Best Korean Dramas: An Emotional Journey

Below you will find my recommendations on Top Korean dramas to see and the links to watch them with English subtitles. It was very hard to choose because there are so many good Korean dramas.

• Autumn in My Heart
• Love in the Moonlight (alias Moonlight drawn by clouds)
• Full House
• My Girl
• Descendants of the Sun
• Twenty-Five Twenty-One
• What’s wrong with secretary Kim?
• Nice guy (alias Innocent Man)
• Reply 1988
• Suspicious Partner
• Moon embracing the Sun
• You are beautiful
• SKY Castle
• Save the last dance for me
• East of Eden
• Start-Up
• Who are you
• Crash landing to you
• Squid Game

I will make dedicated posts for some dramas to give more insights: youtube playlists, soundtracks, piano sheets, links…

Autumn in My Heart

2000 – Network KBS2 : This successful drama contributed a lot to Korean wave accross Asia, Song Seung Heon and Song Hye Kyo starred in this famous drama unforgettable. This is my first Korean drama which make addicted to Korean series. The original soundtracks of that drama are so beautiful, specially piano notes.

Autumn in My Heart,” also known as “Autumn Tale,” is a popular South Korean drama that revolves around a heart-wrenching love story. The series follows the lives of two girls, Eun-suh and Shin-ae, who were switched at birth, leading to a series of tragic misunderstandings and emotional turmoil. Eun-suh, raised in a wealthy family, and Shin-ae, in a struggling one, both fall in love with the same man, Jun-suh. This triangular love story unfolds against a backdrop of family secrets, sacrifices, and poignant moments.

The drama is known for its tear-jerking narrative and strong performances, making it a classic in Korean television

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/autumn-in-my-heart-song-hye-kyo-song-seung-heon/

Links to watch this serie:

https://kissasian.sh/Drama/Autumn-Tale

https://www3.myasiantv.cc/show/autumn-tale

Love in the Moonlight (alias Moonlight drawn by clouds)

2016 – Network KBS2 : Lee Yeong is a mischellious prince but cannot stop himself from falling in love with eunuch Hong Ra-on, who is a girl pretending to be a man in this romantic and unforgettable drama. Park Bo Gum and Kim Yoo Jung are an amazing couple in this historic adventure serie. They have an incredible chemistry. The original soundtracks are so great.

Love in the Moonlight,” also known as “Moonlight Drawn by Clouds,” is a captivating South Korean historical drama set in the Joseon era. It revolves around the gender-disguised crown prince Lee Yeong, who falls in love with Hong Ra-on, a eunuch and a talented historian. Their love story unfolds amidst political intrigue and challenges to the throne. Ra-on assists the prince in governance, and their relationship deepens as they navigate the complexities of palace life.

The drama is celebrated for its endearing characters, witty humor, and the chemistry between Park Bo-gum and Kim Yoo-jung, making it a beloved period drama

Link to dedicated post on Love in the Moonlight : https://thiluutips.com/index.php/korean-drama-love-in-the-moonlight/

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/love-in-moonlight-park-bo-gum-kim-yoo-jung/

Links to watch this serie:

https://www.viki.com/tv/30308c-love-in-the-moonlight

https://www.netflix.com/fr-en/title/80986896

https://kissasian.pe/info/moonlight-drawn-by-clouds

https://www.dramacool9.co/moonlight-drawn-by-clouds/

Full House

2004 – Network KBS2 : A famous singer encountered a girl next door which is an inspiring scriptwriter. It is a very funny drama. Bi Rain and Song Hye Kyo are a cute couple in that romantic drama. The songs are also great.

Full House” is a classic South Korean romantic comedy series that tells the story of Han Ji-eun, a young and aspiring writer, who unknowingly enters a contract marriage with Lee Young-jae, a famous actor. Young-jae’s friends set up this arrangement to secure his house, known as the “Full House.” Their comical and turbulent journey as newlyweds, filled with misunderstandings and romantic tension, forms the core of the plot. As their feelings evolve, they face various obstacles, including Young-jae’s ex-girlfriend and Ji-eun’s growing popularity as a writer.

