Netflix is set to release a multitude of new K-dramas in 2023, capitalizing on the global popularity of Korean entertainment. As streaming services continue to broaden access to these shows, Netflix aims to cater to a diverse audience by offering a wide range of genres. The platform has already seen tremendous success with shows like Crash Landing On You, starring Hyun-Bin and Son Ye-Jin, which has garnered such acclaim that plans for an English-language adaptation are in motion. Similarly, Squid Game has become a massive hit, leading to an upcoming second season and a reality competition. With a growing interest in Korean entertainment, Netflix is committed to providing a plethora of new shows throughout 2023 for those eager to explore this captivating genre.
14 Celebrity
The upcoming TV series Celebrity revolves around a new breed of individuals known as "celebrities." Throughout the show, these individuals face various challenges and grapple with the advantages and disadvantages of fame, particularly in dealing with those who covet their status. Celebrity represents another exciting collaboration between Studio Dragon, a prominent South Korean company, and is skillfully directed by Kim Chul-Gyu. The series features Park Gyu-Young in the role of Yoon Ji-Su and CN Blue's Kang Min-Hyuk as Han Joon-Kyung.
13 D.P. Season 2
Netflix is set to release the second season of D.P., a show that premiered in 2021. The series follows a team of Korean military police who are dedicated to tracking down deserters. Despite its sensitive and controversial narrative, the first season of D.P. was well-received by critics and gained popularity, quickly ranking among the top 10 shows on Netflix South Korea. Due to its success, it was inevitable that D.P. would return for a second season. Jung Hae-In, Koo Hyo-Hwan, Kim Sung-Kyun, and Son Suk-Ku will be reprising their lead roles in the upcoming season.
12 Mask Girl
Directed by Kim Yong-Hoon, Mask Girl is a film adaptation of a webtoon with the same title. Although the original source material is classified as 18+, it remains uncertain whether Netflix will adhere to this rating. The story revolves around Kim Mo-Mi, portrayed by Go Hyun-Jung, who leads a double life as an insecure office worker during the day and a masked live-streamer at night. Her hidden identity plunges her into a series of harrowing events that leave her permanently scarred. Ahn Jae Hong, Yeom Hye Ran, and Choi Daniel complete the ensemble cast of Mask Girl.
11 A Time Called You
An adaptation of the Taiwanese drama Someday or One Day, A Time Called You delves into Han Jun-Hee's profound sorrow following the demise of her boyfriend, Ko Yeon-Jun. She discovers the ability to time travel back to 1998 and assumes the persona of Kwon Min-Joo. During her stay in the past, she encounters Nam Si-Heon, a fellow high school student who bears a striking resemblance to Yeon-Jun. This encounter aids her in coming to terms with the immense loss she has recently endured. Jeon Yeo-Been makes a return to Netflix after her roles in Be Melodramatic and Vincenzo, joined by Ahn Hyo-Seop, Kang Hoon, and Lee Min-Goo.
10 Song of the Bandits
Netflix has a captivating period drama in store for 2023 called Song of the Bandits, which transports viewers to 1920s Korea during the Japanese colonial era. This gripping series delves into the lives of the people of Joseon as they navigate the lawless territory of Gando, bravely defending their homeland against invaders. The stellar cast includes Kim Nam-Gil portraying Lee Yoon, along with the talents of Seohyun from SNSD, Yoo Jae-Myung, and Lee Hyun-Wook. Guided by the directorial expertise of Hwang Jun-Hyeok, Song of the Bandits promises to be a compelling watch.
9 Ballerina
A former bodyguard named Ok-Joo seeks revenge against someone who has harmed her dear friend, Min Hee. The thrilling movie, Ballerina, directed and written by Lee Chung-Hyun, revolves around Ok-Joo's quest for retribution. Starring Jeon Jong-Seo as Ok Joo and Park Yoo-Rim as Min Hee, the film also features Kim Ji Hoon as Choi Pro, the man whom Ok-Joo is determined to confront.
