Korean dramas have won hearts all over the world with their engaging stories and diverse genres. For newcomers, choosing the right series can make all the difference.

Here are 15 Korean dramas that are perfect for beginners, mixing romance, fantasy and action.

These shows exemplify the depth of Korean storytelling, blending emotional richness with gripping plots.

Each drama offers a new take on love, adventure and self-discovery, providing a glimpse into Korean culture.

From heartwarming romances to thrilling adventures, these series cater to a variety of tastes. They feature relatable characters and engaging narratives, making them great choices for anyone new to K-dramas.

Whether you're looking for a heartwarming love story, a magical journey, or a gripping tale of revenge, these dramas have it all.

Discover the enchanting world of Korean television and find out why it has wowed audiences around the world.

1. Crash Landing on You (2019)

When South Korean heiress Yoon Se-ri accidentally paraglides into North Korean territory, her world is turned upside down. She encounters Ri Jeong-hyeok, a North Korean officer who initially sees her as an outsider.

Despite initial friction, Se-ri and Jeong-hook form an unexpected connection. He decides to help her and hides her from the authorities, planning her safe return to South Korea.

Their time together is marked by a mix of humor and warmth as they navigate the complex dynamics of political tensions and unforeseen challenges. Their adventure together reveals their vulnerabilities and deepens their bond.

As love blossoms amidst chaos, both struggle with divided loyalties. Their story illustrates a powerful connection that defies boundaries and adversity.

• Displayed: December 14, 2019 – February 16, 2020
• Number of episodes: 16
• Cast: Hyun Bin, Son Ye Jin, Seo Ji Hye, Kim Jung Hyun
• Streaming platform: Netflix

2. Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God) (2017)

Kim Shin, a once-mighty warrior now cursed with immortality, transforms into a goblin and yearns to find his bride who can break his endless life. His quest for liberation from his curse becomes the driving force of his existence.

Ji Eun-Tak, a high school student with the unusual ability to see ghosts and summon Kim Shin, becomes essential to his destiny. Their first meeting marks the beginning of a profound and transformative journey for both of them.

As Kim Shin and Eun-tak's fates become intertwined, their relationship deepens into a passionate romance. Eun-tak's presence proves important in Kim Shin's quest to end his eternal suffering.

The narrative interweaves elements of fantasy and romance, blending past and present. It delves into themes of life, death and the search for redemption, creating a rich and emotional story.

• Displayed: December 2, 2016 – January 21, 2017
• Number of episodes: 16
• Cast: Gong Yoo, Kim Go Eun, Lee Dong Wook, Yoo In Na
• Streaming platform: Netflix

3. Itaewon Class (2020)

Park Sae-ro-yi's life takes a dramatic turn after a tragedy in high school, leading him to seek revenge against a powerful conglomerate. He opens a bar-restaurant in Itaewon as a strategic move to challenge the corporation that wronged him.

Jo Yi-seo, a brilliant but eccentric sociopath, joins Sae-ro-yi as her manager. Her unique skills and insights help them form a diverse and dynamic team that supports their ambitious goals.

Their journey is not just about business, but also about personal growth and building deep connections. As they confront social inequalities and fight for justice, their commitment to the cause grows stronger.

Sae-ro-yi’s unwavering determination serves as an inspiration to those around her. Her story embodies the struggle to achieve dreams and overcome formidable obstacles, highlighting the power of resilience and solidarity.

• Displayed: January 31, 2020 – March 21, 2020
• Number of episodes: 16
• Cast:Park Seo Joon, Kim Da Mi
• Streaming platform: Netflix

4. Descendants of the Sun (2016)

Captain Yoo Si-jin, a dedicated soldier, meets Dr. Kang Mo-yeon, a compassionate doctor, during one of his missions. Their initial encounter sparks a romantic connection amidst high-stakes situations.

Their different professions often keep them apart, with Si-jin's military duties and Mo-yeon's medical work taking them to dangerous and distant locations. This constant separation challenges their relationship.

