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Life | Entertainment

The 10 best Korean dramas of 2023, ranked

Did you miss any on the list?

By Cheryl Lai-Lim - 

Credit: Netflix and Disney+
Credit: Netflix and Disney+
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In 2023, the best Korean dramas are filled with intensity. Whether it was exploring how society sometimes ignores those in need, or taking us on journeys of revenge against bad people, most of the best dramas of the year have made us reflect on important issues.

But it's not all serious. Even in dramas with morally questionable characters, there were moments of warmth and love, alongside a dash of comedy.

From touching romances to thrilling suspense, these are the top K-dramas of 2023.

1. Moving

The plot: Undeniably one of the best Korean dramas of 2023, Moving features acting veterans Ryoo Seung-ryong, Han Hyo-joo, Zo In-sung and Cha Tae-hyun as part of an ensemble cast that includes younger actors Lee Jung-ha, Go Youn-jung, and Kim Do-hoon. Adapted from Kang Full's popular webtoon, this supernatural series follows the journey of three high school teenagers and their parents. Together, they unravel the mysteries of their superhuman abilities while facing threats from enigmatic villains. As they confront the challenges of the world, Moving explores the intricate interplay between power, secrecy, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Why it’s popular: As Disney+'s flagship for the pan-Asian market, Moving swiftly became the most-watched Korean original series on Disney+ globally. This sprawling superhero saga won hearts with its epic scale, memorable characters, and brilliant storytelling. The series stayed grounded with its exceptional ensemble cast, and in particular, Han Hyo-joo and Zo In-sung’s sizzling chemistry had everyone talking. Exploring the depth and sacrifices of the concept of love, Moving never lost steam, consistently surprising and moving audiences throughout its remarkable 20-episode run. Where to watch: Disney+
1/10

The plot: Undeniably one of the best Korean dramas of 2023, Moving features acting veterans Ryoo Seung-ryong, Han Hyo-joo, Zo In-sung and Cha Tae-hyun as part of an ensemble cast that includes younger actors Lee Jung-ha, Go Youn-jung, and Kim Do-hoon.

Adapted from Kang Full's popular webtoon, this supernatural series follows the journey of three high school teenagers and their parents. Together, they unravel the mysteries of their superhuman abilities while facing threats from enigmatic villains. As they confront the challenges of the world, Moving explores the intricate interplay between power, secrecy, and the unbreakable bonds of family.

Why it’s popular: As Disney+'s flagship for the pan-Asian market, Moving swiftly became the most-watched Korean original series on Disney+ globally.

This sprawling superhero saga won hearts with its epic scale, memorable characters, and brilliant storytelling. The series stayed grounded with its exceptional ensemble cast, and in particular, Han Hyo-joo and Zo In-sung’s sizzling chemistry had everyone talking. Exploring the depth and sacrifices of the concept of love, Moving never lost steam, consistently surprising and moving audiences throughout its remarkable 20-episode run.

Where to watch: Disney+

2. The Glory (Part 2)

The plot: Song Hye-kyo makes a comeback on the small screen with The Glory, a gripping revenge series that diverges from her typical melodramatic roles. The storyline revolves around Moon Dong-eun (Song's character), a former victim of school violence who’s orchestrating an intricate revenge plot against her tormentors. In the first season, we witness the trauma and aftermath of her psychological and physical scars as she sets the Machiavellian stage. Season two unfolds with her schemes reaching fruition in dark and cunning ways, dismantling the lives of her childhood bullies. Why it’s popular: Hailed as the drama that revitalised Song Hye-kyo’s acting career, The Glory is a riveting narrative of vengeance, featuring a captivating storyline and outstanding performances. Song Hye-kyo’s portrayal of Dong Eun is nuanced and compelling, embodying a character with depth and emotional resonance. Where to watch: Netflix
2/10

The plot: Song Hye-kyo makes a comeback on the small screen with The Glory, a gripping revenge series that diverges from her typical melodramatic roles. The storyline revolves around Moon Dong-eun (Song's character), a former victim of school violence who’s orchestrating an intricate revenge plot against her tormentors.

