The Top Korean Dramas Currently Streaming on Netflix

The world of Korean dramas is a captivating and unique realm. With the rise of Kpop, acclaimed movies like Parasite and Minari, and captivating television series, the South Korean entertainment industry is gaining global prominence. The term "Korean drama" or "Kdrama" encompasses a wide range of fictional television series from South Korea, spanning various subjects and genres including comedy, romance, sci-fi, and horror. Many of these series are inspired by webcomics, a storytelling format that originated in South Korea. It's important to note that Korean dramas often feature unconventional and imaginative storylines, which is what makes them so compelling. Embracing the unexpected and going along for the ride is part of the charm. In recent years, Netflix has become the go-to platform for US viewers to explore the finest Kdrama offerings. To help you delve into this ever-expanding world of television, we have curated a list of the best Korean dramas available on Netflix, both original and non-original content. If you're unable to find what you're looking for here, be sure to check out our recommendations for the best shows on Netflix and the most captivating romantic K-Dramas.

Editor's note: This list was updated October 2023 to include Nevertheless.

The Silent Sea (2021-present)

Image via Netflix

Director: Choi Hang-yong

Starring Bae Doona, Gong Yoo, Lee Joon, Kim Sun-young, Kim Si-a, and Lee Moo-Saeng, The Silent Sea is a captivating sci-fi horror series set in space. The plot follows a crew that embarks on a mission to investigate an abandoned research facility where a tragic event occurred. Their objective is to retrieve valuable samples that could potentially unlock the creation of more water, a vital and expensive resource in the future. However, as they enter Balhae station, they are plunged into a world of unknown terrors. With Bae Doona and Gong Yoo at the helm, viewers can expect an outstanding performance. This intriguing series is filled with enigmatic twists and revelations, making it the perfect binge-worthy watch for fans of dystopian stories. - Therese Lacson

Nevertheless (2021)

Directed by: Kim Ga-ram

Cast: Han So-hee, Song Kang, Cheska Aguiluz, Yang Hye-Ji

Starring the adored Song Kang, Nevertheless became an instant sensation among global audiences. Yu Na-Bi (Han So-hee), an art student still reeling from a heartbreak, has become a skeptic who no longer believes in love. However, when she crosses paths with the alluring Park Jae-eon (Song Kang), she finds herself unable to resist his irresistible allure and playful charm. Both emotionally unavailable and uninterested in commitment, Jae-eon seeks pleasure rather than a long-lasting relationship. The two cautiously engage in a friends-with-benefits arrangement, helping each other heal from their pasts and gradually developing deeper feelings for one another.

A Time Called You (2023-present)

Image via Netflix

Created By: Kim Jin-won, Choi Hyo-bi

Starring Ahn Hyo-Seop, Jeon Yeo-been, and Kang Hoon, A Time Called You is a captivating adaptation of the Taiwanese television series Someday or One Day. The story revolves around Jun-hee (played by Jeon Yeo-been), a grieving woman who finds herself magically transported back to the year 1998, inhabiting the body of another person. As she navigates this unfamiliar territory, she unexpectedly encounters a man who bears a striking resemblance to her deceased boyfriend. Departing from the typical romantic comedy style of K-dramas in this genre, A Time Called You offers moments of genuine suspense and tension, expertly portrayed by Jeon Yeo-been and Ahn Hyo-Seop in their stellar lead performances. Set against the beautiful backdrops of Jeonju-si and Incheon, writer Choi Hyo-bi skillfully incorporates the element of time travel without overshadowing the heartwarming essence of the love story. With its intriguing complexity, the narrative effortlessly shifts between time and space, allowing the central couple's relationship to flourish, along with the connection between the audience and the captivating story at hand. - Jake Hodges

King the Land (2023-present)

Image via Netflix

Created By: Cheon Sung-il

Cast: Lee Jun-ho, Im Yoon-ah, Go Won-hee

Gently treading the line between comedy and drama, King the Land follows the story of Goo Won, a hotel CEO, who becomes disheartened by an inheritance war, but finds new purpose when he meets the ever-optimistic hotelier Cheon Sa-rang. Creator Cheon Sung-il expertly showcases the endearing chemistry between the lead couple, injecting a comforting narrative throughout the series. The show's smooth storyline is complemented by a wonderful soundtrack featuring artists like Punch, Minseo, and Gaho, enhancing the growth of the central romance. With its positive and uncomplicated nature, King the Land has become a hit, with the sparkling chemistry between Lee Jun-ho and Im Yoon-ha being a particular standout aspect.

