April 13, 2024

Top 10 Korean Dramas of 2023: Must-Watch K-Dramas This Year

Korean dramas continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their enthralling narratives and memorable characters. As we step into the year 2023, we're excited to present the ultimate list of the top 10 Korean dramas that are dominating the entertainment scene. These shows effortlessly blend elements of romance, suspense, comedy, and fantasy, ensuring an unforgettable and immersive viewing experience for fans everywhere.2

10 - My Lovely Liar

Meet Mok Sol Hee, a young woman with an extraordinary gift – she can hear the lies that people tell, no matter how cleverly concealed. But her superpower has made her cynical, believing that everyone is dishonest. That is until she crosses paths with Kim Do Ha, a successful music producer.

Kim Do Ha is entangled in a murder case, and he's on the run, seeking refuge next door to Mok Sol Hee. His closest confidant, Jo Deuk Chan, knows his secret. However, here's the twist – Mok Sol Hee's superpower doesn't work on him. He's the one person her gift can't unravel.

As Mok Sol Hee gets to know her mysterious neighbor, she becomes captivated by the enigma surrounding him. But will she ever uncover the hidden truths of his heart?

"My Lovely Liar" is a thrilling tale of deception, intrigue, and the power of connection. With its unique twist on the classic trope of trust and deceit, this drama promises an enthralling journey that will keep you guessing until the very end. Don't miss the chance to uncover the mysteries of Kim Do Ha and Mok Sol Hee's world. It's a story that will have you hooked from the very first lie.

Details

Title: "My Lovely Liar"
Genre:
Mystery, Romantic Comedy
Developed by:
Studio Dragon (planning)
Written by:
Seo Jeong-eun
Directed by:
Nam Sung-woo
Number of Episodes: 16
Production Companies: Big Ocean ENM, Supermoon Pictures
Original Network:
tvN
Original Release:
July 31 – September 19, 2023

9 - Not Others

In "Not Others," life takes a dramatic turn for high schooler Kim Eun Mi when she becomes a teenage mom. Fast forward to the present, Eun Mi is now a dedicated physical therapist in her forties, and her daughter, Jin Hee, is a 29-year-old police officer. Despite their deep love, they're caught in a cycle of constant bickering.

Things get even more complicated when Dr. Park Jin Hong appears mysteriously in Eun Mi's life. Meanwhile, Jin Hee faces challenges at work with her new director, Eun Jae Won.

As their lives spiral into chaos, can this mother-daughter duo repair the growing gap between them? Based on the webtoon "Strangers," "Not Others" is a South Korean rom-com that promises laughter, tears, and unexpected twists. Join them on this heartwarming journey of love, family, and rediscovery. Will they find a way back to each other? Watch to uncover the answers.

Details

Title: "Not Others"
Genre: Comedy Drama, Family
Developed by: KT Studio Genie (planning)
Written by: Min Seon-ae
Directed by: Lee Min-woo
Number of Episodes: 12
Production Companies: Arc Media, Baram Pictures
Original Network: ENA
Original Release: July 17 – August 22, 2023

8 - A Time Called You

Are you ready for an exciting binge-watching experience with "A Time Called You"? This 12-episode Korean series on Netflix has it all - friendship, romance, mystery, and time travel.

The story starts with Jun-hee, a woman in her thirties, coping with the loss of her fiancé, Yeon-jun. Mysterious photos and packages throw her into a journey through time. But there's a twist. She finds herself in the body of a high school student named Min-Ju.

As Jun-hee navigates the late nineties and unravels the mysteries of the characters who look like her and her fiancé, you'll be hooked. The show's fast-paced storytelling keeps you on the edge of your seat.

While the series is packed with thrills, it doesn't forget emotions. The performances, especially by Jeon Yeo-been, shine through. The soundtrack, featuring songs like "Gather my Tears," adds to the experience.

Though it could delve deeper into relationships, "A Time Called You" offers a unique blend of sci-fi and drama. It's a rollercoaster of emotions and mysteries that will keep you glued to the screen.

If you're a fan of time-travel adventures mixed with heartfelt moments, don't miss "A Time Called You." Get ready for a binge-worthy journey through time and emotions!

Details

Title: "A Time Called You"
Genre: Time travel[1] Mystery[2] Romance[3]
Developed by: KT Studio Genie (planning)
Written by: Choi Hyo-bi
Directed by: Kim Jin-won
Number of Episodes: 12
Production Companies: Npio Entertainment, Lian Contents, Studio Flow
Original Network: Netflix
Original Release: September 8, 2023

7 - Moving

In an ordinary high school, you'll find three seemingly regular students: Kim Bong-Seok, Jang Hui-Soo, and Lee Gang-Hoon. But there's something extraordinary about them – they've inherited special abilities from their parents.

Kim Bong-Seok can do something most of us can only dream of – he can fly. Jang Hui-Soo possesses incredible athleticism and a superhuman ability to heal rapidly from injuries, even those as serious as gunshot wounds. Meanwhile, Lee Gang-Hoon boasts an uncanny combination of power and speed.

