Top 14 Best Korean Dramas of All Time

While romantic K-dramas were becoming oversaturated, fresh stories about youth and coming-of-age have enriched the screen, earning the audience's love. The Reply series, which explores the lives of teenagers from the '80s and '90s, captivated viewers upon its release. Set in 1988, the series revolves around five families living in a small neighborhood. Reply 1988, the third installment of the series, struck a chord with its deep, emotional storytelling, delivering themes of friendship, love, and family bonds. The show depicts the journey of young boys and girls growing up in a poor neighborhood during the '80s, a time when South Korea was facing pro-democracy student protests. Using historical context, the drama portrays a challenging yet warm-hearted period without focusing on political issues.

Watch here: https://pops.vn/series/reply-1988-loi-hoi-dap-1988-5f91037441504c003489b026

Goblin is a masterpiece crafted by the talented screenwriter Kim Eun Sook and director Lee Eung Bok, the duo who created the 2016 phenomenon Descendants of the Sun. Even before its script was officially announced, the series already gained significant attention and positive reactions from audiences. Following the success of Descendants of the Sun, Kim Eun Sook brought to the screen the tale of an immortal goblin, Kim Shin, in a story that blends fantasy with heartfelt emotions.

Though the concept of an immortal being was relatively new in Korean television, this uniqueness allowed Kim Eun Sook to unleash her creative genius. Furthermore, the stellar cast, including Gong Yoo, Kim Go Eun, Lee Dong Wook, and Yoo In Ah, played a crucial role in making Goblin the most beloved drama of 2017. Its success propelled these actors to global recognition in the entertainment industry.

Watch here: https://vieon.vn/yeu-tinh.html

Descendants of the Sun is a sensational drama that took the world by storm in 2016, featuring a star-studded cast and a thrilling mix of romance and suspense. The show became an instant hit from the very first episode, with each plot twist sparking widespread excitement. Fans eagerly discussed each new episode on social media. With its breathtaking Western backdrops, sweet romantic moments, and exceptional performances by the cast, the drama was impossible to ignore.

What sets this drama apart is its unique focus on soldiers and their duties to both themselves and their country. The solid script and well-crafted story structure added emotional depth, resonating with even the most discerning viewers. Not only was the show a massive success in South Korea, but it also attracted a huge global following. The series achieved a remarkable rating of over 30%, helping KBS reclaim its position as a ratings leader and shattering viewership records set by previous hit dramas. It’s no surprise that the show garnered numerous prestigious awards and earned its place among the greatest Korean dramas of all time. Following the end of filming, fans discovered that the on-screen chemistry between Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo had blossomed into a real-life romance.

Watch here: https://danet.vn/series/1614657782

At the time, Korean dramas often followed familiar tropes like fairy-tale romances, illness, and family struggles. The introduction of the boyish Go Eun Cha in Coffee Prince was a refreshing break from the norm. The drama popularized the "girl disguised as a boy" theme with its rich storyline, fresh concept, and the outstanding performances of the talented young cast, creating undeniable chemistry onscreen.

After her massive success in the hit drama Goong, Yoon Eun Hye shocked audiences once again by stepping into the shoes of a character who completely defied her feminine charm. Eun Cha, who looks and acts like a boy, also possesses a warm heart and a sacrificial spirit beneath her tough exterior. Her role as the charming and dashing Eun Cha captured the hearts of countless fans, turning Yoon Eun Hye into a nationwide sensation after the show. The pairing between Yoon Eun Hye and Gong Yoo, playing the rich heir, was a hit that took the Korean drama world by storm in 2007. Thanks to the drama's success, the "girl dressing as a boy" trope became a trend, and the cast members gained widespread recognition.

Watch here: https://vieon.vn/tiem-ca-phe-hoang-tu-vietsub.html

Parisian Love Story is the debut work of the talented screenwriter Kim Eun Sook and director Shin Woo Chul. After its official release in June 2004, the film quickly became one of the most-watched Korean dramas of all time, with a peak rating of 56.3%, a number that many other shows would envy.

