Korean dramas, also known as K-dramas, have taken the world by storm in recent years, with their incredible storytelling, relatable characters, and impeccable production values. While shows like Crash Landing on You, Goblin, and Vincenzo have garnered massive global followings, there are several underrated gems in the world of K-dramas that are just waiting for their moment to shine. If you’re looking for something new, here are some K-dramas that deserve more attention.
1. My Mister (2018)
Genre: Drama, Slice of Life
Starring: Lee Sun-kyun, IU
If you’re looking for a K-drama with emotional depth and a story that explores the complexities of life, My Mister should be on your radar. Despite receiving critical acclaim, this drama didn’t quite reach the global recognition it deserves. The story follows the unlikely friendship between a middle-aged man, who is struggling with his life, and a young woman burdened by her painful past. The series delves into themes of human suffering, connection, and redemption, offering a raw and poignant look at the struggles of everyday life. With its deeply human storyline and brilliant performances, particularly by IU, My Mister is a hidden gem in the world of K-dramas.
2. Misty (2018)
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Crime
Starring: Kim Nam-joo, Ji Jin-hee
Misty is a crime thriller that flew under the radar for many viewers, but it deserves a spot on this list. The series revolves around a prominent news anchor, who becomes embroiled in a scandal and a murder investigation. It’s a beautifully executed thriller, with great twists and turns that keep the audience on edge. Kim Nam-joo’s performance as the flawed yet strong female protagonist is nothing short of remarkable. If you love gripping mysteries with complex characters, Misty is a must-watch.
3. Stranger (2017)
Genre: Thriller, Crime, Legal
Starring: Cho Seung-woo, Bae Doona
Stranger (also known as Forest of Secrets) is a legal thriller that follows a prosecutor who teams up with a police officer to uncover corruption in the prosecutor’s office. This drama blends suspense with legal drama, offering a compelling narrative that highlights political corruption and the fight for justice. The chemistry between the lead characters, Cho Seung-woo and Bae Doona, is outstanding, and the plot is filled with unexpected twists. Despite being critically acclaimed and winning several awards, Stranger didn’t gain the level of popularity it truly deserved. It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves crime dramas and complex mysteries.
4. The Third Charm (2018)
Genre: Romance, Drama
Starring: Seo Kang-joon, Esom
A refreshing take on the classic romantic drama, The Third Charm follows the relationship of two individuals who meet at different stages of their lives and explore how time and circumstances shape their connection. The drama is unique because it spans several years, offering a long-term perspective on love and relationships. Despite the beautiful storytelling and great performances from the lead cast, the series didn’t get the attention it deserves. The narrative is touching, with moments of humor and deep reflection, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of romantic dramas.
Watch The Third Charm on Netflix
5. Live (2018)
Genre: Drama, Police Procedural
Starring: Lee Kwang-soo, Jung Yu-mi
Set against the backdrop of a police precinct, Live is a realistic portrayal of the struggles and challenges that police officers face in their everyday lives. It’s not just a crime procedural; it’s a character-driven drama that dives deep into the emotional and psychological toll of police work. With strong performances from Lee Kwang-soo and Jung Yu-mi, the drama captures the human side of law enforcement, including personal sacrifices and the heavy burden of responsibility. Live is one of those underrated gems that truly deserves more recognition for its heartfelt and authentic storytelling.
6. Chicago Typewriter (2017)
Genre: Fantasy, Historical, Romance
Starring: Yoo Ah-in, Im Soo-jung, Go Kyung-pyo
Chicago Typewriter is a genre-blending K-drama that mixes fantasy, historical fiction, and romance. It tells the story of a writer from the 1930s who, after being reincarnated, struggles with his previous life’s unresolved issues. The plot alternates between the present day and the past, as the characters uncover secrets that span several lifetimes. Despite its unique premise and talented cast, Chicago Typewriter did not get the widespread recognition it deserved. The mix of genres and the depth of the story make it a fascinating watch for those looking for something different in their K-drama lineup.
Watch Chicago Typewriter on Viki
7. Save Me (2017)
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Drama
Starring: Ok Taec-yeon, Seo Ye-ji, Woo Do-hwan
Save Me is a dark, suspenseful drama that centers on a young woman trapped in a religious cult. When she reaches out to a group of childhood friends for help, they must risk everything to save her from the dangerous cult. The show is gritty, intense, and deeply emotional, with brilliant performances by the lead cast. Save Me dives deep into themes of manipulation, power, and control, making it an underrated yet impactful K-drama that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
8. Nine: Nine Times Time Travel (2013)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Thriller
Starring: Lee Jin-wook, Jo Yoon-hee
This time-travel drama follows a man who stumbles upon a mysterious incense that allows him to travel back in time. He attempts to use this power to prevent the tragic death of his family. However, as with any time-travel drama, the consequences of changing the past are far-reaching. Nine is an intriguing blend of sci-fi and emotional drama, with complex characters and an engaging storyline. Unfortunately, it didn’t receive the recognition it deserved internationally, but it is definitely worth watching for fans of time-travel stories.
Conclusion
K-dramas have become a global phenomenon, but beyond the most popular shows, there are numerous underrated gems that deserve to be seen. From heart-wrenching emotional dramas to thrilling mysteries, these underrated K-dramas offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned K-drama fan or new to the genre, don’t miss the chance to dive into these hidden treasures.
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If you’ve watched any of these underrated gems or have other recommendations, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
