Netflix has solidified its position in the realm of Korean content, presenting a diverse array of Originals and collaborations with studios. This collection features K-dramas that exhibit remarkable production quality across genres, from heartwarming romances to thrilling revenge tales, and even captivating action sequences. This guide highlights the top 20 most popular K-dramas on Netflix from 2018 to 2023.
20. Mr. Sunshine
- Stars: Kim Tae-ry, Lee Byung-hun
- Genre: Historical, Military, Romance
- Set during Japanese colonial rule
- Protagonist’s daring escape as a child
- Return as a skilled marine officer
- Intriguing secrets and interconnections
- Phenomenal cinematography and design
19. Crash Landing on You
- Stars: Hyun Bin, Son Ye-jin
- Genre: Romance, Comedy, Drama
- Heiress lands in North Korea by accident
- Unlikely romance blossoms with a soldier
- Challenges of crossing borders
- Nosy neighbors and military involvement
- Heartwarming friendship and romance
18. Kingdom
- Stars: Ju Ji-hoon, Bae Doona
- Genre: Historical, Thriller, Supernatural
- Terrifying sickness spreading in a kingdom
- Crown Prince uncovers cause and conspiracy
- Journey for truth amid zombies and politics
- Unique blend of historical and supernatural
17. Arthdal Chronicles
- Stars: Song Joong-ki, Kim Ji-won
- Genre: Fantasy, Historical, Political
- Intense storytelling with multiple characters
- Fate and destinies interwoven
- Ambitions, wars, and tribal dynamics
16. Vagabond
- Stars: Lee Seung-gi, Bae Suzy
- Genre: Action, Thriller, Mystery
- Male lead seeks truth behind plane crash
- Uncovers corruption and cover-up
- Intertwining paths of truth-seekers
- High-stakes action and emotional tests
15. Love Alarm
- Stars: Kim So-hyun, Jung Ga-ram
- Genre: Romance, Drama, Fantasy
- Love notification app within 10 meters
- Awkward and cute moments ensue
- Love triangle and one-sided confessions
- Modern tech impact on relationships
14. The Uncanny Counter
- Stars: Jo Byung-gyu, Kim Se-jeong
- Genre: Supernatural, Action, Mystery
- Demon hunters with unique abilities
- Teamwork in capturing evil spirits
- Healing, memory-reading, and more
- Blend of action, mystery, and supernatural
13. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
- Stars: Kim Soo-hyun, Seo Ye-ji
- Genre: Psychological, Romance, Comedy
- Community health worker and rude author
- Psychological struggles and healing romance
- Unique character dynamics and growth
12. Hospital Playlist (Season 1 and 2)
- Stars: Jo Jung-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok
- Genre: Drama, Friendship, Slice of Life
- Doctors and band members navigate life
- Balancing medical cases and personal lives
- Emphasis on friendship and camaraderie
11. Squid Game
- Genre: Action, Thriller, Drama
- Deadly games for a huge prize
- Children’s games with lethal consequences
- Global sensation and anticipation for season 2
- Airing in 2024 and a reality show spin-off
10. Navillera
- Stars: Park In-hwan, Song Kang
- Genre: Drama, Slice of Life, Family
- Elderly man pursues ballet dream
- Inspiring friendship and pursuit of dreams
- Heartfelt moments and intergenerational bond
9. Vincenzo
- Stars: Song Joong-ki, Jeon Yeo-been
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Comedy
- Mafia consigliere returns to South Korea
- Fights conglomerate corruption with style
- Unique blend of crime, comedy, and drama
8. My Name
- Stars: Han So-hee, Park Hee-soon
- Genre: Action, Thriller, Crime
- Female lead seeks revenge for father’s murder
- Undercover work against criminal organization
- Intense action and anti-hero themes
7. Move to Heaven (Season 1 and 2)
- Genre: Drama, Family, Life
- Trauma cleaner handles items left behind
- Father’s passing and uncle as guardian
- Touching exploration of loss and healing
6. Under the Queen’s Umbrella
- Stars: Park Min-young, Kim Bum
- Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama
- Feisty queen navigates palace politics
- Shielding sons and family bonds
- Historical backdrop with rich characters
5. Alchemy of Souls (Season 1 and 2)
- Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Mystery
- Mages and forbidden spell “Alchemy of Souls”
- Master-servant bond and blossoming love
- Imaginative characters and captivating plot
4. 25, 21
- Stars: Kim Yohan, Jung Da-bin
- Genre: Romance, Comedy, Youth
- Set in late 90s, follows youthful leads
- Separated by four years but intertwined
- Delightful coming-of-age moments and humor
3. Extraordinary Attorney Woo
- Stars: Kim Hye-soo, Ju Ji-hoon
- Genre: Drama, Comedy, Romance
- Young lawyer on autism spectrum excels
- Legal cases, street fighting, and teamwork
- Uplifting story of resilience and success
2. The Glory
- Genre: Drama, Mystery, Crime
- Heartbreaking tale of brutal bullying
- Protagonist’s pursuit of justice and revenge
- Exploration of consequences and redemption
1. Love to Hate You
- Stars: Kim Ji-seok, Kim Ok-bin
- Genre: Action, Romance, Comedy
- Rookie attorney and top star’s unexpected alliance
- Initial rivalry evolves into fake relationship
- Dynamic chemistry and comedic romance
Conclusion
From historical sagas to modern romances, Netflix’s selection of popular K-dramas offers something for every viewer. These top 20 picks showcase the best of Korean storytelling, capturing the hearts of audiences around the world.
