The global influence of K-dramas has surged over the past five years, with shows reaching millions of viewers worldwide, transcending cultural boundaries and winning hearts across various genres. From heart-wrenching emotional journeys to high-octane thrillers, the variety and depth of South Korean television have captured the attention of international audiences. As streaming platforms like Netflix continue to fuel the rise of K-dramas, many have left an indelible mark, setting new standards for storytelling, production quality, and diverse character representation. If you’re looking for a collection of the most impactful K-dramas from the last few years, here are 10 must-sees that have redefined the genre and continue to influence the TV landscape.
10. My Liberation Notes (2022)
In a world dominated by fast-paced action and romance, My Liberation Notes stands out for its introspective and deeply emotional storytelling. This drama, widely considered one of the best of the decade, dives into the universal human struggle for meaning, connection, and liberation. It follows three siblings living in suburban Seoul, each grappling with the monotony of life and yearning for change. What makes this show so impactful is the way it handles the quiet moments—its slow, meditative pace that pulls you in without ever feeling slow. It’s a series that truly makes you reflect on your own life and desires. If you’re looking for something that goes beyond entertainment to touch your heart, this one’s for you.
9. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020)
The topic of mental health has become more prominent in K-dramas in recent years, and It’s Okay to Not Be Okay is one of the best examples of this evolution. This groundbreaking series does a remarkable job of portraying trauma, healing, and mental illness with sensitivity and depth. The story follows Gang-tae, a psychiatric nurse, and his brother, who has autism, as they cross paths with Moon-young, a best-selling author with a personality disorder. The beautiful blend of fairy-tale aesthetics and raw emotional depth makes this drama unforgettable, and Kim Soo-hyun’s portrayal of Gang-tae is simply mesmerizing. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, but one that leaves you feeling uplifted, offering a glimpse of hope in the midst of struggle.
8. Little Women (2022)
Little Women takes the classic novel and reimagines it with a modern twist, blending thrilling suspense with intricate character development. Kim Go-eun leads the show as In-joo, one of three sisters trying to escape their abusive upbringing in a world dominated by greed and exploitation. The drama’s mystery and exploration of dark family secrets keep you on the edge of your seat, and Uhm Ji-won’s portrayal of a cunning antagonist adds an extra layer of intrigue. What’s truly captivating about Little Women is how it explores the complexities of family dynamics, ambition, and betrayal in a way that feels fresh and timely.
7. Hospital Playlist (2020–2021)
Hospital Playlist is the perfect combination of heart, humor, and realism. This feel-good drama follows five doctors who have been friends since medical school, and it expertly balances the challenges of their professional lives with their personal struggles. The charm of this series lies in its simplicity—watching these friends support one another through tough times while providing glimpses into the lives of everyday people. The relatable characters and the touching moments they share resonate with anyone who’s ever faced difficulties, making Hospital Playlist a breath of fresh air in the K-drama world.
6. Vincenzo (2021)
If you’re looking for a K-drama that mixes dark humor with gripping action, look no further than Vincenzo. This unexpected blend of genres, from crime thriller to comedy, is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing. Song Joong-ki plays Vincenzo, an Italian mafia consigliere who returns to Korea to recover hidden treasure, only to become involved in a battle against a corrupt conglomerate. The show effortlessly shifts between intense drama and sharp humor, with Taecyeon adding a layer of depth and charm. Vincenzo is a wild ride that leaves you laughing, crying, and cheering for the anti-hero.
5. Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)
In a TV landscape full of familiar tropes, Extraordinary Attorney Woo stands out for its unique protagonist—Woo Young-woo, a highly intelligent, neurodivergent attorney with autism. The drama follows her journey as she navigates the challenges of working in a prestigious law firm while dealing with societal expectations and biases. The series is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, tackling issues of inclusion, acceptance, and personal growth. Park Eun-bin’s performance as Woo is absolutely captivating, making this series an unforgettable watch for anyone interested in a fresh take on the legal drama genre.
4. D.P. (2021–2023)
D.P. provides a rare and deeply realistic look at South Korea’s mandatory military service, focusing on a team of soldiers tasked with capturing deserters. It’s a gritty, emotional exploration of the pressure, trauma, and human cost of military life. Jung Hae-in’s portrayal of the protagonist, whose sensitivity contrasts with the harshness of his environment, anchors the show’s emotional depth. D.P. has been praised for its unflinching portrayal of mental health issues in the military, making it a powerful watch for those interested in social commentary as well as action.
3. Moving (2023)
A high school drama with a supernatural twist, Moving follows teenagers who must hide their superpowers from the world while dealing with their own personal issues. It’s a unique mix of fantasy, family drama, and suspense. The drama is both thrilling and heartwarming, with some truly impressive action sequences. Moving pushes the boundaries of what K-dramas can achieve with its ambitious storytelling, offering a fresh, exciting take on the genre.
2. The Glory (2022)
The theme of bullying is tackled in The Glory, but with a twist—this is a drama about revenge. After enduring years of abuse during her youth, the main character plans an intricate and calculated vengeance against those who wronged her. The Glory is intense, gripping, and emotionally powerful. It’s a drama that not only entertains but also forces viewers to reflect on issues like social justice, trauma, and the consequences of unchecked power. The actors’ performances are stellar, making this one of the most talked-about dramas of the last few years.
1. Squid Game (2021)
There’s no denying that Squid Game took the world by storm when it was released in 2021. With its chilling premise of financially desperate individuals competing in deadly childhood games, the series became a global phenomenon. Squid Game masterfully blends social commentary with suspense, examining the extremes of human nature and the societal divisions that drive people to desperate measures. The series is a captivating, thought-provoking exploration of class struggles, survival, and morality, and it redefined the global K-drama landscape.
These 10 K-dramas showcase the diversity and creativity of the genre, from intense thrillers to heartwarming family stories. Whether you’re new to K-dramas or a long-time fan, these shows offer something for everyone, and they continue to shape the future of global television.