“Full House” is known for its humor, heartwarming moments, and iconic “Love Rain” song.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/full-house-song-hye-kyo-bi-rain/

Links to watch this serie:

https://kissasian.sh/Drama/Full-House

https://www.viki.com/tv/24722c-full-house

https://www.netflix.com/fr/title/70245012

https://www.bilibili.tv/en/video/2048182007

My Girl

2006 – Network SBS : Pretending to be lost grand-daughter in that romantic drama, Lee Da Hae is so cute with Lee Dong Wook. They have a great chemistry together in this drama. This serie is very funny.

My Girl” is a popular South Korean romantic comedy drama that follows the life of Joo Yoo-rin, a spunky and resourceful young woman who pretends to be someone’s long-lost cousin to earn money. She becomes involved with Seol Gong-chan, a cold and wealthy hotel heir, who is searching for his cousin. As their paths cross, they navigate a web of deceit and growing affections.

The series is marked by its humor, touching moments, and the chemistry between the lead characters. “My Girl” explores themes of family, love, and identity while delivering a heartwarming and enjoyable romantic storyline.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/my-girl-lee-dong-wook-lee-da-hae/

Links to watch this serie:

https://kissasian.sh/Drama/My-Girl

https://www3.myasiantv.cc/show/my-girl/episode-1

Descendants of the Sun

2016 – Network KBS2 : action drama, amazing view on the beach of Greek island Zakynthos, romance between a soldier and a doctor. Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo are making a so beautiful couple in that drama.

Descendants of the Sun” is a renowned South Korean drama that combines romance and action. It revolves around the love story between Captain Yoo Shi-jin, a dedicated special forces officer, and Dr. Kang Mo-yeon, a compassionate surgeon. They meet while on a peacekeeping mission in the fictional war-torn country of Urk. The drama intricately weaves together their personal lives, duty, and the challenges of their high-risk professions.

“Descendants of the Sun” explores themes of sacrifice, duty, and love amidst danger, offering a compelling narrative with breathtaking cinematography. It gained immense popularity for its gripping plot and the chemistry between its lead characters

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/descendants-of-sun-song-hye-kyo-song-joong-ki/

Links to watch this serie:

https://kissasian.sh/Drama/Descendant-of-the-Sun

https://www.viki.com/tv/23205c-descendants-of-the-sun#episodes

https://www.netflix.com/fr-en/title/80123798

https://dramacool.sc/video-watch/online-descendants-of-the-sun-episode-1/

Twenty-Five Twenty-One

2022 – Network TVN : Kim Tae Ri played a teen fencer who pursues big ambitions and met a hardworking young man who tried to rebuild his life played by Nam Joo Hyuk. It is an inspiring story. Kim Tae Ri played very well the teenager: she has even won a baeksang award for that role.

Twenty-Five Twenty-One” is a South Korean drama set in two timelines, 1998 and 2021, exploring the lives and love of a group of friends. The story primarily centers on the close-knit friendship of six individuals in high school during 1998 and the challenges they face. Fast forward to 2021, the friends are now adults facing various personal and professional struggles.

The drama delves into themes of nostalgia, growth, and the enduring bond of friendship. It beautifully captures the essence of youth in the late ’90s and the complexities of adulthood, making it a relatable and heartwarming series for viewers of all ages

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/twenty-five-twenty-one-nam-joo-hyuk-kim-tae-ri/

Links to watch this serie:

https://www.netflix.com/fr/title/81517168

https://kissasian.pe/info/twenty-five-twenty-one

https://www.dramacool9.co/twenty-five-twenty-one-2022-episode-1/

What’s wrong with secretary Kim?

2018 – Network TVN : In this office romance drama, an executive who is played by Park Seo Joon, who seemingly has everything faces devastating news when his personal assistant played by Park Min Young announces that she’s decided to quit. Initially I thought that it was a normal office romance but this series offers more depth than that. I love the office suits and clothes worn by the heroine.

What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim?” is a popular South Korean romantic comedy series. It centers on Lee Young-joon, a narcissistic vice president of a major corporation, and his efficient secretary, Kim Mi-so. When Mi-so decides to resign after nine years, Young-joon realizes his feelings for her and embarks on a mission to keep her by his side.

