If you’re stepping into the world of Korean dramas (KDramas) for the first time, Netflix provides an array of captivating series spanning various genres, from romance and fantasy to historical dramas. These 20 surprisingly pleasant series are perfect to begin your journey into KDramas, offering compelling narratives and memorable characters that will keep you enthralled:
Mr. Queen (2020)
After awakening in the body of a 19th-century queen, a modern-day chef must navigate the intrigues of the royal court while attempting to find a way back to his own time and life. Amidst the strict protocols and political machinations of the palace, hilarity and heartwarming moments ensue as the protagonist adapts to his unexpected new role.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)
Brilliant attorney Woo Young-woo faces multiple challenges both in the courtroom and in his personal life as a newcomer at a prestigious law firm. What sets him apart is not just his legal prowess but also his unique perspective as a person on the autism spectrum, offering a fresh and insightful portrayal of navigating professional and personal relationships in a competitive environment.
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo (2016)
In this charming coming-of-age story, a competitive swimmer crosses paths with his childhood friend, a talented weightlifter. As they support each other’s dreams and navigate the complexities of young adulthood, they discover that love can blossom unexpectedly even amidst their respective athletic pursuits and personal ambitions.
Reply 1988 (2015)
Set in the late 1980s, this heartwarming series takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through the lives of five families and their teenage children in a close-knit neighborhood in Seoul. Through laughter, tears, and everyday challenges, the series beautifully captures the essence of youth, friendship, and family bonds against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society.
Love in the Moonlight (2016)
A young woman disguises herself as a eunuch to survive in the royal palace, where she forms a deep bond with the crown prince. As they navigate palace politics and personal identities, their relationship evolves amidst intrigue, romance, and the challenges of maintaining their secrets in a world dictated by strict protocols and social hierarchies.
Mystic Pop-up Bar (2020)
In this fantasy series, a young man with a unique ability joins forces with a centuries-old bar owner who resolves her customers’ emotional troubles by entering their dreams. Together, they embark on a journey to heal past wounds and bring solace to those in need, blending magical realism with heartfelt storytelling and the exploration of human emotions.
Crash Landing on You (2019)
A chance paragliding accident lands a South Korean heiress in North Korea, where she finds herself under the protection of an army officer. As they navigate the complexities of political tensions and personal loyalties, their forbidden romance blossoms, challenging societal norms and testing the boundaries of love across borders.
Strong Girl Bong-soon (2017)
Born with supernatural strength, Bong-soon juggles her ordinary life with her superhero-like abilities. Amidst her quest to fight crime and deliver justice, she finds herself entangled in a love triangle involving her CEO boss and a charming police officer, blending humor, action, and romance in a delightful package.
Secret Royal Inspector & Joy (2021)
Amidst murder, conspiracy, and corruption in Joseon-era Korea, a food-loving secret government agent teams up with a progressive divorcee to uncover the truth. Their unlikely partnership leads them on a thrilling adventure to root out injustice and protect the innocent, against the backdrop of a society steeped in tradition and hierarchy.
Tomorrow (2022)
In a unique twist of fate, a young man becomes half-human and half-spirit, embarking on missions for a company of grim reapers in the underworld. As he navigates the supernatural realm and carries out special assignments, he grapples with his newfound identity and confronts the consequences of his actions in a world caught between life and death.
Itaewon Class (2020)
Set in the vibrant neighborhood of Itaewon in Seoul, this series follows an ex-convict and his friends as they strive to establish a street bar. Their journey is fraught with challenges as they confront powerful adversaries, pursue their ambitious dreams, and navigate personal relationships in a story that celebrates resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of justice.
Hwarang (2016)
Against the backdrop of Korea’s ancient Silla Kingdom, a group of elite young warriors trained in morals and martial arts form deep bonds of brotherhood. As they navigate love, loyalty, and the complex political landscape of their time, they discover their own strengths and weaknesses in a tale of courage, honor, and friendship.
The Glory (2022)
Years after enduring traumatic abuse in high school, a woman sets a meticulously planned revenge scheme in motion to hold her tormentors accountable. The series delves into themes of justice, redemption, and the psychological toll of past traumas, as she confronts her past to reclaim her present and future.
The Uncanny Counter (2020)
By day, they work in a humble noodle shop, but by night, they are demon hunters with extraordinary abilities. The Counters use their powers to chase down malevolent spirits that prey on humans, navigating the supernatural world while grappling with their own pasts and personal struggles.
Gyeongseong Creature (2023)
Set in 1945 Seoul during its grim colonial era, an entrepreneur and a sleuth find themselves entangled in a battle for survival against a monstrous creature born out of human greed and desperation. As they unravel the mystery and face the horrors of their time, they confront their own demons and forge unexpected alliances in a tale of resilience and sacrifice.
Start-Up (2020)
Young entrepreneurs in Korea’s competitive high-tech industry strive to turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses. Amidst fierce competition and romantic entanglements, they navigate the challenges of startup culture, chasing their dreams while grappling with personal ambitions and professional rivalries.
Hospital Playlist (2020)
Set within the walls of a hospital, this series follows five doctors as they navigate the complexities of life, death, and everything in between. Through their daily encounters with patients, friendships, and personal challenges, they confront their own vulnerabilities and find solace in the bonds forged within the chaotic environment of a medical institution.
Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)
A big-city dentist finds herself in a quaint seaside village, where she crosses paths with a local jack-of-all-trades known for his warmth and charm. As they navigate small-town dynamics and personal histories, they discover that love can blossom in unexpected places, challenging their preconceptions and transforming their lives in delightful ways.
Record of Youth (2020)
In the competitive world of South Korea’s entertainment industry, aspiring actors and a makeup artist strive to make their mark. Against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal struggles, they navigate the highs and lows of pursuing their dreams, forging friendships and facing challenges that test their resilience and determination.
All of Us Are Dead (2022)
A high school becomes ground zero for a zombie virus outbreak, trapping students who must fight for survival while confronting their deepest fears and darkest secrets. As they band together to navigate the horrors of the apocalypse, they discover strength in unity and the enduring power of hope amidst despair.
