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Korean dramas are known for their romantic and captivating stories of all genres and topics. Similar to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, historical Korean dramas are the ultimate escapism, taking you back in time to a world of nobility, unrest, and romantic longing.
From stories about real figures to supernatural storylines, historical dramas not only offer a glimpse into Korea’s rich history and culture, but also weave in elements of romance, fantasy, and intrigue.
Read on to discover 26 historical Korean dramas that you need to add to your must-watch list.
1. Captivating the King
This drama explores the life of a young woman (Kang Hee Soo) who disguises herself as a man to serve in the palace. You follow her journey as unexpected twists lead her through navigating palace politics, forbidden love, and the threat of her true identity being exposed.
With a strong female lead and a storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Captivating the King is a must-watch for fans of historical intrigue.
2. The King’s Affection (2021)
The King’s Affection tells the story of a crown prince who is actually a woman (Park Eun Bin) in disguise (I guess this is a theme, but it’s a good one).
After her twin brother’s death, she takes on his identity to preserve the royal lineage. The drama explores themes of identity, power, and love and is one you cannot miss.
3. Mr. Sunshine (2018)
Mr. Sunshine follows the story of a young boy born into slavery who escapes to the United States, only to return to Korea as a U.S. Marine officer.
The drama beautifully captures the complex emotions of loyalty, love, and patriotism during a turbulent time in Korean history.
4. Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung (2019)
This drama centers around Goo Hae Ryung, a young woman who becomes one of the first female historians in the royal court.
Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung combines romance and comedy with a strong message about gender equality and the role of women in history. It does a great job of entertaining while allowing the audience to be reflective.
5. The Moon That Embraces The Sun (2012)
A tragic love story between a fictional king and a female shaman, The Moon That Embraces The Sun is a tale of fate, power, and supernatural elements. The drama’s enchanting storyline and beautiful cinematography make it a standout in the genre.
6. Queen & I/Queen In Hyun’s Man (2012)
In this time-travel drama, a scholar from the Joseon dynasty finds himself transported to the 21st century, where he meets a struggling actress. The drama blends romance, comedy, and historical intrigue, making it a unique entry in the historical drama genre.
7. Mr. Queen (2020-2021)
Mr. Queen is a fusion of historical and modern elements, where a male chef from the present finds himself in the body of a queen from the Joseon dynasty. The drama is a hilarious yet insightful exploration of gender roles, identity, and power dynamics within the royal court.
8. Love in the Moonlight (2016)
This coming-of-age story revolves around a crown prince who falls in love with a eunuch, who is actually a woman in disguise (again, it’s a recurring theme but for some reason, it works every single time).
Love in the Moonlight is a sweet and heartwarming tale of young love, identity, and the challenges of royal life.
9. The Tale of Nokdu (2019)
A man disguises himself as a woman (we are switching it up 😉 ) to infiltrate a mysterious widow’s village in The Tale of Nokdu.
This drama combines action, romance, and comedy, set against the backdrop of the Joseon dynasty, offering a fresh take on the genre.
As a side note: this is one of my all-time favorite dramas. I love how women are represented in this drama and the sisterhood you find within the widow village inspired me.
10. Gu Family Book (2013)
Gu Family Book is an oldie, but a goodie. A fantasy historical drama that tells the story of a half-human, half-gumiho (mythical creature) who seeks to become fully human.
The drama is filled with action, romance, and supernatural elements, making it a captivating watch.
11. Secret Royal Inspector Joy (2021)
Set during the Joseon dynasty, Secret Royal Inspector Joy follows the story of a young and carefree man who is appointed as a secret royal inspector against his will. Together with a bold and independent woman, he uncovers corruption and injustice within the government.
12. Queen for 7 Days (2017)
Queen for 7 Days is a tragic love story based on the true story of Queen Dangyeong, who was dethroned after just seven days. The drama explores the intense political intrigue and the heartbreaking love between the queen and King Jungjong.
13. Alchemy of Souls (2022)
While Alchemy of Souls is not strictly a historical drama, it is set in a fictional world inspired by Korea’s historical eras. The drama blends elements of fantasy, magic, and romance, creating an enchanting and otherworldly experience.
The cinematography of this drama, especially in that first episode is phenomenal and breathtaking.
Watch Alchemy of Souls on Netflix
14. Hwarang (2016-2017)
Hwarang is set in the Silla dynasty and follows the story of an elite group of young men known as the Hwarang, who are trained in both martial arts and culture. The drama is a blend of action, romance, and bromance, with a focus on friendship and loyalty.
