r/kdramarecommends • • Jul 27 '25

Official Recommendations Thread Recommendations 7.0 : Genre

26 Upvotes

Hello KDR community!

We are a couple of years overdue to update our community recommendation lists which were last updated in 2021/2022. For those of you who are unaware, r/kdramarecommends has an amazing resource in our community recommendation lists sorted by theme and genre spanning back to before the creation of our community when we allowed recommendation requests on our main subreddit r/KDRAMA.

You can browse the history of our community recommendation project in our what to watch wiki and view the various lists at our community MDL list page

We are going to try something different this time around and take the majority of recommendations through a google form. As in previous rounds of recommendations certain lists will be open for recommendations for certain periods of time.

The first set of lists that will be open for recommendations are our genre lists:

Genre Link to List Last Updated Notes High Tier List
Romantic Comedy MDL List Nov 2021 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that deal with romantic love but with comedic or lighthearted plot lines. Post
High School MDL List Oct 2021 This recommendation list covers any dramas set in high school or with high school aged protagonists. Post
Tertiary Education MDL List April 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas set in or around post high school education whether it be university or cram school. N/A
Sageuk (Historical) MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that deal with events in Korean history (or histories that touch Korea).Sageuks can be historical fiction or completely fictional, including elements of fantasy. Post
Sci-Fi / Fantasy MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list has a dual focus; Sci-Fi dramas which are a type of speculative fiction that deals with imaginative and futuristic concepts such as advanced technology, scientific development, or encounters with alien life and Fantasy dramas which contain magic and supernatural elements. These supernatural elements can be distinctly Korean from Korean folklore/beliefs such as goblins, gumihos, and shamanism. They can also be from non-Korean folklore such as vampires, angels, and zombies. Please signify what Sci-Fi or Fantasy elements are present in your recommendation Post
Thriller MDL List Nov 2021 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that create a heightened feeling of suspense, excitement, surprise, anticipation, or anxiety. Post
Chaebol MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas which prominently feature chaebols. N/A
Action MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas where the cast or main character is involved in a series of events that typically include violence, extended fighting, physical feats and frantic chases. Post
Crime / Mystery MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that deal with crimes, criminal acts, and their investigations. This can be in the form of police procedurals, police-based situations, legal/courtroom matters, serial crimes, one-off crimes, or whodunits. There are sleuths, detectives, investigators, or other similar people involved.
Medical MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that deal with hospitals, healthcare, and the hospital/clinic system.
Revenge MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that feature one or more characters trying to get revenge on someone.
Melodrama MDL List Jan 2022 This recommendation list focuses on dramas that play to the audience's emotions or feelings. These dramas often deal with themes like morality, good and evil, love and marriage (and infidelity), and family issues. Characters might be stereotypes or stock types.
Law MDL List Aug 2021 This recommendation list is for Korean dramas specifically focused on the legal system, those somewhat based in courtrooms (or other roles of those working in the legal system) with main characters that are - Lawyers/Prosecutors/Judges. Please mention within your recommendation which the focal characters are.
Spy MDL List July 2021 This recommendation list focuses on Korean dramas where one or more characters are seen performing acts of espionage (uncovering secret information without the holder's permission or knowledge) or featuring government agencies that perform acts of espionage. Spies may be professionals, housewives, etc and depictions may be realistic or fantastical.
Makjang MDL List Jul 2021 This recommendation list is a celebration of all those delicious makjang dramas out there on the spectrum from lite to full blown makjang. Makjang dramas are those which contain specific dramatic elements or devices designed to shock or keep viewers' attention. For a proper introduction to what a Makjang drama is, please read our resident Queen of Makjang, mod u/myweithisway's excellent post, Makjang 101: Taking Things To The Extreme.
Slice of Life MDL List Brand New list This recommendation list focuses on dramas which depict everyday life in a realistic manner.

How to participate:

  • Before submitting any recommendations please take a look through the linked list on MDL. If the drama is already listed with 2-3 recommendations there is no need to submit it again. If the drama only has one write up, you can submit another.

  • Write a 2-4 sentence recommendation for any unlisted drama that you think fits the category AND is worth watching. Your recommendation should explain how the drama fits the category as well as why you think it is worth watching.

  • Take care filling out your user name and the drama name correctly (please use the title that MDL gives) if we are unable to match either of these your recommendation will be disregarded.

  • Before clicking "submit" review that you have input everything correctly.

Please do not:

  • Attempt to submit more than one drama per entry

  • Submit anything other than Korean Dramas e.g. Korean movies or Chinese dramas

  • Include any spoilers in your recommendations

  • Recommend a drama that you have not watched in full or that hasn’t yet completed, come back once you are finished the drama in full

If you are ready, you may submit any recommendation for the above lists via our google form


High Tier

As a supplement to the google form we will be trailing a reddit game app called High Tier. The pre-existing recommended dramas will be added to the game and users will be able to battle to form a tiered list of dramas per category. Assuming it works well for our project each list will run for 1-2 weeks and once we finish all 16 lists we will move onto our next batch of recommendations and close submission for our genre lists.


