The Korean dramas have completely transformed their role, and thus, became a worldwide cultural force that affected the entire world with their new trends of fashion, beauty, entertainment, and storytelling. K-dramas have successfully captured emotionally rich stories that can be understood across the world and have produced different genres from heart-fluttering love stories to engrossing thrillers. Despite hundreds of new titles being released each year, only a handful of them have been able to influence the Hallyu wave and attract such a large global audience as to be considered iconic.
Here is a definitive list of the 10 greatest Korean dramas of all time—shows that redefined genres, built massive fandoms and left a lasting global impact.
Crash Landing on You (2019–2020)
A phenomenal cross-border love story featuring a South Korean heiress and a North Korean officer, celebrated for its chemistry, emotional depth and nuanced portrayal of life across the border.
Goblin / Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (2016–2017)
A mythological fantasy romance written by Kim Eun-sook, blending humour, philosophy and breathtaking visuals. Its characters, OST and iconic goblin–grim reaper duo remain unforgettable.
Descendants of the Sun (2016)
A mega-hit military romance starring Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo, set against action-packed missions. The drama became a pan-Asian sensation with massive rewatch value.
My Love From the Star (2013–2014)
A quirky romance between an alien and a superstar actress, known for its humour, emotional depth and cultural impact—especially through Jun Ji-hyun’s globally influential character.
Reply 1988 (2015–2016)
A warm, nostalgic ode to family, friendship and youth set in a Seoul neighbourhood. Its relatable storytelling and iconic ‘husband reveal’ made it one of the most beloved slice-of-life dramas ever.
Itaewon Class (2020)
A powerful tale of resilience and ambition, following a young entrepreneur fighting systemic injustice. Known for strong characters, diversity themes and its hit soundtrack.
Boys Over Flowers (2009)
The gateway K-drama for millions worldwide, featuring the iconic F4. Its dramatic love triangle, memorable characters and cultural influence defined an entire era.
Winter Sonata (2002)
The film became a permanent fixture in Hallyu’s first wave, with lingering memories of an unforgettable love story, brilliant acting, and timeless music; it was, most of all, a huge hit among the Japanese.
Stranger (Secret Forest) (2017)
A critically acclaimed legal thriller with razor-sharp writing, starring Cho Seung-woo and Bae Doona. Widely considered one of Korea’s best crime dramas ever made.
Sky Castle (2018–2019)
A dark satire revealing Korea’s ruthless education system and people’s lives in the upper class. Through its captivating plot and astonishing viewership, the movie became a phenomenon of the whole country.
