This List of 50 Best Korean Historical Dramas will Make you Jump Back into the Past

People are watching dramas based on several aspects, and one of the new interests that viewers are indulging in is historical Korean dramas. It is good to have a vivid knowledge of how heroes emerged or how time changed so did humans. Historical Korean dramas consist of a lot of action, fantasy, sometimes comedy, and romance within it.

With the growing popularity and craze of Korean pop culture, people also want to go back to the past and gain a deeper understanding of Korean Culture. Which this article on The Best Korean Historical Dramas will help you with. It is hard to tell which drama is the best, but we surely can provide you with a list of some of the best dramas that go deeper into the roots of the k culture.

Table of Contents

50) Mr. Queen (2020)

Director: Yoon Sung-sik
Writer: Park Gye-ok, Choi Ah-il
Cast: Shin Hye-sun as Kim So-yong, Seo Eun-sol as young Kim So-Yong, Kim Jung-hyun as Yi Won-beom, Seol In-ah as Jo Hwa Jin, Jae-won Lee, Kim Tae-Woo.
IMDb Ratings: 8.9/10
Where to Watch: Hulu

The Plot of Mr. Queen

Mr. Queen is one of the best Korean historical dramas with Jang Bong Hwan as its protagonist, who is a chef by profession working at Blue House. He had a smooth and easy-going life until he found himself to be present in the body of Queen Cheorin.

Queen Cheorin will take you back to the Joseon Period and show you Korean history. King Cheoljong was the ruler of that era, but the actual power was held by Queen Sunwon. Queen Cheorin will go on finding the actual truth behind the king and has a lot of twists and turns in the process of knowing his actual side.

Here is a glimpse of all the funny moments from the show

49) Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo

Director: Kim Kyu-tae
Writer: Cho Yoon-young
Cast: Lee Joon-gi as Wang So, Lee Ji-eun as Go Ha-jin, Kang Ha-neul as Wang Wook, Kim San-ho as Wang Mu, Hong Jong-hyun as Wang Yo, Yoon Sun-woo as Wang Won.
IMDb Ratings: 8.8/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video

This true historical drama will take you back to the Goryeo Dynasty.

The story revolves around Go Ha-jin, a young girl of 25 years who one day wakes up and sees herself to be present in the year 941 within the body of Hae Soo. The ruler of this age is King Taejo. She develops a liking for Prince Wang Wook but later falls for Lee Joon-gi, Wang So. A historical drama ought to have action, and so does this series with a lot of political drama.

Response from the Audience

im actually not a fan of historical dramas but moon lovers #scarletheartryeo ruined me. the kdrama was so good with the most heart wrenching, painful and traumatic ending pic.twitter.com/6jQOptSLWE
— lejla (@hayirdirramo) October 31, 2022

Even if Moon Lovers didn't get high ratings in Korea, it is well-loved by other countries. Many international fans are watching the drama. 😊
— Scarlet Heart: Ryeo (@MoonLoversSBS) September 5, 2016

48) Six Flying Dragons

Director: Shin Kyung-soo
Writer: Kim Young-hyun, Park Sang-yeon
Cast: Yoo Ah-in as Yi Bang-won, Kim Da-reum as young Yi Bang-won, Kim Myung-min as Sambong Jeong Do-jeon, Shin Se-Kyung as Boon-yi, Byun Yo-han as Ddang-sae, Yoon Kyun-sang as Moo-hyul.
IMDb Ratings: 8.9/10
Where to Watch: Netflix, Viu

Six Flying Dragons is an excellent example of a historical drama that revolves around prince Yi Bang-won. The story basically shows how the Joseon Dynasty came into being in Korea and how struggles and chaos occurred surrounding the dynasty.

There are several authentic characters and fictional ones to enhance the plot. Still, it is one of the best historical Korean dramas to date and provides accurate Korean cultural details. If you have not watched it, do it as soon as possible.

47) Jewel in the Palace

Director: Lee Byung-hoon
Writer: Kim Young-hyun
Cast: Lee Young-ae as Seo Jang-geum, Ji Jin-hee as Min Jeong-ho, Hong Ri-na as Choi Geum-young, Im Ho as King Jungjong, Yang Mi-Kyung as Han Baek-young, Kyeon Mi-ri as Choi Seong-geum
IMDb Ratings: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 46%
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki, Prime Video(Season 1)

Dae Jang Geum, famous also as Jewel in the Palace, depicts the history of the reigns of King Yeonsan, King Seongjong, and King Jungjong. The story begins by showing how King Seongjong has arranged to kill his wife Queen Yun and the future king Yeonsan-gun and he succeeds in doing so.

Jewel in the palace.
I laughed and cried. Feel in love with Korean culture, food, clothes and language https://t.co/ylK2XiuxO1
— Stevie⭐🦁 (@DuchessStevie) October 30, 2022

There is a lot in this story to concentrate upon but do know that the protagonist is Jang-Geum, who becomes the first woman to be so powerful in that time, and that is what is the most fascinating twist here. The plot is based on a true story and is thus considered one of the dramas to date.