Mask Girl (2023-present)

Image via Netflix

Creator: Mae-mi, Hee-se

Starring Hyun-Jung Go, Im Jin-Ah, Ahn Jae-hong, and Yeom Hye-ran, Mask Girl is a captivating adaptation of the popular Naver webtoon by Mae-mi and Hee-se. The story revolves around a young woman who, tired of her monotonous office life, decides to transform herself into an internet streaming personality by wearing a mask. However, her newfound fame attracts the wrong kind of attention, leading her into a complex web of murder, secrets, and multiple identities. What sets this limited series apart is its visually stunning aesthetics, as well as the unique decision to have the lead character, Kim Mo-mi, portrayed by three distinct actresses throughout the show: Lee Han-byeol, Nana, and Go Hyun-jung.

Bloodhounds (2023-present)

Image via Netflix

Creator: Kim Joo-hwan

Cast: Woo Do-Hwan, Sang-yi Lee, Joon-ho Huh

Bloodhounds is an electrifying and fast-paced South Korean crime drama that showcases impeccable fight choreography and brilliant performances. The captivating series revolves around Kim Geon-woo (played by Woo Do-hwan) and Hong Woo-jin (played by Lee Sang-yi), two aspiring boxers who find themselves entangled with a ruthless loan shark. To repay their debts, they must delve deeper into the dangerous underworld. With a captivating friendship between the two leads and a chilling portrayal by Park Sung-woong as the menacing loan shark, viewers will be glued to their seats. Additionally, the breathtaking action sequences and stunning cinematography elevate this show to instant classic status. – Tauri Miller

Celebrity (2023-present)

Image via Netflix

Creator: Kim Cheol-kyu, Kim Yi-young

Starring Park Gyu-young (The Devil Judge) as Seo Ah-ri, Celebrity is a South Korean mystery thriller that delves into the world of social media influencers. Seo Ah-ri's craving for fame attracts not only attention but also envy and hostility from her fellow influencers. However, things take a dangerous turn when a conspiracy unravels, putting her life and her celebrity status at risk. This series offers a captivating portrayal of the intense pressures faced by public figures in Seoul's competitive influencer industry. With its visually stunning aesthetics, it juxtaposes the vibrant colors of a glamorous lifestyle with the hidden darkness and isolation that lie beneath the surface of luxury.

The Good Bad Mother (2023-present)

Image via Netflix

Creator: Sim Na-yeon, Bae Se-young

Cast: Ra Mi-ran, Lee Do-Hyun, Ahn Eun-jin, Yoo In-soo

The Good Bad Mother is a heartwarming drama that explores the concept of second chances. It begins in a dark place but evolves into a touching story of reconciliation. Choi Kang-ho, a coldhearted attorney, experiences a memory loss in an accident, reverting him back to a childlike state. Unable to care for himself, he returns to his hometown to live with his estranged mother, Jin Young-soon. For Young-soon, this is an opportunity to become the mother she always wanted to be. As their relationship develops, the story highlights the unintended harm one can cause while striving for the best for someone and the enduring power of love despite the pain it may bring.

Queenmaker (2023)

Image via Netflix

Creators: Oh Jin-seok, Moon Ji-young

Starring Kim Hee-ae, Moon So-ri, and Ryu Soo-young, Queenmaker is an enthralling political drama co-created by Oh Jin-seok and Moon Ji-young. Similar to the Korean Scandal, Queenmaker revolves around a skilled problem solver who, after experiencing a moral crisis, abandons her high-ranking position in a powerful business conglomerate to enter the world of politics. Her goal is to transform a fierce civil rights attorney into the next mayor of Seoul and bring down her former employer in the process. With Kim Hee-ae portraying the brilliant Hwang Do-hee and Moon So-ri as Oh Seung-sook, the relentless advocate of justice, Queenmaker captivates viewers with its captivating narrative and exceptional performances. – Yael Tygiel.

