Wrap-up 2024: Highly rated Kdramas of the 2024

Korean dramas have consistently been setting benchmarks in global entertainment, and 2024 proved no different. With compelling plots and layered characters, these shows captured the hearts of fans worldwide. From tales of time travel to gripping mysteries, this year’s K-dramas offered something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at the most talked-about series of the year.

1. Lovely Runner

IMDb Rating: 9.1

This touching time-travel drama revolves around Im Sol (Kim Hye-yoon), a fan devastated by the death of her favorite star, Ryu Sun-jae (Byeon Woo-seok). After mysteriously traveling back in time, she discovers Sun-jae alive and vows to prevent his untimely demise. The emotional rollercoaster and unpredictable twists have made this show one of the highest-rated K-dramas of 2024.

2. Family by Choice

IMDb Rating: 8.6

Based on the popular Chinese drama Go Ahead, this series explores the heartwarming bond between San-ha (Hwang In-youp), Ju-won (Jung Chae-yeon), and Hae-jun (Bae Hyun-sung). Their friendship is tested when romantic feelings come into play, adding layers of emotion to this coming-of-age tale.

3. Queen of Tears

IMDb Rating: 8.3

Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won star as a power couple who are perfect on the surface but secretly can’t stand each other. When a crisis forces them to work together, their relationship takes unexpected turns. This drama marks Kim Soo-hyun’s much-anticipated comeback after three years.

4. Mr. Plankton

IMDb Rating: 8.2

Woo Do-hwan stars as Hae Jo, a man plagued by bad luck who embarks on a final journey. When he crosses paths with his runaway bride ex, Jo Jae-mi (Lee Yoo-mi), the two embark on a transformative road trip. The show’s blend of humor and heartfelt moments left viewers hooked.

5. A Shop for Killers

IMDb Rating: 8.1

This thriller, adapted from Kang Ji-young’s novel, follows Jung Ji-an (Kim Hye-joon) as she unravels the truth behind her uncle’s death. With assassins on her trail, Ji-an’s journey is packed with suspense and surprises, making it one of the year’s standout dramas.

6. The Judge from Hell

IMDb Rating: 7.9

Park Shin-hye plays Kang Bit-na, a demon-possessed judge tasked with dragging criminals to hell. However, a kind-hearted detective (Kim Jae-yeong) changes her perspective, leading to an intriguing mix of justice and romance.

7. Marry My Husband

IMDb Rating: 7.9

Based on the webtoon Nae Nampyeongwa Gyeolhonhaejweo, this revenge drama follows Kang Ji-won (Park Min-young), who gets a second chance at life after being betrayed and murdered. Her quest for justice resonated with fans of revenge-centric stories.

8. Gangnam B-Side

IMDb Rating: 7.5

Set in Seoul, this crime drama follows Detective Kang Dong-woo (Jo Woo-jin) as he investigates a series of kidnappings. With Ji Chang-wook as a prime suspect, the tension in Gangnam B-Side kept viewers guessing until the end.

9. Doctor Slump

IMDb Rating: 7.4

A lighthearted drama featuring two rival doctors, Yeo Jeong-woo (Park Hyung-sik) and Nam Ha-neul (Park Shin-hye), who find solace in each other during challenging times. The relatable themes of burnout and healing struck a chord with viewers.

This year’s lineup showcased the creativity and depth of Korean storytelling. From romantic comedies to suspense-filled thrillers, K-dramas continue to attract a diverse audience. Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt tales or edge-of-your-seat mysteries, 2024 offered something for everyone.

As Korean dramas maintain their global influence, the anticipation for 2025’s releases is already building. Which of these shows was your favorite?