8 Doona!
Like Mask Girl, Doona! is also based on a popular webtoon and directed by Lee Jeong-Hyo, known for his work on Crash Landing on You. The series features former Miss A member Bae Suzy and Lee Yoo-Bi in leading roles. Doona! revolves around Joon, a college student who discovers that his new downstairs neighbor is a former celebrity named Doona. Despite his attempts to keep his distance, Joon finds himself drawn into Doona's enigmatic life.
7 Daily Dose of Sunshine
Netflix's new K-drama, Daily Dose of Sunshine, offers a refreshing and relatable storyline set in a psychiatric ward. Drawing inspiration from the real-life experiences of nurse Jung Da-Eun, the show promises to captivate viewers with its grounded narrative. Park Bo Young, known for her roles in Oh My Ghost and Strong Girl Do Bong Soon, takes on the lead role of Da-Eun. Accompanying her are talented actors Yeon Woo-Jin, Jang Dong-Yoon, and Lee Jung-Eun.
6 Believer 2
Following up the success of the 2018 South Korean action crime film Believer, Believer 2, directed by Baek Jong Yeol, takes the thrilling story to new heights. This highly anticipated sequel features an impressive cast, including Jo Jin-Woong, Cha Seung-Won, Han Hyo-Joo, Oh Seung-Hoon, and Kim Dong-Young. Believer 2 continues the gripping narrative by following Detective Won-Ho, played by Jo Jin-Woong, as he embarks on a search for the missing Rak. Along the way, he finds himself crossing paths with Brian, portrayed by Cha Seung-Won, and Keunkal, portrayed by Han Hyo-Joo, as he relentlessly pursues Teacher Lee.
After a long wait, fans of the apocalyptic horror series Sweet Home can rejoice as the highly-anticipated season 2 is finally on the horizon. Originally released in December 2020, the renewal of the show was officially announced in June 2022. Based on the popular webtoon of the same name, the gripping storyline revolves around Cha Hyun-Soo and his fellow residents of Green Home, who find themselves trapped inside their apartment building and forced to battle terrifying monsters.
4 Gyeong Seong Creature
Another historical series, Gyeong Seong Creature, combines elements of thriller and adventure as it follows its protagonists in their battle against monstrous creatures born out of human avarice. Set in 1945 Gyeongseong, the show offers a captivating twist to the typical survival genre. Spearheaded by Park Seo-Joon and Han So-Hee, Gyeong Seong Creature also features the talents of Wi Ha-Joon from Squid Game and Claudia Kim from Avengers: Age of Ultron and Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.
3 Behind Your Touch
Behind Your Touch, a Netflix series, follows the story of Ye-Bun, a veterinarian with psychometric abilities. Together with a passionate detective, they work hand in hand to solve various small-scale crimes and unravel mysteries in a tranquil farm village. As their bond deepens, their unique partnership is tested by the growing affection they feel for one another. Han Ji-Min takes on the role of Ye-Bun, alongside Lee Min-Ki and Exo's Suho, in this captivating drama Behind Your Touch.
2 Destined With You
In Netflix's Destined With You, the life of Jo Bo-Ah's character, Lee Hong Jo, takes a transformative turn when she stumbles upon a long-forgotten book, sealed away for 300 years, and the man who has been cursed by it for centuries. Adding to the already intricate web of their circumstances, Roowon portrays Jang Shin-Yu, the co-lead in this captivating series. As their relationship blossoms into love, it further complicates their already complex situation.
1 The Glory Season 2
Netflix's Glory has become one of the most talked-about K-dramas of 2023, drawing inspiration from real-life events involving a group of Cheongju middle schoolers. The gripping storytelling and exceptional performances in season 1, led by Song Hye-Gyo's Moon Dong-Eun, have captivated audiences. As the story continues in season 2, the stakes are raised even higher, promising an even more intense and thrilling experience for viewers.