As they face moral dilemmas and make personal sacrifices, their love grows stronger. The harsh realities of war zones and humanitarian crises test their commitment and deepen their bond.

Their story highlights the intersection of love, duty, and sacrifice. It celebrates the bravery and resilience of those who dedicate their lives to serving others while struggling with the complexities of personal relationships.

• Displayed: February 24, 2016 – April 14, 2016
• Number of episodes: 16
• Cast:Song Joong Ki, Song Hye Kyo
• Streaming platform:Netflix

5. Strong Woman By Bong Soon (2017)

Do Bong Soon, a kind-hearted woman with an extraordinary secret, lives a seemingly ordinary life. Although she appears small and delicate, she possesses immense strength—a gift passed down through generations of women in her family. This power, however, must be used wisely to avoid being taken away.

Her life takes a turn when she confronts gang members who have been harassing her. Ahn Min Hyuk, the charming and somewhat childish CEO of Ainsoft, witnesses her superhuman abilities and hires her as a bodyguard after receiving threats.

Min Hyuk quickly falls in love with Bong Soon, but she has feelings for In Guk Doo, a police officer and childhood friend.

As a series of kidnappings plagues her neighborhood, Bong Soon faces a difficult choice: use her powers to confront the criminals or keep her abilities hidden to avoid attracting attention. The situation is further complicated by her love triangle with Min Hyuk and Guk Doo.

Caught between her duty to protect Min Hyuk, her unresolved feelings for Guk Doo, and the moral implications of her strength, Bong Soon's life becomes a whirlwind of challenges. Her journey is a mix of action, romance, and self-discovery as she comes to terms with her extraordinary circumstances.

• Displayed: February 24, 2017 – April 15, 2017
• Number of episodes: 16
• Cast: Park Bo Young, Park Hyung Sik, Kim Ji Soo
• Streaming platforms: Netflix, Viu, Viki

6. Vincent (2021)

Vincenzo Cassano, a Korean-Italian lawyer, returns to South Korea with a hidden agenda. Raised in Italy and working as a Mafia consigliere, Vincenzo aims to recover gold hidden in a corrupt conglomerate's building in Seoul.

He joins forces with Hong Cha-young, a driven and tenacious lawyer known for her uncompromising approach to cases. Their combined efforts focus on exposing the deep-rooted corruption within the conglomerate.

As they face legal battles and deceit, Vincenzo's Mafia strategies clash with Cha-young's legal principles. This creates a dramatic and humorous contrast between Mafia tactics and Korean justice.

Throughout their struggle, Vincenzo and Cha-young’s partnership evolves. Their journey intertwines elements of dark humor and gripping courtroom drama, presenting a powerful narrative of justice and retribution.

• Displayed: February 20, 2021 – May 2, 2021
• Number of episodes: 20
• Cast: Song Joong Ki, Jeon Yeo Been, Ok Taec Yeon
• Streaming platform: Netflix

7. My Love from the Stars (2013)

Do Min-joon, an alien stranded on Earth since the Joseon Dynasty, leads a quiet life with extraordinary abilities. His existence is transformed when he encounters Cheon Song-Yi, a celebrated actress whose fame contrasts sharply with his hidden life.

Min-joon’s powers and mysterious past set him apart, but his remaining three months on Earth complicate his growing relationship. Despite their imminent return to their home planet, their growing love becomes a central focus.

As their romance deepens, external threats emerge, testing their connection. The urgency of Min-joon's departure adds tension to their relationship, making their moments together more precious.

Blending science fiction with emotional depth, the story delves into themes of love, identity and sacrifice as two vastly different lives intertwine against a backdrop of impending separation and supernatural challenges.

• Displayed: December 18, 2013 – February 27, 2014
• Number of episodes: 21
• Cast: Kim Soo Hyun, Jun Ji Hyun
• Streaming platform: Netflix, Viki

8. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo (2016)

Kim Bok-joo, a dedicated weightlifter, balances her athletic aspirations with personal challenges. Her path crosses with Jung Joon-hyung, a swimmer who is also dealing with his own issues.

