Welcome to the captivating world of K-dramas, where stories come to life with a perfect blend of emotions and excitement! If you’re new to this enchanting universe, worry not – we’ve got your back. This guide is all about the Best K-Dramas For Beginners, designed to make your entry into Korean drama land an absolute breeze. Imagine a world where every episode leaves you wanting more, where romance and suspense dance hand in hand. Get ready for an adventure that’s simple, exciting, and tailor-made just for you! So, buckle up as we unveil the perfect series to kickstart your love for K-dramas
Best K-Dramas For Beginners: Extracurricular (2020)
Genres: Psychological, Crime, Youth, Drama
Director: Kim Jin Min
Screenwriter: Jin Han Sae
Starring Kim Dong-hee, Park Ju-hyun, Jung Da-bin, Nam Yoon-su, Choi Min-soo, Park Hyuk-kwon, Kim Yeo-jin
No. of episodes: 10
Watch Extracurricular On Netflix
In the realm of K-dramas, “Extracurricular” stands out as an exceptional starting point for beginners. Directed by Kim Jin Min and featuring an ensemble cast including Kim Dong-hee and Park Ju-hyun, this psychological crime drama introduces viewers to the thrilling world of its three lead characters. Oh Ji-soo, secretly working as a security provider for sex workers, creates a web of secrets that entangles Bae Gyu-ri and Seo Min-hee.
With its standalone season, ten episodes, and an average length of 44 minutes per episode, “Extracurricular” is a highly engaging and easily bingeable series. The intense plot and believable stakes make it a perfect introduction to the K-drama landscape.
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Reply 1988 (2015-2016)
Genre: Family drama, Comedy, Romance
Written by: Lee Woo-jung
Directed by: Shin Won-ho
Starring: Lee Hye-ri, Ryu Jun-yeol, Go Kyung-pyo, Park Bo-gum, Lee Dong-hwi
No. of episodes: 20 +
Watch Reply 1988 On Netflix
While addressing themes like friendships, school pressures, and economic challenges – common in many K-dramas – “Reply 1988” presents them in a way that feels relatable to everyone. The series masterfully blends the essence of Korean culture with universally resonant narratives, creating a viewing experience that transcends borders.
Immerse yourself in the nostalgia of the ’80s with the series’ captivating soundtrack. “Reply 1988” skillfully weaves in a musical journey that complements the storyline, enhancing the overall viewing pleasure. The nostalgic soundtrack serves as an open invitation, beckoning viewers into the warmth of cherished memories.
As the third installment in tvN’s Reply series, “Reply 1988” earned both critical acclaim and a devoted fan following. The finale episode, recording an impressive 18.8% nationwide audience share, solidified its place as the fifth highest-rated drama in Korean cable television history during its airing.
Best K-Dramas For Beginners: Itaewon Class (2020)
Genre: Drama
Written by: Gwang Jin
Directed by :Kim Seong-yoon
Starring: Park Seo-joon, Kim Da-mi, Yoo Jae-myung, Kwon Nara
No. of episodes: 16
Watch Itaewon Class On Netflix
Embark on a journey of revenge and romance with “Itaewon Class,” a gripping K-drama that delves into the depths of human emotion. At its core, the series follows Park Sae-ro-yi’s quest for justice against his father’s wrongful death, setting the stage for a captivating narrative filled with twists and turns.
Driven by a desire for vengeance against his former classmate, Jang Geun-won, Park Sae-ro-yi navigates a tumultuous path after being released from prison. His determination to seek retribution leads him to establish a bar-restaurant in Itaewon, igniting a fierce rivalry with Jang Geun-won’s family food company.
The Glory (2022-2023)
Genre: Revenge, Psychological Thriller
Written by: Kim Eun-sook
Directed by: Ahn Gil-ho
Starring: Song Hye-kyo, Lee Do-hyun, Lim Ji-yeon, Yeom Hye-ran, Park Sung-hoon, Jung Sung-il
No. of episodes: 16
Watch The Glory On Netflix
For enthusiasts of suspenseful dramas, “The Glory” is a must-watch that takes viewers on a rollercoaster of emotions. The series revolves around Moon Dong-eun, a woman with a haunting past of childhood bullying. As an adult, she orchestrates a plan for revenge against those who tormented her, weaving a narrative inspired by a real-life bullying event in South Korea in 2006.
Upon its release, “The Glory” swiftly rose to popularity, becoming one of Netflix’s most-watched shows. The report highlighting “The Glory: Season 1” as the third-most viewed title globally, accumulating a staggering 622.8 million hours of viewing, is a testament to its widespread appeal. The series successfully captivates audiences, keeping them engaged and invested in the unfolding drama.
What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim (2018)
Genre: Romantic comedy
Written by: Jung Eun-young
Directed by: Park Joon-hwa
Starring: Park Seo-joon, Park Min-young
No. of episodes: 16
Watch What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim On Netflix And Viki
“What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” stands out as a delightful and engaging series that seamlessly weaves together romance, drama, and comedy. The story unfolds as the titular secretary, played by Park Min-young, surprises her boss, Lee Young-joon (played by Park Seo-joon), with her resignation. What follows is a captivating journey that explores the dynamics between the two characters.
