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Long before Parasite’s impressive Oscar wins in 2020 and The Glory’s triumph at the Baeksang Arts Awards in 2023, South Korean culture had already started gaining widespread popularity, known as the Hallyu Wave. This cultural phenomenon spread through TV series, movies, and music releases, captivating audiences around the world. Netflix recognized the growing demand for these Korean productions and began streaming and producing captivating titles for fans of the genre.
Shows like Under the Queen’s Umbrella, Extraordinary Attorney Woo, Squid Game, and All Of Us Are Dead have made history on the platform. For instance, Under the Queen’s Umbrella became one of Netflix’s most successful series launches. Furthermore, Netflix continues to add more titles regularly to ensure viewers stay entertained.
Korean dramas and films have a unique charm that sets them apart from Western productions. Whether it’s heartwarming dramas, romantic comedies, fantasy, sci-fi, crime thrillers, historical fiction, revenge stories, vampire or zombie horror, or modern slice-of-life tales, Korean content stands out. Audiences are drawn to the captivating narratives, meticulous attention to detail, charismatic lead actors, stylish costumes, and vibrant cinematography and art direction.
As Netflix expands its South Korean library, there are a plethora of compelling K-dramas and movies available to binge-watch, catering to various subgenres, themes, and featuring a diverse array of actors.
30 Best Korean Dramas and Movies on Netflix
Mask Girl (2023)
Derived from a popular Naver webtoon, Mask Girl delves into the life of a woman tired of her dull office routine. Desiring an escape from the everyday monotony, she adopts a mask and transforms herself into an internet streaming sensation. However, her newfound online persona attracts the wrong kind of attention, leading her into a web of murder, mysterious puzzles, and multiple personalities.
What sets this limited series apart is not just its captivating visuals but also the bold choice to have three different actresses portray various aspects of Kim Mo-mi. This creative decision adds depth and complexity to the character as she embarks on an unpredictable journey, navigating the challenges brought about by her masked alter ego.
The Uncanny Counter (2023)
Season two of The Uncanny Counter maintains its delightful charm from the first season while introducing a formidable new set of villains, creating a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience. Mo-tak takes on a dual role as both a police officer and a Counter, dedicated to ensuring justice is served. So Mun has fully embraced his role within the team, and they all agree on the importance of adding a new member, Jeok-bong.
However, this season brings in a more formidable adversary in the form of a supercharged trio led by the mysterious Pil-Hwang, who possesses abilities similar to those of the Counters. This rivalry between evenly-matched opponents adds an exciting dimension to the series. The combination of humor, action, and well-crafted storytelling ensures that fans stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed.
A Time Called You (2023)
This series takes inspiration from the Taiwanese drama “Someday or One Day” and combines it with the popular Korean pop culture theme of time travel romance. Starring Jeon Yeo-beem in the role of Han Jun-hee, the show revolves around her journey of grieving her boyfriend’s death and unexpectedly finding herself transported back to the year 1998. In her 18-year-old self, she encounters a boy who bears a striking resemblance to her late boyfriend.
“A Time Called You” sets the stage for an enthralling time-travel mystery romance. While Korean dramas often incorporate time travel elements casually, this series brings a unique and captivating twist to the theme, highlighted by its exceptional visual style and appealing use of colors. Although the plot may initially seem challenging to follow, it gradually deepens, ensuring that viewers remain engaged and intrigued throughout.
Destined With You (2023)
Creating a successful horror-comedy is often seen as a challenging task, but the new Netflix series “Destined With You” manages to overcome this difficulty. The story kicks off with Lee Hong-jo, who mistakenly believes she’s passed away, encountering Jang Sin-yu, whom she amusingly confuses for a good-looking grim reaper. She humorously asks him if he’d like to accompany her to the afterlife or share a cup of tea, setting the stage for a love story that conquers both death and curses.
The series smoothly transitions through various emotional tones, embracing not just horror and humor but also drama and romance. It incorporates a mix of genres, a characteristic often found in many Korean dramas that blend light-hearted moments with profound themes.
Behind Your Touch (2023)
After the tragic loss of her mother, Bong Ye-bin decides to make a fresh start in the fictional town of Mujin. However, her life takes a bizarre turn when she is struck by an asteroid, leaving her unconscious. Upon waking up, she discovers a unique ability – by touching someone’s buttocks, she can access their memories and thoughts, which applies to both humans and animals.
