If you’ve ever watched a Korean drama and couldn’t stop after that, welcome to the world of kdrama on Netflix. From emotional love stories to fast-paced thrillers, Korean dramas have found a special place in viewers’ hearts worldwide. Netflix has become the best hub to stream high-quality K-dramas easily, with subtitles and fresh content regularly added.
In this guide, you will find the best kdramas on Netflix, whether you prefer romantic Kdrama movies or suspense-filled series. We have also shared why people are crazy about them, tips for better watching, and what truly makes a K-drama great.
Why Kdrama on Netflix is so popular?
Netflix has played a big role in spreading Korean dramas and movies across the world. With subtitles in various languages, high-definition video, and easy access, watching a Kdrama is a smooth and enjoyable experience. Viewers can now enjoy the latest releases and old classics alike.
- Netflix reported in 2022 that 6 in 10 of its 221 million subscribers watched at least one Korean program in the past year, with a $2.5 billion investment plan spanning 2023–2027
The Rise of Kdrama on Netflix in 2025
More original K-dramas are being produced directly for Netflix in 2025. The streaming platform is now working closely with South Korean creators, bringing more quality content to global fans. This partnership ensures that fans get fresh, creative stories regularly.
- Netflix has announced plans to invest US$2.5 billion into Korean content between 2023 and 2027 to boost original productions.
- A feature in Time magazine highlights multiple upcoming Netflix-original Korean dramas set for 2025 releases, from “Squid Game 3” (premiering June 27, 2025).
Top 15 Must-Watch KDrama Movies on Netflix
| Romance | Thriller / Action | Crime / Drama |
| 20th Century Girl | The Call | A Model Family |
| Tune in for Love | Forgotten | The Drug King |
| Love and Leashes | #Alive | Seoul Vibe |
| Sweet & Sour | Pandora | The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure |
| High Society | Space Sweepers | The Chase |
Romance
1. 20th Century Girl
Set in 1999, this film follows a high school girl helping her friend spy on a crush, only to fall for him herself. It’s a sweet love triangle full of teenage emotions. The story mixes first love, friendship, and heartbreak beautifully. This kdrama on Netflix is loved for its nostalgic setting and strong acting. It also gives viewers a glimpse into Korean high school life. The chemistry between the leads is raw and innocent. The cinematography adds a soft touch to each moment.
- Release: 2022
- Netflix Rating: 7.3
- Why to watch: A heart-touching story of teenage friendship and first love.
- What’s special: Nostalgic 90s setting and deep emotional storytelling.
2. Tune in for Love
This story tells how fate keeps bringing two people together over the years through a radio show. It’s a slow-burning romance with emotional depth and beautiful music. The leads have strong chemistry and portray bittersweet love. It’s a gentle watch, full of warmth and longing. This kdrama shines through its simple, heartfelt storytelling. The backdrop of changing times adds to the mood. It’s a calm, reflective experience you’ll remember.
- Release: 2019
- Netflix Rating: 7.1
- Why to watch: A slow-burning love story connected through a radio show.
- What’s special: Beautiful soundtrack and shifting timelines.
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3. Love and Leashes
A quirky office romance where two coworkers explore a consensual secret relationship. It respectfully balances humor and mature themes. The film breaks taboos without feeling uncomfortable. It’s different from your typical romantic comedy. This drama offers a bold look at love and trust. The actors pull off a complex story with charm. It’s funny, fresh, and very watchable.
- Release: 2022
- Netflix Rating: 6.4
- Why to watch: A bold office romance exploring trust and boundaries.
- What’s special: Balances humor and maturity in a unique theme.
4. Sweet & Sour
This movie explores long-distance relationships, job stress, and emotional disconnect. It feels modern, real, and frustrating in a relatable way. You’ll see how love can shift over time. It teaches that love isn’t always perfect. This kdrama on Netflix has unexpected turns that make you think. The leads give raw, convincing performances. It ends with a twist that surprises many.