46) The Red Sleeve

Director: Jung Ji-in, Song Yeon-hwa
Writer: Jung Hae-ri
Cast: Lee Jun-ho as Yi San, Lee Se-young as Seong Deok-Im, Kang Hoon as Hong Deok, Lee Deok-hwa as King Yeongjo, Jang Hee-jin as Queen Jeongsun.
IMDb Ratings: 8.8/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki

If you love historical dramas and want some romance in them, this Korean drama will be a good choice. The story draws its inspiration from the novel of the same name by Kang Mi-Kang, The Red Sleeve.

The story focuses on the king of the Joseon dynasty, King Jeongjo, according to whom the nation comes first. His utmost devotion is towards his nation and its betterment, and he does not want to pay attention to any other matter. However, he soon gets involved in a love relationship with Sung Deok-Im. The love story is worthy of being watched, and it is also an excellent historical drama.

45) Chicago Typewriter

Director: Kim Cheol-kyu
Writer: Jin Soo-wan
Cast: Yoo Ah-in as Han Se-joo, Im Soo-jung as Jeon Seol, Go Kyung-pyo as Yoo Jin-oh, Kwak Si-yang, Jo Woo-jin as Gal Ji-suk, Oh Na-ra as Secretary Kang.
IMDb Ratings: 8.4/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki

This Korean Historical Drama depicts the lives and struggles of 3 fighters during the Japanese occupation of Korea. The trio is reincarnated as a writer, ghostwriter, and fan who tries to find out the reason for getting haunted.

Yoo Ah In about his underrated works (by Koreans only); #ChicagoTypewriter & #BurningMovie:
On Chicago Typewriter: "I personally liked it so much [..] one of my favorite projects. [..] Many people who watched it belatedly say they love it so much [..] I think it's a good drama." pic.twitter.com/kbeBEITbWb
— Yoo Ah In Fanbase (@SIKseekers) November 27, 2021

This drama has been executed excellently, making it worth watching, and the quest to find out the truth is indeed intriguing and not at all boring.

44) 100 Days My Prince

Director: Lee Jong-jae, Nam Sung-woo
Writer: No Ji-sul
Cast: Do Kyung-soo as Lee Yul, Nam Ji-hyun as Yeon Hong-shim, Jo Sung-ha as Kim Cha-eon, Han So-hee as Kim So-hye, Kim Seon-ho as Jung Jae-yoon, Kim Jae-young as Moo-yeon.
IMDb Ratings: 7.9/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

Lee Yul belongs to a noble family for which his friends remain quiet despite getting oppressed by him. Yi-seo does not remain quiet and protests his action, which leads Yun to fall for her. He continues to become more gentle and studious in order to impress her.

Enoying #100DaysMyPrince for the 30th time while waiting for #BadProsecutorEP10 ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥 #KYUNGSOO pic.twitter.com/fiUxvJAW1I
— Odtsol (@Odtsol17) November 3, 2022

43) Kingdom

Director: Kim Seong-hun, Park In-je
Writer: Kim Eun-hee
Cast: Ju Ji-hoon as Lee CHang, Bae Doona as Seo-bi, Kim Sung-kyu as Yeong shin, Jeon Seok-ho as Cho Beom-pal, Ryu Seung-ryong as Lord Cho Hak-ju.
IMDb Ratings: 8.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 96%
Where to Watch: Netflix

The drama is set in the Joseon period and focuses on Crown Prince Lee Chang, who is blamed for being a traitor. He goes on a quest to find out what happened to his father. At this time, the village is also suffering from a plague, and he must, at any cost, find a remedy for it.

The story is well-woven and perfectly executed, making the drama worth watching and satisfying.

42) Mr. Sunshine

Director: Lee Eung-bok
Writer: Kim Eun-sook
Cast: Lee Byung-hun as Eugene Choi, Kim Tae-ri as Go Ae-shin, Yoo Yeon-seok as Goo Dong-mae, Kim Min-jung as Lee Yang-hwa, Byun Yo-han as Kim Hui-seong.
IMDb Ratings: 8.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 94% (audience score)
Where to Watch: Netflix

Mr. Sunshine depicts the era between the 1800s to the early 1900s before the Japanese occupation. This drama portrays several actual incidents, and even some characters are true.

The story is about a young boy who moves to the US after the Shinmiyangyo incident and later returns to Korea. He also falls for a woman of high birth after that.

41) Queen Seondeok

Director: Kim Geun-hong, Park Hong-kyun
Writer: Kim Young-hyun, Park Sang-yeon
Cast: Lee Yo-won as Princess Deokman, Go Hyun-jung as Lady Mishil, Park Ye-jin as Princess Cheonmyeong, Uhm Tae-woong as Kim Yushin,Kim Nam-gil as Bidam.
IMDb Ratings: 8.8/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten,

This series shows the period from King Jinheung’s reign to Queen Seondeok’s reign. Its focuses on the life of Deokman, who fell apart from her family and was raised in a remote area in China. She learns lessons that can help her return to Korea and find her twin sister.

40) Dong Yi

Director: Lee Byung-hoon, Kim Sang-hyub
Writer: Kim Yi-young
Cast: Han Hyo-joo as Choe Dong-yi, Ji Jin-hee as King Sukjong, Lee So-yeon as Jang Ok-jeong, Bae Soo-bin as Cha Chun-soo, Park Ha-sun as Queen Min, Jung Jin-young as Seo Young-gi.
IMDb Ratings: 8.2/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki, Prime Video

The story of Dong Yi revolves around a maid who, from a mere consort, becomes the mother of a Korean King in the 21st century, Yeongjo. The background of this story is set in the Chosun Dynasty.

