2021 was a remarkable year for Korean dramas, offering a diverse range of captivating stories that captured the hearts of global audiences. From heartwarming romances to thrilling mysteries and gripping historical dramas, the K-drama landscape had something for everyone. In this list, we dive into the top-rated and most talked-about Korean dramas of 2021, showcasing the talent of both seasoned and rising stars, as well as the incredible storytelling that has made Korean dramas a global phenomenon.

Main Casts: Namkoong Min, Park Ha-sun, Kim Ji-eun

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: September 17, 2021

Network/Streamer: MBC TV

Genre: Spy, Action, Thriller

Synopsis: Han Ji-hyuk, a top field agent at the National Intelligence Service (NIS), is renowned for his unparalleled skills and perfect record. However, after a mission goes awry, he vanishes without a trace, leaving the agency in turmoil. One year later, Ji-hyuk reappears, suffering from memory loss, and is determined to uncover the internal traitor who orchestrated his downfall. As he delves deeper into the conspiracy, he confronts hidden enemies and unearths unsettling truths within the NIS.

Trivia: The screenplay for “The Veil,” written by Park Seok-ho, won the 2018 MBC Drama Screenplay Contest. The series received a significant investment of 15 billion won (approximately US$13.7 million) from MBC and Wavve for its production, marking it as MBC’s 60th-anniversary special project.

Main Casts: Shin Min-a, Kim Seon-ho, Lee Sang-yi

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: August 28, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, Netflix

Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life

Synopsis: Yoon Hye-jin, a pragmatic dentist, relocates to the seaside village of Gongjin. There, she meets Hong Du-sik, a jack-of-all-trades beloved by the community. As their contrasting personalities clash and harmonize, they discover love and the true meaning of happiness.

Trivia: The drama was recognized as the ‘2021 Good Drama of the Year’ by the Kim Soo-hyun Drama Art Hall.

Main Casts: Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, Wi Ha-joon

Number of Episodes: 9

Date of Release: September 17, 2021

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Thriller, Drama, Survival

Synopsis: Squid Game is a South Korean survival drama that follows a group of financially struggling individuals who are invited to participate in a series of children’s games for a large cash prize. However, the stakes are life-threatening, as losing a game means losing their life. The story centers on Seong Gi-hun, a down-on-his-luck gambler, who enters the competition in a desperate attempt to win money to provide for his family. As the games progress, alliances are formed and betrayals unfold, while participants must confront the moral dilemmas of survival and the brutal consequences of their choices.

Trivia: “Squid Game” became Netflix‘s most-watched show, seen by 142 million households in its first month.

Main Casts: Han Hyo-joo, Park Hyung-sik

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: November 5, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN

Genre: Thriller, Drama

Synopsis: Happiness is a South Korean thriller and action drama set in a high-rise apartment building during a viral pandemic. The story follows police officer Han Hyo-joo and her former classmate, a special forces soldier played by Park Hyung-sik, as they navigate a society gripped by fear and chaos. When a new deadly virus spreads rapidly, turning infected people into violent, zombie-like creatures, the residents of the apartment building must fight for survival. As the situation worsens, secrets emerge, trust erodes, and the characters must confront their moral limits in the fight for safety and survival.

Main Casts: Song Joong-ki, Jeon Yeo-been, Ok Taec-yeon

Number of Episodes: 20

Date of Release: February 20, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, Netflix

Genre: Crime, Dark Comedy

Synopsis: Vincenzo is a South Korean dark comedy and crime drama that follows Vincenzo Cassano, a lawyer and consigliere for the Italian mafia, who returns to South Korea after a betrayal. Seeking to recover a hidden fortune, he teams up with a quirky lawyer, Hong Cha-young, to fight against a corrupt corporation. As Vincenzo uses mafia tactics to outsmart his enemies, he becomes embroiled in a battle of wits, justice, and revenge, blending humor with thrilling action.

Main Casts: Lee Ji-ah, Kim So-yeon, Eugene, Uhm Ki-joon, Yoon Jong-hoon

Number of Episodes: 13

Date of Release: February 19, 2021

Network/Streamer: SBS TV

Genre: Drama, Suspense, Thriller

Synopsis: Following the dramatic events of Season 1, Cheon Seo-jin and Joo Dan-tae plan to marry after successfully framing Oh Yoon-hee for murder. Their engagement is disrupted by the unexpected return of Oh Yoon-hee and Ha Yoon-cheol from the United States. As hidden truths emerge, alliances shift, and a mysterious figure confronts the residents of Hera Palace, leading to intensified rivalries and quests for revenge.

