The global reach of K-dramas shows no signs of slowing down. As part of the ongoing rise of Hallyu, or the Korean Wave, K-dramas continue to captivate audiences worldwide. The Global Hallyu Survey 2025, recently released by South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in collaboration with the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE), highlights the most beloved K-dramas across the globe. Conducted in 2024, the survey gathered responses from fans in 26 countries, including the U.S., U.K., Japan, Brazil, India, and France, with new additions like the Philippines and Hong Kong. Here’s a closer look at the top 5 K-dramas that have made a significant impact globally.
1. Squid Game (9.7%)
Still reigning supreme, Squid Game remains the undisputed leader of the K-drama world, even as the years pass. The highly anticipated release of Season 2 in December 2024 reignited the fervor of international audiences. This bloody and metaphorical thriller, starring Lee Jung Jae and Wi Ha Joon, continues to be a global cultural reference point. The show’s blend of high-stakes drama and social commentary has kept it at the forefront of the Hallyu wave, captivating millions worldwide.
2. Queen of Tears (6.5%)
Premiering in 2024, Queen of Tears took the world by storm with its tragic romance and A-list cast, featuring Kim Soo Hyun and Kim Ji Won. The series quickly ascended the global rankings thanks to its poignant storytelling and deeply human characters. This K-drama not only won over domestic fans in South Korea but also resonated with audiences far beyond its borders, proving once again that K-dramas can transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.
3. Crash Landing on You (2.2%)
Even five years after its initial airing, Crash Landing on You continues to capture hearts. The love story between a South Korean heiress and a North Korean soldier, played by Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin, has remained a classic in the hearts of fans. This K-drama defies time and borders, staying relevant and intensely loved by both new viewers and those who’ve followed it from the beginning. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universal appeal of its themes of love, sacrifice, and political tension.
4. True Beauty (2.1%)
Adapted from a hit webtoon, True Beauty still draws a dedicated following with its exploration of beauty standards, self-confidence, and high school love. The chemistry between Cha Eun Woo and Moon Ga Young has left a lasting impression on audiences, making the drama both lighthearted and emotionally impactful. Its portrayal of a young woman’s journey to self-acceptance resonates deeply with fans across generations, especially younger viewers.
5. Lovely Runner (1.8%)
A newcomer in the list, Lovely Runner has quickly become a fan favorite. This drama, which blends romance, time travel, and emotional highs, features Byeon Woo Seok and Kim Hye Yoon. Lovely Runner captures the growing trend of real-time watching, where international fans can keep up with the latest episodes almost simultaneously with Korean viewers. This shift in viewing habits reflects the increasing demand for fresh content, and K-dramas like Lovely Runner meet that demand with ease.
The Changing Landscape of Global K-Drama Consumption
The rise of newer titles in the top rankings underscores a shift in viewing habits. International audiences no longer want to wait; thanks to streaming platforms, they now enjoy K-dramas almost in real time with Korean audiences. This evolution has only amplified the reach of Hallyu, further solidifying K-drama’s place as a global powerhouse. With millions of fans across the world, K-dramas continue to shape the way we consume entertainment, proving that quality content knows no boundaries.
The success of K-dramas, however, also highlights the larger cultural influence South Korea holds in the entertainment world. As the K-drama industry continues to thrive, the world will undoubtedly see even more international hits, further boosting South Korea’s cultural export.