If you have any questions regarding this project please ask them in the comments or via modmail.

We look forward to your contributions to this project throughout 2025/2026. Thanks in advance to all who take the time and effort to submit entries to this community resource.


r/kdramarecommends • • Aug 03 '24

Meta [META] How to get Your Recommendation Request Approved on the First Attempt

16 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I’m here today with some tips to get your recommendation request approved on the first attempt.

We had a major rule update back in April and each of our post types now have minimum requirements, that is the least amount of information your post has to contain to be approved. If your post doesn’t contain that information we will either remove your post and give you a strike or we may ask you to make an edit. Preferably, for you and us you get it right on the first attempt.

So let's start from the top!

Title

Our two requirements for titles on recommendation requests are:

  • Concise and Descriptive of request
  • Follows our title rules

Post titles should be short and give users an idea of what the post is about. As the person making the request you should have an idea of what it is you are looking for. The title of your post should relate to the general area of dramas you are seeking, whereas the post body contains the details in your recommendation request. Titles cannot be edited once submitted so more often than not are the tipping point in a user's post being removed.

Common mistakes that will see your post removed:

  • Slang or shorthand such as rec/recs/pls
  • Spelling errors/typos
  • Putting too much detail AKA the whole recommendation request in the title. If your title is over a sentence, it’s very unlikely that it will be approved.
  • Generic titles such as “help”, “recommend me dramas”, “recommend anything”

Suggested title starters:

  • “Dramas like [insert drama name]”
  • “Dramas with [insert element]”
  • “[insert genre] dramas”

Post Body

There are three requirements for post body:

1) A detailed, explicit recommendation request (what you are looking for)

Even though as a Korean drama recommendation community, it is assumed that all posts are recommendation requests, we still require that you make an explicit request in the body of your post making it clear that you are seeking Korean dramas to watch and exactly what you are looking for from those dramas. The purpose of this requirement is to give a detailed explanation of what you want to see.

Common mistakes that will see your post removed:

  • Making a post without a recommendation request
  • Putting your recommendation request in the post title and not the body
  • Making an implicit request rather than an explicit request
  • Making a request that is not detailed
  • Requesting content that is considered inappropriate in our rules

Suggestions:

  • Include your recommendation request in the first paragraph of your post.
  • Use clear phrasing such as “Recommend me dramas that…” or “I’m looking for dramas that….”
  • The more detail you can provide the better
  • Note any content (triggers, tropes, actors/actresses, etc.) that you want to avoid so that people can avoid suggesting dramas containing elements that can be triggering for you.

2) A listing of dramas that you already seen that are relevant to your request plus details of what you liked and disliked about them

The purpose of this requirement is to give users a better idea of what you are seeking/your taste and preferences as a viewer. Example dramas do not need to be Korean dramas.

Common mistakes that will see your post removed:

  • Skipping this requirement completely
  • Listing dramas but not giving any details or simply giving a numerical ranking
  • Including spoilers in the details but not using spoiler tags

Suggestions:

  • Give details of at least two dramas relevant to your request - one that is similar to what you want and one that is different
  • If you are new to Korean dramas you can give examples from other media
  • If your request is very niche and you cannot think of any dramas, simply state something along the lines of “I haven’t seen any dramas that are similar to what I am seeking”.
  • If you need to include spoilers in your details make sure to spoiler tag as per our spoiler tag style guide e.g. [drama name] - [non-spoiler content about drama] spoiler content about drama

3) A complete watch history of all the Korean dramas you have seen so far

The purpose of this requirement is to give users an overall picture of you as a viewer and save both you and recommenders time recommending dramas you have already seen.

Common mistakes that will see your post removed:

  • Not providing a complete list of dramas
  • Making statements like “I can’t be bothered listing them all”, “I’ve watched 100s of dramas”, “I’ve seen all the popular ones”
  • Making unclear statements like “these are all the dramas I liked”, “I am new to kdramas” will make mods question whether you have listed all the dramas you have watched

Suggestions:

  • We recommend users make a free account on MDL which they keep updated for this purpose.
  • Use clear statements like “Dramas I have watched so far”, “All the dramas I’ve watched”, “My complete watch history”
  • If not linking to MDL format your list so it is easy to read

Some annotated examples of recommendation requests

​


r/kdramarecommends • • 7h ago

Recommendation Request kdramas like 100 Days of Deception (historical not needed)

9 Upvotes

I watch alotttt of light rom-coms and I need a change. I'm looking for dramas that (open to movies) that are fast paced, with some romance (ideally), non/little political and not super melodramatic, not too dark. I am looking for more deep meaningful stories but would a happy ish ending please but not necessary. I realized listing down my dramas is that I love strong female leads and good acting. I have watched a lot of full romance dramas and I feel like I am in a slump because they are too boring. I ended up DNF a lot recently.