The drama is full of adventure, romance, actions, and thrills and is one of the most favorite Korean dramas.

39) Jang Ok-Jung, Living by Love

Director: Boo Sung-chul
Writer: Choi Jung-mi
Cast: Kim Tae-hee as Jang Ok-jung, Yoo Ah-in as Lee Soon, Hong Soo-hyun as Queen Inhyeon, Jae Hee as Hyun Chi-Soo, Lee Sang-yeob, Han Seung-yeon as Choi Sui Chee.
IMDb Ratings: 7.7/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video, Rakuten Viki

This drama is loosely based on the concubine of Korean King Sukjong, Jang Ok Jung. This drama depicts her journey from a child to an adult. Her significant growth from a mere concubine to a queen was intriguing to watch. However, soon again, she was dethroned. She was also held guilty of several charges that she did not commit and put to death.

38) Jumong

Director: Lee Joo-hwan
Writer: Choi Wan-Kyu, Jung Hyung-Soo
Cast: Song II-gook as Jumong, Han Hye-jin as Soseono, Kim Seung-soo as Prince Daeso, Jun Kwang-ryul as King Geumwa, Oh Yeon-soo as Lady Yuhwa.
IMDb Ratings: 8.1/10
Where to Watch: Facebook Watch

The story shows that Yesoya and Yuri go missing, and there is no trace of where they have gone, whether they are even alive or not. It has been a long time since the duo has not returned and is thus assumed to be dead. Jumong marries Soseono in the meantime, and the duo rules Goguryeo for over a decade. Jumong soon gets to see Yesoya and Yuri, who lived in exile all these years.

37) Sungkyunkwan Scandal

Director: Kim Won-seok, Hwang In-hyuk
Writer: Kim Tae-hee
Cast: Park Min-youngbas Kim Yun-hee, Park Yoo-chun as Yi Seon-jun, Yoo Ah-in as Mun Jae-sin, Song Joong-ki as Gu Yong-ha.
IMDb Ratings: 7.8/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

This drama is all cool and exciting to watch. The story narrates how Kim Yoon-hee disguises herself as Kim Yoon-shik, her brother, to help her family.

She works wherever she can since the society of that time does not allow girls to have the proper education or earn money. However, she will later be acknowledged for her talents, but her suffering to be on the top is worth watching.

36) Love in the Moonlight

Director: Kim Sung-yoon, Baek Sang-hoon
Writer: Kim Min-jung, Im Ye-jin
Cast: Park Bo-gum as Lee Yeong, Kim Yoo-jung as Ra-on, Jung Jinyoung as Kim Yoon-sung, CHae Soo-bin as Jo Ha-yeon, Kwak Dong-yeon as Kim Byung-yeon.
IMDb Ratings: 7.9/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

This historical Korean drama narrates the life of Crown Prince Lee Yeong from his birth to his becoming the next monarch. It shows how he grew and passed several tests to become the ruler and also his love interest for Hong Ra-on, who is basically a eunuch. Watch the series to know all details about him.

35) The King’s Affection

Director: Song Hyun-wook
Writer: Han Hee-jung
Cast: Park Eun-bin as Crown Prince Lee Hwi, Rowoon as Jung Ji-woon, Nam Yoon-su as Lee Hyun, Choi Byung-chan as Kim Ga-on, Bae Yoon-kyung as Shin So-eun, Jung Chae-yeon as Noh Ha-kyung.
IMDb Ratings: 8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 80%(audience score)
Where to Watch: Netflix

The plot of this drama shows how giving birth to twins was not accepted in society and was considered an ominous sign during the Joseon dynasty. When Crown Princess Consort gives birth to twins, an order is passed to execute her daughter. To save her, she is sent outside the palace, and years later, she returns and works as a maid in that palace. When Lee Hwi dies, she takes his palace and develops a love interest for Jung Ji-woon.

34) Empress Ki

Director: Han Hee, Lee Sung-joon
Writer: Jang Young-chul, Jung Kyung-soon
Cast: Ha Ji-won as Ki Seungnyang, Joo Jin-mo as Wang Yoo, Ji Chang-wook as Toghon Temur, Baek Jin-hee as Tanashiri, Kim Seo-hyung as the Empress Dowager.
IMDb Ratings: 8.6/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

This drama is a masterpiece and a famous historical Korean drama revolving around Ki Seungnyang, a Goryeo-born woman. There had been several norms and restrictions, but amid all, she managed to rise above all and marry Toghon Temur and become the empress of the Yuan dynasty. She was in love with Wang Yu but did not marry him. It is a fast-paced drama, so be sure to carefully concentrate on all the details.

33) Bossam: Steal the Fate

Director: Kwon Seok-jang
Writer: Kim Ji-su, Park Chul
Cast: Jung II-woo as Ba-woo, Kwon Yu-ri as Yi Su-kyeong, Shin Hyun-soo as Yi Dae-yeob, Kim Tae-woo as Gwanghaegun, So Hee-jung as So-ui.
IMDb Ratings: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings:
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki

The drama focuses on the custom called Bossam in the Joseon period. According to the custom, a bachelor covers up a widow in a blanket and eventually makes her his partner. This norm changes the life of Ba-woo when he kidnaps Yi Su-kyeong, who is the king’s widowed daughter.

