2023 has been a remarkable year for Korean dramas, with a plethora of captivating series that have garnered high ratings and widespread acclaim. From historical epics to contemporary romances, the diversity and quality of K-dramas this year have been truly impressive. We’ve curated a list of the top Korean dramas of 2023 that have captured the hearts of viewers around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned K-drama enthusiast or a newcomer looking for your next binge-worthy series, these top-rated dramas are sure to provide an unforgettable viewing experience.

Main Casts: Namkoong Min, Ahn Eun-jin, Lee Hak-joo, Lee Da-in

Number of Episodes: 21

Date of Release: August 4, 2023

Network/Streamer: MBC TV, available for streaming on Wavve in South Korea, and on Viki in selected regions.

Genre: : Historical, Melodrama, Romance

Synopsis: My Dearest is set during the Qing invasion of Joseon and follows the lives of Lee Jang-hyun, an enigmatic nobleman, and Yoo Gil-chae, a noblewoman. Amidst the chaos and devastation of war, they find themselves drawn to each other, discovering love and hope in the most challenging times. As they navigate the complexities of their relationship, they must also confront their pasts and the harsh realities of their world. The series beautifully portrays the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love to overcome adversity, making it a compelling historical melodrama.

Trivia: The series is inspired by the 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” by Margaret Mitchell.

Main Casts: Ryeoun, Choi Hyun-wook, Seol In-ah, Shin Eun-soo

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: September 25, 2023

Network/Streamer: tvN, available for streaming on Viu and Viki in selected regions.

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Coming-of-age, Time travel

Synopsis: Twinkling Watermelon follows the story of a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) boy with a natural talent for music who, after a heated argument with his father, mysteriously travels back in time to 1995. In this past era, he meets his younger father and forms a band called Watermelon Sugar. Through their shared love of music, they bridge the generational gap and communicate in ways words cannot express. The series beautifully explores themes of family, identity, and the transformative power of music, highlighting the unique challenges and experiences of growing up as a CODA.

Trivia: The series highlights the unique challenges and experiences of a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) and incorporates elements of time travel.

Main Casts: Jang Dong-gun, Lee Joon-gi, Shin Se-kyung, Kim Ok-vin

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: September 9, 2023

Network/Streamer: tvN, available for streaming on Disney+ in selected regions.

Genre: Historical, Romance, Fantasy, Political

Synopsis: Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramun is set eight years after the events of the first season. The series follows the inevitable great war between Ta Gon’s Kingdom of Arthdal and Eun Seom’s Ago Union. Eun Seom, now the ruler of the East, and Tan Ya, the successor to the Wahan clan, must navigate complex power dynamics and alliances. As they prepare for battle, they uncover ancient secrets and confront their destinies. The series delves into themes of power, loyalty, and the mythical elements of the ancient land of Arth, offering a rich and immersive historical fantasy experience.

Trivia: The series is a continuation of the 2019 drama “Arthdal Chronicles” and explores the complex power dynamics and mythical elements of the ancient land of Arth.

Main Casts: Lee Dong-wook, Kim So-yeon, Kim Bum, Ryu Kyung-soo

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: May 6, 2023

Network/Streamer: tvN, available for streaming on TVING and Amazon Prime Video

Genre: Action, Fantasy

Synopsis: Synopsis: Lee Yeon (Lee Dong-wook), a gumiho (nine-tailed fox), finds himself transported to 1938 during the Japanese colonial era. In this tumultuous time, he encounters familiar faces and new foes, including Ryu Hong-joo (Kim So-yeon), a former mountain goddess now running a high-end restaurant. As he navigates this era, Yeon seeks a way back to the present while confronting unresolved conflicts and protecting those he holds dear.

Trivia: This series serves as a prequel to the 2020 series “Tale of the Nine-Tailed” and delves into the historical context of the Japanese occupation.

Main Casts: Ryu Seung-ryong, Han Hyo-joo, Zo In-sung, Cha Tae-hyun

Number of Episodes: 20

Date of Release: August 9, 2023

Network/Streamer: Disney+

Genre: Action, Fantasy, Sci-fi, Thriller, Romance, Family drama

Synopsis: Moving follows the lives of three high school students and their parents who discover they possess extraordinary superpowers. As they come to terms with their newfound abilities, they must also evade a mysterious organization determined to capture them. The series delves into the challenges of balancing everyday life with the responsibilities and dangers that come with their powers. Through thrilling action sequences and heartfelt moments, “Moving” explores themes of family, identity, and the struggle to protect loved ones in a world that fears and hunts them. Based on the popular webtoon by Kang Full, it offers a gripping and emotional narrative.