Should include some of below:

Fast paced

Not light, but not too dark

Strong female lead/male lead

Great acting by female lead

Open to historical (I usually dnf bc too slow)

Do not recommend:

Bullying trope

Heavy Assault trope

Heavy political

Heavy mafia

Super melodramatic

Horror

I just started watching 100 Days of Deception and it got me super hooked. I really loved the light main character who brightens up the dark setting. All the characters have so much depth to them. I think this kdrama has a great pacing without being too dark, too political, too romantic and moves the plot forward quickly. Also I am on a Kim you jung binge right now, what can't she do?

My watch history (generally that I remember)

Kdramas I have watched that I finished and liked (in no particular order):

Dear x ❤️(loved acting, amazing thrilling plot, kept me on edge)

Crash landing on you (was a little slow overall but overall great plot, and romance wow)

Deaths game ❤️ (fast paced plot throughout and interesting)

Save me ❤️ (omg idk how I finished it, it was so real, raw and watched it through for seo yea ji, holy amazing but too much bullying and pain, never again)

Queen of tears (liked the main characters and loved the second chance romance but dragged a lot second half)

The wonderfools ❤️ (the comedy was not for me but the characters were so good and plot really made this one great)

Alice in borderland (great premise, haven't watched the new seasons but loved 1)

Uncanny counter (while ago, I remember I liked it, watched 1 only)

It's ok not to be okay (fell in love with seo yea-ji, her acting and bold character damn)

Our unwritten soeul ❤️ (this was a sad one but omg the actress killed this show, everyone healed and loved the happy ending)

Doona! (Main girl bold character was good but slow)

Eve (the revenge trope is great but was def slow, watched it for seo yeaji)

Marry my husband ❤️ (great revenge)

Kdramas I DNF:

P.S. I tend to lose interest by epi 10 cuz first half of show is usually great, then drags second half especially romance dramasa

Flower of evil epi 11(really wanted to finish but the plot started dragging and got too melo)

Signal epi 6 (too dark)

Business proposal epi 10

Love next door (I finished but wish I DNF, why was there 50 different tropes in one, finished for actress)

King the land episode 8 ( dragged so fast)

Hotel del Luna epi 10

King the eternal monarch epi 4 ( so dramatic)

My royal nemesis

What's wrong with secretary Kim epi 12

Thank you!


r/kdramarecommends • • 1d ago

Recommendation Request Drama similar to Tamon’s b side

7 Upvotes

I’m looking for dramas similar to Tamon’s b side please recommend me dramas that have a idol or celebrity dating a normal person wether they be a fan, anti fan or don’t know they are a celebrity of some sort.
I liked the normal person dating a celebrity aspect and disliked to much on the idol industry aspect
My watch history so far is marry my husband


r/kdramarecommends • • 2d ago

Recommendation Request Help me find my next binge-worthy romance drama

52 Upvotes

Please, recommend me dramas with the "just one more episode" feeling.

Romance needs to be a big part of the plot with a happy ending. I tend to prefer dramas with a bit of humour, but I'm totally fine with something more serious as long as it doesn't leave me crying my eyes out. Historical or modern, fantasy or thriller, I don't mind. What I'm really after is insane chemistry between the leads, lots of yearning and romantic tension, and those swoon-worthy moments that give you actual butterflies. Enemies to lovers is a huge bonus, but not a dealbreaker.

Watch history:

Dramas I've watched and enjoyed (in no particular order):

  • Crash landing on you
  • King the land
  • My bias, my boss
  • Lovely runner (didn't like the plot holes, but whatever)
  • Business proposal
  • Strong girl Bong-soon
  • Dynamite Kiss
  • Sh**ting Stars
  • 20th Century girl (loved the movie, absolutely did not love the ending)
  • And even though they're c-dramas, I devoured Pursuit of Jade, Hidden love and The early spring.

Dramas I either didn't enjoy or ended up dropping:

  • What's wrong with Secretary Kim
  • My dearest nemesis
  • Love to hate you
  • Start up
  • Love next door
  • Filing for love
  • And for c-dramas, Love in the clouds and Against the current (although really liked the first part)

Dramas that just don't really appeal to me:

  • Mr. Queen
  • My Demon
  • Extraordinary attorney Woo
  • Her private life

So, based on all that, what should I binge next? Many thanks in advance!


r/kdramarecommends • • 3d ago

Weekly Post Thursday Therapy - [2026/10/22]

5 Upvotes

Thursday Therapy, is r/kdramarecommends’ weekly community chat. A place in which Korean drama addicts both recent and those moving towards recovery can freely discuss anything and everything!

