(Daily Point) — Korean dramas have transcended international borders, captivating audiences worldwide, and the anticipation for more Korean television remains high, fueled by Netflix’s commitment to invest $2.5 billion in South Korean film and TV production over the next four years.
This significant investment aligns with the evident demand, exemplified by the success of Netflix’s original series, “The Glory.” Launched on December 30 last year, the show quickly gained popularity, becoming the fifth most-watched non-English program to premiere on the platform.
Newly revealed data from Netflix indicates that “The Glory” secured the third spot as the most-watched show globally in the first half of 2023, accumulating over 622 million hours of viewership during that period.
The year 2023 has brought a plethora of noteworthy Korean dramas spanning various genres, catering to audiences with diverse preferences. From medical procedurals to period Westerns, political thrillers to time-traveling romances, there’s a wide array of options for both dedicated K-drama enthusiasts and newcomers.
Here are the top ten Korean dramas in 2023:
- Crash Course in Romance:
- This 16-episode series explores the love affair between a popular math teacher and a former national handball player, providing a perceptive critique of South Korea’s educational system.
- Doctor Cha:
- A captivating 16-episode series following Cha Jeong-suk, a homemaker turned first-year medical resident in her late forties, as she rediscovers independence and meaning in life after a diagnosis of acute liver failure.
- Bloodhounds:
- Based on a webtoon, this series follows Kim Gun-woo, a determined high-school dropout, and his former boxing adversary as they seek justice against powerful lenders. The engaging camaraderie and empathetic dynamic between the protagonists set it apart.
- The Good Bad Mother:
- Revolving around motherhood, this series explores the journey of Jin Young-soon, a tough mother whose son collaborates with those responsible for his father’s murder. Compelling performances elevate this poignant viewing experience.
- Castaway Diva:
- Park Eun-bin leads this 12-episode drama about Seo Mok-ha, an aspiring teenage pop singer stranded on a deserted island, forging a friendship with her childhood idol upon rescue and rising to stardom.
- The Glory:
- Despite its late-2022 release, “The Glory” remains significant in 2023 as Netflix’s fifth most-viewed non-English language show of all time. It narrates the tale of a woman seeking revenge on those who tormented her during high school, based on real-life events.
- Daily Dose of Sunshine:
- Following Nurse Jeong Da-eun, this series offers procedural insights into mental health care with empathetic and humorous scenes, addressing South Korea’s mental health crisis.
- Divorce Attorney Shin:
- Cho Seung-woo portrays Shin Sung-han, a piano prodigy turned divorce litigation specialist, exploring the messy aftermath of divorce proceedings as opportunities for new beginnings.
- Queenmaker:
- Featuring Kim Hee-ae as Hwang Do-hee, a ruthless corporate fixer in this political thriller, the series explores the world of dirty politics as she teams up with a civil rights lawyer.
- D.P. (Season 2):
- Continuing the exploration of abuses in South Korea’s military, the second season of “D.P.” delves into the cover-up of military scandals, maintaining its unapologetic and thought-provoking nature.