Trivia: Based on the Kakao webtoon by Kang Full, “Moving” became the most-watched Korean original series on Disney+ globally within seven days of its release.

Main Casts: Ra Mi-ran, Lee Do-hyun, Ahn Eun-jin, Yoo In-soo

Number of Episodes: 14

Date of Release: April 26, 2023

Network/Streamer: JTBC, available for streaming on Netflix in selected regions.

Genre: Family, Comedy drama, Slice-of-life

Synopsis: The Good Bad Mother follows the story of Cha Jeong-suk, a devoted mother who has sacrificed everything for her son, Kang-ho, to become a successful prosecutor. However, after a tragic accident leaves Kang-ho with the mind of a child, Jeong-suk must take on the role of a “bad mother” to help him recover and rebuild his life. As they navigate their new reality, they rediscover their bond and confront past misunderstandings. The series beautifully explores themes of family, resilience, and the unconditional love between a mother and her child, blending heartwarming moments with comedic elements.

Main Casts: Ji Chang-wook, Wi Ha-joon, Im Se-mi, Kim Hyeong-seo

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: September 27, 2023

Network/Streamer: Disney+

Genre: Crime action, Thriller, Noir

Synopsis: The Worst of Evil is set in the 1990s and follows undercover police officer Kang Joon-mo as he infiltrates a massive criminal organization responsible for the illegal drug trade between Korea, China, and Japan. Alongside his wife, Yoo Eui-jung, who is also an undercover officer, Joon-mo navigates the dangerous underworld to gather crucial evidence. As they delve deeper into the criminal network, they face moral dilemmas and life-threatening situations. The series explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of undercover work, offering a gripping and intense crime thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Main Casts: Jung Woo-sung, Shin Hyun-been, Kim Ji-hyun, Park Ki-deok

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: November 27, 2023

Network/Streamer: ENA, Genie TV, available for streaming on Disney+

Genre: Romance, Melodrama

Synopsis: Cha Jin-woo (Jung Woo-sung), a hearing-impaired artist, leads a solitary life, finding solace in his paintings. His world changes when he meets Jung Mo-eun (Shin Hyun-bin), a vibrant and compassionate woman who sees beyond his disability. Their relationship blossoms, challenging societal norms and personal insecurities as they navigate the complexities of love and communication.

Trivia: This drama is a remake of the 1995 Japanese TV series “Aishiteiru to Itte Kure”.

Main Casts: Park Bo-young, Yeon Woo-jin, Jang Dong-yoon, Lee Jung-eun

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: November 3, 2023

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Medical drama, Comedy

Synopsis: Daily Dose of Sunshine centers on Jung Da-eun, a compassionate nurse working in the Department of Psychiatry at Myungshin University Hospital. As she navigates the challenges of her demanding job, she forms deep connections with her patients, helping them through their struggles with mental health. The series highlights the emotional highs and lows of psychiatric care, showcasing the resilience and dedication required in this field. Through heartwarming and sometimes humorous moments, “Daily Dose of Sunshine” explores themes of empathy, healing, and the importance of mental health awareness, offering a touching and insightful look into the world of psychiatric nursing.

Trivia: Based on the Kakao webtoon by Lee Ra-ha, a former nurse, the series draws from real-life experiences in psychiatric care.

Main Casts: Jung Hae-in, Koo Kyo-hwan, Kim Sung-kyun, Son Seok-koo

Number of Episodes: 6

Date of Release: July 28, 2023

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Drama, Military

Synopsis: D.P. (Season 2) continues the gripping story of An Jun-ho, a soldier in the Deserter Pursuit unit tasked with capturing military deserters. As Jun-ho delves deeper into the harsh realities of military life, he uncovers systemic issues and personal traumas that drive soldiers to desert. Alongside his partner, Han Ho-yeol, Jun-ho faces moral dilemmas and dangerous situations, challenging his beliefs and resilience. The season explores themes of duty, justice, and the psychological impact of military service, offering a raw and realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by soldiers within the South Korean military system.

Trivia: The series is based on the webtoon “D.P Dog’s Day” by Kim Bo-tong and has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the South Korean military system.

