If you’re a K-drama fan, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year with a lineup of fresh shows set to debut. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming romances, the year promises something for everyone. Whether you’re watching for the drama, the incredible casts, or the compelling plots, here’s your guide to the most anticipated K-dramas of 2025. We’ve got the release dates, cast details, and platforms you’ll need to tune in.
“I Am a Running Mate” – A High School Rivalry Turns Into a Battle for Image
The upcoming series “I Am a Running Mate” follows the story of Se Hoon, a high school student struggling with his reputation. In a bid to change how he’s viewed, he decides to run for the student council. However, his journey is complicated when he faces off against Sang Hyun, a popular and strategic classmate. The rivalry intensifies as more than just the elections are at stake. Yoon Hyun Soo plays Se Hoon, while Lee Jung Sic takes on the role of Sang Hyun. The series will stream on Viu, starting June 19, 2025.
“Squid Game 3” – The Return of the High-Stakes Game
Fans of the global hit Squid Game won’t want to miss Season 3, set to be released on Netflix on June 27, 2025. The new season promises even higher stakes with new deadly games and the return of Lee Jung Jae and Lee Byung Hun. This season continues exploring the limits of human survival and the desperate measures people will take in a ruthless, life-or-death game.
“The Murky Stream” – A Historical Drama with High Stakes
Set in the Joseon era, “The Murky Stream” is an adaptation of the novel Takryu by Chae Man Sik. The story follows Siyul (played by Rowoon), a notorious gangster, and Choi Eun (played by Shin Ye Eun), a quick-witted woman. Together, they navigate a brutal world where politics, violence, and loyalty collide. This period drama will be available on Disney+ starting September 21, 2025.
“Low Life” – A Dangerous Search for Treasure
Set in the turbulent 1970s, “Low Life” is based on the webcomic Pain by Yoon Tae Ho. The plot centers around an uncle and nephew duo as they search for hidden treasure in a wreckage, all while facing dangerous rivals and navigating the social upheavals of the time. This series will be available for streaming on Disney+ in 2025.
“Tempest” – A Diplomat and a Mercenary in a Political Thriller
“Tempest” is a political thriller about Mun-ju (played by Gianna Jun), a diplomat who uncovers a political assassination plot. She teams up with San-ho, a mercenary, to expose the truth in a world filled with manipulation and deceit. Expect tense, high-stakes drama when this series drops on Disney+ in 2025.
“The Manipulated” – Justice and Revenge Unfold
In “The Manipulated”, Ji Chang Wook plays Taejung, a man wrongfully convicted of a crime. He seeks revenge on Yohan (played by Kyungsoo of EXO), accusing him of being responsible for his downfall. The series delves into themes of truth, justice, and manipulation. Catch this intense K-drama on Disney+ in 2025.
“Aema” – A Glimpse into the 1980s Cinema World
Set in the 1980s, “Aema” follows Hee-ran (played by Lee Ha Nee), a former film star who loses her role in Madame Aema. She meets Ju-ae (played by Bang Hyo Rin), a young dancer full of ambition. This series explores the dreams, conflicts, and struggles of women in the entertainment industry. Look out for this series on Netflix in 2025.
“You And Everything Else” – A Moving Story About Friendship
In “You And Everything Else”, Kim Go Eun and Park Ji Hyun star as lifelong friends. Sang-yeon, who is severely ill, asks Eun-jung to accompany her on one last trip. Together, they relive old memories, resolve past issues, and strengthen their bond. This heartwarming series about friendship and acceptance will be available on Netflix in 2025.
“Trigger” – A Detective’s Fight for Justice
“Trigger” follows detective Lee Do as he investigates an illegal arms trafficking ring, facing off against the mysterious Moon-baek. The series offers intense action sequences and moral dilemmas around justice and law enforcement. This thriller will premiere on Netflix in 2025.
“Genie Make a Wish” – A Magical Romantic Comedy
In this charming romantic comedy, Kim Woo Bin plays a genie who can grant three wishes. He is released by Suzy’s character, Ga-young, who is then swept into a series of humorous and touching situations. A perfect blend of fantasy and romance, this K-drama will be streaming on Netflix in 2025.
“As You Stood By” – A Gritty Crime Drama
Based on a Japanese novel, “As You Stood By” tells the story of Eun-su, a woman who plans to kill her friend’s abusive husband. Starring Jeon So Nee and Lee Yoo Mi, the drama tackles difficult topics like morality, loyalty, and despair. It will be available on Netflix in 2025.
“Can This Love Be Translated” – Love, Language, and Unlikely Partnerships
In this light-hearted romantic comedy, Kim Seon Ho stars as Ho-jin, a multilingual interpreter, and Mu-hee, played by a confident star. Their partnership takes unexpected turns, blending love and language in a fun, charming way. This series will be available on Netflix in 2025.
“The Price of Confession” – A Thrilling Tale of Innocence and Revenge
In “The Price of Confession”, Jeon Do Yeon stars as Yun-su, a woman wrongfully accused of her husband’s murder. In prison, she befriends Mo-eun, known as “the witch,” and together they work to prove Yun-su’s innocence. This intense drama will be available on Netflix in 2025.
“Cashero” – Superpowers and Social Justice Collide
“Cashero” follows Sang-ung (played by Lee Jun Ho), a man whose strength is tied to the amount of money he possesses. Alongside Min-suk, he battles against strange enemies with otherworldly powers. This action-packed, socially aware K-drama will be available in 2025.
Conclusion
2025 promises a year of incredible K-dramas, with a variety of genres and storylines that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re drawn to action-packed thrillers, magical romances, or intense crime dramas, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to mark your calendars for these highly anticipated releases, and stay tuned for more updates on where to watch them as they hit your favorite streaming platforms.