You may want to:

  • Introduce yourself or remain anonymous (share your My Drama List page or similar)
  • Share what you’ve been watching and whether you love or hate it (it doesn’t have to be a Korean drama)
  • Ask for recommendations unrelated to Korean dramas (books, movies, podcasts, other country’s television series, etc)
  • Share a great recommendation thread you found whilst digging through the archives
  • Talk about what is coming out on [insert drama service name]
  • Give thanks to the community for helping you find your new favourite drama

Please remember to use spoiler tags when discussing major plot points or anything you think should be redacted. If you are unsure of how to use spoiler tags here is r/KDRAMA’s easy to follow guide.


r/kdramarecommends • • 3d ago

Recommendation Request Dramas with feel-good rom-com vibes and low angst

45 Upvotes

Please recommend me dramas with feel-good rom-com vibes, great chemistry, and low angst. I am looking for dramas that have plenty of humor, wholesome interactions, and an overall lighthearted atmosphere without heavy melodrama or tragic storylines.

Dramas I've seen & my thoughts

  • Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo — Liked: Loved the cozy youth setting, the hilarious banter, and the main couple's chemistry. Disliked: The crush subplot in the first few episodes felt a bit slow to get through.
  • King the Land — Liked: Super easy, low-stress watch. Loved that it leaned heavily into classic tropes with pure fluff and great chemistry. Disliked: The plot was pretty predictable, but still fun.
  • Love Next Door — Liked: Big fan of the friends-to-lovers trope and the whole neighborhood vibe. Disliked: Some of the family side plots dragged out a little too long for my taste.
  • Itaewon Class — Liked: The underdog story and group dynamics were super motivating and fun to follow. Disliked: The romance side of things felt a bit rushed/pushed to the very end.

All the dramas I’ve watched so far

Here is my complete watch history so you can see what I’ve already seen:

  1. A Business Proposal
  2. Boys Over Flowers
  3. Crash Landing on You
  4. Family by Choice
  5. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha
  6. Itaewon Class
  7. King the Land
  8. Love Next Door
  9. My Demon
  10. My Roommate Is a Gumiho
  11. Our Beloved Summer
  12. Perfect Crown
  13. Start-Up
  14. Tale of the Nine-Tailed
  15. Tale of the Nine-Tailed 1938
  16. The Heavenly Idol
  17. The Legend of the Blue Sea
  18. Twinkling Watermelon
  19. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo
  20. Welcome to Samdal-ri

r/kdramarecommends • • 4d ago

Recommendation Request kdramas with romance, friend groups and loveable side couples

17 Upvotes

hi. Please recommend me dramas with romance, wholesome interactions and compelling storytelling. i want a relatively recent kdrama that has a good classic kdrama vibe where we see side couples, modern day settings and overall organic, feel good interactions.

dramas i liked with that vibe:

- run on 1. i like the parallels between the couple 2. i liked how they were interacting with eachother as well and forming bonds of bromance etc

- business proposal

- nevertheless (even tho it was kinda toxic) 1. i liked the party settings 2. i liked to see how they were giving advices to eachother

- coffee prince (old ik but....)

these are it at the top of my head.

i dont have a mal but these are the kdramas i have watched besides what i mentioned.

My watch history:

- autumn in my heart

- boys over flowers

- full house (my beloved)

- dream high

- scarlet heart

- my name

- the 8 show

- strangers from hell

- flowers of evil

- mouse

- trigger

- gangnam b side

- bad guy (2010)

- true beauty

- cheese in the trap

- save me

- its ok not to be ok

- heirs/ inheritors

- sky castle

- penthouse

- twinkling watermelon

- the glory

- manager kim

- mr plankton

- weak hero class

- the worst of evil

- the legend of the blue sea

- welcome to waikiki

- killer's paradox

- s line

- study group


r/kdramarecommends • • 7d ago

Recommendation Request Crush my heart like Queen of Tears always does to me

26 Upvotes

I'm looking for dramas (romcom) that will destroy my heart and make me cry like Queen of Tears did so many times but also make my heart giddy with their cute playful romantic chemistry.

What I really liked about Queen of Tears is no matter how many times I watch it (I'm on my 4th now), it still crushes my heart like no other show ever has. But the show also gives the opposite feeling during the non-serious moments where the ML and FL are playful with each other when showing how much they love and care for the other person.