Main Casts: Woo Do-hwan, Lee Sang-yi, Park Sung-woong, Huh Joon-ho

Number of Episodes: 8

Date of Release: June 9, 2023

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Action, Drama

Synopsis: Bloodhounds follows the story of Kim Gun-woo, a promising young boxer who gets entangled in the dangerous world of loan sharks to pay off his mother’s debt. Teaming up with fellow boxer Hong Woo-jin and a former loan shark, they take on a ruthless loan shark organization led by the merciless Myeong-gil. As they navigate the treacherous underworld, they face intense battles and moral dilemmas. The series explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the fight for justice, offering a gripping narrative filled with action and emotional depth. Based on the webtoon “Bloodhounds” by Jeong Chan, it delivers a powerful punch.

Trivia: The series is based on the Naver webtoon “Bloodhounds” by Jeong Chan

Main Casts: Ji Chang-wook, Shin Hye-sun, Kim Mi-kyung, Seo Hyun-chul

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: December 2, 2023

Network/Streamer: JTBC, available for streaming on TVING in South Korea, and on Netflix in selected regions.

Genre:Romantic Comedy, Drama

Synopsis: Welcome to Samdal-ri follows the story of Jo Sam-dal, a once-famous photographer who returns to her hometown of Samdal-ri after a fall from grace. There, she reconnects with her childhood friend, Woo Hyun, who is now a weather forecaster. As Sam-dal adjusts to her new life away from the spotlight, she rediscovers the simple joys of her rural hometown and rekindles old relationships. The series explores themes of redemption, love, and community, highlighting the importance of finding one’s true self amidst life’s challenges. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Jeju Island, it offers a heartwarming and uplifting narrative.

Main Casts: Park Eun-bin, Kim Hyo-jin, Chae Jong-hyeop, Cha Hak-yeon

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: October 28, 2023

Network/Streamer: : tvN, available for streaming on Netflix in selected regions.

Genre: Coming-of-age, Musical, Romantic Comedy

Synopsis: Castaway Diva follows the story of Seo Mok-ha, a young woman with dreams of becoming a diva, who gets stranded on a deserted island for 15 years. After being rescued, she struggles to adjust to the modern world and pursue her long-lost dream of becoming a singer. As she navigates the challenges of reintegration, Mok-ha encounters new friends and old acquaintances, discovering the resilience and determination within herself. The series explores themes of survival, personal growth, and the pursuit of dreams, offering a heartwarming and inspiring narrative about overcoming adversity and finding one’s place in the world.

Main Casts: Ahn Hyo-seop, Jeon Yeo-been, Kang Hoon

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: September 8, 2023

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Time Travel, Mystery, Romance

Synopsis: Han Jun-hee (Jeon Yeo-been) mourns the loss of her boyfriend, Ko Yeon-jun (Ahn Hyo-seop). Mysteriously, she finds herself transported back in time to 1998, inhabiting the body of a high school student named Kwon Min-joo. There, she meets Nam Si-heon (also Ahn Hyo-seop), who bears an uncanny resemblance to her late boyfriend. As they grow closer, Jun-hee grapples with the enigma of her time travel and the connections between past and present.

Trivia: This series is a Korean adaptation of the Taiwanese drama “Someday or One Day.”

Main Casts: Kim Tae-ri, Oh Jung-se, Hong Kyung

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: June 23, 2023

Network/Streamer: SBS, available for streaming on Disney+ in selected regions.

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Horror

Synopsis: Gu San-yeong (Kim Tae-ri) is an ordinary woman whose life takes a dark turn when she becomes possessed by a malevolent spirit. Yeom Hae-sang (Oh Jung-se), a professor specializing in folklore, recognizes the signs and offers his expertise to help her. Together, they delve into ancient myths and confront supernatural entities to uncover the truth behind the haunting.

Main Casts: Kim Woo-bin, Song Seung-heon, Kang Yoo-seok, Esom

Number of Episodes: 6

Date of Release: May 12, 2023

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Action

Synopsis: Black Knight is set in a dystopian future where air pollution has devastated the world, making it uninhabitable without oxygen masks. The series follows “5-8,” a legendary delivery driver who transports essential supplies, and Sa-wol, a refugee boy who dreams of becoming a delivery driver like his hero. Together, they navigate a society divided by class and survival, facing dangerous challenges and uncovering dark secrets. The series explores themes of resilience, hope, and the fight for justice in a world on the brink of collapse. Based on the webtoon “Black Knight” by Lee Yun-kyun, it offers a gripping and action-packed narrative.