Although the cast may not have the glamorous looks typical of other dramas, this show captivates viewers with the splendor of Paris, portrayed in each episode. Its strong script, engaging plot, and standout performances by the cast were key factors in its success. “Parisian Love Story” also sparked significant trends in fashion and music among young people across Asia. Additionally, the drama propelled the careers of actors Park Shin Yang and Kim Jung Eun to new heights, earning them numerous acting awards.

Film Link: https://vieon.vn/chuyen-tinh-paris-vietsub.html

Premiering in 2009, this drama was based on the Japanese novel 'Boys Over Flowers' by Yoko Kamio and became a global phenomenon. The series tells the story of Geum Dan Ji, a poor high school girl, and her love and friendship with four rich and charismatic boys at an elite school. Though the storyline wasn’t particularly groundbreaking, the cast was largely unknown, and it was a remake of the popular Taiwanese series "Meteor Garden".

Prior to airing, the show received many negative comments, with people doubting it could surpass the original Taiwanese version. However, the humorous and romantic storyline between the curly-haired boy and the girl next door made viewers stay up all night watching it. Boys Over Flowers became a launching pad for the now-famous actors Lee Min Ho, Go Hye Sun, Kim Bum, and Kim So Eun. The show averaged a 28.5% rating, with a peak of 35.5%. Despite numerous remakes, none have matched the success of the original.

Film Link: https://fptplay.vn/xem-video/vuon-sao-bang-boys-over-flowers-606496452089bd7df41a329f

The Heirs follows the classic 'rich guy, poor girl' storyline but stands out due to its deep character development and heightened romance, making it far from predictable. The drama focuses on the love and friendship between Cha Eun Sang (played by Park Shin Hye) and Kim Tan, a wealthy heir portrayed by Lee Min Ho. After an unexpected encounter, the two initially strangers find themselves drawn to each other, but their different social classes create numerous obstacles.

With its authentic storyline and nuanced performances from the cast, the drama achieved significant success, maintaining double-digit ratings, with an average of around 16%, and earning many prestigious awards. It marked a milestone in Lee Min Ho's acting career after the hit “Boys Over Flowers” and showcased Park Shin Hye's growing talent. Additionally, the drama introduced lesser-known actors like Kim Woo Bin and Kim Ji Won, who gained much recognition. Not only was the series a hit in South Korea, but it also garnered attention across Asia and internationally.

Film Link: https://vieon.vn/nguoi-thua-ke-vietsub.html

When talking about the most iconic Korean dramas, it would be a huge oversight to exclude Goong. Aired in 2006 and produced by MBC, the drama quickly became a sensation among viewers, gaining widespread attention for its fresh storyline and the outstanding performances of its cast. The plot follows the charming love story of 17-year-old Chae Kyung, who unexpectedly becomes a royal princess and must marry the powerful Crown Prince Shin, one of the three most influential women in Korea.

The blend of humorous situations and touching moments about family, friendship, and love was key to Goong's massive popularity. The drama also propelled the careers of Yoon Eun Hye and Joo Ji Hoon to new heights. Yoon Eun Hye, who initially struggled in her career as a singer, was able to break free from public skepticism and establish herself as a respected actress after the success of this drama.

Film Link: http://hdvip.net/phim-hoang-cung-goong-2006/4064.html

Aired in 2005, the love story of the chubby Sam Soon (played by Kim Sun Ah) and the dashing Hyun Jin Heon (Hyun Bin) has remained unforgettable for fans from the 80s and 90s. Sam Soon is a slightly plump woman with a talent for baking. On Christmas, a time of joy for most, Sam Soon finds herself heartbroken after losing her job and being dumped by her boyfriend. With a fierce determination, she secures a job at the famous restaurant Bon Appetite, where she crosses paths with Ji Heon, a spoiled rich heir who also happens to be the owner. Their relationship starts off rocky, but a contract love affair unexpectedly brings them closer.

With its realistic, humorous, yet romantic storyline, My Name is Kim Sam Soon became a hit among viewers. After the show wrapped, both Hyun Bin and Kim Sun Ah saw their careers soar, becoming major figures in the South Korean entertainment industry.