In the first season, we witness the trauma and aftermath of her psychological and physical scars as she sets the Machiavellian stage. Season two unfolds with her schemes reaching fruition in dark and cunning ways, dismantling the lives of her childhood bullies.

Why it’s popular: Hailed as the drama that revitalised Song Hye-kyo’s acting career, The Glory is a riveting narrative of vengeance, featuring a captivating storyline and outstanding performances. Song Hye-kyo’s portrayal of Dong Eun is nuanced and compelling, embodying a character with depth and emotional resonance.

Where to watch: Netflix

3. The Good Bad Mother

The plot: A tale of an estranged mother and her son takes a twist when a tragic accident leaves him with amnesia. Rising actor Lee Do-hyun portrays Choi Kang-ho, a cold-hearted prosecutor who has reverted to a childlike-state after his accident, while veteran actress Ra Mi-ran plays his resilient single mother, Jin Young-soon, who manages a pig farm. Reunited after the incident, they navigate the challenges of repairing their fractured relationship and pursuing happiness. Why it’s popular: Exploring the intricate bond between a mother and son, The Good Bad Mother is one that definitely tugs at the heartstrings. With outstanding performances from Ra Mi-ran and breakout star Lee Do-hyun as the dynamic mother-son duo, the show weaves a well-crafted storyline that seamlessly blends comedy, revenge, thrills, and poignant moments, capturing hearts through laughter, tears, and acts of kindness. Where to watch: Netflix
3/10

The plot: A tale of an estranged mother and her son takes a twist when a tragic accident leaves him with amnesia. Rising actor Lee Do-hyun portrays Choi Kang-ho, a cold-hearted prosecutor who has reverted to a childlike-state after his accident, while veteran actress Ra Mi-ran plays his resilient single mother, Jin Young-soon, who manages a pig farm. Reunited after the incident, they navigate the challenges of repairing their fractured relationship and pursuing happiness.

Why it’s popular: Exploring the intricate bond between a mother and son, The Good Bad Mother is one that definitely tugs at the heartstrings. With outstanding performances from Ra Mi-ran and breakout star Lee Do-hyun as the dynamic mother-son duo, the show weaves a well-crafted storyline that seamlessly blends comedy, revenge, thrills, and poignant moments, capturing hearts through laughter, tears, and acts of kindness.

Where to watch: Netflix

4. Daily Dose of Sunshine

The plot: Actress Park Bo-young returns to the small screen in Daily Dose of Sunshine, a heartwarming series dedicated to destigmatising mental health. Adapted from a 2017 webtoon by former psychiatric nurse Lee Ra-ha, the drama delivers on its promise, offering valuable perspectives on mental health while tackling prevailing stigmas in Korea. Park Bo-young shines as Nurse Jung Da-eun, a compassionate psychiatric ward nurse navigating her new role. The series is equally empathetic and enlightening, exploring diverse mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, panic disorder, and OCD. Why it’s popular: It’s remarkably refreshing to watch a K-drama that avoids pigeonholing these characters into violent and antagonistic stereotypes – instead, it presents them as multi-dimensional individuals beyond their illnesses. In a society where mental health remains taboo, the series serves as a vital wake-up call in highlighting the toll of stress in modern society. Daily Dose of Sunshine ranks amongst this year's most poignant K-dramas, eliciting genuine emotions in each episode, while offering relatable perspectives from caregivers, working mothers, and tired students. The charming supporting cast also adds to the drama's appeal. Where to watch: Netflix
4/10

The plot: Actress Park Bo-young returns to the small screen in Daily Dose of Sunshine, a heartwarming series dedicated to destigmatising mental health. Adapted from a 2017 webtoon by former psychiatric nurse Lee Ra-ha, the drama delivers on its promise, offering valuable perspectives on mental health while tackling prevailing stigmas in Korea.

Park Bo-young shines as Nurse Jung Da-eun, a compassionate psychiatric ward nurse navigating her new role. The series is equally empathetic and enlightening, exploring diverse mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, panic disorder, and OCD.