As they grow closer, their friendship blossoms into a heartfelt romance. Together, they support each other through life's obstacles and their journeys of self-discovery.

Bok-joo's story is filled with humor and heartfelt moments, reflecting her efforts to balance her passion for weightlifting with her personal growth.

Their story captures the essence of youthful joy and struggle. It celebrates themes of perseverance, the strength of friendship, and the beauty of falling in love.

• Displayed: November 16, 2016 – January 11, 2017
• Number of episodes: 16
• Cast: Lee Sung Kyung, Nam Joo Hyuk
• Streaming platform:Netflix

9. What's Wrong with Secretary Kim (2018)

The series follows Lee Young Joon, a self-obsessed vice president of a family-owned company. His high self-esteem leaves him largely indifferent to those around him. His steadfast secretary, Kim Mi So, has worked by his side for nine years, maintaining a strictly professional relationship.

When Mi So decides to resign and focus on her own life, a series of comical misunderstandings arise. Her departure shakes up the routine of the workplace and reveals hidden feelings.

Despite their long-standing working relationship, new dynamics begin to emerge as Lee Young Joon confronts the prospect of losing Mi So. Their professional bond takes on a new light, raising questions about the future of their relationship.

Amidst the humor and confusion, the story explores whether their connection can evolve from a purely work-based interaction into something deeper and more meaningful.

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10. Hotel Del Luna (2019)

In the heart of bustling Seoul stands the Hotel del Luna, an ancient building steeped in mystery and unlike any other. For a millennium, Jang Man-wol has been its enigmatic CEO, bound to the hotel by divine decree. This curse, meant to keep her from succumbing to rage and self-destruction, traps her in a cycle of running the establishment and tending to its ghostly clientele.

Man-wol’s existence is marked by the bitterness of a past betrayal, leaving her struggling to let go of her deep-seated resentment. The only chance she has at freedom lies in overcoming her hatred and finding genuine love—a seemingly impossible task, given her long-standing grievances.

The arrival of Goo Chan-sung, the youngest assistant manager of a large hotel chain, marks a turning point. Chan-sung is reluctantly assigned to manage the Hotel del Luna due to an old agreement his father made with Man-wol. His financial management skills begin to come to the forefront of dealing with the hotel's chaotic expenses and dire financial situation.

As Chan-sung takes over, he brings a new perspective to the hotel’s operations. His efforts may be just what Man-wol needs to confront his past and find the redemption needed to free himself from his curse.

• Displayed: July 13, 2019 – September 1, 2019
• Number of episodes: 16
• Cast:IU, Yeo Jin Goo
• Streaming platform:Viki, Netflix

11. Healer (2016)

Seo Jung-hoo, operating under the alias “Healer,” is a skilled nocturnal courier who thrives in the shadows. His routine missions take a dramatic turn when he crosses paths with Chae Young-shin, a determined reporter pursuing a long-buried conspiracy.

As their lives become entangled, they uncover a web of secrets tied to a decades-old mystery. Together, they face formidable adversaries as they piece together the truth behind the conspiracy.

Despite Jung-hoo's typically reserved demeanor, his feelings for Young-shin begin to soften. Their burgeoning romance unfolds against a backdrop of constant danger and intrigue.

The narrative mixes action, suspense and romance, highlighting the transformative power of truth and love in the face of danger.

• Displayed: December 8, 2014 – February 10, 2015
• Number of episodes: 20
• Cast: Ji Chang Wook, Park Min Young
• Streaming platform:Viki, Netflix

12. It's Okay to Not Be Okay (2020)

Moon Gang Tae works as a community health worker in a psychiatric ward, blessed with intelligence, empathy, and a remarkable ability to deal with stress. His life is organized and dedicated to helping others.

On the other hand, Ko Moon Young, a successful children's author, struggles with antisocial personality disorder. Her behavior often comes across as selfish and arrogant, which makes her difficult to connect with.

