The Best Turkish Dramas That Every South Korean Must Watch

When it comes to Turkish dramas, there are quite a few that stand out, especially for South Korean audiences who have a penchant for engaging and emotional storytelling. This article highlights some top Turkish series that not only captivate a wide audience but also those with a keen interest in watching quality TV dramas. From Ezel and Magnificent Century to Sahsiyet and Dirilis: Ertugrul, these shows offer a unique blend of historical narratives, love stories, and cultural insights, making them a must-watch for fans of the genre.

A Awakening with Ezel

From Ezel, directed by Umit Islamoglu and starring Bozca Aksoy, Suran Karahasan, and many other talented actors, the series has taken the world by storm, surpassing even the anti-Turkey countries' attempts to downrate its IMDb rating. With an IMDb score of 8.5, this series is a testament to its quality and appeal. The story revolves around the life of Ezel, a young woman from Adana in southern Turkey, who is torn between following her heart and fulfilling societal expectations. Despite its political climate, Ezel has managed to retain a solid fanbase and critical acclaim.

One of the most impressive feats of Ezel is its global reach. By the time of its premiere, viewers from around the world had watched the series, and it continues to be beloved by fans. Despite being deliberately downrated by anti-Turkey entities, Ezel has managed to maintain its popularity, speaking volumes about its quality and the depth of storytelling. So, if you're looking for an emotional and deeply engaging Turkish drama, Ezel is a must-watch. Watch it, and you won't be disappointed. Every damn second is worth it.

Empired: The Global Phenomenon of Magnificent Century

Among the numerous hits in the Turkish drama genre, Magnificent Century holds a special place in the hearts of viewers and critics alike. First aired in 2017, the series shattered records with its immense viewership, drawing in over 500 million viewers worldwide. In comparison, the popular HBO show Game of Thrones only managed to reach around 170 million views. This stunning figure speaks volumes about the massive impact and global appeal of Magnificent Century.

The success of Magnificent Century wasn't just about its numbers but also about its storytelling. Set during the last years of Ottoman Emperor Sultan Mehmed IV's reign, the show takes viewers on a journey through the tumultuous times of the 17th century. The plot is enriched with historical accuracy and vivid characters, making it an immersive and educational experience. The show's historical context and well-crafted narratives have also earned it numerous accolades, cementing its status as one of the greatest Turkish dramas of all time.

Awards and Recognition: The Pinnacle of Sahsiyet

Slightly overshadowed but no less impressive is Sahsiyet, a series with an even higher IMDb rating of 9.1, unmatched by many other dramas. The series follows the life of refugee Sahsiyet, who moves to Istanbul to live with her uncle. Despite the challenges she faces, she aims to build a better life for herself, which resonates deeply with viewers. What sets Sahsiyet apart is the stellar performance of its lead actor, Oya Yilmaz, who won the Emmy for Best Actor in a Drama Series. Oya Yilmaz is the only person to win this award once a year, which underscores the significance of her performance. This victory further solidifies Sahsiyet as a must-watch series for those who appreciate both acting and storytelling.

Moreover, the success of Sahsiyet lies in its ability to connect with a diverse audience. The story of a single woman's struggle resonates with viewers worldwide, making it an incredibly relatable and engaging drama. If you're looking for a series that strikes the perfect balance between heartwarming stories and compelling narratives, Sahsiyet is an excellent choice. Its high IMDb rating and the accolades it has received make it a definitive must-watch for South Korean audiences and beyond.

An Epoch-Defining Series: Dirilis: Ertugrul

Dirilis: Ertugrul, a series that has taken the world by storm, draws in an astounding 1.13 billion viewers worldwide for its final episode. This figure is a staggering 130 million more than those who witnessed the first moon landing in 1969. The story of Dirilis: Ertugrul unfolds in the 11th century and follows the life of the legendary 11th-century Anatolian Turkic leader Ertugrul Gazi. The series is a testament to its historical and mythic appeal, capturing viewers with its epic storytelling and action-packed moments.

The global reach of Dirilis: Ertugrul is a direct reflection of its quality and audience engagement. Its impact is felt not only in Turkey but also across the world, making it a cultural phenomenon in itself. For those seeking a series that offers a blend of action, adventure, and heartfelt narratives set against a backdrop of historical events, Dirilis: Ertugrul is an irrefutable choice.

Conclusion

For South Korean viewers who are looking to engage with the best of Turkish dramas, the list above offers a comprehensive selection. Each of the series—Ezel, Magnificent Century, Sahsiyet, and Dirilis: Ertugrul—brings something unique to the table, from immersive historical accounts to award-winning performances and emotional storytelling. If you're ready to immerse yourself in the richness of Turkish drama, these series will deliver an unforgettable viewing experience.

So, if you're planning to watch one Turkish drama, make it Ezel. Trust me, you won't regret it. And remember, after hearing about "Day" in Ezel, you'll understand what I mean by "yeen."