If you’re looking for a new binge-worthy series to watch, why not explore the world of Korean dramas on Netflix? Over the past few years, Korean dramas have gained a huge following, with viewers enamored by the unique storylines, stunning cinematography, and talented actors. In this article, we’ll be diving into the best Korean dramas on Netflix, covering everything from romance to thrillers.
Introduction to Korean Dramas on Netflix
Korean dramas, also known as K-dramas, have been around for decades, but they’ve recently gained popularity outside of Korea, thanks in large part to streaming services like Netflix. These dramas are often characterized by their unique storylines, complex characters, and memorable soundtracks. They range in genre from romance to thriller to comedy, so there’s something for everyone.
One of the best things about Korean dramas is that they often have a definitive beginning and end, with most series lasting between 12-20 episodes. This makes them perfect for binge-watching, as you can easily finish an entire series in a weekend. Plus, with English subtitles, these dramas are accessible to a global audience.
Benefits of Watching Korean Dramas
Watching Korean dramas on Netflix has a number of benefits. For one, they offer a unique insight into Korean culture, including its customs, traditions, and beliefs. They also offer a refreshing change of pace from Western television, with their unpredictable storylines and complex characters. Additionally, Korean dramas often deal with universal themes like love, loss, and redemption, making them relatable to audiences around the world.
But perhaps the biggest benefit of watching Korean dramas is that they offer a sense of escapism. With their beautiful cinematography and engaging storylines, they allow viewers to step into a different world for a few hours and forget about their own problems. It’s no wonder they’ve become so popular in recent years!
The History and Evolution of Korean Dramas
Korean dramas have a long and rich history, dating back to the 1960s. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that they began to gain popularity outside of Korea. This was due in part to the advent of the Korean Wave, a phenomenon where Korean popular culture began to spread throughout Asia and beyond.
In the early 2000s, Korean dramas began to receive critical acclaim, with shows like “Winter Sonata” and “Jewel in the Palace” becoming massive hits both in Korea and abroad. Since then, Korean dramas have only grown in popularity, with viewers around the world tuning in to see the latest series.
Top Korean Dramas on Netflix – Romance Genre
One of the most popular genres of Korean dramas is romance, and Netflix has plenty to choose from. Here are some of the best:
Crash Landing on You “Crash Landing on You” tells the story of a South Korean chaebol heiress who crash-lands in North Korea and falls in love with a North Korean soldier. It’s a heartwarming tale of love overcoming all obstacles, with plenty of humor and drama thrown in.
Itaewon Class “Itaewon Class” follows the story of an ex-convict who opens a bar in Seoul’s trendy Itaewon neighborhood. Along the way, he falls in love with a strong-willed entrepreneur and battles against a powerful food conglomerate. It’s a story of perseverance and love, with plenty of action and drama.
Something in the Rain “Something in the Rain” is a classic love story between two people from different worlds. It follows the relationship between a 30-something woman and her younger co-worker, and explores the challenges they face as they navigate their feelings for each other.
Top Korean Dramas on Netflix – Thriller Genre
If you’re in the mood for something a little more intense, Korean dramas have plenty of thrilling options. Here are some of the best:
Stranger “Stranger” is a crime thriller that follows a prosecutor and a police detective as they investigate a corruption scandal. It’s a complex and gripping story, with plenty of twists and turns along the way.
Kingdom “Kingdom” is a historical horror thriller set in the Joseon era. It follows the story of a prince who must fight against a mysterious plague that turns people into zombies. It’s a thrilling and unique take on the zombie genre, with stunning visuals and a gripping storyline.
Signal “Signal” is a sci-fi crime thriller that follows a group of detectives as they investigate cold cases from the past. The twist? They’re able to communicate with a detective from the past through a mysterious walkie-talkie. It’s a mind-bending and suspenseful series that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Top Korean Dramas on Netflix – Comedy Genre
If you’re looking for something a little lighter, Korean dramas have plenty of comedies to choose from. Here are some of the best:
Welcome to Waikiki “Welcome to Waikiki” is a hilarious comedy about three friends who run a guesthouse in Seoul. It’s a light and fun series that’s perfect for a lazy weekend afternoon.
My Holo Love “My Holo Love” is a romantic comedy with a sci-fi twist. It follows the story of a woman who falls in love with an AI hologram. It’s a unique and heartwarming story that explores the nature of love and relationships.
Pegasus Market “Pegasus Market” is a workplace comedy about a struggling supermarket and its quirky employees. It’s a fun and lighthearted series that’s perfect for fans of “The Office” or “Parks and Recreation.”
How to Find the Best Korean Dramas on Netflix
With so many Korean dramas to choose from on Netflix, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. One great way to find new shows is to browse the “Korean TV Shows” category on Netflix. From there, you can filter by genre, rating, and more to find the perfect series for you.
Another great resource is MyDramaList, a website that allows you to search for Korean dramas by genre, rating, and more. You can also read reviews from other viewers to get a sense of whether a series is worth watching.
Other Popular Korean Dramas Not Available on Netflix
While Netflix has a great selection of Korean dramas, there are plenty of other series out there that are worth watching. Some popular ones include “Goblin,” “Descendants of the Sun,” and “Reply 1988.” These series are available on other streaming services like Viki and DramaFever.
Conclusion and Why You Should Start Watching Korean Dramas Today
In conclusion, Korean dramas on Netflix offer a unique and engaging viewing experience that’s worth checking out. From romance to thriller to comedy, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming love story or a thrilling crime drama, Korean dramas have got you covered.
So why not start watching Korean dramas today? With their unique storylines, memorable characters, and stunning visuals, they’re sure to become your next binge-worthy obsession.