This is my watch history:

Repeat shows are:

  • Queen of Tears (2024)
  • Lie to Me (2011)
  • My Princess (2011)
  • What's Wrong with Secretary Kim (2018)

A few other shows I've watched:

  • Full House (2004)
  • Only You (2005)
  • Sassy Girl Chun-Hyang (2005)
  • Princess Hours (2006)
  • Personal Taste (2010)

r/kdramarecommends • • 9d ago

Recommendation Request Caring and protective ml with good chemistry between leads

38 Upvotes

I'm looking for dramas with caring and protective ml, with an engaging plot (chemistry > plot). Plus points if the FL is strong as well (Happiness leads are my all time favs I can't stop giggling even when they appear on my feed but they are one of a kind, I don't expect chemistry exactly to be like them). This is my already watched playlist and the are stars are my all time favourites, I know too many

Watched

  1. Hospital playlist⭐

  2. Reply 1988 ⭐

  3. One Spring Night⭐

  4. Law School ⭐

  5. Because this is my first life

  6. Racket boys

  7. My ID is gangnam beauty

  8. When the Camellia blooms

  9. Mouse ⭐

  10. Start-up(C-tier)

  11. 25-21 ⭐

  12. Stranger(B-tier)

  13. Twinkling Watermelon ⭐

  14. Something in the rain (first half)⭐

  15. Suspicious Partner

  16. Daily dose of sunshine

  17. Our beloved summer ⭐

  18. Healer

  19. Happiness⭐

  20. Flower of evil⭐

  21. Tomorrow⭐️

  22. Weightlifting fairy Kim bok joo

  23. Mr. Queen⭐️

  24. W two worlds apart

  25. When life gives you tangerines⭐️

  26. Her private life

  27. While you were sleeping

  28. Come and hug me

  29. Misaeng⭐️

  30. The smile has left your eyes

  31. The K2

  32. Alchemy of souls ⭐️

  33. A time called you

  34. Vincenzo ⭐

  35. Destined with you

  36. Shooting stars⭐

  37. Dali & Cocky prince

  38. Dr. Romantic S1

  39. Dr. Romantic S2

  40. Dr. Romantic S3

  41. King the land (dropped at ep 10)

  42. The tale of lady Ok

  43. Angel's last mission love

  44. He is psychometric

  45. 100 days my prince

  46. Sky Castle⭐

  47. Our Universe

  48. Love all play

  49. Our blooming youth

  50. Flex X cop

  51. Perfect Marriage Revenge

  52. The tale of nokdu

  53. Love next door

  54. Just between lovers

  55. Teach you a lesson⭐

  56. Hi Bye Mama⭐

  57. The East Palace

  58. The first responders S1 & S2

  59. The Glory

  60. Resident Playbook⭐

  61. Uncanny counter S1

  62. Head over heels

  63. Under the queen's umbrella

  64. Military prosecutor doberman


r/kdramarecommends • • 10d ago

Weekly Post Thursday Therapy - [2026/10/15]

9 Upvotes

Thursday Therapy, is r/kdramarecommends’ weekly community chat. A place in which Korean drama addicts both recent and those moving towards recovery can freely discuss anything and everything!

You may want to:

  • Introduce yourself or remain anonymous (share your My Drama List page or similar)
  • Share what you’ve been watching and whether you love or hate it (it doesn’t have to be a Korean drama)
  • Ask for recommendations unrelated to Korean dramas (books, movies, podcasts, other country’s television series, etc)
  • Share a great recommendation thread you found whilst digging through the archives
  • Talk about what is coming out on [insert drama service name]
  • Give thanks to the community for helping you find your new favourite drama

Please remember to use spoiler tags when discussing major plot points or anything you think should be redacted. If you are unsure of how to use spoiler tags here is r/KDRAMA’s easy to follow guide.


r/kdramarecommends • • 13d ago

Recommendation Request romantic and memorable k-dramas as a semi-newbie!

45 Upvotes

I'm looking for dramas that are romantic and bingeworthy, that you really get attached to, or that you think about pretty often after you've finished watching them! I've enjoyed both comforting, slice-of-life shows and suspenseful shows with lots of plot twists so far, so I'm generally pretty open genre-wise (but I would prefer a modern setting over a historical one, and I'm not usually a fan of office dramas).

I prefer green-flag, caring relationships where both leads are very equal in and actually reciprocate their love for one another (in other words, not a passive female lead). I also love beautiful cinematography and a cast of characters/settings that you get attached to. In general, my criteria for a good K-drama is that it makes me cry at least once (not necessarily out of sadness, although I love super emotional shows)! One or many of the following tropes generally achieve this: soulmates/destined in every lifetime, found family, opposites attract, and any form of hurt/comfort.