Main Casts: Lee Ji-ah, Kim So-yeon, Eugene, Uhm Ki-joon, Yoon Jong-hoon

Number of Episodes: 14

Date of Release: June 4, 2021

Network/Streamer: SBS TV

Genre: Drama, Suspense, Thriller

Synopsis: In the aftermath of their prison sentences, the Hera Palace residents attempt to rebuild their lives. Shim Su-ryeon, having faked her death, hopes for peace but witnesses Logan Lee’s tragic demise. As the residents face new challenges, their children prepare for college entrance exams, and the cycle of greed, corruption, and revenge continues, leading to a climactic conclusion.

Main Casts: Han So-hee, Park Hee-soon, Ahn Bo-hyun

Number of Episodes: 8

Date of Release: October 15, 2021

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller

Synopsis: My Name is a South Korean action thriller that follows Yoon Ji-woo, a young woman who joins a criminal organization to avenge her father’s murder. Under the guidance of crime boss Choi Mu-jin, she infiltrates the police force under a new identity. As she gets closer to uncovering the truth, Ji-woo faces deadly betrayals, moral dilemmas, and intense action, leading to a gripping tale of revenge and survival.

Main Casts: Kim Go-eun, Ahn Bo-hyun

Number of Episodes: 14

Date of Release: September 17, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, iQIYI

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Synopsis: Yumi’s Cells is a heartwarming romantic comedy that blends live-action and animation to tell the story of Yumi, an ordinary office worker whose emotions are controlled by tiny animated “cells” in her brain. After a painful breakup, Yumi struggles to open her heart again until she meets the charming and carefree game developer Goo Woong. As their romance unfolds, Yumi’s cells navigate love, heartbreak, and personal growth in this unique and relatable journey.

Main Casts: Jo Jung-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok, Jung Kyung-ho

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: June 17, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, Netflix

Genre: Medical, Slice of Life

Synopsis: Hospital Playlist 2 continues the heartwarming journey of five longtime friends and talented doctors working at Yulje Medical Center. As they navigate their busy careers in different medical specialties, they also support each other through life’s joys and challenges. From emotional patient cases to personal growth, romance, and their shared love for music, the series beautifully balances humor and heartfelt moments, making it a touching and relatable story of friendship and life.

Main Casts: Lee Je-hoon, Tang Jun-sang

Number of Episodes: 10

Date of Release: May 14, 2021

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Drama

Synopsis: Move to Heaven is a heartwarming drama about Geu-ru, a young man with Asperger’s syndrome, and his estranged uncle, Sang-gu, who become partners in a trauma cleaning business. Together, they uncover untold stories of the deceased while healing their own emotional wounds. As they sort through the belongings of the departed, they learn valuable life lessons about love, loss, and human connection in this deeply moving and compassionate series.

Trivia: The series is inspired by the essay “Things Left Behind” by Kim Sae-byul, a real-life trauma cleaner.

Main Casts: Lee Jun-ho, Lee Se-young, Kang Hoon

Number of Episodes: 17

Date of Release: November 12, 2021

Network/Streamer: MBC TV

Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama

Synopsis: Set in 18th-century Joseon, “The Red Sleeve” tells the poignant love story between Crown Prince Yi San, who later becomes King Jeongjo, and Seong Deok-im, a strong-willed court lady. Yi San strives to be a benevolent ruler, rectifying the wrongs of his predecessors, while Deok-im values her autonomy within the palace. As their paths intertwine, Yi San desires Deok-im by his side as a royal consort, but she grapples with the constraints that such a position would impose on her freedom.

Trivia: The series is a fictionalized account of the real-life romance between King Jeongjo and his royal consort, Ui-bin Seong. The drama achieved impressive viewership ratings, with its final episode recording a nationwide rating of 17.4%, making it one of the highest-rated dramas in 2021.