While “Behind Your Touch” embraces an unconventional premise, it heavily leans on familiar character archetypes reminiscent of shows like “Strong Girl Bok-soon” and “Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo.” Unfortunately, the series relies on crude humor and contrived plot twists, making it difficult to find satisfaction in this comedic yet disjointed storyline.
Forgotten (2017)
In the psychological thriller “Forgotten,” Jin-seok witnesses the abduction of his brother Yoo-seok one night. To his surprise, 19 days later, Yoo-seok returns apparently unharmed, but Jin-seok becomes convinced that something is not right, as his brother’s behavior has undergone a significant transformation. Convinced that an imposter has replaced his brother, Jin-seok sets out on a journey to uncover the truth, leading to shocking revelations.
Crafted by writer and director Jang Hang-jun, “Forgotten” delivers an unpredictable and perplexing narrative, reminiscent of movies like “Memento” and “I Saw The Devil.” This mysterious and gripping thriller, brimming with unexpected twists and turns, should be at the top of everyone’s Netflix watchlist, especially for those who enjoy mind-bending stories.
Tune in for Love (2019)
This heartwarming love story, featuring Jung Hae-in and Kim Go-eun, spans several years and follows the emotional journey of Hyun-woo and Mi-soo, two star-crossed lovers who encounter numerous obstacles in their relationship. Their first meeting occurs in 1994 at a bakery where Mi-soo works, and despite growing close, various unusual circumstances consistently keep them apart.
From forgotten email passwords to periods of separation due to unexpected situations like imprisonment, the couple’s love is repeatedly put to the test. Nevertheless, their determination to reunite remains steadfast, as they continuously search for ways to overcome life’s challenges and be together. “Tune in for Love” offers a heartfelt and subtly portrayed romance, making it an ideal choice for those in search of an emotionally touching cinematic experience.
The Call (2020)
In Lee Chung-hyeon’s mind-bending mystery film “The Call,” Kim Seo-yeon, portrayed by Park Shin-hye, stumbles upon an ancient phone in her childhood home, leading to her receiving calls from the past. On the other end of the line is a woman named Oh Young-sook, who claims to be from 20 years ago. Seo-yeon, in an attempt to assist Young-sook, endeavors to alter the past, but this decision results in disastrous consequences.
The key characters in this time-travel narrative are intricately layered, and the plot continually shifts to keep the audience engrossed. It crafts a thrilling and unsettling scenario of tampering with the past, leaving viewers in suspense until the very conclusion of “The Call.” It is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the repercussions of meddling with time.
Time to Hunt (2020)
In this gripping Netflix Original thriller, a close-knit group of friends devises a daring plan to break free from poverty by executing one last heist at a beloved casino in a bleak, dystopian future. The casino’s owners enlist a ruthless assassin to retrieve their stolen assets, triggering an intense pursuit after the successful robbery.
Featuring a talented ensemble cast including Choi Woo-shik, Lee Je-hoon, Ahn Jae-hong, Paek Jung-min, and Park Hae-soo, Yoon Sung-hyun’s adrenaline-fueled drama will keep audiences on the edge of their seats as these four friends fight for their lives. “Time to Hunt” delivers a heart-pounding cinematic experience tailor-made for fans of heist films and lovers of suspenseful thrillers.
Dream (2023)
The movie “Dream” centers around the journey of a team striving to participate in the Homeless World Cup in international soccer. Reluctantly stepping into the role of coach is Yoon Hong-dae, a professional soccer player serving probation. However, as the story unfolds, he forms a genuine bond with the team and transforms into a compassionate leader.
While the film follows a familiar sports movie storyline, what sets it apart is its focus on the homeless national squad. “Dream” is a heartfelt movie that skillfully blends seriousness and humor, aiming to provide well-rounded entertainment from start to finish.
Celebrity (2023)
In the 2023 thriller-suspense drama “Celebrity,” directed by Kim Cheol-Kyu and written by Kim Yi-Young, the storyline revolves around the lives of social media influencers, their quest for influence and control, and the allure of Instagram fame. This Korean take on the subject explores the unique dynamics of the platform.
The protagonist, Seo A-Ri (portrayed by Park Gyu-Young), starts as an ordinary person who experiences a reversal of fortune, plunging from wealth to poverty. To improve her financial situation and gain influence, she decides to venture into the world of Instagram influencers. However, her journey takes an unexpected turn as she confronts the darker aspects of social media power. Now, Seo A-Ri must navigate a landscape marked by corruption and online hatred to establish her presence and protect her reputation from those who seek to tarnish it.
