Highest Awards: 6 Emmy Awards (including Outstanding Lead Actor for Lee Jung-jae and Outstanding Directing for Hwang Dong-hyuk), Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor (O Yeong-su), SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor (Lee Jung-jae)

Number of Awards: 48

Number of Nominations: 92

Main Cast: Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, Jung Ho-yeon, O Yeong-su

Written by: Hwang Dong-hyuk

Directed by: Hwang Dong-hyuk

No. of Episodes: 16 (2 seasons)

Date: 2021–2024

Network: Netflix

Genre: Thriller, Survival, Drama

Synopsis: 456 financially desperate individuals accept a mysterious invitation to compete in children’s games for a tempting prize. However, the games turn deadly, revealing the darkest aspects of human nature. The series delves into themes of economic disparity and moral dilemmas, captivating global audiences and making history as the first non-English series to win major U.S. television awards

Highest Awards: Grand Prize at Baeksang Arts Awards, multiple Daesang awards for cast and production

Number of Awards: 45

Number of Nominations: 84

Main Cast: Song Joong-ki, Song Hye-kyo, Jin Goo, Kim Ji-won

Written by: Kim Eun-sook, Kim Won-seok

Directed by: Lee Eung-bok, Baek Sang-hoon

No. of Episodes: 16

Date: 2016

Network: KBS2

Genre: Romance, Action, Melodrama

Synopsis: A love story unfolds between a special forces captain and a doctor who meet in a war-torn country. Their relationship is tested by their conflicting ideologies and the harsh realities of their professions. The series combines romance with action-packed sequences, highlighting the sacrifices made by those in service. Its compelling narrative and strong performances garnered widespread acclaim and numerous awards.

Highest Awards: Grand Prize Daesang for Jun Ji-hyun, Best Drama at Korea Drama Awards

Number of Awards: 39

Number of Nominations: 68

Main Cast: Kim Soo-hyun, Jun Ji-hyun, Park Hae-jin, Yoo In-na

Written by: Park Ji-eun

Directed by: Jang Tae-yoo, Oh Choong-hwan

No. of Episodes: 21

Date: 2013–2014

Network: SBS

Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Comedy

Synopsis: An alien who landed on Earth 400 years ago during the Joseon Dynasty falls in love with a modern-day actress. As he prepares to return to his home planet, he grapples with the complexities of human emotions and the challenges of their relationship. The series blends science fiction with romance, leading to its massive popularity and critical success.

Highest Awards: Best Drama at Baeksang Arts Awards; Best Actor (Kim Soo-hyun), Best Actress (Kim Ji-won) at multiple award shows

Number of Awards: 35

Number of Nominations: 67

Main Cast: Kim Soo-hyun, Kim Ji-won, Park Sung-hoon, Kwak Dong-yeon, Lee Joo-bin

Written by: Park Ji-eun

Directed by: Jang Young-woo, Kim Hee-won

No. of Episodes: 16

Date: 2024

Network: tvN, Netflix

Genre: Melodrama, Romance, Comedy

Synopsis:
Queen of Tears follows the strained marriage of Hong Hae-in, a department store heiress, and Baek Hyun-woo, a legal director from a humble background. As their relationship reaches breaking point, unexpected twists and deep emotional wounds bring them closer again. With standout performances and a deeply resonant script by hitmaker Park Ji-eun, the series became a global sensation, topping Netflix charts and sweeping local awards.

Highest Awards: Grand Prize (Daesang) at KBS Drama Awards; Best Actor (Kang Ha-neul) at Baeksang Arts Awards

Number of Awards: 29

Number of Nominations: 60

Main Cast: Gong Hyo-jin, Kang Ha-neul, Kim Ji-seok

Written by: Im Sang-choon

Directed by: Cha Yeong-hoon

No. of Episodes: 40 (30 min each, often aired in 2-episode blocks)

Date: 2019

Network: KBS2

Genre: Romance, Thriller, Comedy

Synopsis:
Set in the quiet town of Ongsan, When the Camellia Blooms centers on Dong-baek, a single mother who runs a small bar. Despite gossip and judgment, she bravely builds a life for herself and her son. Things change when a kind-hearted police officer falls for her—and when an old serial killer reemerges. The show masterfully blends small-town romance with gripping suspense, making it both heartfelt and thrilling.

Highest Awards: Best Drama at Korea Drama Awards; Technical Awards at Baeksang Arts Awards

Number of Awards: 26

Number of Nominations: 46

Main Cast: Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri, Yoo Yeon-seok, Kim Min-jung, Byun Yo-han

Written by: Kim Eun-sook

Directed by: Lee Eung-bok

No. of Episodes: 24

Date: 2018

Network: tvN, Netflix

Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama

Synopsis:
Mr. Sunshine tells the tale of Eugene Choi, a boy who escapes slavery in Joseon and returns years later as a U.S. Marine. Set during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, he reunites with his homeland amidst political turmoil and falls in love with an aristocrat’s granddaughter turned independence fighter. With breathtaking cinematography and a profound narrative, the series is a poignant tribute to unsung heroes in Korea’s history.

