Korean dramas are a nearly indispensable mental treat for the majority of young enthusiasts, especially the avid cinephiles. In 2020, a myriad of Korean drama series was released with various genres, featuring no shortage of intense, captivating, and buzzworthy dramas. Here, I will share with you 5 Korean drama series worth watching from the past year. Feel free to explore.Kingdom - Reign of the Living Dead
Kingdom Season 2 was released in March, continuing the story from Season 1 with unexpected twists and a captivating narrative. This historical horror series is set in Joseon-era Korea threatened by a plague that turns people into zombies. The zombie visuals may be haunting, but the excellent storyline keeps viewers hooked.
Number of Episodes: 6 episodes/season
Imdb Rating: 8.4
Starring: Ji-Hoon Ju, Bae Doona, Kim Sungkyu,...Itaewon Class - The Itaewon Classroom/The Itaewon Social Class
Itaewon Class is adapted from the webtoon of the same name. The protagonist, Park Sae Roy, has a dark past: having been imprisoned for an attempted murder, he plans to defeat Jang Dae Hee - the president of South Korea's leading food conglomerate - to seek revenge for his father. The series revolves around passionate young individuals with unique life goals, daring to think, act, and face failures.
Number of Episodes: 16 episodes
Imdb Rating: 8.2
Starring: Park Seo Joon, Kim Dami,...It's Okay to Not Be Okay - Embracing Madness
This is a romantic drama, not entirely new, but with a unique psychological theme. The series explores mental health issues such as autism, antisocial personality disorder, and depression. It portrays how 'madness' behind each individual is rooted in reasons and circumstances. Emphasizing the message of respecting and understanding differences, the show aims to heal wounds. In a seamless narrative, family ties, love, friendship, and human connections intertwine convincingly.
Number of Episodes: 16 episodes
Imdb Rating: 8.8
Starring: Seo Ye Ji, Kim Soo Hyun, Oh Jung Se,...Was It Love - Have We Ever Loved?
Was It Love is a romantic drama featuring Song Ji Hyo. In the series, she takes on the role of Noh Ae Jung, a single mother working in a film company. For the past 14 years, no man has been by her side, but one day, all four men from her past reappear, turning Ae Jung's life upside down. This light-hearted romantic drama with a touch of humor will make us realize that it's never too late to pursue our dreams.
Number of Episodes: 16 episodes
Imdb Rating: 7.2
Cast: Song Ji Hyo, Son Ho Jun, Song Jong Ho, Koo Ja Sung, Kim Min Joon,...
Start-Up - Igniting Dreams
Set in the fictional setting of Sand Box, considered the 'Silicon Valley of South Korea,' Start-Up boldly explores the realm of technology and artificial intelligence. The series unfolds the journey of characters as they embark on their entrepreneurial ideas, facing numerous ups and downs. It realistically depicts the challenges and setbacks in the startup dreams of the youth, allowing viewers to empathize with the detailed and authentic portrayal of their experiences.
Number of Episodes: 16 episodes
Imdb Rating: 8.2
Cast: Suzy, Nam Joo Hyuk, Kim Seon Ho,...
Are there more Korean dramas you enjoy watching?