As we dive into the second half of 2024, Korean dramas continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their unique storytelling, stunning cinematography, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re new to the world of K-dramas or a seasoned fan looking to update your watchlist, this year promises an exciting lineup of shows that will keep you glued to your screen.
In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 Korean dramas for the first time in 2024, highlighting the most buzz-worthy and critically acclaimed series. From heartwarming romances to gripping thrillers, these favourite Korean dramas are must-watches for anyone looking to experience the best of what 2024 has to offer.
Here’s a curated list of 10 best K-dramas of 2024 that promise to keep you entertained,
Queen of tears
Premiere Date- March 2024
Genre- Melodrama
Cast: Kim Soo-hyun, Kim Ji-won
Queen of Tears is a 2024 romantic Korean drama series that depicts the crisis and rekindling of love between a married couple, Hong Hae-in (Kim Ji-won) and Baek Hyun-woo (Kim Soo-hyun). The series follows their journey as they navigate marital discord and a potential second-chance romance after Hae-in is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. With its compelling storyline, outstanding performances by the lead actors, and superior production values, Queen of Tears has become one of the biggest K-drama hits of 2024, breaking ratings records and garnering widespread critical acclaim.
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Doctor slump
Premiere Date- January 27, 2024
Genre- Medical drama, Romantic comedy
Cast: Park Hyung-Sik, Park Shin-hye
Doctor Slump is a 2024 romantic comedy Korean drama that follows the lives of former high school rivals, Nam Ha-neul (Park Shin-hye) and Yeo Jeong-woo (Park Hyung-sik). After facing personal and professional setbacks, including a medical lawsuit and mental health struggles, they reunite and navigate their challenges together. The series explores themes of healing, friendship, and love, highlighting the pressures of modern life and the journey toward emotional recovery. With its blend of humour and heartfelt moments, Doctor Slump has resonated with audiences, showcasing strong performances from its lead actors and addressing mental health sensitively.
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Marry my husband
Premiere Date- January 1, 2024
Genre- Fantasy, Revenge Drama, Romance
Cast: Park Min-young, Lee Yi-kyung
Marry My Husband is a 2024 Korean drama that follows Kang Ji-won (Park Min-young), who faces a tumultuous marriage with her selfish husband, Park Min-hwan. After discovering she has terminal cancer and catching her husband in an affair with her best friend, Ji-won tragically dies. However, she wakes up ten years in the past, determined to change her fate and prevent her painful future. The series blends elements of romance, comedy, and fantasy, exploring themes of revenge and self-empowerment as Ji-won navigates her second chance at life and love.
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Lovely runner
Premiere Date- April 8, 2024
Genre- Time slip, Fantasy, Romance, Sci-fi
Cast- Kim Hye-yoon, Byeon Woo-seok
Lovely Runner is a romantic K-drama of 2024 that blends time travel and idol culture. The story follows Im Sol (Kim Hye-yoon), a devoted fan of K-pop star Ryu Sun-jae (Byeon Woo-seok). After Sun-jae tragically dies by suicide, Sol miraculously travels back 15 years to her high school days, determined to change his fate. The series explores themes of love, loss, and the impact of mental health, while cleverly subverting typical K-drama tropes. With its engaging plot and strong performances, Lovely Runner has garnered international acclaim and high ratings on streaming platforms like Viki and Netflix.
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The atypical family
Premiere Date-May 4, 2024
Genre- fantasy romance,
Cast- Jang Ki-Yong, Chun Woo-Hee
The Atypical Family is a 2024 fantasy romance Korean drama that follows the Bok family, who were born with superpowers but have lost them due to modern problems like depression and addiction. When con artist Do Da-hae enters their lives, the family begins to heal and regain their abilities. The series explores themes of mental health, family dynamics, and the power of perspective. With its quirky tone, heartwarming moments, and discussion of important societal issues, The Atypical Family has been praised for its unique storytelling and character growth across the 12 episodes.