Highest Awards: Grand Prize (Daesang) for Gong Yoo at the Baeksang Arts Awards (2017), multiple wins at the tvN 10 Awards

Number of Awards: 26

Number of Nominations: 46

Main Cast: Gong Yoo, Kim Go-eun, Lee Dong-wook, Yoo In-na

Written by: Kim Eun-sook

Directed by: Lee Eung-bok

No. of Episodes: 16 (+3 special episodes)

Date: 2016–2017

Network: tvN

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Drama

Synopsis:
Kim Shin, a decorated military general from the Goryeo Dynasty, is cursed with immortality and becomes a goblin. To end his eternal life, he must find his human bride. The series intertwines his story with that of a grim reaper and a high school girl who claims to be his bride. Its unique narrative, emotional depth, and stunning visuals made it a cultural phenomenon.

Highest Awards: Best Drama and Best Actress (Song Hye-kyo) at Baeksang Arts Awards; international acclaim for social commentary

Number of Awards: 24

Number of Nominations: 57

Main Cast: Song Hye-kyo, Lee Do-hyun, Lim Ji-yeon, Yeom Hye-ran, Park Sung-hoon

Written by: Kim Eun-sook

Directed by: Ahn Gil-ho

No. of Episodes: 16 (released in two parts)

Date: 2022–2023

Network: Netflix

Genre: Psychological Thriller, Drama, Revenge

Synopsis:
The Glory follows Moon Dong-eun, a woman who survived horrific school bullying and dedicates her life to exacting revenge on her tormentors. Years later, she becomes a teacher and embeds herself into the life of her abuser’s child, setting a dark and deliberate plan into motion. Featuring a chillingly restrained performance by Song Hye-kyo, the series explores the long-term trauma of violence and the moral complexity of revenge. The show received widespread critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and social impact.

Highest Awards: Best Drama at APAN Star Awards, Top Excellence Awards for lead actors

Number of Awards: 23

Number of Nominations: 41

Main Cast: Hyun Bin, Son Ye-jin, Kim Jung-hyun, Seo Ji-hye

Written by: Park Ji-eun

Directed by: Lee Jung-hyo

No. of Episodes: 16

Date: 2019–2020

Network: tvN / Netflix

Genre: Romance, Drama, Comedy

Synopsis:
A South Korean chaebol heiress accidentally paraglides into North Korea, where she meets and falls in love with a North Korean officer. The show blends political tension, humor, and heartfelt romance while subtly highlighting cultural contrasts. It was a massive hit domestically and internationally, particularly across Asia.

Highest Awards: Best Drama at Baeksang Arts Awards, Special Jury Prize at WorldFest-Houston

Number of Awards: 22

Number of Nominations: 65

Main Cast: Kim Soo-hyun, Han Ga-in, Jung Il-woo

Written by: Jin Soo-wan (based on a novel by Jung Eun-gwol)

Directed by: Kim Do-hoon, Lee Seong-jun

No. of Episodes: 20

Date: 2012

Network: MBC

Genre: Historical, Romance, Fantasy

Synopsis:
A fictional Joseon-era love story between a king and a shaman with a hidden royal past. The series combines politics, destiny, and tragic romance, becoming a massive hit and cultural phenomenon. Kim Soo-hyun’s performance solidified his leading-man status.

Highest Awards: Grand Prize at Korea Drama Awards, multiple wins for Best Actress (Park Eun-bin)

Number of Awards: 21

Number of Nominations: 34

Main Cast: Park Eun-bin, Kang Tae-oh, Kang Ki-young

Written by: Moon Ji-won

Directed by: Yoo In-shik

No. of Episodes: 16

Date: 2022

Network: ENA / Netflix

Genre: Legal Drama, Slice of Life

Synopsis:
Woo Young-woo, a brilliant rookie attorney with autism spectrum disorder, navigates challenges in both her career and personal life. The show stands out for its positive representation of neurodiversity and heartfelt storytelling. Park Eun-bin’s performance was widely acclaimed.

Highest Awards: Grand Prize Daesang (Lee Bo-young), Hallyu Star Award

Number of Awards: 20

Number of Nominations: 33

Main Cast: Lee Bo-young, Lee Jong-suk, Yoon Sang-hyun

Written by: Park Hye-ryun

Directed by: Jo Soo-won

No. of Episodes: 18

Date: 2013

Network: SBS

Genre: Legal, Fantasy, Romance

Synopsis:
A high school student who can hear people’s thoughts teams up with a cynical public defender to fight injustice. As they work on court cases, their emotional bond deepens. Balancing courtroom drama with fantasy elements, the show became a benchmark for genre-mixing in K-dramas.

Highest Awards: Best Director (Shin Won-ho), Popularity Awards

Number of Awards: 19

Number of Nominations: 33

Main Cast: Jo Jung-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok, Jung Kyung-ho, Kim Dae-myung, Jeon Mi-do

Written by: Lee Woo-jung

Directed by: Shin Won-ho

No. of Episodes: 24 (2 seasons)

Date: 2020–2021

Network: tvN / Netflix

Genre: Medical, Drama, Slice of Life

Synopsis:
Follows the daily lives of five doctors who have been friends since medical school. Through stories of patients and their shared love for music, the series delivers emotional warmth and humor. A heartwarming portrayal of friendship and everyday resilience.