The drama beautifully unfolds their evolving relationship, blending humor with heartwarming moments. It explores themes of self-discovery, love, and the complexities of workplace dynamics. With charismatic performances from Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young, it’s a delightful and widely-loved romantic series.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/what-wrong-secretary-park-seo-joon-park-min-young/

Links to watch this serie:

https://www.viki.com/tv/35835c-whats-wrong-with-secretary-kim#episodes

https://www3.myasiantv.tv/show/whats-wrong-with-secretary-kim/episode-1

https://dramacool.sc/drama-detail/wrwrong-with-secretary-kim-2018/

Nice guy (alias Innocent Man)

2012 – Network KBS2 : revenge and melo-drama, there are twists. This drama starred Song Joong Ki and Moon Chae Won. They have to overcome many obstacles.

Nice Guy,” also known as “Innocent Man,” is a gripping South Korean drama that revolves around Kang Ma-ru, a man who takes the fall for a crime he didn’t commit to protect his first love, Han Jae-hee. After serving time in prison, he transforms into a cold and calculating person with a thirst for revenge. He uses Seo Eun-gi, a wealthy heiress with amnesia, as a pawn in his plan for retribution.

The drama explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption as characters are entangled in a web of deceit and secrets. “Nice Guy” is lauded for its complex characters and intense storyline.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/nice-guy-song-joong-ki-moon-chae-won/

Links to watch this serie:

https://kissasian.sh/Drama/Innocent-Man

https://www.netflix.com/fr-en/title/80039905

https://www.viki.com/tv/7995c-the-innocent-man

https://www.dramacool9.co/innocent-man/

Reply 1988

2015 – Network TVN : This drama is a nostalgic trip back to the late 1980s through the lives of five families and their teenagers living in the neighborhood. During the drama broadcast, the game was to guess which between Park Bo Gum and Ryu Jun Yeol was playing the husband of Hyeri in the series. For sure, when the final episodes broadcast, fans of the loser side were heartbroken.

Reply 1988″ is a South Korean drama that nostalgically portrays the lives of five families in the Ssangmun-dong neighborhood of Seoul during the late 1980s. It focuses on the close-knit friendships of five childhood friends, their parents, and the community they reside in. The series masterfully encapsulates the cultural, societal, and generational changes of that era while highlighting the coming-of-age experiences and the bonds that endure through thick and thin.

Known for its heartwarming storytelling and relatable characters, “Reply 1988” captures the essence of youth, family, and the passage of time, making it a beloved classic in Korean television.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/reply-1988-park-bo-gum-hyeri/

Links to watch this serie:

https://www.viki.com/tv/26576c-reply-1988#episodes

https://www.netflix.com/fr/title/80188351

https://dramacool.sc/video-watch/reply-1988-episode-1/

Suspicious Partner

2017 – Network SBS : Ji Chang Wook played a prosecutor and Nam Ji Hyun played a trainee lawyer whch is suspected to be a killer. I think that their kisses are one of the best passionate kisses I have ever seen in Korean series.

Suspicious Partner” is a South Korean legal romantic drama that follows the story of Eun Bong-hee, a feisty prosecutor, and Noh Ji-wook, a brilliant but emotionally reserved lawyer. Their paths cross when Bong-hee becomes the prime suspect in a murder case, and Ji-wook takes on her defense. As they work together to solve the case, their relationship deepens, leading to a charming romance.

The drama combines elements of mystery, humor, and courtroom drama while exploring themes of trust and second chances. With engaging performances from Ji Chang-wook and Nam Ji-hyun, “Suspicious Partner” offers a delightful and intriguing viewing experience.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/suspicious-partner-ji-chang-wook-nam-ji-hyun/

Links to watch this serie:

https://www.viki.com/tv/34557c-suspicious-partner

https://www.netflix.com/fr-en/title/80998940

https://kissasian.pe/info/suspicious-partner

https://www3.myasiantv.cc/show/suspicious-partner/episode-1

Moon embracing the Sun

2012 – Network MBC: It is a historic drama. There are many dramatic moments but there is a cute story between Han Ga-In and Kim Soo-hyun from childs to adults. This drama was very famous during its broadcasting period.

Moon Embracing the Sun” is a historical South Korean drama set in the Joseon Dynasty, known for its compelling narrative and romance. It revolves around the love between Lee Hwon, the crown prince, and Yeon Woo, a noble girl with a tragic fate. Separated by political intrigue and believed to be dead, their paths cross again years later when Yeon Woo, now a shaman, regains her memories.