Twenty-Five Twenty-One (2022)

Creators: Jung Jee-hyun, Kwon Do-eun

Cast: Kim Tae-ri, Nam Joo-hyuk, Bona, Choi Hyun-wook

Twenty-Five Twenty-One is a South Korean teen series that takes place in the late 1990s. The creators, Jung Jee-hyun and Kwon Do-eun, use real events as the backdrop for a fictional story. Kim Tae-ri plays Na Hee-do, a talented high school student in both academics and fencing. The series also stars Nam Joo-hyuk, who portrays Baek Yi-jin. The storyline revolves around how the 1997 IMF crisis affects these young characters, particularly Na's forced transfer to a new school. It is there that she meets Yi-jin, a determined individual aiming to rebuild his life and family after the turmoil caused by the economic crisis. With its exploration of the aftermath of a significant historical moment, Twenty-Five Twenty-One adds depth to its captivating and delightful romance. – Yael Tygiel

Crash Course in Romance (2023-present)

Image via Netflix

Creators: Yoo Je-won, Yang Hee-seung

Starring Jeon Do-yeon, Jung Kyung-ho, Lee Bong-ryeon, and Roh Yoon-seo, Crash Course in Romance is a delightful and chaotic South Korean dramedy. Written by Yang Hee-seung in collaboration with director Yoo Je-won, this series skillfully plays with the bittersweet aspects of romance, creating a universally enjoyable storyline. Jung Kyung-ho portrays Choi Chi-yeol, a popular math instructor and celebrity at the prestigious Pride Academy, while Jeon Do-yeon takes on the role of Nam Haeng-seon, a kind-hearted small business owner who unexpectedly develops feelings for this famous math prodigy. With the addition of Lee Bong-ryeon and Roh Yoon-seo, Crash Course in Romance delivers a cute and heartwarming first season. – Yael Tygiel

The Fabulous (2022-present)

Image via Netflix

Creators: Kim Jeong-hyeon, Kim Ji-hee, Im Jin-sun

Cast: Choi Min-ho, Chae Soo-bin, Seong Park, Jacqueline Misaye

The Fabulous follows a group of best friends in Seoul, as they strive to achieve their dreams and find their place in the glamorous fashion industry. Similar to The Bold Type, the show delves into their personal relationships, professional aspirations, romantic encounters, and thrilling adventures in the city. Starring Choi Min-ho, Chae Soo-bin, Seong Park, and Jacqueline Misaye, The Fabulous showcases the heartaches of young love, the challenges of starting out, and the unwavering passions that drive dreamers forward. – Yael Tygiel

My ID is Gangnam Beauty (2018)

Creator: Gi Maeng-gi

Starring Im Soo-hyang, Cha Eun-woo, Jo Woo-ri, and Kwak Dong-yeon, My ID is Gangnam Beauty is a poignant South Korean drama that tackles the universal themes of societal pressure, unattainable beauty standards, and bullying. The series follows Kang Mi-rae (played by Im Soo-hyang), a shy and bullied college student who decides to undergo surgery to change her appearance. With its honest portrayal of appearance-based discrimination and the superficial standards prevalent in South Korean society, My ID is Gangnam Beauty has garnered critical acclaim. Although the show invites discussions, it remains a fictional television series that doesn't shy away from drama. – Yael Tygiel

Our Blues (2022-present)

Image via Netflix

Directed by: Kim Kyu-tae

Cast: Lee Byung-hun, Shin Min-a, Cha Seung-won, Lee Jung-eun, Uhm Jung-hwa

Our Blues is a captivating drama series that combines the intrigue of a docu-series or reality show with a clever premise. Set on Jeju Island, it delves into the lives of the island's residents, showcasing both the highs and lows they experience. Through an innovative omnibus format, the show offers a unique perspective, presenting the sweet and bitter moments of their lives through various lenses. Starring Lee Byung-hun, Shin Min-a, and Cha Seung-won, Our Blues skillfully captures the beginnings, ends, and climactic moments of these individuals' journeys, delivering relatable tales about life.

Under the Queen’s Umbrella (2022)

Image via Netflix

Directed by: Kim Hyung-sik

Starring Kim Hye-soo, Kim Hae-sook, and Choi Won-young.

For fans of Game of Thrones, The Great, and The Crown, Under the Queen's Umbrella is a captivating historical drama that revolves around a fierce battle for the throne. The central figure in our story is Hwa Ryeong, portrayed by Kim Hye-soo, a queen with a fiery temperament striving to groom her sons into worthy successors. In a constant game of strategy and manipulation, she fights to maintain her power within her family and the court. With its stunning visuals and gripping narrative, this series is a visual delight and an ideal choice for binge-watching. - Taylor Gates

Narcos-Saints (2022-present)

Image via Netflix

Director: Yoon Jong-bin

Cast: Ha Jung-woo, Hwang Jung-min, Park Hae-soo, Jo Woo-jin

Introducing Narcos-Saints, also known as Suriname, a captivating series that seamlessly aligns with the immensely popular American-Colombian Narcos and Narcos: Mexico, while also exuding the same captivating essence as Ozark and Breaking Bad. This enthralling show revolves around Kang In-gu (Ha Jung-woo), a businessman compelled to collaborate with the National Intelligence Service in order to apprehend a Korean drug lord who has gained control over the nation. Though it delves into serious drama, the series never fails to entertain, embracing the surreal nature of the astonishing true events it is inspired by. – Taylor Gates

