One of the biggest problems that kdrama lovers have is the inability to know what to watch next. This is mostly because you’ve finished watching everything that’s considered famous, but also there’s a general lack of reviews that don’t spoil but tell you one or two things that are special about them. Honestly, I could never be bothered watching 15 min long reviews or read articles that tell me the same list of kdramas I’ve already watched. This review article would like to do what others have failed and hopefully it works out.
There are so many kdramas that in general ratings would hold high, however some tend to be overrated or just don’t give you the conclusion you’d want it to. I’m going to avoid a few famous kdramas for the sole purpose of avoiding hate and huge changes in opinion as well as stating the obvious ones that everyone would easily be able to find on the internet as ’THE BEST KDRAMAS EVERRRR’. Personally, I think the kdramas I have chosen are appropriately rated and underrated in certain instances. They are from different genres so you would at least be able to find one kdrama that suits your taste😊
Few things need you need to know before you consider any of the kdramas I recommend to you. Firstly, all of these kdramas are good based solely on my opinion, and the type of kdramas I tend to like. This review won’t have any spoilers however would give you a general idea of its genre, and main characteristics to see if you would like to watch it. There is no specific order to the list and are in general all good.
My general criteria for judging kdrama would be its basic plotline, its uniqueness, cinematography, ability to captivate the audience with its characters, predictability etc.… I’ll mention my rating for all these criteria under each kdrama😊 hope you’d like it
Mr. Sunshine
Plot line – 9/10
Cinematography- 10/10
Unpredictability – 8/10
Uniqueness – 9/10
Characters – 9/10
Genre: Romance, historical, sad, comedy
Mr. Sunshine is one of the best kdramas I have ever watched. It’s a romantic period kdrama that can take anyone on an emotional rollercoaster, it’s funny it’s sad and it’s absolutely exciting. This kdrama had one of the most amazing casts that had the ability to portray every emotion down to the very detail. The kdrama itself was so unique and encompassed the history of colonization and war in Korea. Its cinematography is outstanding and every scene leads you to feel some form of emotion to every single character. Each and every character has their own personalities and are so well written that when you watch it you will love every single one of them, villains included. The plotline itself is so well written, and although predictable at times most of the plot is completely unpredictable. Personally, I would watch out for the bromance between the 3 main male leads, chemistry of the shop’ keepers and the courageous owner of the hotel. I don’t want to destroy the storyline but overall I’ve recommended It to over 10 people and they never regretted watching it.
2. Hospital playlist
Plot line – 8.5/10
Cinematography- 9/10
Unpredictability – 7.5/10
Uniqueness – 9/10
Characters – 9/10
Genre: heartwarming, romance, comedy
This is one of the most heartfelt kdramas ever. It’s become really popular and is going to have a second season as well (can’t wait). The kdrama itself revolves around the life of 5 doctors and their day-to-day experiences. I’ve watched a lot of hospital playlist reviews by doctors as well and the accuracy of the medical terms and scenes are astounding. It’s not a kdrama that focuses on how the doctor saves patients in the middle of warfare or how they are so stressed they can’t do anything- basically it’s not like any other cliché hospital kdrama. The cinematography is really good and they really know how to use that to keep the watchers at their feet. The story line is so simple yet so complex. Some people tell me it’s hard for them to watch it because it doesn’t generally follow one plotline but has multiple stories mixed into one and you really need to know how to keep track of all the characters but its honestly really easy to do that when you fall in love with the story. The emotions are so very well portrayed and the acting is so well done. You can see behind the scenes videos as well; I personally enjoyed them all.
3. SKY castle
Plot line – 9.5/10
Cinematography- 9/10
Unpredictability – 9.5/10
Uniqueness – 9/10
Characters – 8.5/10
Genre: Drama, dark comedy, school life, mystery
I originally didn’t watch this kdrama because I personally believed it was waay too overrated and wasn’t worth my time but after the hype died down, I tried out an episode and never regretted it. The plotline is absolutely amazing although it tends to be unrealistic (depending on where in the world you live), doesn’t fail to bring out realistic ideas that tend to get passed over as taboo. The story watches multiple families that try to get their children in to famous universities and makes you sit through the terrible reality of their situation. This is one of the most unpredictable kdramas I have ever watched with every episode ending with a cliff hanger and complete change in direction of the plot line. The characters are quite complex and unique in their own ways but personally I think there was a dilution of their concept from beginning to end but it didn’t in anyway affect the story. The cinematography was really good and was effectively used to show every different angle of a person, highlighting the duality of an individual. The ending was somewhat annoying but I can’t wait for the next season
4. Kingdom season 1 and 2
Plot line – 10/10
Cinematography- 10/10
Unpredictability – 9.5/10
Uniqueness – 9.5/10
Characters – 8.5/10
Genre: horror, Thriller, historical, Action, fantasy
Zombies are overrated. But this show is definitely not. I have never seen a better historical drama that could integrate modern ideas of fantasy (aka zombies) any better. The show is amazing down to the very detail and arguably one of the most beautiful thriller dramas ever. The plot itself was amazing and it was so unpredictable. Both seasons didn’t fail to live up to its mark, and even though the entire story is a showcase of corrupt political power, its entirety is beautifully choreographed in such a way that no one would be able to take their eyes off it, even if you aren’t a person that likes thrillers. The entire show is so unique and one of the first kdramas to try to bring such a drama to life. Recently there’s been a surge of zombie kdramas but if you’re into things like this I’m telling you watch this show first or you’ll regret it.