Why it’s popular: It’s remarkably refreshing to watch a K-drama that avoids pigeonholing these characters into violent and antagonistic stereotypes – instead, it presents them as multi-dimensional individuals beyond their illnesses. In a society where mental health remains taboo, the series serves as a vital wake-up call in highlighting the toll of stress in modern society.

Daily Dose of Sunshine ranks amongst this year's most poignant K-dramas, eliciting genuine emotions in each episode, while offering relatable perspectives from caregivers, working mothers, and tired students. The charming supporting cast also adds to the drama's appeal.

Where to watch: Netflix

5. The Worst of Evil

The plot: Set in the 1990s, The Worst of Evil stars popular actor Ji Chang-wook as Park Joon Mo, a detective embarking on an undercover mission to infiltrate a major cartel in Gangnam. He aims to earn the trust of mob boss Jung Ki Chul, portrayed by actor Wi Ha Joon. Unexpectedly, Joon Mo discovers that his wife and fellow narcotics officer, Yoo Eui-jeong (played by Im Se-mi), is also undercover on the same assignment. It becomes clear that she shares a mysterious history with Gi-cheol. As their paths converge in the high-stakes operation, tensions escalate, setting the stage for an intense showdown. Why it’s popular: It’s a drama featuring two of the hottest Korean actors – Ji Chang-wook and Wi Ha Joon. Need we say more? Jokes aside (not really), this Korean Neo-noir masterpiece strikes a balance between brutality and heartfelt moments, featuring outstanding performances from the main protagonists and the antagonist. Even if you're not typically drawn to gangster crime scenarios, this drama serves as a compelling gateway into the genre. Where to watch: Disney+
5/10

The plot: Set in the 1990s, The Worst of Evil stars popular actor Ji Chang-wook as Park Joon Mo, a detective embarking on an undercover mission to infiltrate a major cartel in Gangnam. He aims to earn the trust of mob boss Jung Ki Chul, portrayed by actor Wi Ha Joon.

Unexpectedly, Joon Mo discovers that his wife and fellow narcotics officer, Yoo Eui-jeong (played by Im Se-mi), is also undercover on the same assignment. It becomes clear that she shares a mysterious history with Gi-cheol. As their paths converge in the high-stakes operation, tensions escalate, setting the stage for an intense showdown.

Why it’s popular: It’s a drama featuring two of the hottest Korean actors – Ji Chang-wook and Wi Ha Joon. Need we say more?

Jokes aside (not really), this Korean Neo-noir masterpiece strikes a balance between brutality and heartfelt moments, featuring outstanding performances from the main protagonists and the antagonist. Even if you're not typically drawn to gangster crime scenarios, this drama serves as a compelling gateway into the genre.

Where to watch: Disney+

6. Bloodhounds

The plot: In this adrenaline-fueled drama, promising boxers Kim Geon-woo (Woo Do-hwan) and Hong Woo-jin (Lee Sang-yi) are driven by the need to settle Geon-woo's mother's debt. Driven to the deep end, the duo plunges into the shadowy realm of money-lending and private loans in South Korea. Filled with gripping action, the narrative unfolds as the pair teams up with a compassionate moneylender (Park Sung-Woong) to confront a heartless loan shark and navigate the treacherous underworld together. Why it’s popular: Straightforward with an addictive and no-frills plot, the show also captivated with its compelling David vs. Goliath scenario. Off-screen challenges involving co-star Kim Sae-ron – who delivered a terrific on-screen performance – ended up compromising the latter half of the series, but the clear camaraderie between leads Woo Do-hwan and Lee Sang-yi, coupled with impeccable choreography in the action scenes, added extra charm. Where to watch: Netflix
6/10

The plot: In this adrenaline-fueled drama, promising boxers Kim Geon-woo (Woo Do-hwan) and Hong Woo-jin (Lee Sang-yi) are driven by the need to settle Geon-woo's mother's debt. Driven to the deep end, the duo plunges into the shadowy realm of money-lending and private loans in South Korea. Filled with gripping action, the narrative unfolds as the pair teams up with a compassionate moneylender (Park Sung-Woong) to confront a heartless loan shark and navigate the treacherous underworld together.