Trivia: The series is based on the webtoon “Black Knight” by Lee Yun-kyun.

Main Casts: Kim Ok-vin, Teo Yoo, Kim Ji-hoon, Go Won-hee

Number of Episodes: 10

Date of Release: February 10, 2023

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Synopsis: Love to Hate You follows the tumultuous relationship between Yeo Mi-ran, a fierce and competitive lawyer who despises losing to men, and Nam Kang-ho, a top actor who distrusts women due to past experiences. Forced into a contractual relationship for mutual benefit, they initially clash due to their contrasting personalities and beliefs. However, as they spend more time together, they begin to understand and support each other, challenging their preconceived notions about love and trust. The series explores themes of gender dynamics, personal growth, and the transformative power of love, offering a humorous and heartfelt romantic comedy.

Main Casts: Jeon Do-yeon, Jung Kyung-ho

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: January 14, 2023

Network/Streamer: tvN, available for streaming on Netflix in selected regions.

Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama

Synopsis: Crash Course in Romance follows the unexpected romance between Nam Haeng-seon, a former national athlete who now runs a side dish shop, and Choi Chi-yeol, a star math instructor known for his charisma and strict teaching methods. Despite their vastly different backgrounds and personalities, they find themselves drawn to each other through a series of humorous and heartwarming encounters. As they navigate their budding relationship, they also deal with the pressures and challenges of their respective careers. The series explores themes of love, personal growth, and the importance of balancing work and life, offering a delightful and engaging romantic comedy.

Main Casts: Shin Hye-sun, Ahn Bo-hyun

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: June 17, 2023

Network/Streamer: tvN available for streaming on TVING and Netflix in selected regions.

Genre: Fantasy, Romance

Synopsis: See You in My 19th Life follows Ban Ji-eum, a woman who has the extraordinary ability to remember all her past lives. In her 19th life, she sets out to reconnect with Moon Seo-ha, a man she loved in her previous life. As she navigates the complexities of her memories and the present, Ji-eum faces challenges in revealing her true identity and intentions. The series explores themes of reincarnation, love, and destiny, offering a unique and heartwarming narrative about the enduring power of love across lifetimes and the quest for a second chance at happiness.

Trivia: The drama is adapted from a popular webtoon of the same name by Lee Hey.

Main Casts: Kim Yoo-jung, Song Kang

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: November 24, 2023

Network/Streamer: SBS TV, available for streaming on Wavve in South Korea, and on Netflix in selected regions.

Genre: Fantasy, Romantic Comedy

Synopsis: My Demon follows Do Do-hee, the icy heiress of a conglomerate, who enters into a contract marriage with Jeong Gu-won, a demon who temporarily loses his powers. As they navigate their unusual relationship, Do-hee’s cynical view on love begins to change, and Gu-won discovers the complexities of human emotions. Together, they face various challenges and uncover secrets that test their bond. The series blends fantasy and romantic comedy, exploring themes of love, trust, and redemption. As their relationship deepens, they find unexpected happiness and growth, making “My Demon” a captivating and heartwarming tale.

Main Casts: Lee Jun-ho, Im Yoon-ah, Go Won-hee, Kim Ga-eun

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: June 17, 2023

Network/Streamer: JTBC, available for streaming on TVING in South Korea and on Netflix in selected regions.

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Synopsis: King the Land follows the story of Gu Won, the heir to a luxury hotel conglomerate, and Cheon Sa-rang, a cheerful hotelier known for her irresistible smile. Amidst a fierce inheritance battle, Gu Won and Sa-rang’s paths cross, leading to a series of humorous and heartwarming encounters. As they navigate their professional and personal lives, they discover unexpected connections and emotions. The series explores themes of love, ambition, and the complexities of family dynamics, offering a delightful romantic comedy set against the glamorous backdrop of the hotel industry. Their journey highlights the transformative power of love and understanding.

Despite it’s low IMDB rating, King the Land was one of the most popular shows of 2023.

Reflecting on the top Korean dramas of 2023, it’s evident that the industry continues to thrive and innovate, delivering stories that resonate deeply with audiences. These dramas have not only entertained but also offered profound insights into various aspects of life, culture, and human emotions. As we celebrate the standout series of this year, we can look forward to even more exciting and groundbreaking content in the future. Whether you’re drawn to intense thrillers, heartwarming romances, or thought-provoking dramas, the top picks of 2023 have something for everyone. Happy watching!