But here's the twist: these exceptional teenagers are determined to keep their powers a secret from everyone else. Why? Because their parents know the world can be a dangerous place for those with unique abilities, and they'll stop at nothing to protect their children from those who would exploit them.

"High School Heroes" is not just a story of supernatural talents; it's a thrilling tale of friendship, family bonds, and the challenges that come with being different. As these three students navigate the complexities of high school life while concealing their powers, they find themselves drawn into a web of secrets and mysteries.

Join Kim Bong-Seok, Jang Hui-Soo, and Lee Gang-Hoon as they balance the pressures of adolescence with the responsibility of safeguarding their extraordinary gifts. Can they protect their secrets and themselves from a world that may not understand? "High School Heroes" promises a rollercoaster of emotions, action-packed moments, and a gripping narrative that will keep you hooked until the very end. Don't miss out on this extraordinary journey – it's a high school experience like no other!

Details

Title: "Moving "
Genre: Action[1], Fantasy[1], Supernatural[2], Sci-fi[3], Romance[4], Family drama[4]
Written by:
Kang Full
Directed by:
Park In-je, Park Younseo
Number of episodes:
20
Production companies:
The Walt Disney Company Korea
Original network:
Disney+
Original release: January 14 –March 5, 2023

6 - The Glory season 1 & 2

"Introducing 'The Glory,' a riveting drama that explores the harrowing aftermath of school violence and the quest for redemption. Meet Ji-eun, a former victim of relentless school bullying that left indelible scars. Years later, she seizes the opportunity for payback by becoming a homeroom teacher at the elementary school of her once-ruthless bully's child.

Behind Ji-eun's facade of kindness and care lies a carefully concealed plan for revenge. As she steps into the classroom, her bullies are blissfully unaware that their past actions are about to catch up with them.

Based on a true event from 2006, where a group of merciless middle schoolers tormented their classmate, 'The Glory' delves into the chilling psychology of revenge. It's a thrilling and suspenseful journey as Ji-eun treads the fine line between justice and vengeance.

This gripping drama will have you at the edge of your seat, questioning the lengths one can go to seek justice and closure. Will Ji-eun's pursuit of redemption consume her, or will she find a way to heal her deep emotional wounds? Join us on this intense journey and uncover the dark secrets hidden in 'The Glory.'"

Details

Title: The Glory season-1 & 2
Genre:
Revenge, Psychological Thriller
Developed by:
Studio Dragon (planning)
Written by:
Kim Eun-sook
Directed by:
Ahn Gil-ho
Number of Episodes: 16
Production Companies: Hwa&Dam Pictures[1]
Original Network:
Netflix
Original Release:
December 30, 2022 –March 10, 2023

5 - Destined With You

In "Destined With You," you're in for a one-of-a-kind love story. Meet Lee Hong-jo (Jo Bo-ah) and Jang Shin-yu (Rowoon) as they dive into a unique romance, but with a twist you won't see coming.

So, here's how it all begins: An ancient book, locked away for centuries, somehow ends up in Hong-jo's hands. But little does she know, this book is hiding some life-altering secrets. As the book's pages start to come alive, Shin-yu gets caught up in a mysterious curse, and their love story takes a wild turn.

It's a love story that plays with time, mixing the past and present in a beautiful dance. Hong-jo and Shin-yu must deal with the fallout of a forbidden love that's been brewing for ages. As you watch, each episode peels back layers, uncovering hidden truths and putting their fate to the test.

But here's the big question: Can they break free from the book's curse and make their own destiny? Or are they forever bound by a love story that's stood the test of time?

Join us on this mesmerizing journey of love, fate, and unbreakable bonds. "Destined With You" is a must-see, promising an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out—dive into the enchanting world of their forbidden love today.

Details

Title: "Destined With You"
Genre: Fantasy[1], Romance[1]
Written by:
Noh Ji-sul
Directed by:
Nam Ki-hoon
Number of episodes:
16
Production companies: SLL[4], C-JeS[4]
Original network:
JTBC
Original release: August 23, 2023 –present

4 - Behind Your Touch

In a quiet countryside village, Bong Ye Bun isn't your typical vet. She's got a unique gift called psychometry – a fancy word for seeing the past when she touches someone or something.

Now, here's where it gets interesting. Meet Moon Jang Yeol, a former hotshot detective from the big city, now working in the sleepy police station of Mujin. He's itching to return to Seoul, and to make it happen, he teams up with Ye Bun on some small cases. But this idyllic village takes a dark turn when a series of murders rocks their world.

Amidst the mystery, there's a new face in town – Kim Seon Woo. He's the friendly guy working part-time at the local store, always ready with a smile. But there's something about him that's not quite as simple as it seems.

"Whispers of the Past" offers a thrilling ride, mixing superpowers, crime, and plenty of secrets. As the story unfolds, you'll be drawn into a web of mystery, intrigue, and unexpected partnerships.

Can Ye Bun's psychometry reveal the truth behind the murders? Will Jang Yeol find his way back to Seoul, or will the village's secrets hold him hostage? And what's Seon Woo's role in this captivating puzzle?

