Netflix has become a hub for captivating fantasy and supernatural K-dramas, presenting Western audiences with a blend of familiar and innovative narratives. Over the past decade, K-dramas have experienced a surge in popularity, largely due to Netflix's extensive collection of horror, crime, and romance series. While romance is a central theme in many fantasy K-dramas, it is important to note that this genre encompasses much more. These shows often explore elements of horror, delve into the rich history and mythology of Korea, incorporate well-crafted comedy, and showcase relatable characters that resonate with viewers. Additionally, numerous K-dramas infuse a supernatural twist into crime stories, resulting in some of the most captivating cop-based series available. With Netflix's dedication to international supernatural content, it has played a vital role in introducing these remarkable fantasy K-dramas to Western audiences. Whether it's tales of reincarnated deities, parallel universes, ghosts, or other enigmatic beings, each of these top supernatural K-dramas on Netflix offers a fresh and enthralling experience for its millions of subscribers. While some of these shows may lean towards lightheartedness, others explore darker themes that are not intended for the faint of heart. Nevertheless, all of them possess a unique narrative to share and provide a refreshing perspective on established storytelling tropes, a feat that South Korean dramas excel at. For enthusiasts of fantasy and supernatural tales, Netflix offers a selection of the best K-dramas that are sure to captivate and entertain.
15 Unlock My Boss (2022)
One of the strangest yet popular supernatural K-Dramas on Netflix is Unlock My Boss. The storyline revolves around the soul of a tech company CEO, Kim Seon-joo, who becomes trapped inside a cellphone. Portrayed by Park Sung-woong, his exceptional performance as the titular boss adds to the show's appeal. Despite its eccentric premise, Unlock My Boss manages to maintain a coherent plot. The unemployed jobseeker, Park In-seong (played by Chae Jong-hyeop), stumbles upon Kim Seon-joo's phone, leading to a series of adventurous escapades as Park carries out Kim's commands. Their ultimate goal is to secure 10 billion won from the deceased entrepreneur's fortune, resulting in hilariously unexpected outcomes.
14 Possessed (2019)
The story of Possessed begins with the introduction of Hwang Dae-du, a notorious K-drama serial killer who brutally murdered 30 people before being captured and executed. Two decades later, a new evil emerges with the intention of resurrecting Hwang Dae-du from the afterlife. The narrative revolves around Kang Pil-sung, a dedicated homicide detective, who crosses paths with Hong Seo-jung, a young woman gifted with the ability to see and communicate with the dead. As their lives become intertwined, they join forces to put an end to a series of murders that defy logic. While Possessed stands out as one of the best fantasy K-dramas available on Netflix, it is not recommended for the faint-hearted due to its graphic violence and chilling moments.
13 The Bride Of Habeak (2017)
Many of the top supernatural K-dramas on Netflix blend romance with mystical characters and events, and this series follows suit. In The Bride Of Habeak, the God of Water yearns to reclaim his rightful place on the throne, necessitating a journey to present-day Seoul to retrieve three immensely powerful stones. As fate would have it, he encounters Yoon So-ah, a brilliant neuropsychiatrist destined to be his bride. Apart from grappling with his own reservations about love, he also faces the daunting task of safeguarding her from other deities who seek to disrupt his plans.
12 Abyss (2019)
Abyss immerses its audience in a whirlwind of peculiar occurrences, which ultimately contribute to its status as one of the top fantasy K-dramas on Netflix. The story revolves around two friends who find themselves at opposite ends of the spectrum. Cha Min, the heir to a cosmetics company, is considered unattractive, while Lee Mi-do is a strikingly beautiful prosecutor. However, their lives take a dramatic turn when they both meet untimely deaths under different circumstances and are subsequently reincarnated by a supernatural entity known as "Abyss." But here's the twist: their new physical appearances mirror the essence of their souls. Despite their transformed looks, they embark on a quest to unravel the mystery behind their reincarnation.
11 Bring It On, Ghost (2016)
Bring It On, Ghost, also known as Hey Ghost, Let's Fight, is a captivating K-drama based on a popular webtoon from 2007. The series revolves around Park Bong-pal, a young man gifted with the ability to communicate with the deceased. To rid himself of this supernatural power, Bong-pal ventures into the world of exorcism, offering his services for a fee.
During his encounters at a haunted high school, Bong-pal crosses paths with the spirited ghost of Kim Hyun-ji, who tragically lost her life in a car accident. Together, they form an unlikely friendship and partnership as they assist other lost souls. As their bond strengthens, a blossoming romance begins to take shape, unbeknownst to them that a malevolent ghost lurks in the shadows, responsible for intertwining their destinies.
The compelling storytelling and supernatural elements in Bring It On, Ghost make it a standout among other K-dramas available on Netflix.
10 Mystic Pop-Up Bar (2020)
Mystic Pop-Up Bar, released in 2020, emerged as one of the standout K-dramas of the year. The series revolves around a pop-up bar where the staff possess extraordinary abilities and carry fascinating stories. Weol-ju, the owner, has been cursed for the past five centuries, compelled to reside in the Living Realm and aid people as well as ghosts in resolving their grievances. Assisting her is Han Kang-bae, a part-time employee who possesses the unique power to elicit confessions simply through physical contact, which has left him ostracized by society. Adding to the intrigue is Crown Prince Yi-Hon, the cursed woman's former love interest, who now serves as the manager. With its captivating premise and a seamless blend of comedy and drama, Mystic Pop-Up Bar undoubtedly ranks among the finest supernatural K-dramas available on Netflix.