King the Land (2023)
In the 2023 romantic comedy directed by Im Hyun-Wook, the film tells the tale of Gu Won, portrayed by Lee Joon-Ho, and Cheon Sa-Rang, played by Lim Yoon-A. Sa-Rang, known for her cheerful demeanor and strong work ethic, takes up a position at the King Hotel. Gu Won, on the other hand, is the scion of the Chaebol family that owns the same hotel.
While juggling his responsibilities as the hotel’s future heir, Gu Won gets embroiled in a struggle for power. Despite their disparate backgrounds, the two cross paths, and now they must navigate their differences as they confront their true feelings for each other. “King the Land” is a delightful and charming film from every angle.
Queenmaker (2023)
In the political drama “Queenmaker,” directed by Oh Jin-Seok, the story revolves around Hwang Do-Hee (portrayed by Kim Hee-Ae), a highly skilled strategic planning manager in a powerful business. Her expertise in handling public perceptions and challenging issues catches the attention of Oh Kyung-Sook. Do-Hee is subsequently recruited to support Kyung-Sook’s campaign to become the mayor of Seoul. Driven by a noble mission to advocate for the underprivileged, Do-Hee joins the political arena. Together, she and Kyung-Sook must navigate their differences and combat corruption in order to pave the way for a new mayor.
See You in My 19th Life (2023)
“See You in My 19th Life” is a romantic fantasy film directed by Lee Na-Jeong, based on a webcomic by Lee Hye and Choi Young-Rin. The story revolves around a character portrayed by Shin Hye-Sun, who possesses the unique ability to be reborn as a new person each time she dies. Throughout her many lives, spanning from ancient times to the present day, she has amassed a wealth of experiences, including knowledge, wartime hardships, heartbreaks, and, inevitably, moments of boredom.
However, her 18th life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Mun Seo-Ha, played by Ahn Bo-Hyun. She makes a heartfelt promise to take care of him but tragically passes away before she can fulfill it. Now, in her 19th life as Ban Ji-Eum, she embarks on a quest to locate her former friend and rekindle the deep connection they once shared. Along this journey, she encounters descendants of her past relationships, leading to a series of emotions, including regret, gratitude, and reaffirmation.
Kill Boksoon (2023)
In the 2023 action thriller “Kill Boksoon,” directed and written by Byung Sung-hyun, Jeon Do-yeon takes on the lead role of Gil Bok-soon. She portrays a skilled contract killer who is also a single mother to a teenage daughter struggling with her sexuality.
Clocking in at a runtime of two hours and 17 minutes, this movie has garnered significant acclaim for its outstanding fight choreography. According to a review in The Guardian, the film’s climax is particularly noteworthy, featuring a breathtaking showdown between multiple digitally replicated versions of Bok-soon and her adversary, showcasing intense combat involving fists, blades, and firearms all happening simultaneously.
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20th Century Girl (2022)
“20th Century Girl,” a 119-minute romantic film written and directed by Bang Woo-ri, features a cast including Kim Yoo-jung, Byeon Woo-seok, Park Jung-woo, and Roh Yoon-seo. The story unfolds in 1999, focusing on the experiences of high school students as they navigate the complexities of life, health, friendships, and their first tastes of love. The narrative extends into 2019.
Shortly after its debut on Netflix in October 2022, the film quickly rose to the second position on the Top 10 non-English movies chart. According to Variety, Kim You-jung delivers a convincing and delightful performance as Bo-ra, effectively portraying her character’s journey, which is marked by seemingly small yet occasionally heart-wrenching moments, all while Bo-ra remains unaware of their true significance.
Twenty-Five Twenty-One (2022)
The Netflix sensation of 2022, “Twenty-Five Twenty-One,” instantly captivated audiences upon its debut on the streaming platform. With Nam Joo-hyuk and Kim Tae-ri taking the lead roles, the show follows the journey of a young fencer striving to achieve her dreams in an era where success appears out of reach.
As she works relentlessly towards her aspirations, she crosses paths with a young man in the midst of rebuilding his life. Despite the numerous obstacles they encounter, their love story unfolds against a backdrop of nostalgia, creating a heartwarming and emotionally resonant viewing experience. According to viewers, it’s a straightforward, heartwarming, and touching series that offers a complete package of entertainment.