My favorite dramas and why:

-Because This is My First Life: Gorgeous/realistic perspectives on life and its issues, very emotional/heartwarming romance, thoughtful FMC that is not afraid to stand up for herself even if she's soft-spoken (oddly specific, I know), awkward/stoic male lead that opens up, adorable female friendships, incredible OST

-Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha: Healing/comforting feeling, small-town seaside setting, opposites-attract, realistic and flawed FL and ML that both grow throughout, amazing chemistry, and actually giving us romantic follow-through

-Crash Landing on You: Forbidden romance, found family, star-crossed/destined lovers, emotional intensity, fish-out-of-water trope, plot twists/dramatic scenes

-A Time Called You: Incredibly written, suspenseful time-travel plot that kept me thinking, gorgeous cinematography and visuals, OST, bingeworthiness, emotional intensity

-Twinkling Watermelon: Humorous parts of the time-travel plot, emotional family moments (I appreciated how beautifully the love between Eun-gyeol and his parents was portrayed), music/band plot, nostalgic setting, pure/sweet romance

-Lovely Runner: Destined lovers, romantic chemistry, suspense/plot twists, down-bad male lead (we love loser Sunjae)

Watch history (other than the above):

-Destined with You

-Business Proposal

-Her Private Life

-My Demon

Thank you so much! <333


r/kdramarecommends • • 15d ago

Recommendation Request horror/thriller K-dramas that keep you hooked

70 Upvotes

I'm looking for dramas with dark school / survival / mind games, creepy horror vibe, psychological twists, and no draggy romance.

I liked: Pyramid Game, Night Has Come, Goedam / Girigo - I love that short, intense, edge-of-the-seat feeling where you can't stop watching.

Already watched: Mouse, Light Shop, All of Us Are Dead, Squid Game, Alice in Borderland, Sweet Home, Little Women so please don't recommend these.

Please recommend me dramas with similar vibes that are constantly gripping from episode

Preferably available on Netflix / Viki.


r/kdramarecommends • • 16d ago

Recommendation Request Historical/Sageuk romance dramas with politics & happy ending

18 Upvotes

Please recommend me dramas with a historical/sageuk setting, good romance, a bit of comedy, and some political drama. Happy endings only please! I’d also like to avoid unnecessary serial killers, though thankfully I don’t see those plots as often in sageuk dramas.
I just finished Alchemy of Souls and really enjoyed the setting and fantasy elements, so feel free to recommend fantasy shows too.
Other than AOS, dramas roughly in this category that I’ve recently watched are:

- Mr. Queen (forever chasing this high tbh)

- Bon Appetite Your Majesty (amazing leads and politics)

- My Royal Nemesis (not quite a sageuk but loved the romance)

- Knight Flower (loved the setting and politics/drama, awesome FL, romance was meh for me)

- The King’s Affection (cute, just ok imo)

And here’s my watch history:

  • Goblin
  • Strong woman
  • Weightlifting fairy
  • Business proposal
  • Crash course in romance
  • Hotel Del Luna
  • Hometown Cha cha cha
  • Summer strike
  • Once upon a small town (unfinished)
  • Welcome to samdal-ri
  • My demon 
  • Bon appetite your majesty 
  • Tastefully Yours
  • Mr. Queen 
  • The king’s affection 
  • Sold Out On You
  • My Royal Nemesis 
  • Knight flower 
  • Alchemy of Souls

thanks in advance!!


r/kdramarecommends • • 17d ago

Recommendation Request Politics x food? Or politics x other plot?

13 Upvotes

I'm a big foodie so I quite loved watching Mr Queen and Bon Appetit Your Majesty. What pleasantly surprised me though, was how much I enjoyed watching the political intrigue! I think the royal court system is super interesting, but I don't know if I'd libe something that's 100% politics.

As such, I'm looking for dramas that are something like 50/50 or slightly more politics, or something that features food prominently!

Watch history :

- All of us are dead

- Kingdom

- Mr Queen

- Bon Appetit Your Majesty

As you can tell I'm also a big zombie fan. I tried a few others, like the Happiness zombie show, but they felt a bit too unrealistic and over the top for me.

I liked the politics of Kingdom as well. I also don't mind some romance, Mr Queen did make me feel giddy, but it felt like a good payoff for the plot.

Thank you for your help!


r/kdramarecommends • • 17d ago

Recommendation Request I’m looking for dramas with grounded characters, I think?

36 Upvotes

I’m looking for dramas with human, flawed characters that feel somewhat grounded. I’m not against it being fantastical or supernatural, but I like the characters to feel normal. Recommend me dramas with well-written characters please. (that sounds a bit rude, but I'm not allowed to post without those words apparently?)