9 A Korean Odyssey (2017)
A Korean Odyssey takes inspiration from the classic 16th-century Chinese novel, Journey to the West. The story centers around Son Oh-gong, the legendary Monkey King, who is imprisoned in Heaven for his misdeeds. In a fateful encounter, he strikes a deal with Jin Seon-mi, a young girl gifted with the ability to see ghosts and spirits. Son Oh-gong pledges to protect Seon-mi whenever she calls upon him, but ultimately betrays her once he regains his freedom. Years later, their paths cross again, setting the stage for one of the most captivating supernatural K-dramas available on Netflix.
8 The King: Eternal Monarch (2020)
The King: Eternal Monarch is set in parallel worlds. When he was a child, Lee Ji-hun, the prince of the Kingdom of Corea, witnessed his father being murdered by his uncle. Years later, as the king, he discovers a gateway to the parallel world where his uncle escaped to. In this parallel world, he meets Jeong Tae-eul, a female detective who holds the key to unraveling the mystery of his traumatic past. Together, they strive to prevent Ji-hun's uncle from seizing control of both worlds. With its captivating storyline, The King: Eternal Monarch has emerged as one of the best fantasy K-dramas on Netflix, garnering high ratings in various regions. It presents a contemporary adaptation of a beloved Korean tale.
7 Arthdal Chronicles (2019)
Arthdal Chronicles is set in the mythical land of Arth and revolves around the intertwined destinies of key individuals who hold the power to shape the future of the land. Among these individuals are Ta-gon, the eldest son of the leader of the Arthdal Union, Eun-seom and Saya, twin brothers born from a forbidden relationship, and Tae Al-ha, a warrior-scientist and the daughter of the Hae Tribe Chief. Through their journeys, Arthdal Chronicles offers a captivating portrayal of the Bronze Age, infused with political intrigue, romantic entanglements, and stunning animation and visuals. For fans of well-crafted, action-packed epics, Arthdal Chronicles stands out as one of the finest supernatural K-dramas available on Netflix.
6 The School Nurse Files (2020)
Decidedly one of the best supernatural K-dramas on Netflix, The School Nurse Files envisions a world where human emotions, spirits, and desires manifest as "jellies," with some being harmless while others pose a threat. Ahn Eun-young, a school nurse endowed with the ability to perceive and engage with these jellies, is assigned to a new school plagued by unexplained incidents. Here, she crosses paths with Hong In-pyo, a teacher who possesses an energy field shielding him from the jellies. Together, they embark on a whimsical and comedic journey to unravel the peculiar occurrences at the school in The School Nurse Files.
5 Alchemy of Souls (2022)
In the fictional country of Daeho, Alchemy of Souls unfolds the tale of a forbidden spell known as the titular spell. This spell possesses the extraordinary ability to interchange souls between bodies. The narrative commences with Nak-su, an exceptional female assassin, finding her soul entrapped within the much frailer physique of Mu-deok, another woman. Assuming the identity of Mu-deok, Nak-su becomes a servant to the nobleman Jang Uk, imparting her combat skills to him. Inevitably, a profound love blossoms between the two. Apart from its intricate plotlines, Alchemy of Souls stands out as one of the top fantasy K-dramas on Netflix, offering exceptional action, stunning effects, and remarkable production value.
4 The Uncanny Counter (2020-present)
Counters, known as demon hunters, have the responsibility of banishing escaped evil spirits from the afterlife in their quest for immortality. Jang Cheol-joong, one of the Counters, succumbs to a powerful Level 3 evil spirit, leading his spirit to possess the body of a physically disabled high school boy named So Mun. This turn of events grants So Mun unexpected supernatural abilities. With its blend of a coming-of-age narrative and an epic fantasy mission, The Uncanny Counter stands out as one of the top supernatural K-dramas on Netflix. Moreover, it boasts some of the most meticulously choreographed fights in the history of K-dramas.
3 Bulgasal: Immortal Souls (2021-2022)
Another contender for the title of the best supernatural K-drama on Netflix is Bulgasal: Immortal Souls, a captivating dark fantasy series centered around revenge. Set in the Joseon period, the story revolves around Dan Hwal, a military official plagued by a curse that transforms him into a blood-drinking immortal creature known as a Bulgasal. Driven by a 600-year quest for vengeance, Hwal develops a complex relationship with Min Sang-woon, who loses her immortality after 600 years due to a tragic incident. As the narrative of Bulgasal: Immortal Souls unfolds, delving into the past lives and present journeys of these two characters, the show seamlessly blends elements of thriller and fantasy, creating a truly remarkable drama that draws inspiration from history.
2 Hotel Del Luna (2019)
There's a reason why Jang Man-wol, the owner of the Hotel Del Luna, is often distant, moody, and irritable. She has been bound to this establishment for the past 1,300 years as punishment for her past sins. On the other hand, due to a pact made between a deity and a human two decades ago, the human's son, Koo Chan-sung, is compelled to take on the role of the Hotel Del Luna's manager. This K-drama, available on Netflix, is a standout in the fantasy and female-led genre, offering a darkly humorous twist that sets it apart from most romantic-comedy K-dramas. Despite the high stakes involved, Hotel Del Luna maintains a somewhat light-hearted approach, making it appealing to a wide range of K-drama enthusiasts.
1 Mr. Queen (2020-2021)
Mr. Queen is a captivating K-drama set in the Joseon period, where Jang Bong-hwan, a talented head chef at the esteemed Blue House, finds himself in a precarious situation. After a near-firing incident and a life-threatening experience, Bong-hwan's soul mysteriously inhabits the body of Queen Cheorin. As he navigates the intricate political landscape of the era, Bong-hwan must not only find a way to return to his own time and body but also grapples with unexpected feelings for King Cheoljong. With its blend of fantasy, romance, and comedy, Mr. Queen stands out as one of the finest K-dramas available on Netflix, offering a truly captivating glimpse into the Joseon era.