Why it’s popular: Straightforward with an addictive and no-frills plot, the show also captivated with its compelling David vs. Goliath scenario. Off-screen challenges involving co-star Kim Sae-ron – who delivered a terrific on-screen performance – ended up compromising the latter half of the series, but the clear camaraderie between leads Woo Do-hwan and Lee Sang-yi, coupled with impeccable choreography in the action scenes, added extra charm.

Where to watch: Netflix

7. Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938

The plot: Actor Lee Dong-wook reprises his role as Lee Yeon, a gumiho (nine-tailed fox), in Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938, the second season following the 2020 hit series. Serving as a prequel, the story unfolds during the Japanese Occupation of Korea, where Lee Yeon is transported back to 1938. In this journey, he encounters his younger brother, Lee Rang (Kim Bum), and Ryu Hong-joo (Kim So-yeon), a former guardian spirit turned high-end restaurant owner. Struggling to return to the present where his eternal first love resides, Lee Yeon's adventure takes an unexpected turn, especially when he reunites with Ryu Hong-joo, rekindling past feelings that were once rejected. Why it’s popular: Season two embraces the series’ humorous side with comedy that pokes fun at season one's dramatic tropes. In this season, the overplayed star-crossed romance takes a back seat, allowing fans to soak in what they truly enjoyed in the first season: the entertaining squabbling bromance between Yeon and Rang during their various adventures. With an enhanced focus on dynamic action sequences, including gun fights, hand-to-hand combat, and deity-on-deity superpowered battles, 1938 brings a refreshing and lighter tone compared to its more serious first season. Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
7/10

The plot: Actor Lee Dong-wook reprises his role as Lee Yeon, a gumiho (nine-tailed fox), in Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938, the second season following the 2020 hit series. Serving as a prequel, the story unfolds during the Japanese Occupation of Korea, where Lee Yeon is transported back to 1938.

In this journey, he encounters his younger brother, Lee Rang (Kim Bum), and Ryu Hong-joo (Kim So-yeon), a former guardian spirit turned high-end restaurant owner. Struggling to return to the present where his eternal first love resides, Lee Yeon's adventure takes an unexpected turn, especially when he reunites with Ryu Hong-joo, rekindling past feelings that were once rejected.

Why it’s popular: Season two embraces the series’ humorous side with comedy that pokes fun at season one's dramatic tropes. In this season, the overplayed star-crossed romance takes a back seat, allowing fans to soak in what they truly enjoyed in the first season: the entertaining squabbling bromance between Yeon and Rang during their various adventures. With an enhanced focus on dynamic action sequences, including gun fights, hand-to-hand combat, and deity-on-deity superpowered battles, 1938 brings a refreshing and lighter tone compared to its more serious first season.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

8. Dr. Romantic 3

The plot: The beloved medical drama makes its highly anticipated return for its third season. Han Suk-kyu reprises his role as lead character Dr. Kim Sa-bu, while Ahn Hyo-seop and Lee Sung-kyung return as GS specialist Seo Woo-jin and CS specialist Cha Eun-jae, respectively, from the second season. In this season, Dr. Kim fulfils his long-time wish to establish Doldam Hospital’s Trauma Center, expanding the scope of incidents and accidents the hospital handles. With new additions to the medical team, the introduction of a new antagonist, and the promise of heart-fluttering romance, the drama definitely had a compelling and impactful comeback. Why it’s popular: The third season reaches new heights with exceptionally captivating medical cases, striking a balance where the romance scenes are just enough to satisfy fans without overshadowing the focus on the medical aspects. Dr. Romantic Season 3 is impeccably executed, fulfilling its promises and leaving audiences yearning for more. Where to watch: Disney+
8/10

The plot: The beloved medical drama makes its highly anticipated return for its third season. Han Suk-kyu reprises his role as lead character Dr. Kim Sa-bu, while Ahn Hyo-seop and Lee Sung-kyung return as GS specialist Seo Woo-jin and CS specialist Cha Eun-jae, respectively, from the second season.