The drama beautifully weaves together themes of love, power, and destiny, with strong performances from Kim Soo-hyun and Han Ga-in. It is celebrated for its captivating storytelling and rich portrayal of traditional Korean culture.

Links to watch this serie:

https://kissasian.sh/Drama/The-Moon-that-Embraces-the-Sun

https://www.viki.com/tv/2130c-the-moon-embracing-the-sun

You are beautiful

2009 – Network SBS : music drama with actress Park Shing Hye who is disguised as a man to integrate a boyband led by Jang Geun Suk. The original soundtrack of this serie is really good.

You’re Beautiful” is a popular South Korean romantic comedy series that tells the story of Go Mi-nyu, a young nun-in-training who poses as her twin brother to join a boy band named A.N.JELL. Mi-nyu takes her brother’s place in the band when he falls ill and interacts with the other members, including the handsome Hwang Tae-kyung.

The drama explores themes of identity, love, and personal growth, with a blend of humor and heartwarming moments. It’s known for its endearing characters, entertaining plot twists, and the lovable performance of Park Shin-hye in her role as Mi-nyu. “You’re Beautiful” remains a beloved classic in the world of K-dramas.

Links to watch this serie:

https://kissasian.sh/Drama/You-re-Beautiful

https://www.netflix.com/fr/title/70215461

SKY Castle

2019 – Network TVN : satiric and suspense drama on the high and fierce competition on education in South Korea. Sky Castle” is a compelling South Korean drama that delves into the cutthroat world of wealthy families in a prestigious suburban neighborhood. The plot revolves around these families’ obsession with securing top spots for their children in prestigious universities, leading to an intricate web of deception, manipulation, and competition. The story unfolds as dark secrets are revealed, testing the moral limits of these high-achieving parents.

“Sky Castle” offers a scathing critique of the Korean education system and societal pressures. With a blend of suspense, drama, and social commentary, it captivated audiences, becoming one of South Korea’s highest-rated television series.

Links to watch this serie:

https://kissasian.sh/Drama/SKY-Castle

https://www.netflix.com/fr-en/title/81030062

Save the last dance for me

2005 – Network SBS: romantic drama on lost memory, cute couple with Ji Sung and Eugene. Save the Last Dance for Me” is a South Korean drama that centers on the poignant love story of Eun Soo, who loses her memory in an accident, and Tae Sung, her devoted husband. Unaware of her past, Eun Soo starts a new life while Tae Sung tries to reconnect with her. The drama explores themes of love, destiny, and the power of memory. It navigates the challenges and heartaches of their journey as they strive to rebuild their relationship.

With heartfelt performances by Ji Sung and Eugene, the series delivers a moving and memorable narrative, touching the viewers’ emotions.

Links to watch this serie:

https://www3.myasiantv.tv/show/save-the-last-dance-for-me

https://kissasian.sh/Drama/Save-the-Last-Dance-for-Me

East of Eden

2008 – Network MBC: my favorite couple in that drama is Song Seung Heon and Lee Yeon Hee, so cute couple. This drama is long: 56 episodes.

East of Eden” is a South Korean drama that weaves a complex narrative of power, ambition, and revenge across several generations. The story follows two brothers, Dong-chul and Dong-wook, who are separated at birth due to a family tragedy. Their lives take vastly different paths, one becoming a gangster and the other a prosecutor. As they grapple with their intertwined destinies and confront a corrupt conglomerate, the drama explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption.

“East of Eden” features an ensemble cast and a multifaceted plot that spans decades, making it a sweeping and emotionally charged epic in the world of Korean television.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/east-of-eden-song-seung-heon-lee-yeon-hee/

Links to watch this serie:

https://www.viki.com/tv/21c-east-of-eden

https://www2.kissasian.ai/drama/east-of-eden-episode-1

Start-up

2020 – Network TVN: The series revolves around a woman who has dreams of becoming an entrepreneur and caught up in a love triangle between two mens. Fans were really divided who Bae Suzy should end up. I prefer Bae Suzy to end up with Nam Joo Hyuk.

