5 best Korean shows to binge-watch on Netflix right now

The world of Korean dramas, often referred to as Kdramas, is a unique and captivating realm within the South Korean entertainment industry.

Korean dramas encompass a wide range of genres, from comedy and romance to sci-fi and horror. Many Kdramas are adapted from webcomics, a storytelling format that originated in South Korea.

For Kdrama lovers, Netflix has emerged as a primary platform for accessing some of the best Korean dramas available for US audiences. Whether you're looking for original content or licensed series, Netflix offers a diverse selection of Kdramas to enjoy.

Here are some of the best Korean dramas you can watch on Netflix:

1. Mask Girl (2023-present)

Boasting a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Mask Girl delves into the complex life of Kim Mo-mi, brought to life by three exceptional actresses—Lee Han-byeol, Nana, and Go Hyun-jung. 

Mo-mi, an office worker plagued by insecurities about her appearance, finds solace in her double life as a masked internet personality by night.

However, her life takes a dramatic and ill-fated turn when she unwittingly attracts unwanted attention, leading her into a labyrinth of murder, mysteries, and the intricate web of her multiple personas. 

What sets Mask Girl apart is not only its compelling narrative but also its visually stunning execution.

2. A Time Called You (2023-present)

Based on the Taiwanese television series Someday or One Day, A Time Called You tells the story of Han Jun-hee, portrayed by Jeon Yeo-been, who is grieving the loss of her boyfriend, Yeon-jun, played by Ahn Hyo-seop.

Inexplicably, she finds herself transported back in time, inhabiting the body of a high school student named Kwon Min-ju. Here, she encounters a student who bears a striking resemblance to her deceased boyfriend, Koo Yeon-jun, who existed in the year 1998 as Nam Si-heon.

As Jun-hee grapples with the mysteries of time travel, the series weaves a compelling narrative that explores love, loss, and the enigmatic connections between past and present. The series rightfully got a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

3. The Silent Sea (2021-present)

The Silent Sea brings together a stellar cast including Bae Doona, Gong Yoo, and Lee Joon.

The show's title draws inspiration from the lunar landscape, specifically the Sea of Tranquility, setting the stage for a thrilling and mysterious science fiction narrative.

The story unfolds during a perilous 24-hour lunar mission, as a team of space explorers embarks on a mission to retrieve samples from a long-abandoned lunar research facility shrouded in classified secrets.

Combining elements of suspense and mystery, The Silent Sea garnered widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences, getting 80% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes.

4. King the Land (2023-present)

King the Land unfolds the engaging story of Goo Won, portrayed by Lee Jun-ho, the heir to The King Group, a prestigious luxury hotel conglomerate, who is thrust into a tumultuous inheritance battle.

His life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Cheon Sa-rang, played by Im Yoon-ah, a cheerful hotelier whose sunny disposition is challenged when she encounters Goo Won.

The series, crafted by creator Cheon Sung-il, masterfully navigates the familiar romantic comedy genre, breathing fresh life into it with the irresistible chemistry between the lead couple. As their relationship blossoms, King the Land weaves a heartwarming and comforting narrative that keeps viewers engaged.

The impressive 80% rating on Rotten Tomatoes stands as a testament to its charm and appeal.

5. Bloodhounds (2023-present)

Bloodhounds, boasting an 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, is a high-octane breakneck Netflix action series released on June 9, 2023.

Starring Woo Do-hwan, Lee Sang-yi, Park Sung-woong, and Huh Joon-ho, it follows the story of two young boxers who become entangled with a menacing loan shark as they seek money.

The series is driven by a compelling friendship between the protagonists and Park Sung-woong's chilling performance. What sets it apart is its stunning action and cinematography, making Bloodhounds an instant classic in the world of television entertainment.