5. Moon lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
Plot line – 8.5/10
Cinematography- 7.5/10
Unpredictability – 8/10
Uniqueness – 8.5/10
Characters – 8.5/10
Genre: Historical, romance, sad, comedy
This is one of the best romantic kdramas ever, it has the right amounts of comedy, romance and sadness. Many people would disagree with me because of the spoilers they may have seen (regarding Baekhyun, if you don’t know don’t look for it) but this is one of the most well-acted shows that had amazing chemistry. The cinematography was quite good for a romantic drama and the integration of both modern and historical concepts was perfect without making it cliché like other kdramas. This is definitely a must watch (definitely not before an exam like me. You will regret it) with possibly some heartache along the way but the most beautiful relationships with amazing actors.
6. Arthdal chronicles
Plot line – 8.5/10
Cinematography- 9/10
Unpredictability – 8/10
Uniqueness – 8/10
Characters – 9/10
Genre: Historical, fantasy
This show got a lot of criticism for being similar to game of thrones and I don’t disagree that it gives the same vibes, but its unfair to say that they have the same plotlines. The story itself was well written but more than that the cinematography was absolutely captivating and just one random clip on YouTube would make you fall in love with how the show is filmed. The story itself has its own critical aspects with a few scenes being a bit unnecessary or draggy but overall, it’s a beautiful drama with multiple plot twists that keep you on your toes wondering what the writer is planning to do next. This show had many interesting concepts that hadn’t been captured previously on a kdrama and was honestly really well done. Definitely a must watch for quarantine days.
7. The Village: Achiara’s secret
Plot line – 10/10
Cinematography- 7/10
Unpredictability – 10/10
Uniqueness – 8.5/10
Characters – 9/10
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
This is one of the most underrated mystery shows in the kdrama industry. Me and my sister went head over heels for the unpredictable nature of this show making you doubt every single character. The story itself wraps up so well in the end. You will never regret watching this show. The cinematography was good and the characters are so well developed with such beautiful intricacies that other kdramas would conveniently keep aside. If you’re scared that it’s too “scary” I suggest you don’t worry it’s a thriller but more of a mystery and low on the scary scale. Definitely a must watch if you’re a mystery fan. Hands down you wont be able to stop watching this show.
8. Strangers from hell
Plot line – 9/10
Cinematography- 8/10
Unpredictability – 7/10
Uniqueness – 9.5/10
Characters – 8.5/10
Genre: Thriller, psychological
No words to describe this amazing show. Originally based off a manhwa, this show will ALWAYS keep you on your toes. It took me close to a month to get the courage to finish this show. I hate predictable shows but this was predictable in the best way because every predictable bit of the show was your worst imagination. The show itself was filmed in such a way that it makes you feel the exact same way that the main character is feeling (so many goosebumps).The characters were so well acted and they almost brainwash you into thinking you are also in the show. The overall story is about really weird tenants in a cheap apartment. if you’re not into thrillers this may not be for you (however lee dong wook acts in it if that’s enough incentive for you to watch it). this show is underrated probably because it’s so vivid and so beautiful that it doesn’t appeal to the vast majority of society that prefers mediocre romance soap operas but you won’t regret watching this show if you’re in for some goosebumps.
9. Gu family book
Plot line – 8.5/10
Cinematography- 7.5/10
Unpredictability – 7.5/10
Uniqueness – 8.5/10
Characters – 8.5/10
Genre: Historical, fantasy, romance, comedy, sad
This is another old romance kdrama but the entire plot is so unique and makes you fall in love with every scenario that happens in it. The story portrays love and sadness in the best ways and has the most interesting relationships ever. The drama portrays the terrible nature of misunderstanding and social criticism of certain individuals and although (because it was released a long time ago) may have a few dramatic looking scenes, has one of the best concepts beneath them. You feel bad for every character in the show but at the same time you’re thankful for every one of them. This show is a must watch for all romance kdrama addicts.