The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure (2022)
Fans of whimsical adventures, high-stakes treasure hunts, charismatic characters, and unconventional love stories will find delight in the 2022 movie “The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure,” which unfolds in the backdrop of the Goryeo Dynasty. Directed by Kim Jeong-hoon, the film revolves around two rival groups, one consisting of pirates and the other of bandits, embarking on a thrilling quest to recover a fabled royal treasure.
Little do they anticipate that amidst their rivalry, the fearless and determined pirate captain, Hae-rang (played by Han Hyo-joo), and the bandits’ most skilled swordsman, the confident Moo-chi (portrayed by Kang Ha-neul), will unexpectedly develop romantic feelings for each other as they race to secure the coveted prize.
Black Knight (2023)
“Black Knight,” a dystopian survival thriller released on Netflix on May 12, 2023, is a series directed and written by Cho Ui-seok, featuring Esom, Kim Woo-bin, Song Seung-heon, and Kang Yoo-seok. The show is an adaptation of a webtoon and consists of only six episodes. The story is set in an alternate future in South Korea, which is grappling with severe air pollution caused by a comet disaster.
In this bleak world, South Korea is a fractured and unequal society ruled by a privileged minority. The majority of the population, referred to as “refugees,” are confined to camps where they endure harsh living conditions. In stark contrast, the elite class resides in an underground fake city with access to clean oxygen, adequate food supplies, healthcare, and private housing.
The protagonist, known as the Black Knight or 5-8, works as a delivery driver responsible for distributing oxygen bottles and food boxes. However, secretly, he and his team are plotting to overthrow the oppressive system. With the assistance of a military intelligence officer, they uncover a shocking truth that could change everything.
My Name (2021)
If you’re a fan of suspenseful mystery thrillers accompanied by haunting soundtracks, then “My Name” is the ideal miniseries for you. Starring Han So-hee as a determined woman seeking revenge, the show revolves around Yoon Ji-woo (played by Han), who enters the police force at the behest of a criminal drug lord.
Her primary objective is to uncover her father’s murderer, who is suspected to be within the police precinct. This drama boasts exceptional acting, intense combat sequences, and deep emotional storytelling. Additionally, the strong on-screen chemistry between Han and her crime boss and father figure, Choi Mu-jin (portrayed by Park Hee-soon), is unmistakable.
#Alive (2020)
The zombie thriller #Alive, directed by Cho Il-hyung and featuring Yoo Ah-in as Oh Joon-woo and Park Shin-hye as Kim Yoo-bin, runs for one hour and thirty-nine minutes. The story revolves around Oh, a video game streamer who finds himself trapped in his apartment when a zombie apocalypse sweeps through Seoul. In an effort to combat feelings of depression, isolation, and fear, he establishes a connection with Kim, another resident in the vicinity, using a walkie-talkie. Their struggle for survival becomes a central focus as they strive to nurture their bond and envision a future in the post-apocalyptic world.
The Fortress (2017)
Directed by Hwang Dong-Hyuk, the 2017 historical war film “The Fortress” has been streaming on Netflix since 2021 and remains a captivating choice for those who appreciate intense and brooding dramas. Based on actual historical events, the narrative unfolds during the brutal winter of 1636-1637. In this bleak setting, King Injo (played by Park Hae-il) and his court find themselves besieged by the Manchu army, taking refuge within the renowned fortress of Namhansanseong.
As their supplies of food and weapons dwindle, and the biting cold sets in, King Injo is confronted with a challenging dilemma: should he persist in resistance, waiting for support from his trusted advisor Kim (portrayed by Kim Yeon-sook), or should he heed the counsel of his Chief State Councilor Choi (played by Lee Byung-hun) and consider surrendering to the Khan?
Our Beloved Summer (2021)
“Our Beloved Summer” is a heartwarming romantic comedy that promises to transport you to a delightful world with its enchanting soundtrack, charming romance, and stellar performances. The film stars Choi Woo-sik, known for his role in “Parasite,” and the talented actress Kim Da-mi in the lead roles.
The story revolves around Choi Woong (played by Choi) and Kook Yeon-soo (played by Kim), former lovers whose lives become intertwined once again when a documentary they made during high school unexpectedly gains popularity online. Now as adults, and with greater maturity, they find themselves in front of the camera once more. As they revisit their past love, gain a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives, and open themselves to the possibility of a second chance, their journey unfolds.