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Flex x cop
Premiere Date-January 26, 2024
Genres- Action, Comedy, Crime, Romance
Cast- Ahn Bo-Hyun, Park Ji-Hyun
Flex x Cop is a 2024 Korean drama that combines comedy, action, and mystery. The story centers on Jin Yi-soo (Ahn Bo-hyun), a third-generation chaebol with a playful demeanor who becomes a detective in a violent crimes unit. Partnering with the dedicated and experienced detective Lee Gang-hyun (Park Ji-hyun), they tackle various criminal cases while navigating their contrasting backgrounds. The series explores themes of personal growth, responsibility, and camaraderie, showcasing Yi-soo’s journey from a pampered heir to a committed officer. With its engaging plot and character development, Flex x Cop has received positive reviews and a strong following.
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Sweet Home
Premiere Date- Season 3 July 19, 2024
Genre: Apocalyptic; Horror; Action; Fantasy, thriller
Cast- Song Kang, Lee Si-Young, Lee Do-Hyun
Netflix’s Sweet Home is an apocalyptic horror Korean drama that aired from 2020 to 2024, based on the popular webtoon by Kim Carnby and Hwang Young-chan. The story follows Cha Hyun-su (Song Kang), a reclusive teenager who moves into the Green Home apartment complex, only to find it besieged by monstrous creatures that reflect the residents’ inner fears and desires. As society collapses, Hyun-su and the other survivors must confront both external threats and their own personal demons. The series is noted for its intense atmosphere, character development, and exploration of themes like isolation and survival amid chaos.
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A Shop for Killers
Premiere Date- January 17, 2024
Genre: Action drama
Cast- Lee Dong-Wook, Kim Hye-Jun, Seo Hyun-Woo, Jo Han-Sun, Park Ji-Bin
A Shop for Killers is a 2024 South Korean action thriller that follows Jeong Ji-An (Kim Hye-Jun), a young woman whose life is turned upside down after her uncle, Jeong Jin-Man (Lee Dong-Wook), mysteriously dies. Raised by her uncle after the tragic loss of her parents, Ji-An discovers the dark secrets of the shopping mall he operates. As skilled assassins target her, she must rely on the training her uncle provided to survive. The series blends suspense, action, and mystery, showcasing intense fight sequences and a gripping storyline that keeps viewers engaged throughout its eight episodes. You can stream the Korean drama on Hulu.
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Parasyte: The Grey
Premiere Date- April 5, 2024
Based on Manga series Parasyte by Hitoshi Iwaaki
Cast- Jeon So-Nee, Koo Kyo-Hwan, Lee Jung-Hyun
Parasyte: The Grey is a 2024 sci-fi horror Korean drama based on Hitoshi Iwaaki’s manga. The story begins when mysterious parasites fall from the sky, infiltrating humans and causing chaos. Jeong Su-In (Jeon So-nee) becomes host to a parasite that fails to control her mind, leading to an unusual cohabitation. Meanwhile, Seol Kang-Woo (Koo Kyo-hwan) searches for his missing sister, and Choi Jun-Kyung (Lee Jung hyun) leads a task force dedicated to exterminating these creatures after losing her husband to them. The series, released on Netflix, combines action and horror while exploring themes of survival and human connection.
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Killer Paradox
Premiere Date- February 9, 2024
Genre: Crime thriller; Dark comedy;
Cast- Choi Woo-Sik, Son Suk-Ku,Lee Hee-Jun
A Killer Paradox is a 2024 thriller that follows Lee Tang (Choi Woo-shik), an ordinary university student who accidentally kills a rude customer during a confrontation at his part-time job. Unbeknownst to him, the victim is a notorious serial killer. As Lee Tang grapples with guilt, he discovers he has a supernatural ability to identify evil individuals, leading him to become a vigilante who targets those deserving of punishment. Meanwhile, Detective Jang Nan-gam (Son Suk-ku) pursues him, suspecting Lee Tang’s involvement in the recent murders. The series combines elements of dark humour and moral dilemmas.
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Conclusion
With 2024 already delivering an array of standout series, these top 10 K-dramas are sure to satisfy your binge-watching cravings. Each show offers something unique, from engaging storylines to exceptional performances, ensuring that there’s a perfect pick for every type of viewer.
Whether you’re revisiting old favourites or discovering new favourites, the K-dramas of 2024 so far have set a high standard for entertainment. Don’t miss out on these incredible series that are shaping up to be some of the best in the genre. Happy watching!