- Release: 2021
- Netflix Rating: 6.8
- Why to watch: A modern look at how long-distance relationships affect relationships.
- What’s special: Surprising twist ending and realistic emotions.
5. High Society
A couple tries to climb the social ladder, only to lose parts of themselves in the process. This film looks at greed, desire, and class divide. It’s stylish, bold, and shows the dark side of ambition. The acting is top-notch and intense. This Korean drama isn’t your feel-good story, but it is gripping. It offers sharp social commentary in a glossy package. Definitely for those who like drama with depth.
- Release: 2018
- Netflix Rating: 5.9
- Why to watch: A gritty film about ambition and social climbing.
- What’s special: Stylish visuals and social commentary on class.
Thriller / Action
6. The Call
A woman finds a phone that connects her with another woman from the past, but things turn dark. The story moves between timelines with tense suspense. The villain is chilling and unforgettable. This is a high-stakes game of survival and fate. This kdrama on Netflix keeps you on edge from start to finish. Its plot twists are bold and brutal. It’s more than just a thriller; it’s a mind game.
- Release: 2020
- Netflix Rating: 7.1
- Why to watch: Time-travel thriller with strong female leads.
- What’s special: Spine-chilling twists and psychological tension.
7. Forgotten
After a man’s brother returns from being kidnapped, strange things start to happen. This thriller messes with your head in the best way. The story slowly unravels layers of truth. Every scene adds more mystery and confusion. This drama is perfect if you enjoy suspense and shockers. The ending flips the story completely. It’s clever, creepy, and captivating.
- Release: 2017
- Netflix Rating: 7.4
- Why to watch: A mind-bending mystery about lost memory.
- What’s special: Clever script and shocking plot twist.
8. #Alive
A gamer is trapped alone in his apartment during a zombie outbreak. He must find ways to survive with no internet, food, or help. This movie taps into pandemic-like fears. It’s a solo survival tale that feels oddly real. This drama on Netflix mixes horror with quiet loneliness. The pacing keeps you hooked the whole time. It’s simple, scary, and smartly made.
- Release: 2020
- Netflix Rating: 6.3
- Why to watch: Survival zombie thriller in a confined space.
- What’s special: Relatable pandemic vibes and solo performance.
9. Pandora
A nuclear plant accident turns into a disaster, and one man must stop it. The movie dives into real fears about safety and government failure. It’s emotional and action-packed. Family bonds are at the center of the chaos. This kdrama on Netflix shows how ordinary people can be heroes. The visuals are gripping and intense. It’s more than a disaster film; it’s about love and loss.
- Release: 2016
- Netflix Rating: 6.6
- Why to watch: Action-packed disaster drama with a family heart.
- What’s special: Powerful visuals and emotional depth.
10. Space Sweepers
In 2092, space junk collectors find a child-like robot with a secret. They go on the run to protect her from powerful forces. This is Korea’s first space blockbuster. It blends humor, heart, and action in a cool sci-fi setting. This drama on Netflix is a treat for fans of Guardians of the Galaxy-type movies. The effects are high-quality, and the story feels global. It’s fun for all ages.
- Release: 2021
- Netflix Rating: 6.5
- Why to watch: Korea’s first big-budget space adventure.
- What’s special: Combines action, sci-fi, and heartfelt moments.
Crime / Drama
11. A Model Family
A man with debt gets tangled in drug crime to save his family. What starts as desperation turns into a dangerous trap? It shows how far someone will go for loved ones. This Netflix drama blends tension with emotional weight. The family angle keeps it relatable. Performances are raw and believable. A must-watch for fans of dark crime dramas.
- Release: 2022
- Netflix Rating: 7.2
- Why to watch: A gripping tale of a man forced into crime.
- What’s special: Tense plot and emotionally rich family angle.
12. The Drug King
Set in the 1970s, this movie tells the story of a drug dealer in Busan. It’s inspired by real events. The film shows how he manipulates power and fear. You get a mix of flashy crime and gritty truth. This kdrama on Netflix is bold, heavy, and stylish. Song Kang-ho delivers a powerful lead role. It’s intense but fascinating.
