Best K-Dramas of Recent Decades | Generated by AI

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Question: What are the best South Korean series in recent decades?

Answer:

South Korean television series, commonly known as K-dramas, have gained immense global popularity in recent decades (primarily from the 2000s onward) due to their compelling storytelling, high production values, emotional depth, and blend of genres like romance, fantasy, thriller, and historical drama. “Best” is subjective, but the following list highlights widely acclaimed series based on high ratings on platforms like MyDramaList and IMDb, critical praise, awards (e.g., Baeksang Arts Awards), viewership records, and cultural impact. These span classics from the 2010s to standout hits in the 2020s.

  1. Reply 1988 (2015)
    A heartwarming slice-of-life drama set in 1980s Seoul, following five friends and their families in a neighborhood. Praised for its nostalgic portrayal of friendship, family bonds, and first love. Often ranked as one of the highest-rated K-dramas ever.

  2. Crash Landing on You (2019)
    A romantic comedy about a South Korean heiress who accidentally paraglides into North Korea and falls in love with a military officer. Known for its chemistry between leads Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin, humor, and touching cross-border romance.

  3. Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Shining Goblin) (2016)
    Fantasy romance starring Gong Yoo as an immortal goblin seeking a bride to end his curse. Features epic storytelling, stunning visuals, bromance with a grim reaper, and a memorable soundtrack.

  4. Mr. Sunshine (2018)
    Historical drama set in the early 1900s, following a Korean-born U.S. marine returning to Joseon. Acclaimed for its cinematography, acting (Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri), and depiction of Korea’s fight for independence.

  5. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020)
    A healing romance between a children’s book author with antisocial personality disorder and a psychiatric caregiver. Addresses mental health sensitively with fairy-tale elements and strong performances.

  6. Hospital Playlist (2020-2021)
    Slice-of-life medical drama about five longtime doctor friends. Celebrated for its realistic friendships, humor, music (the cast forms a band), and emotional patient stories.

  7. Squid Game (2021)
    Survival thriller where debt-ridden contestants play deadly children’s games for a massive prize. Became a global phenomenon, highlighting social inequality.

  8. The Glory (2022-2023)
    Revenge drama about a woman seeking justice against her school bullies. Intense plotting and standout performance by Song Hye-kyo.

  9. Moving (2023)
    Superhero action-drama about parents hiding powers from their children. Praised for family themes, fight scenes, and large ensemble cast.

  10. When Life Gives You Tangerines (2025)
    Generational romance set on Jeju Island from the 1960s onward, starring IU and Park Bo-gum. Highly rated for its emotional depth, beautiful cinematography, and exploration of love amid societal changes.

Other notable mentions: Descendants of the Sun (2016) (military romance), Itaewon Class (2020) (underdog revenge), Alchemy of Souls (2022) (fantasy soul-swapping), My Mister (2018) (healing character study), and Twenty-Five Twenty-One (2022) (nostalgic youth romance).

Many are available on Netflix, making them accessible worldwide. Start with shorter ones (16 episodes typical) if new to the genre!

References:

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