Despite the increasingly competitive Korean drama market, many series continue to attract strong attention thanks to their unique storytelling, star-studded cast and powerful word of mouth.
1. The judge returns – 13.6%
At the top of the list is a legal drama centered on a judge who returns to the courtroom after a personal tragedy. Alongside emotionally charged cases, the story gradually reveals secrets linked to the protagonist’s past. Its tense pacing and dramatic storytelling have helped the series maintain impressive momentum on television.
2. Miss Hong Undercover – 13.121%
Set in the late 1990s, this drama combines comedy, office politics and financial investigations. The story follows a financial supervisor who secretly disguises himself as a novice employee to infiltrate a suspicious securities firm. The nostalgic vibes and strong performances from the cast made it particularly popular among mainstream viewers.
3. Perfect Crown – 11.2%
This drama explores brutal power struggles within a royal family where money and ambition make relationships dangerous. Filled with political intrigue and unexpected twists, the series has managed to keep viewers interested in each episode.
4. Ghost Lawyer – 10.0%
Adding fantasy elements to the legal genre, the drama follows a mysterious lawyer who takes on cases involving troubled spirits. Instead of relying on the traditional courtroom format, the series combines mysterious and supernatural themes, appealing to fans of darker and more unusual narratives.
5. Request for Love – 7.890%
The series centers on a former elite internal auditor reassigned to investigate small corporate scandals. What begins as a revenge-driven mission slowly evolves into an emotional office romance. The drama earned praise for its mature relationship dynamics and realistic portrayal of corporate life.
6. To my beloved thief – 7.7%
Love and freedom become difficult choices in this drama. The story follows a professional thief who becomes entangled in a dangerous love affair, building emotional tension while offering a unique mix of suspense and touching moments.
7. The Scarecrow – 7.410%
One of the darker entries on the list, this thriller follows a detective investigating a serial murder case while forced to work alongside a man he deeply despises. From 1988 to 2019, the series explores a 30-year search for the truth, delving into the psychological wounds of its characters.
8. Spring Fever – 5.748%
This healing romance is set in a quiet coastal town. The female protagonist, a reserved teacher recovering from a heartbreak, slowly reopens her heart after meeting a loving man in the countryside. Its gentle pace and comforting atmosphere have made it a favorite among fans of slice-of-life romantic dramas.
9. Siren’s Kiss – 5.504%
Blending romance and mystery, the drama revolves around an insurance fraud investigation linked to a series of suspicious deaths. The appearance of a mysterious woman further complicates the situation. Viewers praised the show’s suspenseful atmosphere and layered narrative.
10. The Practical Guide to Love – 4.968%
Closing out the list is a modern romance centered on a successful hotel manager who excels at work but struggles in relationships. The drama explores the balance between logic and emotion while depicting the romantic pressures faced by adults in contemporary society.
This year’s rankings highlight the continued diversity of Korean dramas. From legal thrillers and crime thrillers to fantasy stories and healing novels, each series has managed to build its own loyal audience. Beyond star power, these strong ratings also reflect viewers’ growing preference for emotionally grounded storytelling, polished scripts and compelling character development.
Sources: Saostar