Business Proposal (2022)

Image Via Netflix

Director: Park Seon-ho

Cast: Ahn Hyo-seop, Kim Se-jeong, Kim Min-kyu, Seol In-ah

Introducing Kang Tae-mu (played by Ahn Hyo-seop), a meticulous and dedicated workaholic who has recently become the new president of GO Food. Meet Shin Ha-ri (played by Kim Se-jeong), a fresh-faced researcher at the company who secretly harbors feelings for her college friend Lee Min-woo (played by Song Won-seok). Despite her own interests, Shin Ha-ri's best friend Jin Young-seo (played by Seol In-ah) convinces her to go on a blind date with Kang Tae-mu in her place. However, when Shin Ha-ri realizes that she is on a date with her boss, things become complicated, and she does her best to repel him. Despite her efforts, Kang Tae-mu remains undeterred, unaware that he actually believes she is her friend Jin Young-seo. This leads to even more confusion. The K-drama "Business Proposal" is a delightful and lighthearted romantic comedy that is sure to satisfy your craving for love and laughter. - Taylor Gates

Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021-present)

Image via Netflix

Developed by: Kim Je-hyeon (tvN), Studio Dragon

Cast: Shin Min-A, Kim Sun-Ho, Lee Sang-Yi

If you're in need of a heartwarming show, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is the perfect choice. Inspired by the 2004 South Korean movie Mr. Handy, Mr. Hong, this series revolves around Yoon Hye-jin, a brilliant dentist residing in a bustling metropolis. Fate takes an unexpected turn when she loses her job, prompting her to relocate to a charming coastal village. It is here that she crosses paths with Hong Du-sik, a genuinely kind-hearted individual known for taking odd jobs. The undeniable chemistry between them is certain to win over any viewer, making them a couple worth rooting for. - Taylor Gates

The Heirs (2013)

Directors: Kang Shin-hyo, Boo Sung-chul

Starring Lee Min-ho, Park Shin-hye, Kim Woo-bin, Kim Ji-won, Kang Min-hyuk, and Kang Ha-neul, this star-studded cast captivated audiences with one of the most-watched Korean dramas of all time. While it may not have been the most original concept, The Heirs presented a modern-day Cinderella story reminiscent of Gossip Girl. Park Shin-hye portrays Cha Eun-sang, an ordinary girl who becomes entangled in the lives of wealthy heirs, particularly the Kim family. Living as the daughter of their housekeeper and attending their prestigious high school, she crosses paths with Kim Tan (Lee Min-ho), the family's heir, and against all odds, they fall in love. With Lee and Park's previous successes, The Heirs quickly gained immense popularity, serving as a time capsule of Korean dramas in the 2010s.

All of Us Are Dead (2022-present)

Image Via Netflix

Directors: Lee JQ and Kim Nam-su

Cast: Park Ji-hu, Yoon Chan-young, Cho Yi-hyun, Lomon, Yoo In-soo, Lee Yoo-mi, Kim Byung-chul, Lee Kyu-hyung, and Jeon Bae-soo

All of Us Are Dead is a zombie horror series based on the webtoon Now at Our School by Joo Dong-geun. It follows the story of high school students who find themselves in the midst of a virus outbreak. The outbreak occurs after an accident unleashes a zombie virus at a South Korean high school. The government cuts off the school from the outside world, leaving the students to fend for themselves. They have no supplies and no means of seeking help. To survive, they must rely on each other and any resources they can find. In addition to its horror elements, the show also addresses various social issues. With its gory, intense, and well-crafted storytelling, All of Us Are Dead has quickly gained popularity as one of Netflix's most-watched shows since its release in January 2022. - Remus Noronha

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled to see the increasing popularity of Korean dramas on Netflix. The diversity of genres and storylines in K-dramas offer something for everyone, and I appreciate the opportunity to explore different cultures and perspectives through these shows.

The Silent Sea, Nevertheless, and A Time Called You are three of my favorite K-dramas currently streaming on Netflix. Each of these shows brings something unique and captivating to the table, whether it's the sci-fi horror of The Silent Sea, the heartwarming romance of Nevertheless, or the time-travel twist of A Time Called You.

Overall, I believe that the rise of Korean dramas on Netflix is a positive development, and I am excited to see what new and exciting shows will come in the future.