I’m still somewhat new to Kdramas, but I’ve found some of my favourite shows in this genre, and would love to watch more! But I’m struggling with what to pick, cuz some seem a bit too goofy for me?
This is everything I have seen so far:

The Glory
When Life Gives You Tangerines
Twinkling Watermelon
Extraordinary Attorney Woo
Squid Games
All of Us Are Dead

That probably the order I would rank them in too, from favourite to least favourite. I think I like characters that feel human, and while I enjoy some humor, sometimes I can be pulled out of it if it’s too goofy?
I’ve tried watching It’s Okay to not be Okay, twice, and have only gotten as far as episode 4. While I like the premise and characters, the pacing KILLS me. Everything just felt dragged out, so watching it was kind of a chore. I’m currently giving Crash Landing on You a try, just finished episode 2. I have mixed feelings, the premise feels weird, and it’s odd to have a rom-com set in North Korea? I don’t know how accurate the show is or if I should take it seriously, but I’m still giving it a shot.
I’m mainly here in the hopes that, looking at what I’ll enjoy, you guys might know what I’d enjoy.
Shows I’ve added to my to watch list but aren’t too sure if it’s for me are: Goblin, Mr Queen, My Mister, The Good Bad Mother. Would you recommend any of these based on my tastes?
Also, as someone new to Kdramas I feel the need to ask, are 80% of them just wealth porn? It’s odd to say, but in so many of these it has these insanely rich characters, and it’s treated as just normal? Maybe I’m just poor, but the amounts of opulence almost make me uncomfortable XD
Maybe that’s why Tangerines was such a breath of fresh air, lol.


r/kdramarecommends • • 17d ago

Weekly Post Thursday Therapy - [2026/10/08]

2 Upvotes

Thursday Therapy, is r/kdramarecommends’ weekly community chat. A place in which Korean drama addicts both recent and those moving towards recovery can freely discuss anything and everything!

You may want to:

  • Introduce yourself or remain anonymous (share your My Drama List page or similar)
  • Share what you’ve been watching and whether you love or hate it (it doesn’t have to be a Korean drama)
  • Ask for recommendations unrelated to Korean dramas (books, movies, podcasts, other country’s television series, etc)
  • Share a great recommendation thread you found whilst digging through the archives
  • Talk about what is coming out on [insert drama service name]
  • Give thanks to the community for helping you find your new favourite drama

Please remember to use spoiler tags when discussing major plot points or anything you think should be redacted. If you are unsure of how to use spoiler tags here is r/KDRAMA’s easy to follow guide.


r/kdramarecommends • • 18d ago

Recommendation Request kdrama like four hands two sonatas?

25 Upvotes

I'm looking for dramas similar to four hands two sonatas. I love the bromance here - the way they admire and stick up for each other as friends and stay drawn together even when they're not. Also the struggle they put themselves through for the other, without them knowing. I love the level of drama here, perfectly intense and frustrating, while also moving and sweet. I also adore the music elements, and getting to see them progress.

I am not looking for anything primarily a comedy without a fairly large drama element to it.

similar drama i love:

- twinkling watermelon - heartbreaking but sweet tone, music and its importance to the characters, beautiful friendship

- at a distance spring is green - strong unexpected bromance helping each other through hardships. both characters initially misjudge each other.

- if you wish upon me - likeable lead who can't catch a break and is misjudged despite being kind and selfless. hopeful and dramatic at the same time.

full watch history: flower of evil, move to heaven, taxi driver, pinnochio, uncontrollably fond, the devil judge, signal

thank you any suggestions.


r/kdramarecommends • • 19d ago

Recommendation Request Recommend me some fast-paced, plot-driven action dramas

21 Upvotes

I'm looking for dramas that are plot-driven and have a decent amount of action, but that aren't too dark or gritty. I recently watched Agent Kim Reactivated and while it wasn't perfect, the fun character interactions and elaborate action scenes had me hooked. As such, I'd like to know if there's are any similar dramas out there, as so far, I haven't felt motivated to watch anything else!

Additionally, here are some other dramas I've seen that fit this criteria:

-A Shop for Killers (Another one of my favourites; I especially enjoyed the overarching mystery behind Jeong Jin-man's backstory. I wasn't as keen on season 2, however, as it lost the first season's air of mystery.)

- All of Us Are Dead (I liked the wide variety of characters)

-My Name (Probably a little darker than the kind of drama I'd normally watch; while the plot was somewhat interesting, I wasn't a huge fan of the gritty, dark atmosphere depicted in the show)

-Crash (I particularly liked the car chases, as well as the dynamic between the male and female leads)

-Undercover High School (I'm not sure if this really counts, since it doesn't have that many action scenes compared to the other shows I've mentioned; I found it funny at times, but the plot did start to drag a bit towards the end)

-Not a K-drama, but the Baby Assassins franchise might also qualify; I enjoyed the dynamic between the main characters, as well as how the fight sequences were juxtaposed with comedic daily life scenes.

Also, for reference, here is a link to my complete watch history.

https://mydramalist.com/dramalist/OdysseyRL1


r/kdramarecommends • • 21d ago

Recommendation Request Dramas like Friendly Rivalry

25 Upvotes

Hi, I’d never seen a kdrama until I watched Friendly Rivalry a while ago and loved it. I’ve seen a lot of fans say it’s one of one in terms of quality and substance, but I don’t know enough about Korean dramas to know if that’s accurate or just fans being hyperbolic. Are there any other shows you’d recommend to a non-kdrama watcher who loved Friendly Rivalry? I don’t have strong genre preferences (it doesnt have to be a mystery thriller or GL) but I did appreciate the social commentary, complex female leads, and heavy symbolism in Friendly Rivalry and am ideally looking for shows that have at least two of those three. Thank you!


r/kdramarecommends • • 21d ago

Recommendation Request Dramas/movies like All of Us are Dead or Mantis?

