My Favorite and Least Favorite K-Dramas: A Detailed Review

Seiba I often enjoy a bit of K-drama, and today I'll share some of my favorite K-dramas along with a selection of my least favorite ones. I'll also tweak the list by adding a few more favorites and least favorites based on personal reviews and recommendations from friends who share my passion for Korean entertainment.

Favorite K-Dramas

K-dramas have a unique charm that keeps viewers hooked. Each one offers a unique storyline, intense character development, and a mix of genres that can be both thrilling and heartwarming. Here are some of my top favorites:

BUSINESS PROPOSAL

This drama is currently at the top of my list and I'm in complete love with it. With only 12 episodes, this drama is not only captivating but also a quick binge-watching session. The chemistry between the lead members is nothing short of excellent. I particularly root for the second couple because, let's face it, they are too cute!

THE RED SLEEVE

This is another K-drama I highly recommend. The Red Sleeve is a detective drama that captivates the viewer with its intricate plot and the excellent acting performances. The story is gripping, keeping the audience guessing until the very end. This drama is a real treasure for those who love mysteries and clever plotting.

MALUHA (MALUHA HEART, SPECIFIC TITLES AVAILABLE)

MALUHA is a treasure in the K-drama genre, with a cast that includes Lee Suho and Cha Eunwoo in True Beauty. The chemistry and connection between the leads are truly impressive, making it a must-watch for fans of romantic dramas.

HOSTEL DEL LUNA

This decade-defining show is a particular favorite. Hotel Del Luna is a love story set in a romantic and supernatural world. IU delivers an outstanding performance with her incredible expressions, and the storyline is genuinely heartwarming. This production is a masterpiece, making it one of the best shows I've ever encountered.

ADULT TRAINEE

Adult Trainee is a unique piece with three different storylines, each with its own set of actors. I particularly enjoyed the second series, which had standout performances. The chemistry between the leads was intense, and the episodes were short, making binge-watching straightforward and convenient. This drama is a wonderful showcase of the Korean entertainment industry's talent and creativity.

Least Favorite K-Dramas

There are K-dramas that bring me back after a single episode, and then there are those that elicit a definite no. Here are some of my least favorite K-dramas, along with the reasons for my mixed feelings:

WHAT'S WRONG WITH SECRETARY KIM

What's Wrong With Secretary Kim had its moments of humor and romance, but it took a turn for the worse when the elder brother was introduced. The plot became convoluted, and I found myself unable to continue after the brother's arrival. This drama is a cautionary tale about how a story can go rogue and lose its charm.

MY SECRET ROMANCE

My Secret Romance started well but fell short due to the actress's hiccup problem. While Sung Hoon was certainly a handsome actor, his scenes with the actress were laden with comedic and unfortunate moments. It just wasn't the same, and I could no longer find joy in the moments between them.

DOCTORS

Doctors was a drama with an age difference romance, but it felt forced and unrealistic. The chemistry just wasn't there, and the drama's efforts to cement a romantic relationship felt misplaced. While there are other K-dramas with significant age gaps, this one didn't work for me.

BLACK KNIGHT: THE ONE WHO GUARDS ME

This reboot of a traditional kwae ryung (protector) drama was initially compelling, but it eventually became too formulaic and predictable. The antagonist's character profile seemed exaggerated, often reminding me of Indian soap operas, which took away from the overall experience.

LOVE ALARM

Love Alarm was not my favorite because of the love triangle's emotional impact. While the handling of the concept was impressive, the internet stalking and the warnings felt a bit heavy-handed. The story managed to create an emotional connection, but it wasn't enough to outweigh the disappointment in certain plot decisions.

Personal opinions may vary, but I hope this review gives you a taste of my K-drama journey and helps you discover new favorites or at least be forewarned about some of the less enjoyable ones. If you have any favorite or least favorite K-dramas, share them in the comments!