In this season, Dr. Kim fulfils his long-time wish to establish Doldam Hospital’s Trauma Center, expanding the scope of incidents and accidents the hospital handles. With new additions to the medical team, the introduction of a new antagonist, and the promise of heart-fluttering romance, the drama definitely had a compelling and impactful comeback.

Why it’s popular: The third season reaches new heights with exceptionally captivating medical cases, striking a balance where the romance scenes are just enough to satisfy fans without overshadowing the focus on the medical aspects. Dr. Romantic Season 3 is impeccably executed, fulfilling its promises and leaving audiences yearning for more.

Where to watch: Disney+

9. Crash Course in Romance

The plot: Crash Course in Romance unfolds as a heartwarming romantic comedy that seamlessly weaves together elements of thriller, romance, coming-of-age, and mystery. The series follows the bittersweet relationship between Nam Haeng-seon, a former national handball player now managing a banchan shop, and Choi Chi-yeol, a celebrity math instructor at The Pride Academy. Chi-yeol, who struggles with an eating disorder, frequently visits Haeng-seon's shop. Why it’s popular: Despite some viewers finding the romance heartening, others appreciate the added layers of side stories and suspense. Notably, the series has left its mark on Korean fashion. Sales data indicates a surge in retro fashion during the show's airing, particularly lace/ruffle blouses , chiffon blouses, and printed blouses. Where to watch: Netflix
9/10

The plot: Crash Course in Romance unfolds as a heartwarming romantic comedy that seamlessly weaves together elements of thriller, romance, coming-of-age, and mystery.

The series follows the bittersweet relationship between Nam Haeng-seon, a former national handball player now managing a banchan shop, and Choi Chi-yeol, a celebrity math instructor at The Pride Academy. Chi-yeol, who struggles with an eating disorder, frequently visits Haeng-seon's shop.

Why it’s popular: Despite some viewers finding the romance heartening, others appreciate the added layers of side stories and suspense. Notably, the series has left its mark on Korean fashion. Sales data indicates a surge in retro fashion during the show's airing, particularly lace/ruffle blouses , chiffon blouses, and printed blouses.

Where to watch: Netflix

10. Vigilante

The plot: Actor Nam Joo-hyuk takes on the role of Kim Ji-yong, the eponymous vigilante motivated by the traumatic murder of his mother during his youth. Operating under the alias "Vigilante”, he takes it upon himself to address the shortcomings of Korea’s legal system. Balancing his life as a dedicated student by day and a seeker of justice for unpunished criminals by night, he finds support in his admirer, Jo Gang-ok, played by Lee Joon-hyuk. Simultaneously, police investigator Jo Heon, portrayed by Yoo Ji-tae, is determined to apprehend the mysterious Vigilante. This thrilling series explores the intricate world of a vengeful yet conflicted young man on a mission for justice. Why it’s popular: A compelling adaptation that offers swift, action-packed sequences without lingering on lengthy character introductions. Nam Joo Hyuk excels in portraying the dark hero, and his character's journey is purposeful, shaping every event in the drama around his ideals and moral values. If you appreciate gritty and dark K-dramas, Vigilante is a must-see. Where to watch: Disney+
10/10

The plot: Actor Nam Joo-hyuk takes on the role of Kim Ji-yong, the eponymous vigilante motivated by the traumatic murder of his mother during his youth. Operating under the alias "Vigilante”, he takes it upon himself to address the shortcomings of Korea’s legal system. Balancing his life as a dedicated student by day and a seeker of justice for unpunished criminals by night, he finds support in his admirer, Jo Gang-ok, played by Lee Joon-hyuk.

Simultaneously, police investigator Jo Heon, portrayed by Yoo Ji-tae, is determined to apprehend the mysterious Vigilante. This thrilling series explores the intricate world of a vengeful yet conflicted young man on a mission for justice.

Why it’s popular: A compelling adaptation that offers swift, action-packed sequences without lingering on lengthy character introductions. Nam Joo Hyuk excels in portraying the dark hero, and his character's journey is purposeful, shaping every event in the drama around his ideals and moral values. If you appreciate gritty and dark K-dramas, Vigilante is a must-see.

Where to watch: Disney+

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