nyeo and Go Mi-nam, twin siblings that grew up in an orphanage. But when the boy twin has a chance at stardom, a plastic surgery fail leads to his sister joining the group. Incidentally, hilarity ensues as the new Mi-nam begins to form new relationships. And there’s one particular member, Jeremy, who has a whole lot to learn about himself and the music industry upon developing feelings for the new member. Airing for 16 episodes, “You’re Beautiful” became a cult classic in Korea and beyond.
#13: “Kill Me, Heal Me” (2015)
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Featuring the stars of the 2013 series “Secret Love”, this heavy drama brilliantly tackles the nature of multiple personality disorder. With Ji Sung in the lead role as Cha Do-Hyun, he actually plays seven characters in total, all the while building a relationship with his enticing psychiatrist, played by Hwang Jung-eum. It’s not the most classic of love stories, but the psychological character study allows for a closer look at what makes the human mind tick. And given the side-narrative of a curious twin brother,, “Kill Me, Heal Me” hits all the right storyline beats. In fact, the series won “Drama of the Year” at the 2015 MBC Drama Awards.
#12: “Full House” (2004)
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After a chance encounter aboard a plane, a naïve woman named Ji-Eun accidentally vomits on a well-known actor… and this is the inciting incident of the heartwarming narrative of “Full House.” Despite the airplane fail, it turns out the pair share a mutual connection, as Ji-Eun’s beloved home is actually sold to the celebrity. But alas, Young-jae and Ji-eun wind up living together, opening the door for an investigation of celebrity life and the fans that adore them. With Song Hye-kyo and the real-life singer Rain in the lead roles, “Full House” has loads of charm, but it’s the inherent chemistry of the two leads that makes the series such a joy to watch.
#11: “It's Okay, That's Love” (2014)
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In this endearing drama, a novelist by the name of Jang Jae-yeol has a few obsessive quirks. And when it comes to relationships, not many women would like to sleep in a bathtub - at least in theory. But that’s Jang-yeol, and a potential romance unfolds once he encounters a doctor with some anxiety issues of her own. Over the course of 16 episodes, the series confronts the realities of psychological disorders and the implications for long-term love. Featuring a vast amount of complex subplots, “It’s Okay, That’s Love” identifies personal voids, cuts open the characters’ wounds and attempts to find some resolution. And the series gets the job done by way of its fascinating leads, Jo In-sung and Gong Hyo-jin.
#10: “Crash Landing on You” (2019-20)
If you’ve ever read a synopsis of “Crash Landing on You,” you know that the plot and background of this drama is a bit of a rollercoaster ride. What really ties everything together is the relationship between fashionista heiress Yoon Se-ri and North Korean captain Ri Jeong-hyeok. While their love is unorthodox, they’re the very definition of a power couple. Both are independently wealthy and strong but above all, they care for each other in a way that transcends turbulent events and geographical boundaries. More than just a romantic comedy, “Crash Landing on You” is a blend of fantasy, realism, drama, and action that grips viewers’ hearts and imaginations.
#9: “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo” (2016)
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If you love historical dramas, this one’s for you. Even if you’re not big into Korean history, you’re sure to be drawn in by the ambitious, complex, and inviting storyline. A total solar eclipse sends Go Ha-jin, a modern-day woman, back in time to the Goryeo Dynasty. There, she becomes entangled in romantic feelings towards the amicable Prince Wang Wook and later, the cold Prince Wang So. This drama isn’t your average, happy go lucky romance, nor is it your average straightforward plot, but nonetheless, it's incredibly rewarding to watch.
#8: “Descendants of the Sun” (2016)
Can two people overcome major differences to be together? “Descendants of the Sun” examines the intense relationship between surgeon Kang Mo-Yeon and army captain Yoo Si-Jin. While the two find themselves falling in love, they are torn apart by the stark differences in their priorities. One fights to save lives while the other is thrown into violence to protect his country. Their romance is tumultuous, rewarding, and never fails to draw the audience in. The second leads Seo Dae-young and Yoon Myung-ju also have excellent chemistry and a heartwarming will-they, won’t-they relationship. Between these two couples, there’s never a dull moment. #7: “Healer” (2014-15)
Action, adventure, mystery, and intrigue; what more could one ask for? “Healer” was a bit of a sleeper hit and only received moderate reviews during its initial release. However, it eventually won over countless fans, especially overseas, and we can definitely see why. “Healer” tells the story of reporters Kim Moon-Ho and Chae Young-Shin and an unusual errand runner going by the codename "Healer." If you’re looking for a mystery thriller with an exceptionally likeable main couple, this is the drama for you. The chemistry between “Healer” and Chae Young-shin is subtle but realistic in a way that it makes hearts flutter.
