Best Korean Dramas: Must-Watch K-Dramas from Queen of Tears to When the Phone Rings

Korean dramas continue to dominate the global entertainment industry, offering captivating storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, and unforgettable performances. Several K-dramas set new benchmarks, impressing both fans and critics. Whether it’s a romantic Korean drama filled with heart-fluttering moments or a gripping thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this year’s releases had something for everyone. These dramas not only entertained but also trended worldwide, proving once again why K-dramas are loved across different cultures.

If you are looking for the best Korean drama to binge-watch, then here’s a list of the highest-rated K-dramas. These shows delivered exceptional performances, emotional depth, and compelling narratives, making them a must-watch.

When the Phone Rings

Blending mystery and romance, When the Phone Rings is a thriller that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. The show stars Yoo Yeon-seok and Chae Soo-bin and follows a tense marriage that starts unraveling after a mysterious phone call. Netflix describes it as, “A rising politician and his mute wife’s tense marriage begins to unravel after a call from a kidnapper turns their lives upside down.” The unpredictable twists and suspenseful storytelling make it one of the most gripping dramas of the year.

Love in the Big City

This drama beautifully portrays the complexities of love and relationships in a bustling city. It follows two individuals from different walks of life who unexpectedly cross paths and develop a connection. The storytelling is fresh, with four directors weaving their unique perspectives into a single narrative. This experimental format adds depth to the series, making it a must-watch for romance fans.

Marry My Husband

Ranked among the most searched TV shows in 2024, Marry My Husband is a revenge drama filled with intense emotions and unexpected turns. The story follows Kang Ji-won, a terminally ill cancer patient who discovers her husband’s affair with her best friend. After being murdered by them, she wakes up ten years in the past and gets a second chance at life. Prime Video’s official synopsis states, “She must reclaim her fate and eliminate the trash from her life.” With a mix of romance

Lovely Runner

If you love time-travel dramas mixed with romance, ‘Lovely Runner’ is a must-watch. Starring Byeon Woo-seok and Kim Hye-yoon, the drama follows a devoted fan who, after losing her favorite K-pop idol, suddenly finds herself transported back in time. Now, she has a chance to change fate and prevent his tragic end. The storyline is filled with emotions, twists, and heartwarming moments that make it one of the best Korean dramas of 2024. As Netflix describes it, “Years after a K-pop star saves her life, a fan learns of his death — but when she's suddenly transported to the past, she sets out to change their fate.”

Queen of Tears

One of the most talked-about K-dramas, ‘Queen of Tears’ was also the most searched TV show in Google’s Year in Search report. This romantic Korean drama revolves around a high-profile couple—the queen of department stores and her small-town husband—who find themselves struggling in their marriage. However, just when everything seems to be falling apart, love miraculously finds its way back into their lives. The show deeply explores themes of love, power, and family, making it an emotional yet heartwarming watch. As Netflix puts it, “The queen of department stores and her small-town husband weather a marital crisis — until love miraculously begins to bloom again.”

Resident Playbook

A spin-off of the popular ‘Hospital Playlist,’ this medical drama follows a new generation of young doctors at a different branch of Yulje Medical Center. Unlike its predecessor, ‘Resident Playbook’ focuses on first-year residents navigating the challenges of their profession while dealing with their personal struggles. The series introduces a fresh cast, including Go Yoon-jung, Shin Si-ah, Kang You-seok, and Han Ye-ji. It is one of the most anticipated medical dramas of the year, bringing heartfelt stories from the medical world.

The Korean drama industry has once again proven its excellence with a mix of thrilling, heartwarming, and unforgettable stories. From romantic Korean dramas like ‘Queen of Tears’ and ‘Lovely Runner’ to intense narratives like ‘When the Phone Rings’ and ‘Marry My Husband,’ each show has left a lasting impact on its audience. Whether you are a longtime K-drama lover or new to this world, these dramas offer the perfect mix of emotions, drama, and excitement. If you’re looking for the best Korean drama to watch, this list is a great place to start!