P.S. for BTS ARMY – this is the one with Taehyung 🙂
15. Splash Splash Love (2015)
In this short but sweet drama, a high school student time-travels to the Joseon dynasty, where she meets a young King Sejong. Splash Splash Love is a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and historical elements, perfect for a quick binge-watch.
16. Chicago Typewriter (2017)
Chicago Typewriter is a unique blend of past and present, where a group of writers from the 1930s are reincarnated in modern-day Korea. The drama explores themes of love, friendship, and betrayal, with flashbacks to the historical period that shaped the characters’ lives.
17. Under the Queen’s Umbrella (2022)
This epic drama portrays the life of a queen who must protect her sons and secure their positions in the royal court.
Under the Queen’s Umbrella offers a gripping narrative filled with political intrigue, power struggles, and maternal love, set against a richly detailed historical backdrop.
Watch Under the Quen’s Umbrella on Netflix
18. 100 Days My Prince (2018)
100 Days My Prince follows the story of a crown prince who loses his memory and lives as a commoner for 100 days. The drama combines romance, mystery, and comedy, offering a fresh perspective on life in the Joseon dynasty.
19. The Great Doctor/Faith (2012)
Another older drama to add to the list! Just watching the trailer again made me giggle. K-Dramas have definitely evolved in the last 15 years!
In this fantasy historical drama, a modern-day plastic surgeon is kidnapped and brought back to the Goryeo dynasty. The Great Doctor (also known as Faith) blends history, fantasy, and romance, with a storyline that keeps you hooked until the end.
20. My Dearest (2023)
My Dearest is a poignant love story set against the backdrop of Korea’s Joseon dynasty. It tells the tale of star-crossed lovers who must navigate the challenges of war, politics, and societal expectations. This drama is a compelling mix of romance, history, and drama.
21. Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)
Based on the Chinese novel Bu Bu Jing Xin, Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo follows the story of a 21st-century woman who time-travels to the Goryeo dynasty. There, she becomes entangled in the lives of the royal princes, leading to a tale of love, betrayal, and tragedy.
Byeon Woo Seok plays a charming role in this drama alongside the leads. For more Byeon Woo Seok dramas, check out this article here.
22. Empress Ki (2013-2014)
Empress Ki is an epic tale of power, love, and ambition. It tells the story of a Goryeo woman who rises to become the empress of the Yuan dynasty. The drama is filled with intense political intrigue, battles, and a strong female lead who defies the odds.
23. Knight Flower (2024)
Knight Flower is a romantic historical drama set in the Joseon era. It follows the journey of a young noblewoman who disguises herself as a man to train in martial arts. As she fights for justice, she finds herself entangled in a forbidden romance with a royal guard.
24. Sungkyunkwan Scandal (2010)
Sungkyunkwan Scandal is a fun and light-hearted drama set in the Joseon dynasty. It follows the story of a young woman who disguises herself as a man (I seriously did not realize how many of these dramas have this plot point until I started writing this article) to attend the prestigious Sungkyunkwan University.
The drama is a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and coming-of-age themes.
25. Joseon Attorney (2023)
Joseon Attorney centers on a young lawyer who uses his legal expertise to fight against corruption and injustice during the Joseon dynasty. The drama combines courtroom drama with historical elements, offering a unique perspective on the legal system of the time.
26. Our Blooming Youth (2023)
Our Blooming Youth is a historical romance drama that follows the love story between a cursed crown prince and a young noblewoman accused of a crime. The drama beautifully captures the tension between love and duty, set against the backdrop of royal intrigue and mystery.
27. The Matchmakers (2023)
The Matchmakers is a delightful drama set in the Joseon era, where a skilled matchmaker (Rowoon) helps bring together couples from different social classes. The series focuses on the challenges of love and marriage during a time when social status often dictated one’s future.
With a blend of romance, humor, and a strong message about breaking societal norms, this drama offers a fresh perspective on the matchmaking tradition in Korea’s history.
Read more about this drama here
28. Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency (2019)
Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency takes viewers into the world of a prestigious matchmaking agency in Joseon. The story revolves around a young blacksmith who asks the agency to transform him into a nobleman to win the heart of his first love.
The drama beautifully portrays the complexities of love, social status, and personal identity, all set within the vibrant and often unpredictable world of Joseon matchmaking.
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