32) Deep Rooted Tree

Deep-Rooted-Tree-Historical-Korean-drama — Source: thetalkingcupboard

Director: Jang Tae-yoo
Writer: Kim Young-hyun, Park Sang-yeon
Cast: Han Suk-kyu as King Sejong, Song Joong-ki as Yi Do, Kang San as child Yi Do, Jang Hyuk as Kang Chae-yoon, Yeo Jin-goo as Ddol-bok, Chae Sang-woo as child Ddol-bok, Shin Se-kyung as So-yi or Dam.
IMDb Ratings: 8.3/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

This drama has been full of violence and deaths since the beginning. The story depicts how King Sejong kills his in-laws and their slaves to save them from King Taejong, but Dam and Ddol manage to get saved. They do not know whether the other one is alive or not. Do vows to take revenge against the king and comes to court when he is a grown-up man. Dam becomes a court lady who has gone speechless due to the trauma. However, it is revealed that the mysterious society called Hidden Root has caused such deaths, and the storyline furthers around this central theme.

31) The Crowned Clown

The-Crowned-Clown-Historical-drama — Source: Netflix

Director: Kim Hee-won
Writer: Kim Seon-deok, Shin Ha-eun
Cast: Yeo Jin-goo as Ha-seon, Kim Sang-kyung as Yi Kyu, Lee Se-young as Yoo So-woon, Jang Gwang as Eunuch Jo.
IMDb Ratings: 8.1/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

This historical Korean drama is set in the background of a mid-Joseon period where struggles and chaos were all around the throne. The king makes a look-alike person like him, a clown sitting on the throne to escape from getting killed. This strategy helped the king get rid of his enemies and rule his kingdom once again with the help of his allies.

30) Moon Embracing The Sun

Director: Kim Do-hoon, Lee Seong-jun
Writer: Jin Soo-wan
Cast: Kim Soo-hyun as Lee Hwon, Han Ga-in as Shaman Wol, Jung il woo as Prince Yangmyung, Kim Min-seo as Lady Yoon Bo-kyung, Sunwoo Jae-duk as Lord Heo Young Yeon-woo.
IMDb Ratings: 8.1/10
Where to Watch: Netflix, Viki Pass Plus

The drama is all about the love affair between King Lee hun and a female shaman Wol. Wol is originally from a noble family and came to be the Crown princess but was soon executed and thus lived as a Shaman after that. If you love romance and want some historical drama, then this drama will be a good choice.

29) The Legend of the Blue Sea

Director: Jin Hyuk, Park Seon-Ho
Writer: Park Ji-eun
Cast: Jun Ji-hyun as Shim Cheong, Lee Min-ho as Heo Joon-jae, Shin Won-ho as Tae-oh, Shin Hae Sun as Cha Shi-ah, Lee Hee-joon as Park Moo.
IMDb Ratings: 8.3/10
Where to Watch: Hulu, Netflix

This Korean drama depicts the life of Shim Cheong, who is a mermaid, and her love affair with a con artist named Heo Joon-jae. They undergo a lot of troubles and dangers together throughout the drama.

Will the duo be able to lead a good life among all the perils that await them? The drama is a must-watch, so try to stream it as soon as possible.

28) The Slave Hunters

The-Slave-Hunters-Historical-drama — Source: Amazon

Director: Kwak Jung-hwan
Writer: Chun Sung-il
Cast: Jang Hyuk as Lee Dae-gil, Oh Ji-ho as Song Tae-ha, Lee Da-hae as Un-nyun, Gong Hyung-jin as Eop-bok, Lee Jong-hyuk as Hwang Chul-woong.
IMDb Ratings: 8.8/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki

The drama is set during the Joseon dynasty and depicts the story of Lee Dae-gil, Song Tae-ha, and Kim Hye-won. The story is about the lives of the salve who were either born as enslaved people or forced to be one after being accused guilty of false charges. It accurately narrates the struggles in the lives of the enslaved people, so try to watch it and get vivid details about the era.

27) The Tale of Nokdu

Director: Kim Dong-hwi
Writer: Baek So-yeon, Lim Ye-jin
Cast: Jang Dong-yoon as Jeon Nok-du, Kim So-hyun as Dong Dong-joo, Kang Tae-oh as Prince Neungyang, Jung Joon-hu as King Gwanghae.
IMDb Ratings: 7.9/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

This Korean historical drama centers around a man named Jeon Nok Du, who disguises himself as a woman in order to live in a community consisting of only women. His aim is to know all mysteries revolving around his birth. He also comes across a young woman who is not willing to be a kisaeng and wants revenge for her family.

26) The Princess’ Man

The-Princess'-Man-Historical-korean-drama — Source: reel good

Director: Kim Jung-min, Park Hyun-suk
Writer: Jo Jung-joo
Cast: Moon Chae-won as Lee Se Ryung, Park Si-hoo as Kim Seung Yoo, Song Jong-ho as Shin Myeon, Lee Soon-jae as Kim Jong Seo, Kim Yeong-cheol as Prince Suyang.
IMDb Ratings: 8.3/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki, Kocowa

The plot of this drama narrates how The Grand Prince Suyang seeks to build an alliance with his brother King Mujong’s associate Kim Jong. He wants to accomplish this mission and thereby proposes having Kim Seung-yoo marry his daughter Se-ryung who is not that much pleased. Will it be happening? Watch the drama and know yourself.