Film Link: https://phephimzz.net/phim/toi-la-kim-sam-soon-nang-kim-sam-soon-2820/xem-phim.html

In 2013, Korean drama writers took a bold step away from the old, worn-out tropes like soul-swapping, fairytale romances, and contract marriages. They introduced fresh concepts, including characters with superpowers and aliens. You Who Came from the Stars was the most popular show to embrace this new wave. The series swept numerous awards, winning 11 trophies and earning 5 nominations at the SBS Drama Awards.

The timeless love story between the A-list actress Jun Song Yi (Jeon Ji Hyun) and the wise, introspective alien Do Min Joon (Kim Soo Hyun) captivated audiences. At the time, Kim Soo Hyun was a rising star with roles in hit dramas like Moon Embracing the Sun and Dream High. But it was his portrayal of Do Min Joon that truly solidified his career and made the drama one of his most famous works. Not only did the show achieve tremendous success in South Korea, but it also sparked a massive international following.

Film Link: https://bichill.tv/phim-vi-sao-dua-anh-toi/2192.html

The Moon Embracing the Sun is a romantic historical drama that tells the poignant love story between the fictional King Lee Hwon of the Joseon Dynasty and Han Ga-In, the daughter of a noble family. Han Ga-In is portrayed as not only incredibly intelligent and beautiful but also kind-hearted and compassionate.

Engaged to Lee Hwon at the age of 13, Han Ga-In is later betrayed and falls gravely ill. Fortunately, she is saved by a powerful sorcerer but loses her memory, wandering for years. Destiny finally reunites her with Lee Hwon, but under the guise of a witch named Wol.

Film Link: https://vieon.vn/mat-trang-om-mat-troi.html

Kingdom has been hailed as a gripping zombie thriller. Crafted by talented writer Kim Eun Hee and directed by Kim Sung Hoon, the show is a cinematic masterpiece, thrilling, suspenseful, and grand in every moment. It became a sensation on Netflix and is a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

The story is set during the Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1910), with the capital Hanyang as its backdrop. It weaves a complex tale, intertwining two major plots: a terrifying zombie outbreak with a rapidly spreading infection, and a brutal power struggle among court factions. In just two seasons, the series delivers an engaging, unpredictable narrative, filled with intense, edge-of-your-seat moments. With high production values, detailed makeup, and an ensemble cast of popular Asian stars delivering powerful performances, Kingdom has left a strong impact and captivated audiences worldwide through streaming platforms.

Film Link: https://www.netflix.com/vn/title/80180171

Sky Castle set a new record for ratings on cable TV, thanks to its captivating storyline and unpredictable plot twists. The show is set in a wealthy, prestigious residential community where elite families with high academic backgrounds live, but their moral values are deeply flawed. The drama shines a light on a dark side of South Korean society: the immense pressure of academic achievement, the obsession with test scores, and the intense competition between families in the upper class.

The show excels in its deep and satirical portrayal of these societal issues, offering a critique of contemporary life that many dramas fail to achieve. It would be a shame to miss this remarkable series.

Film Link: https://tvzingvn.com/lau-dai-tren-khong-50914.html

Signal is a gripping South Korean crime thriller that has captivated a massive audience. The series is intense, with a thrilling and suspenseful plot that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. It features several well-known actors, including Kim Hye Soo and Jo Jin Woong.

The story begins when a young boy, Hae Young (Lee Je Hoon), witnesses the abduction of his classmate by a mysterious woman. When he reports it to the police, they dismiss him, assuming a man is the culprit. Fifteen years later, the case goes cold. Hae Young, now an adult and a police officer, is confronted with the unresolved case. Meanwhile, the abducted girl's mother continues to fight for justice. With only two days left before the statute of limitations expires, Hae Young discovers a strange walkie-talkie that, despite having no battery, receives a signal from Lee Jae Han, a person from the past.

Film Link: https://vieon.vn/tin-hieu-chet-choc.html