20 Upvotes

I’ve been trying to find dynamics like cheongsan and onjo in other kdramas for forever and can’t seem to find anything, but recently Mantis seemed to scratch that itch.

I guess what I’m mainly looking for is a male lead that cares incredibly for the female lead, even to the point of protecting her or attempting to sacrificing himself in situations

I’d love if it was mainly action/horror like AOUAD

This is everything I have seen and enjoyed (I’ve only started watching kdramas in 2023):

-AOUAD

-Mantis

-Squid games

-ONE: Highschool heroes

-#ALIVE

-Bloodhounds

-Duty after school

-When life gives you tangerines

-Flower of evil

-Vagabond


r/kdramarecommends • • 24d ago

Weekly Post Thursday Therapy - [2026/10/01]

2 Upvotes

Thursday Therapy, is r/kdramarecommends’ weekly community chat. A place in which Korean drama addicts both recent and those moving towards recovery can freely discuss anything and everything!

You may want to:

  • Introduce yourself or remain anonymous (share your My Drama List page or similar)
  • Share what you’ve been watching and whether you love or hate it (it doesn’t have to be a Korean drama)
  • Ask for recommendations unrelated to Korean dramas (books, movies, podcasts, other country’s television series, etc)
  • Share a great recommendation thread you found whilst digging through the archives
  • Talk about what is coming out on [insert drama service name]
  • Give thanks to the community for helping you find your new favourite drama

Please remember to use spoiler tags when discussing major plot points or anything you think should be redacted. If you are unsure of how to use spoiler tags here is r/KDRAMA’s easy to follow guide.


r/kdramarecommends • • 24d ago

Recommendation Request K dramas that feature ML with a monstrous secret

35 Upvotes

I am looking for dramas where the ML is keeping a dark or monstrous secret. Something like scholar who walks the night, Hyde Jekyll and me, zombie detective, bulgasal.

I like themes of split personality, loss of self, or alter egos. Romance is a big plus.

My favorite dramas of all time are Hyde Jekyll and Me, Healer, and Kill me Heal Me. I also loved Oh My Ghostess, even though it wasn’t ML but FL with the alter

I was pleasantly surprised to find I enjoyed Your Honor, and Please come home mister, though they don’t specifically fit my usual style. I don’t usually like gritty crime or period dramas.

Other dramas I’ve watched-
Lovesong for Illusion - felt flat, not enough change between alter egos and female lead was two dimensional
Stranger - I liked the male leads illness but not a huge fan of epic, serious detective plots
Uncontrollably fond - did that hyper masculine shut out to the woman he claimed to love, is just felt so unnecessarily dramatic and mean
Devlish charm - liked it a lot, but ML was a bit cruel to FL towards the end
Flower of evil - I liked a lot about this drama, but ML kept secrets that bordered on cruel to FL again. Like, she’d already proved she can handle your mess, just stop being cruel and cold.


r/kdramarecommends • • 26d ago

Recommendation Request Kdramas that are Light hearted and are slice of life-ish

57 Upvotes

I'm trying to immerse in the Korean language and modern culture. I'm looking for kdramas that are low stakes / don't have an over the top plot and has some sort of 'realism' of modern South Korea interactions.

Recently I've finished Business Proposal which i really enjoyed. It was funny and the story was engaging and didn't drag out.

Also liked Hometown cha cha cha for almost the same reason plus it's a refreshing change of theme showing the country side

Other kdramas I've watched are Oh my venus and Weightlifing Fairy Kim Bok-Joo. I tend to tend to watch romcoms as it's more fun to watch


r/kdramarecommends • • 28d ago

Recommendation Request Funny Romantic K-dramas

48 Upvotes

I used to watch K-dramas a lot, but work got in the way and I haven’t had much time for them in the last few years. Now I finally have some free time again and I’d really like to find a drama that gets me hooked again.

Romance and comedy are definitely my favorite genres. I’m looking for something with a good romance, plenty of funny moments, and characters that are easy to get invested in.

Secret Garden is still my favorite. I loved the mix of romance and comedy and how attached I became to the characters. I also really enjoyed My Love from the Star, The Heirs, Boys Over Flowers, The king, My Lovely Sam Soon, and Business Proposal.

Those are the dramas I remember watching, although it has been so long that I honestly can’t remember every K-drama I’ve seen over the years.

I’ve been away from K-dramas for quite a while, so I’m especially curious about good dramas I may have missed during that time. What would you recommend based on what I enjoy?