Among these, the dramas that have achieved the highest ratings have captivated viewers with compelling stories and exceptional direction, providing timeless emotions. Let’s take a brief look at the stories and appeal of these high-concept historical dramas.
10. The Moon That Embraces the Sun (MBC, 2012)
This drama depicts the love story between a king and a shaman during the Joseon era. Starring Kim Soo-hyun and Han Ga-in, it reached a peak viewership rating of 42.2%. The visually stunning production has gained enormous popularity, especially among younger viewers.
9. Real Story: Jang Hui-bin (SBS, 1995)
Centering on Jang Hui-bin, a notable figure of the Joseon era under the reign of King Sukjong, this drama featured Jung Sun-kyung in the lead role. The dramatic conflict with Queen Inhyeon (played by Kim Won-hee) captivated viewers, reaching a peak rating of 42.9%.
8. The King and the Queen (KBS, 1998~2000)
Ranging from the death of King Munjong to the fall of King Yeonsan, this drama authentically depicted the power struggles within the Joseon Dynasty. With a stellar cast including Im Dong-jin and Chae Shi-ra, it achieved a maximum rating of 44.3%.
7. Queen Seondeok (MBC, 2009)
Focusing on Silla’s first female monarch, Queen Seondeok, this drama showcased her struggles with power. Starring Lee Yo-won, Go Hyun-jung, and Uhm Tae-woong, the series was a rare success for a female-led story, scoring 44% at its peak.
6. Dragon’s Tears (KBS, 1996~1998)
This series depicted the establishment of Joseon and the life of King Taejong Yi Bang-won. Featuring Kim Mu-saeng as Yi Seong-gye and Yoo Dong-geun as Yi Bang-won, the drama’s compelling depiction of political intrigue reached 49.6%.
5. The Ladies of the Palace (SBS, 2001~2002)
A political drama focusing on Queen Munjeong during King Jungjong’s reign. With Jeon In-hwa as Queen Munjeong and Kang Soo-yeon as Jung Nan-jung, their strong performances brought the drama to a peak of 49.9%.
4. Jumong (MBC, 2006~2007)
This drama chronicles the life of Jumong, the founder of Goguryeo, starring Song Il-kook. The series delved into Jumong’s journey as a hero and his complex family dynamics, earning a maximum rating of 51.9%.
3. The Jewel in the Palace (MBC, 2003~2004)
A worldwide hit, this drama starring Lee Young-ae followed the journey of Jang Geum, Joseon’s first female doctor. It recorded an incredible ratings spike of 57.8%, captivating viewers with its culinary and medical themes.
2. Taejo Wang Geon (KBS, 2000~2002)
This drama chronicled the life of Wang Geon, the founder of Goryeo, focusing on his unification of the Last Three Kingdoms. With Choi Soo-jong delivering a powerful performance, it achieved a stunning 60.2% viewership.
1. Like Jun (MBC, 1999~2000)
The top-rated historical drama of all time, “Hur Jun”, chronicles the life of the legendary Joseon doctor Hur Jun. Starring Jun Kwang-ryul, the series highlights Hur Jun’s rise from a poor background to medical greatness. With a maximum score of 63.7%, it remains unprecedented in the history of Korean historical drama.
Source: Wikitree