Start-Up” is a South Korean drama that delves into the world of tech startups and entrepreneurship. It revolves around four young individuals – Seo Dal-mi, Nam Do-san, Han Ji-pyeong, and Won In-jae – each with unique dreams and ambitions. The series explores their journey as they navigate the challenges of the startup ecosystem, including competition, innovation, and personal growth. With a backdrop of love, friendship, and rivalry, “Start-Up” tackles themes of determination and chasing dreams.

The drama gained popularity for its relatable characters, contemporary storytelling, and the dynamic chemistry between the lead actors, making it a standout in the genre of youthful romance and ambition.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/startup-nam-joo-hyuk-bae-suzy/

Links to watch this serie:

https://www.netflix.com/fr/title/81290293

https://www.justwatch.com/us/tv-show/start-up/season-1

Something about 1%

2003 – Network MBC: Kang Don Won and Kim Jung Hwa played a cute couple in this romantic drama. Something About 1%” is a South Korean romantic drama that tells the story of Lee Jae-in, a wealthy and arrogant young man, and Kim Da-hyun, a hardworking schoolteacher. They enter into a unique contract in which Da-hyun agrees to live with Jae-in for six months in exchange for financial assistance. As they share a living space, their initially strained relationship gradually develops into a genuine romance, challenging their preconceived notions about love and relationships.

The drama is celebrated for its endearing characters, delightful humor, and the blossoming love story between the leads, played by Ha Seok-jin and Jeon So-min, making it a charming and heartwarming series.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/something-about-1-kang-don-won-kim-jung-hwa/

Links to watch this serie:

https://kissasian.pe/info/one-percent-of-anything

Who are you

2015 – Network KBS: school romance, mystery, reminisce your school days. Kim So Hyun is a great actress: she played really well the twin sisters.

Who Are You” is a South Korean drama that blends elements of romance and the supernatural. The story revolves around Yang Si-ohn, a young police officer who, after a near-fatal accident, gains the ability to see and communicate with ghosts. She is tasked with helping these lost spirits resolve their unfinished business and find peace. Amidst her paranormal encounters, she crosses paths with Cha Gun-woo, a detective.

The drama explores themes of redemption, healing, and the afterlife while delving into the mysteries surrounding the ghosts Si-ohn encounters. With strong performances from the cast, “Who Are You” combines intrigue and emotion in a unique and engaging storyline.

Pinterest board thiluutips on this drama: https://www.pinterest.fr/thiluutips/who-are-you-school-2015-kim-so-hyun-nam-joo-hyuk/

Links to watch this serie:

https://www.netflix.com/fr-en/title/80188348

https://kissasian.pe/drama/who-are-you-school-2015-episode-1

Crash landing to you

2019 – Network TVN: one of the most watched series of TVN channel. An original romance between South Korean heiress and an army soldier from North Korea. That romance between Hyun Bin and Son Ye-Jin turned in a real romance and they got married.

Crash Landing on You” is a South Korean romantic drama that weaves a captivating love story between Yoon Se-ri, a successful South Korean businesswoman, and Ri Jeong-hyeok, a North Korean army officer. The narrative unfolds when Se-ri accidentally paraglides into North Korea and finds refuge in Jeong-hyeok’s protective care. As they navigate the complexities of their contrasting worlds and political tensions, their love deepens.

The drama brilliantly explores themes of love transcending borders, cultural differences, and the power of human connection. With the charismatic performances of Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin, it’s a heartwarming and internationally beloved series that combines romance with humor and intrigue.

Links to watch this serie:

https://www4.myasiantv.cc/show/emergency-lands-of-love

https://www.netflix.com/fr/title/81159258

https://kissasian.pe/drama/crash-landing-on-you-episode-1

Squid game

2021 – Network Netflix: Hundreds of players accept a strange invitation to compete in children’s games with deadly high stakes. This drama was internationally famous through record watching via Netflix.

Squid Game” is a South Korean survival drama series that gained international acclaim. The story follows a group of individuals facing financial struggles who are lured into a deadly, underground competition with childhood games. As they play for a massive cash prize, they soon realize that losing a game comes with a life-threatening consequence.

The drama delves into themes of socioeconomic inequality, human nature, and the moral choices people make when their lives are at stake. It masterfully combines suspense, social commentary, and complex character development, making it a thought-provoking and gripping series that resonated with audiences around the world.

Links to watch this serie:

https://www.netflix.com/fr/title/81040344