Main Casts: Jung Hae-in, Koo Kyo-hwan, Kim Sung-kyun, Son Suk-ku

Number of Episodes: 6

Date of Release: August 27, 2021

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Military, Action, Drama

Synopsis: Set within the South Korean military, “D.P.” follows Private Ahn Jun-ho, a quiet and observant soldier assigned to the Deserter Pursuit unit. Tasked with apprehending soldiers who have deserted their posts, Jun-ho partners with the unconventional Corporal Han Ho-yeol. As they track down deserters, they uncover the harsh realities and systemic issues within military life that drive soldiers to abandon their duties, leading Jun-ho to question the moral complexities of his role.

Trivia: The series is based on the webtoon “D.P Dog’s Day” by Kim Bo-tong. “D.P.” received critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of bullying and hazing within the military, sparking discussions about mandatory military service in South Korea.

Main Casts: Park Bo-young, Seo In-guk, Lee Soo-hyuk, Kang Tae-oh, Shin Do-hyun

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: May 10, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, Netflix, Viki

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Drama

Synopsis: Tak Dong-kyung, a web novel editor, faces a series of unfortunate events, including a terminal illness diagnosis. In a moment of despair, she wishes for the world to end, inadvertently summoning Myul Mang, a supernatural being responsible for destruction. He offers her a 100-day contract to fulfill her wish, during which they begin to develop unexpected feelings for each other, challenging their perceptions of fate, love, and destiny.

Main Casts: Kim Yoo-jung, Ahn Hyo-seop, Gong Myung, Kwak Si-yang

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: August 30, 2021

Network/Streamer: SBS TV, Viki

Genre: Historical, Romance, Fantasy

Synopsis: Set during the Joseon era, “Lovers of the Red Sky” follows Hong Cheon-gi, a talented female painter who was born blind but miraculously gains her sight. She becomes the first female painter of the Dohwaseo (Korean Royal Academy of Painting). Cheon-gi meets Ha Ram, an astrologer who lost his sight in a childhood accident but possesses the ability to read the stars. As their destinies intertwine, they navigate love, political intrigue, and supernatural forces that threaten their world.

Genre: The series is adapted from the novel of the same name by Jung Eun-gwol, who also wrote the novels that inspired “Sungkyunkwan Scandal” and “The Moon Embracing the Sun.”

Main Casts: Lee Bo-young, Kim Seo-hyung, Lee Hyun-wook, Ok Ja-yeon

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: May 8, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, Netflix

Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Synopsis: “Mine” follows the lives of two women, Seo Hi-soo and Jung Seo-hyun, who are married into the wealthy Hyowon Group family. Seo Hi-soo, a former top actress, and Jung Seo-hyun, a chaebol daughter, navigate the complexities of their roles as daughters-in-law while striving to find their true identities. Amidst the opulence and secrets of the Hyowon family, they confront societal prejudices and personal challenges to reclaim what is truly theirs.

Trivia: “Mine” is notable for being the first Korean drama to feature a lesbian character as one of the leads. The series achieved high viewership ratings, with its final episode recording an average of 10.5% nationwide.

Main Casts: Ji Sung, Kim Min-jung, Park Jin-young, Park Gyu-young

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: July 3, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, Netflix

Genre: Mystery, Legal Drama, Dystopian

Synopsis: Set in a dystopian version of South Korea, “The Devil Judge” follows Kang Yo-han, a chief judge who turns his courtroom into a reality show to punish the corrupt and powerful. With a mysterious past and hidden motives, Yo-han becomes a hero to the public but a target for those in power. Alongside him are Jung Sun-ah, his formidable rival, and Kim Ga-on, a rookie judge who believes in justice through constitutional means. The series explores themes of power, corruption, and the quest for justice.

Trivia:The drama was created by Studio Dragon and directed by Choi Jung-kyu. “The Devil Judge” was also adapted into a 48-chapter webtoon serialized on Comico.

Main Casts: Park Eun-bin, Rowoon, Nam Yoon-su, Choi Byung-chan, Bae Yoon-kyung, Jung Chae-yeon

Number of Episodes: 20

Date of Release: October 11, 2021

Network/Streamer: KBS2, Netflix

Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama

Synopsis: Set during the Joseon Dynasty, “The Kings Affection” tells the story of Dam-yi, a twin daughter born to the Crown Princess. Twins are considered an ominous sign, leading to an order to kill Dam-yi. She is secretly sent away but returns years later to the palace as a maid. When her twin brother, Crown Prince Lee Hwi, dies, Dam-yi is persuaded to take his place. As she navigates palace life, she develops feelings for her first love, Jung Ji-woon, who becomes her royal tutor, unaware of her true identity.