25) Royal Secret Agent

Director: Kim Jung-min
Writer: Kang Min-sun, Park Sung-hoon
Cast: Kim Myung-soo as Sung Yi-gyum, Kwon Na-ra as Hong Da-in, Lee Yi-kyung as Park Chun-sam, Lee Tae-hwan as Sung Yi-beom, Jo Soo-min as Kang Soon-ae.
IMDb Ratings: 7.4/10
Where to Watch: iQIYI

This drama highlights the life of Sung Yi-gyum, an intelligent man and top scorer in the state examination who is currently working in the administrative and research department of the government office. He is found guilty of gambling. As a result, he is given a new duty to investigate corruption. He gets to know Hong Da-in and Park Chun-sam and does his duty as well.

24) Lee San: Wind of the Palace

Director: Lee Byung-hoon
Writer: Kim Yi-young
Cast: Lee Seo-jin as Yi San, Han Ji-min as Seong Song-yeon, Lee Jong-soo as Park Dae-su, Kyeon Mi-ri as Lady Hyegyeong, Park Eun-hye as Queen Hyoui, Lee Soon-jae as King Yeongjo.
IMDb Ratings: 8.2/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki, Kocowa

This historical Korean drama portrays the life of the 22nd ruler of the Joseon dynasty, Jeongjo. He is a prominent ruler and is well remarked in history. He worked for the betterment of his empire and the commoners and was widely remembered for being sympathetic toward them. This is an excellent historical drama so do not miss watching it.

23) Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth

Director: Yoon Sung-sik, Kim Yeong-jo
Writer: Park Eun-yeong
Cast: Park Seo-joon as Moo-myung, Go A-ra as Kim Ah-ro, Park Hyung-sik as Sammaekjong, Sung Dong-il as Lord Kim Wi-hwa, Do Ji-han as Park Ban-ryu.
IMDb Ratings: 8.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 79%
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki, Kocowa

The drama revolves around a group of elites known as Hwarang and consists of young men. They are recruited by the queen to safeguard her, his son, and the throne. This group goes through several turmoils while protecting the Silla Kingdom of 57 BC-AD 935. If you are looking for a great historical drama, watch this one.

22) Lovers of the Red Sky

Director: Jang Tae-yoo
Writer: Ha Eun
Cast: Kim Yoo-jung as Hong Cheon-gi, Ahn Hyo-seop as Ha Ram, Gong Myung as Grand Prince Yangmyeong, Kwak Si-yang, Choi Kwang-il as Hong Eun-ho.
IMDb Ratings: 7.8/10
Where to Watch: Viu

The story of Lovers of the Red Sky revolves around the relationship between Kim Yoo-jung, a genius female painter having a bright personality, and a sightless astrologer named Ahn Hyo-seop. The background of this story is set during the Dan Dynasty. It might not have a satisfying ending, but it is great as a historical drama, so do try to watch it and share your views with us.

21) The Emperor: Owner of the Mask

Director: Noh Do-chul, Park Won-gook
Writer: Park Hye-jin
Cast: Yoo Seung-ho as Crown Prince Yi Sun or Lee Sun, Kim So-hyun as Lady Han Ga-eun, Kim Myung-soo as Commoner Yi-sun, Yoon So-hee as Kim Hwa-gun, Heo Joon-ho as Kim Dae-mok.
IMDb Ratings: 7.5/10
Where to Watch: MX Player, Netflix

The drama shows the story of King Yi Yoon and his son, who is born during the Joseon dynasty. But to keep his son alive, he must give away the power of the Bureau of Water supply to the hands of a secret society named Pyunsoo Group and covers his son’s face with a mask to safeguard him.

The story depicts how Crown Prince Lee Sun goes on a mission to know why he is given the mask. He is determined to fight against this secret group and end the people’s suffering.

20) Queen for Seven Days

Director: Lee Jung-sub, Song Ji-won
Writer: Choi Jin-young
Cast: Park Min-young as Queen dan kyung, Yeon Woo-jin as Lee Yeok, Lee Dong-gun as King Yeonsangun, Do Ji-won as Queen Dowager Jasun.
IMDb Ratings: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 100%
Where to Watch: Netflix

The story focuses on Queen Dan Kyung, the daughter of an eminent politician during the Joseon dynasty. She gets into a relationship with Prince Lee Yuk. There are several twists and turns as well as evolvement in the plot, and we see her emerging as the queen but also getting expelled from the palace within a week or seven days.

If you want to know what awaits her in the future, you must start streaming it now.

19) Gu Family Book

Director: Shin Woo-chul, Kim Jung-hyun
Writer: Kang Eun-kyung
Cast: Lee Seung-gi as Choi Kang-chi, Bae Suzy as Dam Yeo-woo, Sung Joon as Gon, Lee Yu-bi as Park Chung-jo, Yoo Yeon-seok as Park Tae-seo, Choi Jin-hyuk as Gu Wol-ryung.
IMDb Ratings: 8.1/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video

This is a historical fantasy and revolves around the protagonist Choi Kang Chi. Seo Hwa, Kang Chi’s mother, was basically a human, but his father was not. His father, Wol Ryung was a gumiho and thus Kang Chi is half human and half gumiho. He grew up in another family and thus does not know his true nature and its reasons.

18) Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung

Director: Kang II-soo, Han Hyun-hee
Writer: Kim Ho-soo
Cast: Shin Se-kyung as Go Hae-ryung, Cha Eun-woo as Yi Rim, Park Ki-woong as Crown Prince Yi Jin, Gong Jung-hwan as Goo Jae-kyeong, Yang Jo-a as Seol-geum.
IMDb Ratings: 8.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 100%(audience score)
Where to Watch: Netflix

This drama is full of new dimensions that are intriguing to watch. It focuses on a 19th-century woman who faces a lot of criticism and negative comments for being a historical writer. Shin Se Kyung is also a historian who helps her get a name in society. She also comes across Cha Eun Woo, who is a romantic novelist.

17) The Scholar Who Walks the Night

Director: Lee Sung-joon
Writer: Jang Hyun-joo
Cast: Lee Joon-gi as Kim Sung-yeol, Lee Yu-bi as Jo Yang-sun, Shim Chang-min as Crown Prince Lee Yoon, Lee Soo-hyuk as Gwi, Kim So-eun as Lee Myung-hee.
IMDb Ratings: 7.4/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video

If you are into fantasy, then watching this drama will be a good choice. The story is set in the Joseon dynasty and has a lot to do with vampires. Jo Yang-sun disguises herself as a male bookseller and meets a scholar Kim Sung-yeol who is actually a vampire. The truth of such a mystery comes into the limelight from then onward. If you love historical drama and want to indulge in fantasy, this drama will be an excellent choice to watch.

16) Queen In-hyun’s Man

Director: Kim Byung-soo
Writer: Song Jae-jung
Cast: Ji Hyun-woo as Kim Bung-do, Yoo In-na as Choi Hee-jin, Kim Jin-woo as Han Dong-min, Ga Deuk-hee, Jin Ye-sol as Yoon-wol, Um Hyo-sup as Minister Min Ahm.
IMDb Ratings: 7.9/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video

The story of this series is about a man belonging to the Joseon era who time travels to the current day Seoul and falls for a woman who is an actress by profession. This is not as easy as it seems. Such love brings consequences as well that are not easy to handle. Watch this historical drama and know more.

Idk why but this drama couple has always been one of my comfort couples in the whole kdramaland, like Idek how many time I have replayed this series. 🤧🤧🤧 #QueenInhyunsMan pic.twitter.com/oFdh2J36QR
— Abbie #NewLifeBegins brainrot era ♡ ❄️🌿 (@LovesGyeoulie) November 20, 2021

15) My Country: The New Age

Director: Kim Jin-won
Writer: Chae Seung-dae
Cast: Yang Se-jong as Seo Hwi, Woo Do-hwan as Nam Seon-ho, Cho Yi-hyun as Seo Yeon, Seolhyun as Han Hui-jae, Hong Ji-yoon as Hwa-wol, In Gyo-jin as Park Moon-bok.
IMDb Ratings: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 90%(audience score)
Where to Watch: Netflix

This drama depicts how once true friends, Seo Hwi and Nam Seon-ho, become enemies. Their enmity has risen from utter confusion or misunderstanding that is hard to eradicate. They try to safeguard their respective countries and want to do everything for themselves and the people they love. The background takes place from the end of the Goryeo dynasty till the beginning of the Joseon dynasty.

14) Shine or Go Crazy

Director: So Hyung-suk, Yoon Ji-hoon
Writer: Kwon In-chan, Kim Sun-mi
Cast: Jang Hyuk as Wang So, Oh Yeon-seo as Shin Yool, Lee Hanee as Hwangbo Yeo-won, Lim Ju-hwan as Wang Wook, Lee Deok-hwa as Wang Shik-ryum, Ryu Seung-soo as Wang Yo.
IMDb Ratings: 7.5/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video

The story narrates the life of Wang So, a prince of Goryeo. Because of a prophecy, he is exiled from the palace as it says that there will be bloodshed for him. During his absence, Wamg UK rises in power, and Wang So lives all alone, far away from the palace. He comes across Shin Yool, who also escapes death because of a prophecy and the two soon fall for each other.

13) My Sassy Girl

Director: Oh Jin-seok
Writer: Yoon Hyo-je
Cast: Joo Won as Gyeon Woo, Oh Yeon-seo as Princess Hye-myung, Lee Jung-shin as Kang Joon-young, Kim Yoon-hye as Jung Da-yeon, Son Chang-min as King Hwijong.
IMDb Ratings: 7/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

The plot of this series is about the growth of affection between Gyeon Woo and Hye-myung. Gyeon is a scholar, and Hye-myung is a princess who often flees from her palace searching for her dethroned mother. On one such elopement, she meets Gyeon, and the two go fond of each other and, at last, are in love. It is set in the Joseon dynasty era.