Despite their contrasting personalities, their paths cross and they begin to develop a deep connection. As they spend time together, they challenge each other's worldviews and gradually fall in love.

Their journey unfolds with personal and emotional growth as they each confront their issues and come to understand themselves and each other on a deeper level.

• Displayed: June 20, 2020 – August 9, 2020
• Number of episodes: 16
• Cast: Kim Soo Hyun, Seo Yea Ji, Oh Jung Se
• Streaming platform:Netflix

13. Beginning (2020)

Set in the cutting-edge world of tech startups, “Start-Up” delves into the highs and lows of ambition and innovation. The story unfolds at the Sandbox Company, highlighting the journeys of four distinct individuals.

Seo Dal-mi, tired of mundane retail jobs, dreams of launching her own company. Her unwavering ambition and adventurous spirit drive her pursuit of success despite having little to offer initially.

Nam Do-san, once the pride of his family, now leads Sam San Tech, a struggling startup. With a vague vision and limited ambition, his company struggles to gain traction, unaware of the impending changes that could alter its path.

Han Ji-Pyeong, a pragmatic man, plays an important role in the startup ecosystem. He offers invaluable advice to emerging companies, balancing his debt with someone who once helped him. His decisions can make or break startups.

Won In-jae, burdened by a lack of recognition despite her hard work, strives to prove herself in a male-dominated industry. Determined to succeed on her own merits, she seeks to overcome the advantages her privileged background once afforded her.

• Displayed: October 17, 2020 – December 6, 2020
• Number of episodes: 16
• Cast: Bae Suzy, Nam Joo Hyuk, Kim Seon Ho, Kang Han Na
• Streaming platform:Netflix

14. The Heirs (2013)

In a world of privilege and power, “The Heirs” follows the lives of high school students destined to inherit their families’ vast fortunes. Kim Tan, the heir to the Jeguk Group, faces a tumultuous journey when his half-brother, Kim Won, forces him into exile in the United States. This twist of fate is driven by Kim Won’s ambitions to control the family business.

While in America, Kim Tan encounters Cha Eun-sang, who is searching for her sister. Despite his engagement to Yoo Rachel, a fellow heiress, Tan's feelings for Eun-sang deepen, leading to a complicated love triangle. Upon his return to Korea, Tan is confronted by his former friend, Choi Young-do, who now holds a grudge against him.

Choi Young-do, now a rival, begins targeting Eun-sang to provoke Tan. As tensions rise, Young-do's feelings for Eun-sang add another layer of complexity to the situation. The conflict between the two former friends intensifies, affecting Eun-sang's life and Tan's decisions.

Caught between the weight of family expectations and his own desires, Kim Tan must face the challenges of love and duty. The story vividly captures the struggles of balancing personal happiness with responsibilities in the high-stakes world of wealth and power.

• Displayed: October 9, 2013 – December 12, 2013
• Number of episodes: 20
• Cast: Lee Min Ho, Park Shin Hye, Kim Woo Bin
• Streaming platform:Netflix

15. While You Were Sleeping (2017)

Nam Hong Ju has a unique gift: she can predict the future. Despite this, she often finds herself unable to change the events she foresees. Living with her widowed mother, who runs a modest restaurant, Hong Ju's life seems to be a constant struggle against her own visions.

Across the street, rookie prosecutor Jung Jae Chan and his younger brother Seung Won move in. An unusual dream connects Jae Chan with Hong Ju and a ruthless lawyer, Lee Yu Beom. This dream reveals that their destinies are intertwined in unexpected ways.

As Jae Chan and Hong Ju’s paths cross, they begin to share dreams and experience strange connections. These shared visions lead them to understand that their destinies are intertwined and that they may need each other to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.

Their story unfolds with a mix of mystery and supernatural elements. The events that unfold challenge them to confront their deepest fears and take action to change their lives.

• Displayed: September 27, 2017 – November 16, 2017
• Number of episodes: 32
• Cast: Bae Suzy, Lee Jong Suk, Lee Sang Yeob, Jung Hae In
• Streaming platform:Viki

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