Trivia: “The King’s Affection” is based on the manhwa “Yeonmo” by Lee So-young. It is the first South Korean television series to win an International Emmy Award.

Main Casts: Kim Myung-min, Kim Bum, Ryu Hye-young, Lee Jung-eun

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: April 14, 2021

Network/Streamer: JTBC, Netflix

Genre: Legal Drama, Mystery

Synopsis: “Law School” is set in Hankuk University Law School and follows the story of students and professors who become entangled in an unusual case. When a law professor is found dead during a supervised mock trial class, Professor Yang Jong-hoon, a former prosecutor turned professor, is arrested as the main suspect. His students, including the top student Han Joon-hwi and the struggling Kang Sol A, work together to uncover the truth behind the professor’s death and prove Yang’s innocence.

Main Casts: Shin Ha-kyun, Yeo Jin-goo, Kim Shin-rok, Choi Dae-hoon

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: February 19, 2021

Network/Streamer: JTBC, Netflix

Genre: Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Drama

Synopsis: “Beyond Evil” follows two fearless detectives, Lee Dong-sik and Han Joo-won, who team up to catch a serial killer in the small town of Manyang. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover dark secrets and question the innocence of everyone involved, including themselves. The series explores the themes of trust, betrayal, and the blurred lines between good and evil, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with its intense and gripping storyline.

Trivia: “Beyond Evil” won three awards at the 57th Baeksang Arts Awards, including Best Drama, Best Screenplay, and Best Actor for Shin Ha-kyun.

Main Casts: Lee Je-hoon, Esom, Kim Eui-sung, Pyo Ye-jin

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: April 9, 2021

Network/Streamer: SBS, Netflix

Genre: Action, Crime, Vigilante, Black Comedy, Revenge

Synopsis: “Taxi Driver” follows Kim Do-gi, a former special forces officer whose mother was murdered by a serial killer. He now works for Rainbow Taxi Company, which offers a unique “revenge-call” service to clients who have been wronged. Kim Do-gi and his team help these clients exact vengeance on those who have escaped justice. As they take on various cases, they confront their own past traumas and the moral complexities of their actions.

Trivia: “Taxi Driver” is based on the webtoon “The Deluxe Taxi” by Carlos and Lee Jae-jin. The drama received high praise for its performances and storyline, achieving the fourth highest rating of any Friday-Saturday drama in SBS history.

Main Casts: Jun Ji-hyun, Ju Ji-hoon, Sung Dong-il, Oh Jung-se

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: October 23, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, iQIYI, Netflix

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Action, Drama

Synopsis: Set against the backdrop of Mount Jiri, “Jirisan” follows Seo Yi-kang, the top ranger at Jirisan National Park, and Kang Hyun-jo, a rookie ranger with a mysterious past. Together, they uncover the secrets of the mountain as they rescue lost trekkers and investigate mysterious accidents. The series delves into the lives of the rangers and the hidden dangers lurking in the unexplored regions of the mountain.

Trivia: “Jirisan” was promoted as tvN’s 15th Anniversary Special Drama. The series was created by Studio Dragon and directed by Lee Eung-bok, with a screenplay by Kim Eun-hee. The drama was filmed on location at Jirisan National Park, adding authenticity to its stunning visuals. “Jirisan” had a high production budget of approximately ₩32 billion (around US$27.4 million).

Main Casts: Yoo Ah-in, Kim Hyun-joo, Park Jeong-min, Won Jin-ah, Yang Ik-june

Number of Episodes: 6

Date of Release: November 19, 2021

Network/Streamer: Netflix

Genre: Supernatural, Dark Fantasy, Thriller

Synopsis: Set in a dystopian future, “Hellbound” follows the sudden appearance of supernatural beings who deliver decrees condemning individuals to hell. These beings, known as “angels,” are followed by monstrous creatures that brutally execute the condemned. Jung Jin-soo, the charismatic leader of a new religious group called the New Truth Society, claims these events are divine judgments. As society grapples with fear and chaos, lawyer Min Hye-jin and others seek to uncover the truth behind these terrifying occurrences.