At the heart of the series is the undeniable chemistry between the lead actors, Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young. Their on-screen dynamic adds a layer of authenticity to the romance portrayed in the series. The interactions between the characters are filled with moments that range from heartwarming to humorous, creating a well-rounded viewing experience.
Crash Landing On You (2019-2020)
Genre: Romantic, comedy
Written by: Park Ji-eun
Directed by: Lee Jung-hyo
Starring: Hyun Bin, Son Ye-jin, Seo Ji-hye, Kim Jung-hyun
No. of episodes: 16
Watch Crash Landing On You On Netflix
“Crash Landing On You” takes viewers on an unforgettable journey filled with romance, suspense, and the complexities of forbidden love. The series, which aired from December 14, 2019, to February 16, 2020, on tvN in South Korea and worldwide on Netflix, has left an indelible mark as one of the most beloved South Korean dramas.
The narrative unfolds as Yoon Se-ri, portrayed by Son Ye-jin, accidentally paraglides into North Korean territory, setting the stage for a love story that transcends political boundaries. In this foreign land, she encounters Ri Jeong-hyeok, a captain in the Korean People’s Army, played by Hyun Bin. The series delicately explores the challenges and risks of a love that defies geographical and political constraints.
At its core, “Crash Landing On You” masterfully combines suspense and drama with the central love story. The plot revolves around the protagonists’ attempts to navigate the complexities of getting Yoon Se-ri back to South Korea without detection. The risks taken and obstacles faced add a layer of suspense that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while never overshadowing the heartfelt connection between the lead characters.
The series achieved remarkable success, becoming the most popular TV drama on tvN and the fourth most-watched South Korean cable television drama. Its widespread acclaim catapulted it to the third-highest-rated South Korean drama in cable television history, trailing only behind “Sky Castle” and “The World of the Married.”
Best K-Dramas For Beginners: Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)
Genre: Romantic, comedy
Based on: Mr. Handy, Mr. Hong by Kang Seok-beom and Shin Jung-goo
Written by: Shin Ha-eun
Directed by: Yoo Je-won
Starring: Shin Min-a, Kim Seon-ho, Lee Sang-yi
No. of episodes: 16
Watch Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha On Netflix
In the world of “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha,” Yoon Hye-jin, played by Shin Min-a, embarks on a journey to a picturesque village in Gongjin. Her mission? To open a dental clinic that will bring smiles to the faces of the villagers. Little does she know that this quaint setting will become the backdrop for a delightful romantic tale.
As Hye-jin immerses herself in the community, she encounters Hong Du-sik, portrayed by Kim Seon-ho, and the sparks of romance begin to fly. The series beautifully captures the essence of love in a small town, where every interaction becomes a step closer to a heartwarming connection.
What sets “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” apart is its ability to infuse moments of comedy seamlessly into the romantic plot. The series keeps things light-hearted, allowing the humor to complement the developing romance. This combination of laughter and love makes it one of the funniest and most enjoyable K-dramas for audiences of all ages.
Adding to its triumphs, “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” achieved remarkable success on Netflix, emerging as one of the platform’s most-watched non-English dramas. The show’s finale, with a nationwide rating of 12.665% and over 3.2 million views.
Best K-Dramas For Beginners: While You Were Sleeping (2017)
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Thriller, Comedy, Legal drama
Written by: Park Hye-ryun
Directed by: Oh Chung-hwan
Starring: Lee Jong-suk, Bae Suzy, Lee Sang-yeob, Jung Hae-in
No. of episodes 16
Watch While You Were Sleeping On VIKI
The storyline introduces three protagonists blessed with the extraordinary ability to see the future. United by this unique gift, they form a team with a singular mission – to prevent the turmoil witnessed in their dreams from materializing in reality.
One of the standout features of the series is its ability to maintain a fast-paced rhythm. While the episodes adhere to the average length of most K-dramas, the narrative unfolds with a thrilling momentum. The tension created by the characters’ unique foresight is balanced by moments of genuine humor, making it a rollercoaster ride of emotions.
Best K-Dramas For Beginners: Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)
Genre : Legal drama
Written by: Moon Ji-won
Directed by: Yoo In-shik
Starring: Park Eun-bin, Kang Tae-oh, Kang Ki-young
No. of episodes 16
Watch Extraordinary Attorney Woo On Netflix
At the heart of “Extraordinary Attorney Woo” is Woo Young-woo, portrayed as an autistic lawyer facing challenges that extend beyond the courtroom. The series beautifully captures her journey as she strives to demonstrate her capabilities and dispel stereotypes associated with neurodivergence. Woo Young-woo emerges as one of the most iconic female leads in K-dramas, breaking barriers and inspiring audiences.
The impact of “Extraordinary Attorney Woo” is evident in its record-breaking success. The series achieved the highest ratings in ENA history, captivating audiences worldwide. Its popularity transcended borders, dominating Netflix’s streaming chart for non-English television shows for an impressive nine weeks after its June 2022 release.