*My Sassy Girl*
If a man is in love with a crazy princess, he won't get married to someone else no matter how hard you try, ommoniiiie. Bianeeeee 😌💜💙#koreandrama #kdrama #kdramas #mysassygirl #joowoon #ohyeonseo #leejungshin #yoonseah pic.twitter.com/rDHbfvyXHP
— Daebaaak 👀👀🔥🔥😉🙃 (@Tulip96200385) March 9, 2022

12) River Where the Moon Rises

Director: Yoon Sang-ho
Writer: Han Ji-hoon
Cast: Na In-woo as On Dal, Ji Soo as On Dal, Kim So-hyun as PrincessPyeonggang, Lee Ji-hoon as General Go Geon, Choi Yu-hwa as Hae Mo-yong, Kang Ha-neul as General On Hyeop.
IMDb Ratings: 7.7/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki

The story of this drama depicts the love relationship between Princess Pyeonggang and On Dal, who are characters present in the Goguryeo folktale. Princess Pyeonggang grew up as an assassin and fought to win her throne back. On Dal is a peace-loving man, yet the two fall for each other and go through several critical situations together.

They just are this whole scene. Their acting is just 🔥
Try not to cry challenge 🥲 because I shouldn't be one only one ugly crying rn. #KimSoHyun #NaInWoo #RiverWhereTheMoonRises https://t.co/xUpD9JguxE pic.twitter.com/kqYIixsWwf
— puhrple sso ♡ (@puhrple_sso) August 31, 2022

11) Faith

Director: Kim Jong-hak, Shin Yong-hwi
Writer: Song Ji-na
Cast: Lee Min-ho as Choi Young, Kim Hee-sun as Yoo Eun-soo, Yu Oh-seong as Ki-chul, Ryu Deok-hwan as King Gongmin, Park Se-young as Queen Noguk.
IMDb Ratings: 8.1/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video

Get ready to be in the past and present at a time. The drama revolves around a plastic surgeon from the current age and a warrior from the past, the Goryeo period. She goes back to 700 years before and gets attracted to the kidnapper. The story is intriguing and well-fabricated, making it one of the most-watched Korean historical dramas.

10) Arang and the Magistrate

Director: Kim Sang-ho, Jung Dae-yoon
Writer: Jung Yoon-jung
Cast: Shin Min-a as Arang, Lee Joon-gi as Kim Euh-oh, Yeon Woo-jin as Joo-wal, Yoo Seung-ho as Jade Emperor, Hwang Bo Ra as Bang-wool, Han Jung-soo as Mu-young.
IMDb Ratings: 7.4/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video

This drama is basically a romantic comedy that depicts the life of Arang after her death. She did not know who had killed her, and to know the culprit, she was back again. Only Eun Oh can see her and the duo, thus finding out who the killer is. It is full of romance and laughter, so watch it soon if you have not.

9) Youth of May

Director: Song Min-yeob
Writer: Lee Kang
Cast: Lee Do-hyun as Hwang Hee-tae, Go Min-si as Kim Myung-hee, Lee Sang-yi as Lee Soo-chan, Keum Sae-rok as Lee Soo-ryeon, Oh Man-seo as Hwang Gi-nam.
IMDb Ratings: 8.7/10
Where to Watch: Viu, Rakuten Viki, Kocowa

This drama is set in the background of the Gwangju Uprising in the year 1980. However, more than focusing on the uprising, it depicts the love story of Hwang Hee-Tae and Kim Myung-Hee with other characters. They go through several twists in the drama, and overall it is a well-fabricated historical Korean drama.

8) Iljimae

Director: Lee Yong-suk
Writer: Choi Ran
Cast: Lee Joon-gi as Lee Gyeom, Han Hyo-joo as Byeon Eun-chae, Lee Young-ah as Bong-soon, Park Si-hoo as Cha-dol, Lee Moon-sik as Soe-dol, Kim Sung-ryung as Dan-i.
IMDb Ratings: 8.1/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video

This drama is all about the protagonist Lee Gyeom who seems to be a burden to his family. He makes a lot of trouble for his family and the whole town, but they do not know he is actually a hero. He steals from the rich and donates the wealth to the poor. However, this is not easy as it seems. He has to undergo a lot of trouble to do such a great job.

7) Haechi

Director: Lee Yong-suk
Writer: Kim Yi-young
Cast: Jung II-woo as Yi Geum, Go Ara as Chun Yeo-ji, Kwon Yul as Bak Mun-su, Park Hoon as Dal-moon, Lee Geung-young as Min Jin-won,Jung Moon-sung as Yi Tan, Bae Jung-hwa as Chun Yoon-young.
IMDb Ratings: 7.7/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

This historical drama depicts the lives of 4 people who come together to help Yi Geum Prince Yeoning. These people are not known to each other before, nor do they belong to the same class or have the same occupation. They come to aid the Prince, who later becomes King Yeongjo and do their best to help him have the throne and work for the betterment of Saheonbu.

6) Bulgasal: Immortal Souls

Director: Jang Young-woo
Writer: Kwon So-ra, Seo Jae-won
Cast: Lee Jin-wook as Dan Hwal, Kwon Nara as Min Sang-woon, Lee Joon as Ok Eul-tae, Gong Seung-yeon as Dan Sol, Jung Jin-young as Dan Geuk, Park Myung-shin as Hye-suk.
IMDb Ratings: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 82%(audience score)
Where to Watch: Netflix

The plot of this story focuses on a man who has turned immortal and is referred to as Bulgasal. He seeks revenge against a woman he believes is responsible for all his miseries and believes ending her can give him relief. The woman also has a mysterious past, and the overall growth of the plot is truly intriguing.