Get ready for an edge-of-your-seat experience with "Whispers of the Past." It's a recommendation you won't want to miss – a suspenseful drama filled with superpowers and secrets that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Dive into the intrigue today and uncover the hidden truths lurking in the heart of this peaceful village.

Details

Title: "Behind Your Touch"
Genre: Comedy drama[1], Suspense Thriller[2], Fantasy[3]
Written by: Lee Nam-gyu, Oh Bo-hyeon
Directed by: Kim Seok-yoon
Number of episodes: 16
Production companies: SLL[4], Studio Phoenix
Original network: JTBC
Original release: August 12 –October 1, 2023

3 - Celebrity

Prepare for a jaw-dropping K-drama experience with "Celebrity." Meet Seo Ah-ri (Park Gyu-young), a humble makeup saleswoman whose life takes a wild turn when she's lured into the seductive world of social media influencers.

Once wealthy but now struggling, Ah-ri's quest for financial stability leads her to childhood "friend" Oh Min-hye, an influencer who believes Ah-ri is still rich. Ah-ri gains entry into the exclusive Gabin Society, where wealth, fame, and ruthless ambition collide.

As Ah-ri rises through the influencer ranks, she uncovers the shocking truth behind their stardom – fake followers, deceitful collaborations, and cutthroat competition. Guided by the enigmatic bbbfamous, she sets out to expose the dark secrets of the Gabin influencers.

In the midst of this chaos, wealthy bachelor Han Jun-kyung (Kang Min-hyuk) falls for Ah-ri, adding an extra layer of intrigue. But lurking in the shadows is Jin Tae-jeon (Lee Dong-gun), a powerful CEO with a sinister agenda.

Join Ah-ri as she unveils the scandalous lives of influencers in "Celebrity," featuring scams, drugs, and even death. Will she succeed in her mission to expose their hidden truths? Don't miss the thrilling journey into the captivating world of "Celebrity."

Details

Title: "Celebrity"
Genre: Thriller
Written by: Kim Yi-young
Directed by: Kim Cheol-kyu
Number of episodes: 12
Production companies: Studio Dragon
Original network: Netflix
Original release: June 30, 2023

2 - Crash Course in Romance

"Crash Course in Romance" isn't your typical romantic comedy. This 16-episode K-Drama introduces us to Nam Haeng-Seon, a former athlete now running a side dish store, and Choi Chi-Yeol, a famous math teacher. They're both in their forties, making their love story refreshing. The incredible performances of Jeon Do-Yeon and Jung Kyung-Ho bring life to the series.

While love is central, the drama explores a world of competitive moms, academic stress, jealous classmates, family issues, work rivalries, scandals, and even a mysterious killer on the loose.

Haeng-Seon's store is in an academic area where everyone wants a spot in top universities. The show depicts the pressure and competition, with moms going to great lengths for their kids' success.

As Haeng-Seon navigates this world, she becomes a guardian to her niece, Nam He-Yi. She steps away from the competition to prioritize He-Yi's well-being, highlighting the harm caused by obsessed parents and the dark side of education.

But the drama's multiple stories can sometimes be confusing. Yet, the evolving love between the leads, deepening friendships, and the bond between Haeng-Seon and He-Yi shine.

In short, "Crash Course in Romance" isn't your usual rom-com, but it offers a blend of love, growth, and social commentary. Despite some confusion, the characters' warmth and exploration of education's challenges make it a must-watch. If you're ready for a unique journey through love and life, this series is a must. Dive in for a story that breaks the mold and leaves a mark.

Details

Title: "Crash Course in Romance"
Genre: Romantic comedy[2]
Written by: Yang Hee-seung
Directed by: Yoo Je-won
Number of episodes: 16
Production companies: Studio Dragon[3]
Original network: tvN
Original release: January 14 –March 5, 2023

1 - The Good Bad Mother

Meet Young-Soon, a single mom who raised her son Kang-Ho with strict rules to prevent him from going down the wrong path. Kang-Ho grew up to become a tough prosecutor, keeping his distance from his mother.

But a sudden accident turns Kang-Ho back into a child, forcing him to return home to his mother. Along the way, he reconnects with Mi-Joo, a childhood friend known for her kind heart and sense of justice.

This heartwarming story explores family, redemption, and second chances. Kang-Ho embarks on a journey of rediscovery, learning valuable lessons about love and forgiveness. 'The Good Bad Mother' is an emotional rollercoaster filled with drama, humor, and heartfelt moments. Join Kang-Ho as he realizes that change and repairing broken bonds are always possible."

Details

Title: "The Good Bad Mother"
Genre: Family[1], Comedy drama[2], Slice-of-life[3]
Written by:
Bae Se-young
Directed by:
Shim Na-yeon
Number of episodes:
14
Production companies:
Drama House, SLL
Original network:
JTBC
Original release: April 26 –June 8, 2023

These Korean dramas promise to keep you hooked, offering a diverse range of genres and emotions. Whether you're a fan of romance, mystery, or fantasy, this list has something special in store for everyone. Get ready for a fantastic year of Korean drama in 2023!

Want to learn how to build websites like this?
Learn from award winning designers in live online classes. Each class is limited to 15 students. Save you're spot below!
Save my spot