Highest Awards: Best Actress (Kim So-yeon), Top Excellence Awards at SBS Drama Awards

Number of Awards: 19

Number of Nominations: 43

Main Cast: Lee Ji-ah, Kim So-yeon, Eugene, Uhm Ki-joon

Written by: Kim Soon-ok

Directed by: Joo Dong-min

No. of Episodes: 48 (3 Seasons)

Date: 2020–2021

Network: SBS

Genre: Thriller, Drama, Melodrama

Synopsis:
In a luxury apartment complex, wealthy families fight to maintain their status while hiding dark secrets. With its over-the-top twists, fierce rivalries, and intense performances, The Penthouse became a guilty-pleasure sensation. Kim So-yeon’s portrayal of the villainous Cheon Seo-jin was especially lauded.

Highest Awards: Grand Prize (Han Suk-kyu), Best Drama Series

Number of Awards: 19

Number of Nominations: 35

Main Cast: Han Suk-kyu, Yoo Yeon-seok, Seo Hyun-jin (Season 1); Ahn Hyo-seop, Lee Sung-kyung (Season 2)

Written by: Kang Eun-kyung

Directed by: Yu In-sik

No. of Episodes: 36 (Seasons 1 & 2)

Date: 2016–2020

Network: SBS

Genre: Medical, Drama, Romance

Synopsis:
A genius but unconventional doctor known as “Dr. Romantic” trains younger physicians at a small hospital, where healing lives becomes more than just medicine. With gripping surgeries and emotional growth arcs, the series remains one of Korea’s top medical dramas.

Highest Awards: Best New Actress (Hyeri), Best Ensemble

Number of Awards: 18

Number of Nominations: 32

Main Cast: Hyeri, Park Bo-gum, Ryu Jun-yeol, Go Kyung-pyo, Lee Dong-hwi

Written by: Lee Woo-jung

Directed by: Shin Won-ho

No. of Episodes: 20

Date: 2015–2016

Network: tvN

Genre: Family, Youth, Comedy, Slice of Life

Synopsis:
Set in the late 1980s, this nostalgic drama follows five childhood friends and their families in a tight-knit Seoul neighborhood. Through laughter, love, and hardship, the show explores the importance of family and community. It remains one of Korea’s most beloved dramas.

Highest Awards: Best Couple Award, Most Popular Actor (Ji Sung)

Number of Awards: 17

Number of Nominations: 34

Main Cast: Ji Sung, Hwang Jung-eum, Park Seo-joon

Written by: Jin Soo-wan

Directed by: Kim Jin-man

No. of Episodes: 20

Date: 2015

Network: MBC

Genre: Romance, Psychological, Comedy

Synopsis:
A wealthy heir with dissociative identity disorder struggles to control his seven personalities. With the help of a compassionate psychiatrist, he begins to heal from past trauma. Ji Sung’s masterful transformation across multiple characters earned him critical acclaim and fan admiration.

Highest Awards: Best Actor (Park Seo-joon), Best New Actress (Kim Da-mi)

Number of Awards: 17

Number of Nominations: 30

Main Cast: Park Seo-joon, Kim Da-mi, Yoo Jae-myung

Written by: Jo Gwang-jin

Directed by: Kim Sung-yoon

No. of Episodes: 16

Date: 2020

Network: JTBC / Netflix

Genre: Drama, Revenge, Business

Synopsis:
After being expelled from school and imprisoned, Park Sae-ro-yi opens a bar in Itaewon, determined to bring down a powerful food conglomerate. The drama explores themes of perseverance, justice, and diversity. It became a cultural sensation and inspired global remakes.

Highest Awards: Asian Star Award, Popularity Awards

Number of Awards: 16

Number of Nominations: 29

Main Cast: Lee Joon-gi, IU, Kang Ha-neul, Hong Jong-hyun

Written by: Jo Yoon-young

Directed by: Kim Kyu-tae

No. of Episodes: 20

Date: 2016

Network: SBS

Genre: Historical, Romance, Fantasy

Synopsis:
A 21st-century woman is transported back to the Goryeo Dynasty and becomes entangled in palace politics and romance with multiple princes. Though its ratings were moderate, the show gained immense international popularity and a devoted fanbase.

Highest Awards: Best Actor (Song Joong-ki), Best Supporting Actor (Jo Han-chul)

Number of Awards: 15

Number of Nominations: 27

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

Written by: Park Jae-bum

Directed by: Kim Hee-won

No. of Episodes: 20

Date: 2021

Network: tvN / Netflix

Genre: Crime, Dark Comedy, Legal Drama

Synopsis:
A Korean-Italian mafia consigliere returns to Korea and becomes embroiled in a legal battle against a corrupt conglomerate. Blending dark humor, action, and legal drama, Vincenzo became a breakout hit and won acclaim for its witty script and charismatic lead.