10. My mister
Plot line – 9/10
Cinematography- 8.5/10
Unpredictability – 9.5/10
Uniqueness – 9.5/10
Characters – 8/10
Genre: drama, slice of life
Honestly one of the best dramas I’ve watched during quarantine. You won’t be able to directly relate to every one of those stories but this is one of those rare kdramas that can make you relate to their heartbreak and sorrow. It captures the intensity of the monotonous lifestyle and knows how to bring the best in every character. The show shows the importance of family and happy relationships and honestly makes you thankful for the life you live. Every part of the show is so well captured and although I must say there are very long draggy parts of the show the overarching storyline is to die for. The emotions of every character although minute is portrayed so well by every actor that it almost allows you to be a part of the show itself and feel their emotions because you can relate to them so well. Any review of my mister is an understatement.
11. Chicago typewriter
Plot line – 8/10
Cinematography- 8/10
Unpredictability – 7.5/10
Uniqueness – 8/10
Characters – 8/10
Genre: Romantic comedy, historical and modern
This show is one of the best average kdramas. If you want a kdrama to chill on that neither completely breaks your heart nor is too much second-hand embarrassment to deal with this is the best kdrama to go for. I would be lying if I say it’s not sad at all, but its one of the most chill shows that has an interesting plotline and interesting characters and fun ideas well portrayed. If you’re sick of watching those heavy kdramas that have you zoning out for days then this is the best in-between kdrama to go with. I turned to this after my mister and I definitely didn’t regret its joyous happy nature. Also heads up but you will love the actors and their chemistry forever after watching the show.
12. Prison playbook
Plot line – 8.5/10
Cinematography- 9/10
Unpredictability – 7.5/10
Uniqueness – 10/10
Characters – 9.5/10
Genre: slice of life, comedy
This is one of the best slice of life comedy kdramas that balanced out the fine line between comedy and sadness and is very similar to the vibe that hospital playlist gives (same writer and producer. Honestly the both of them are really good at kdramas). This show was able to capture emotions that would otherwise go under the rug and deals with an idea that hadn’t previously been explored in a kdrama before. The show revolves around prison inmates and their daily livelihoods. Their acting is so realistic and the show is filmed really well. The bromance between them is a MUST WATCH and honestly, it’s a show that no one would hate regardless of the genre you like. it has bits and pieces of every genre that there could possibly be in a kdrama
13. It’s okay, that’s love
Plot line – 8.5/10
Cinematography- 7.5/10
Unpredictability – 8/10
Uniqueness – 8/10
Characters – 8.5/10
Genre: romantic comedy, psychological
This show is a legend of romantic comedy kdramas, the entire show makes you feel so heart warmed. All the actors show portray their characters soo well (D.O’s acting is beyond amazing) and you end up yearning for all of them. The relationship between every couple is so unique and they address a lot of different individual characteristics. The story is about the love story between a psychologist and a writer and the way they overcome their problems. The ending is so conclusive and doesn’t make you feel annoyed and honestly that’s the best thing you can wish about a kdrama. I don’t want to spoil the story but you’ll want to pay attention to the details. Overall an amazing romantic comedy.
14. Hello monster
Plot line – 9/10
Cinematography- 8/10
Unpredictability – 8/10
Uniqueness – 8.5/10
Characters – 8/10
Genre: Mystery, Romance, Thriller
The plotline of this story is extremely interesting. If you’re into psychopaths (and park bo gum plus D.O of course) this is the best kdrama to watch. It talks about the volatility of dealing with the idea of a “psychopath” and honestly makes you feel for all the characters in the entire show. They chose such amazing actors for even the smallest parts and that made all the difference. The entire show was an amazing watch and the mystery was also very well written. You honestly would think twice about perspectives when you watch this drama. The romance of the story isn’t the main attraction so don’t expect a lot but it won’t fail you. Overall, it’s a must watch.
15. Eulachacha Waikiki season 1
Plot line – 8/10
Cinematography- 7.5/10
Unpredictability – 7/10
Uniqueness – 9/10
Characters – 8/10
Genre: comedy
You may have heard of this show everywhere. It’s on every ‘kdrama funny moments’ video ever. Its extremely unrealistic but so hilarious because of it. The relationships in the drama are so complicated in the most hilarious ways and whoever wrote this drama has an amazing and vivid imagination that definitely needs some recognition. Season two doesn’t seem that great in my opinion but this show is definitely a must watch. If you’re feeling down, I suggest you watch this because every scene has so much comedy and it deals with sensitive topics in the best way possible. warning to those that can’t handle second hand embarrassment because they use it every 5 seconds. This is the best show to watch with other people as well (amazing ice breaker in my opinion). All the actors are so amazing and you’ll love every one of them.
Other commendable kdramas:-
man to man, memories of Alhambra , its okay not to be okay, hi bye mama, healer, fight for my way, because this is my first life, descendants of the sun, weightlifting kim bok joo, strong woman do bong soon, crash landing on you, good doctor, hotel del luna, oh my venus, the light in your eyes, kill me heal me, the entire reply series and many others famous and non famous good quality shows.
You may not agree with me on a few of these shows but I hope you can find atleast one show to watch:)
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