Trivia: “Hellbound” is based on the webtoon “Jiok” by Yeon Sang-ho and Choi Gyu-seok. The series premiered at the 2021 Toronto International Film Festival, making it the first Korean drama to be featured at the festival. “Hellbound” quickly became the world’s most-watched Netflix series the day after its release, surpassing “Squid Game”.

Main Casts: Lee Seung-gi, Lee Hee-joon

Number of Episodes: 20

Date of Release: March 3, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, Netflix

Genre: Thriller, Mystery

Synopsis: “Mouse” follows rookie police officer Jeong Ba-reum, whose life changes drastically after a confrontation with a psychopathic serial killer. Partnering with detective Ko Moo-chi, who is driven by a personal vendetta, they delve into the dark world of psychopathy. As they uncover shocking truths about genetic predispositions to psychopathic behavior, they face moral dilemmas and the question of whether such traits can be detected and prevented.

Trivia: The series was inspired by a real-life elementary school murder case in Incheon, South Korea, in 2017. “Mouse” was ranked as one of the hottest dramas in the first half of 2021.

Main Casts: Lee Hanee, Lee Sang-yoon, Jin Seo-yeon, Lee Won-geun

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: September 17, 2021

Network/Streamer: SBS TV, Viki, Apple TV

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Mystery

Synopsis: “One the Woman” follows Jo Yeon-joo, a corrupt prosecutor known for her exceptional skills in corruption investigations. After a car accident, she loses her memory and wakes up to find herself in the life of Kang Mi-na, the daughter-in-law of the powerful Hanju Group. Adapting to her new identity, Yeon-joo navigates the complexities of corporate life while uncovering hidden truths about her past and the conglomerate’s secrets.

Trivia: “One the Woman” received critical acclaim for its unique storyline and the performances of the lead actors, particularly Lee Hanee and Lee Sang-yoon. The series achieved high viewership ratings, with the final episode garnering a nationwide rating of 17.371%, making it one of the highest-rated dramas in Korean cable television history.

Main Casts: Park In-hwan, Song Kang, Na Moon-hee, Hong Seung-hee

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: March 22, 2021

Network/Streamer: tvN, Netflix

Genre: Drama

Synopsis: “Navillera” follows Shim Deok-chul, a 70-year-old retired mailman who decides to pursue his lifelong dream of learning ballet. Despite his family’s disapproval, he enrolls in a dance academy, where he meets Lee Chae-rok, a 23-year-old ballet dancer facing his own struggles. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, overcoming personal and societal challenges, and inspiring each other to chase their dreams.

Trivia: The series is based on the webtoon “Navillera” by Hun and Ji-min, which was published between 2016 and 2017. “Navillera” received critical acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling and the performances of the lead actors, particularly Park In-hwan and Song Kang.

Main Casts: Lee Do-hyun, Go Min-si, Lee Sang-yi, Geum Sae-rok

Number of Episodes: 12

Date of Release: May 3, 2021

Network/Streamer: KBS2, Wavve

Genre: Melodrama, Period Drama

Synopsis: Set against the backdrop of the 1980 Gwangju Uprising, “Youth of May” tells the poignant love story between Hwang Hee-tae, a medical student, and Kim Myung-hee, a nurse. Amidst the political turmoil, their paths cross, leading to a deep and enduring love. The series explores themes of youth, love, and the sacrifices made during a turbulent period in South Korean history.

Trivia: The series is based on real events of the Gwangju Uprising that occurred in the city of Gwangju, South Korea, from May 18 to May 27, 1980.

Main Casts: Choi Woo-shik, Kim Da-mi, Kim Sung-cheol, Roh Jeong-eui

Number of Episodes: 16

Date of Release: December 6, 2021

Network/Streamer: SBS TV, Netflix

Genre: Romantic Comedy, Coming-of-Age

Synopsis: “Our Beloved Summer” follows Choi Ung and Kook Yeon-su, ex-lovers who filmed a documentary in high school that went viral. Five years later, they are compelled to reunite for a follow-up project, rekindling old feelings and unresolved issues. As they navigate their complex relationship, they confront personal growth, career aspirations, and the lingering impact of their past love.

The Korean drama scene in 2021 truly set a high bar for storytelling, offering unforgettable moments, jaw-dropping plot twists, and characters that resonated with viewers worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of romance, action, or fantasy, these top K-dramas of 2021 are sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy these incredible series that have become cultural sensations!