Itaewon Class (2020)
You should definitely check out another K-drama on Netflix starring Kim Da-mi called “Itaewon Class,” which also stars Park Seo-joon. The series revolves around Park Se-ro-yi (played by Park Seo-joon), who is determined to achieve his goals despite facing social injustice and discrimination.
Joined by his dedicated team, Se-ro-yi works tirelessly to establish his street bar and turn his dreams into reality. This show will leave you feeling energized and optimistic once you’ve finished watching it. It’s an inspiring, courageous, heartwarming series that encompasses all the elements of a fantastic drama.
All of Us Are Dead (2022)
Following the success of Squid Game, Netflix saw another hit with “All Of Us Are Dead,” a zombie thriller series centered around students attempting to escape from their infected high school. The show features a talented cast led by Park Ji-hoo, Chan Young-yoon, Cho Yi-hyun, Lomon, and Lee Yoo-mi, who significantly contributed to the show’s overall excellence in storytelling and direction.
This Korean drama achieved widespread popularity, reaching the number one spot on Netflix in 25 countries, including the United States, confirming its commercial triumph. Currently, a second season of the series is in development.
Business Proposal (2022)
“Business Proposal” is a popular romantic comedy series available on Netflix, starring Ahn Hyo-seop and Kim Se-jeong in the lead roles. In this delightful show, Shin Ha-ri (played by Kim) reluctantly agrees to stand in for her best friend during a blind date to deter a potential suitor. However, things take an unexpected turn when Ha-ri’s boss, Kang Tae-moo (portrayed by Ahn), unexpectedly shows up for the date. The situation becomes even more chaotic when Tae-moo presents an irresistible business proposition to Ha-ri. This series is a delightful blend of binge-worthy entertainment and heartwarming romance that will have you watching all 12 episodes in one sitting.
Sky Castle (2018)
“Sky Castle is a dark comedy with a psychological twist that cleverly satirizes South Korea’s demanding education system. The gripping storyline includes a murder mystery, adding even more intrigue to the narrative. The series delves into the lives of four affluent housewives residing in the exclusive Sky Castle neighborhood, illustrating their unwavering determination to secure spots for their children at Seoul National University. Sky Castle initially held the second-highest viewership ratings in the history of Korean cable television, only to be surpassed later by Reborn Rich.”
Squid Game (2021)
“Squid Game, which premiered in September 2021, quickly gained worldwide acclaim as it depicted the struggles of 456 individuals burdened by overwhelming financial debt. These participants receive enigmatic invitations to partake in a series of perilous children’s games, where they must risk their lives for a chance to win ₩45.6 billion (equivalent to US$38 million).
Upon its debut, Squid Game surpassed the viewership record previously held by Bridgerton, amassing over 140 million households in just 28 days. Notably, it marked the first Korean-language drama to secure a spot in Netflix’s global top ten rankings, achieving the number one position in 94 countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The immense success of the show has led to the confirmation of a second season.”
Doctor Cha (2023)
In April 2023, Netflix premiered the widely praised medical and family dramedy titled “Doctor Cha,” featuring Uhm Jung-hwa in the role of Cha Jeong-suk and Kim Byung-chul as Seo In-ho. The story revolves around a woman in her forties who, after dedicating herself to being a full-time housewife for twenty years, makes the decision to re-enter the medical field. Hilarity and unexpected situations are bound to occur in the hospital, particularly because her husband holds the position of chief surgeon there.
The Glory (2022)
Written by Kim Eun-sook, the renowned writer behind hits like “Descendants of the Sun,” “Mr. Sunshine,” and “The King: Eternal Monarch,” the plot of the widely acclaimed series “The Glory” revolves around Moon Dong-eun, portrayed by Song Hye-kyo. Moon is determined to seek revenge on her former high-school bullies for their past cruelty and selfishness, and she meticulously plans her vengeance.
During their school days, Moon suffered relentless torment under the leadership of Park Yeon-Jin, played by Lim Ji-yeon, with incidents like burning her with a hair-curling iron and physical attacks. Now that they are all adults, Moon methodically goes after each of them for payback. She is joined in her quest by a housewife who has endured domestic violence and Doctor Joo Yeo-jeong, portrayed by Lee Do-hyun, who carries his own emotional scars.
This shocking series, “The Glory,” was recognized at the 59th Baeksang Arts Awards, where it won Best Drama, Best Actress for Song Hye-kyo, and Best Supporting Actress, attesting to its widespread acclaim.
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