5) Grand Prince

Director: Kim Jung-min
Writer: Jo Hyun-kyung
Cast: Yoon Shi-yoon as Lee Hwi, Jin Se-yeong as Sung Ja-hyun, Joo Sang-wook as Lee Kang, Son Ji-hyun as Roo Shi-gae, Yoon Seo as Jung Seol-hwa.
IMDb Ratings: 7.6/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki

If you genuinely want to watch one of the most famous historical Korean dramas, this is an excellent choice. The story focus on two kings and their struggle to have a single woman. Both of them are in love with the same woman. The story is based on the true story of Grand Prince Anpyeong and King Sejo.

another episode of simping over grand prince seongnam#UnderTheQueensUmbrellaEp6 pic.twitter.com/Y4RRnLApgz
— chai • aos || tfm || umb (@_seoyulnim) October 30, 2022

4) Flowers of the Prison

Director: Lee Byung-hoon, Choi Jeong-kyu
Writer: Choi Wan-kyu
Cast: Jin Se-yeon as Lee Seo-won, Go Soo as Yun Tae-won, Kim Mi-sook as Queen Munjeong, Jung Joon-ho as Yun Won-hyeong, Park Joo-mi as Jeong Nan-jeong.
IMDb Ratings: 7.5/10
Where to Watch: Rakuten Viki

This Korean drama is one of the best Korean historical dramas which focuses on the life of a girl named Ok-nyeo. She grew up in prison and went through several adventures and situations with Yun Tae-won. She, however, becomes an advocate later in life and tries to help the poor as much as she can against the false accusations of Waeji-bu.

3) Hwang Jini

Director: Kim Chul-kyu
Writer: Yoon Sun-joo
Cast: Ha Ji-won as Hwang Jini, Kim Young-ae as Im Baek-moo, Wang Bit-na as Bu-yong, Kim Jaewon as Kim Jung-han, Ryu Tae-joon as Byuk Kye-soo.
IMDb Ratings: 8.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: 56% (audience score)
Where to Watch: Netflix

The story focus on the life of Hwang Jini, who is born to a noble father and a musician, gisaeng. She is an illegitimate child, and in order to save her from lustful men, her mother abandons her and leaves her in a temple, but destiny lets her meet her mother again soon. 4 men play a significant role in her life. The story shows how hard it is for women of low status to thrive well in society.

2) Hong Gil Dong

Director: Lee Jung-sub
Writer: Hong Jung-eun, HOng Mi-ran
Cast: Kang Ji-hwan as Hong Gil-dong, Sung Yu-rias Heo Yi-nok, Jang Keun-sukas Lee Chang-hwi, Kim Ri-na as Seo Eun-hye, Kim Jae-seung as Hong In-hyeong, Cha Hyun-jung as Jung Mal-nyeo.
IMDb Ratings: 7.5/10
Where to Watch: Prime Video

The story centers around Hong Gil Dong, the son of a minister and given a second-class status for which he was considered illegitimate. Both society and his family did not allow him to be with them, for which he fled away from all. Later he decided to become the chief of the group of bandits.

1) King Maker: The Change of Destiny

kingmaker-change-destiny — Source: ibtimes

Director: Yoon Sang-ho
Writer: Bang Ji-young
Cast: Park Si-hoo as Choi Chun-joong, Ko Sung-hee as Princess Lee Bong-ryun, Jun Kwang-ryul as Lee Ha-eung, Prince Heugsun, Sung Hyuk as Chae In-kyoo.
IMDb Ratings: 7.8/10
Where to Watch: Netflix

This South Korean drama series is full of action. Choi Chun-joong is an excellent face reader whose family had been killed, but he became a famous person in Joseon.

Another talented girl is Lee Bong-ryeon, the daughter of King Cheoljong and can foresee what awaits in the people’s future. The duo comes together and tries to better the future of Joseon.

#KingMakerTheChangeofDestiny is one of those dramas that the main couple makes you feel the emotions. Enjoy the story, the acting, and the 🎶 OST too
I loved it ! 👸🏻⚔️#dramawatching #RomanticHistoricalDrama #ParkShiHoo #GoSungHee #KangTaewoo #HongSeungHee pic.twitter.com/cTGmwfn2X6
— 𝚢🍀⁵ (@joyful_soul_) May 31, 2020

Historical Dramas are indeed a must-watch as it provides various events and situations that might not have been known by all till now. Upholding such notions, wars, struggles, or situations does provide a glimpse of how humans have evolved and tried to build a nation for the betterment of the people. If you are a true fan of Korean culture and want to get an insightful peek into their culture, do not forget to watch these historical Korean dramas.

Frequently Asked Question

-What are Korean historical dramas called?

Korean historical dramas are called Sageuk, which denotes- movies and TV series that depicts the story from the past. The first sageuk ever released was The Story of Chun-hyang in the year 1923. These sageuk talks about the rich korean culture and gives the audiance a deeper understanding of the Korean history. Sagueks picks up Mythologies, Korean folklores and talks about remarkable heros from the past.

Tags: Korean Drama