- Release: 2018
- Netflix Rating: 6.2
- Why to watch: Rise and fall of a real-life crime lord.
- What’s special: Retro 70s setting and strong lead performance.
13. Seoul Vibe
A group of street racers is hired to help with a money-laundering operation. Set in 1988 during the Seoul Olympics, it’s full of cool cars and retro vibes. The energy is fast-paced and fun. This drama on Netflix offers colorful action and youth charm. Think Fast & Furious with a Korean twist. Great music, strong cast, and stylish direction.
- Release: 2022
- Netflix Rating: 6.0
- Why to watch: High-energy car chases and retro style.
- What’s special: Fast-paced action with colorful visuals.
14. The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure
Pirates search for a treasure lost by the royal family, facing sea creatures and rivals. This is an action-packed comedy for the whole family. The film mixes fantasy, sword fights, and laughs. This kdrama on Netflix brings a feel-good vibe with excitement. The costumes and sea battles are impressive. It’s lighthearted and very entertaining.
- Release: 2022
- Netflix Rating: 6.4
- Why to watch: Family-friendly adventure on the high seas.
- What’s special: Fun mix of fantasy, action, and comedy.
15. The Chase
An old landlord joins forces with a retired detective to solve serial murders. It’s a thriller with surprising warmth. Their odd duo works as both suspense and comedy. This Korean drama on Netflix highlights how age doesn’t stop courage. It’s slow to start but ends with a bang. A great pick for mystery lovers.
- Release: 2017
- Netflix Rating: 6.5
- Why to watch: Murder mystery solved by unlikely heroes.
- What’s special: Suspenseful yet humorous with strong chemistry.
Top 10 Must-Watch K-Drama Series on Netflix
| Romance / Drama | Thriller / Crime | Fantasy / Supernatural |
| Crash Landing on You | Vincenzo | Kingdom |
| It’s Okay to Not Be Okay | Extracurricular | Alchemy of Souls |
| Move to Heaven | DP | All of us are Dead |
| Hospital Playlist |
Romance / Drama
1. Crash Landing on You
A South Korean heiress crash-lands in North Korea and falls for a soldier. Their love grows against all odds. This kdrama on Netflix is one of the most-loved romantic series. It balances humor, danger, and deep emotions. The cultural contrasts add depth to the plot. It’s funny, heartfelt, and dramatic. A perfect starting point for beginners.
- Release: 2019
- Netflix Rating: 8.7
- Why to watch: Heartfelt cross-border romance with strong chemistry.
- What’s special: Emotional depth and cultural contrast.
“I didn’t expect to cry over a love story between a South Korean heiress and a North Korean soldier, but this drama made me believe in soulmates across borders. Every scene felt like a heartbeat.”
2. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
A children’s book author with trauma meets a kind nurse with his scars. Together, they heal slowly. The show blends mental health awareness with fairy-tale visuals. This Korean drama on Netflix is both emotional and artistic. The storytelling is poetic and honest. Each episode is like a painting.
- Release: 2020
- Netflix Rating: 8.6
- Why to watch: Healing story with a focus on mental health.
- What’s special: Fairy tale visuals and poetic writing.
“This drama healed a part of me I didn’t know was broken. The emotional depth, the mental health themes, and the fairy-tale storytelling all felt so personal. I saw pieces of myself in every character.”
3. Move to Heaven
A young man with Asperger’s and his uncle run a trauma cleaning service. They clean homes of the deceased and uncover stories left behind. Each episode is touching and reflective. This kdrama teaches kindness, grief, and love. It’s based on a true story. Great for fans of slow, emotional shows.
- Release: 2021
- Netflix Rating: 8.6
- Why to watch: Emotional stories from a trauma cleaning crew.
- What’s special: Teaches empathy and respect for life and death.