#6: “The Heirs” [aka “The Inheritors”] (2013)
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Winner of Most Outstanding Drama at the 2014 Seoul International Drama Awards, this societal study explores the perks of inherited wealth and comfortable living. Then again, “The Heirs” also demonstrates how love can be more affecting than privilege. Set in both South Korea and the United States, the geographical displacement allows the characters to see different ways of life, which in turn shines a new light on their respective family businesses. With Lee Min-ho leading a celebrated cast, “The Heirs” thrives by way of its youthful and sometimes shrewd characters by infusing some heart into the corporate backdrop.
#5: “Legend of the Blue Sea” (2016-17)
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When you bring together Kdrama powerhouses Lee Min-ho and Jun Ji-hyun, you know you’ve got a blockbuster in your hands. Rather than being a slice of life drama, “ Legend of the Blue Sea” tells the complex but compelling tale of mermaid turned human, Shim Cheong, and her blossoming relationship with scam artist Heo Joon-jae - who closely resembles her past love interest. Their love story is intertwined with tales of Korean history and mythology, making it a great viewing experience for both those interested in romance and fantasy. Overall, this story is one of beauty, humor, and complexity, with excellent acting from the main leads.
#4: “My Love from the Star” (2013-14)
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So, you’re looking for a South Korean sci fi series, huh? Well, here’s one that likely won’t disappoint. Featuring one of the more popular theme songs of the day, “My Love from the Star” details the exploits of a centuries-old alien. This is an extraterrestrial being that knows exactly what he likes, and when Cheon crosses paths with his neighbor Do Min-joon, well, it’s on. Oh, and the next-door beauty also happens to be a famous actress. And so, cultures clash in a big way, as this series takes a rather different approach in confronting idealized love. Even so, the odd plot of “My Love from the Star” works exceptionally well over 21 episodes, and the series actually won almost every major Korean TV award.
#3: “Boys Over Flowers” (2009)
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Based on the manga series of the same name, this Korean drama investigates what happens when a no-nonsense girl speaks out against the elite. While such behavior may have different consequences for adults in a corporate setting, young Jan Di unexpectedly finds herself in a whirlwind romance with the leader of a school group known as the F4. It’s a different type of Cinderella tale, as the Academy setting helps “Boys Over Flowers” to address society through almost-adult characters. And so, the innate friction of punk rock and highbrow ideals makes for some seriously entertaining television, not to mention the metrosexual nature of the F4 and its magnetic leader, played by Lee Min-ho.
#2: “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God” (2016-17)
For years, there have been a series of hit dramas involving a supernatural male figure and an unassuming but loveable female protagonist - and while this drama certainly fits that category, it also transcends it. Far from conventional, “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God” explores the complicated relationship between Kim Shin, an immortal being, and Ji Eun-tak, a somewhat naive but loveable young woman. They are at once both star crossed and fated to be together. This tension is what drives the drama and compels viewers. Sweet, wholesome scenes are interspersed with intense make or break moments, making this drama one that you won’t want to miss. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “Master's Sun” (2013) Because Sometimes We Just Want to Get in Our Feelings “Emergency Couple” (2014) Because This Couple was Meant to Reunite “Dream High” (2011) Because it’s Amazing to See How Far These Actors Have Come “Reply 1988” (2015-16) Because Who Doesn’t Love Nostalgia?
#1: “Secret Garden” (2010-11)
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For 20 episodes, this Korean drama enraptured viewers through its central love story and a most fantastical twist. On a figurative level, a lower-class stuntwoman named Gil Ra-im mixes it up with arrogant CEO Kim Joo-won, but their relationship takes a turn when they literally exchange bodies. And considering the appearance of Joo-won’s celebrity cousin named Oska, well, the narrative of “Secret Garden” goes all in to chronicle the private lives of various Korean demographics. The series connects via classic storytelling, but elevates itself with a challenging subplot and fantasy influence. And given the numerous accolades earned by the series itself and the performers, “Secret Garden” became essential viewing outside of its original market.