Thriller / Crime
4. Vincenzo
A Korean-Italian mafia lawyer returns to Korea and fights corrupt companies. The series blends crime, comedy, and justice. It’s clever and fun without being over-the-top. This kdrama on Netflix has stylish action and smart dialogue. Song Joong-ki owns the screen. It’s a must for those who enjoy clever anti-heroes.
- Release: 2021
- Netflix Rating: 8.5
- Why to watch: Mafia lawyer uses wit to battle corporate evil.
- What’s special: Brilliant mix of humor, action, and justice.
“I started watching for the mafia lawyer storyline, but stayed for the wit, action, and unexpected emotional punches. Vincenzo Cassano is both charming and ruthless, my favorite anti-hero ever.”
5. Extracurricular
A model student runs an illegal business to pay for college. When his secret is exposed, things spiral out of control. The series is dark, bold, and eye-opening. This drama on Netflix looks at the double lives of teens. It’s gripping and fast-paced. Ideal for thriller fans.
- Release: 2020
- Netflix Rating: 7.7
- Why to watch: A teen secretly runs an illegal business.
- What’s special: Dark, bold, and eye-opening storyline.
6. DP
A young soldier is tasked with catching army deserters. He learns harsh truths about the military system. The show is raw and emotional. This kdrama on Netflix has deep characters and social depth. It’s both action-packed and thoughtful. A hidden gem for drama lovers.
- Release: 2021
- Netflix Rating: 8.3
- Why to watch: Follows military police catching deserters.
- What’s special: Honest look into the Korean army struggles.
Fantasy / Supernatural
7. Kingdom
A prince investigates a strange disease turning people into zombies. It’s set in ancient Korea with rich visuals. This Netflix kdrama is horror done right. It’s scary, smart, and stunning. A historical zombie drama that feels new.
- Release: 2019
- Netflix Rating: 8.3
- Why to watch: Zombie outbreak in the historical Joseon era.
- What’s special: Combines horror with political drama.
8. Alchemy of Souls
A soul shifter lands in a blind woman’s body and meets a nobleman. They get caught in magical battles and secrets. The visuals are grand and magical. This kdrama on Netflix offers top fantasy entertainment. Great cast and gripping plot.
- Release: 2022
- Netflix Rating: 8.4
- Why to watch: A fantasy world filled with magical soul shifts.
- What’s special: Rich storytelling and beautiful world-building.
9. All of Us Are Dead
A zombie virus hits a high school, and students must survive. It’s violent, fast, and emotional. This drama on Netflix is scary but has heart. It shows teen friendships under pressure.
- Release: 2022
- Netflix Rating: 7.5
- Why to watch: Teen students try to survive a zombie outbreak.
- What’s special: Fast, scary, and emotionally charged.
10. Hospital Playlist
Five friends working in a hospital share love, laughs, and life. Each episode focuses on real-life medical cases and friendships. This kdrama on Netflix is warm and lighthearted. It’s easy to binge and hard to stop.
- Release: 2020
- Netflix Rating: 8.8
- Why to watch: Life stories of five doctor friends.
- What’s special: Realistic slice-of-life moments with heartfelt bonds.
Why People Love Watching K-drama on Netflix?
People love Kdramas on Netflix because of the emotional depth, cultural richness, and relatable stories. Netflix makes it easy to watch with subtitles, smooth streaming, and top-notch sound and picture quality. It also releases exclusive dramas and updates fast. Whether you’re into romance or action, there’s something for everyone.
Tips for Watching K-drama on Netflix
- Use subtitles, not dubbing – Keep the original feel.
- Try the ‘Skip Intro’ – Helps save time on long dramas.
- Create a watchlist – Organize your favorites.
- Start with a short series – If you are new, go easy first.
- Explore by genre – Netflix lets you browse by drama type.
Conclusion
Whether you are a newbie or a longtime fan, exploring Kdrama on Netflix opens a world full of emotions, adventure, and unforgettable stories. These dramas aren’t just for entertainment; they connect people across cultures. With this guide, you now have everything to begin your perfect K-drama journey on Netflix. So grab your snacks, pick your favorite from our list, and dive in.
