One of the biggest names in the Korean entertainment industry and especially in broadcasting and to many K-Drama lovers is none other than 'KBS'. KBS, the Korean Broadcasting System, has played a vital role in the growth of K-Dramas over the decades with continuously high-ranking K-Dramas placing in the best ratings list of 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Additionally, KBS has been known for producing some of the most iconic dramas adored by K-Drama lovers. Thanks to this, they also have some record ratings worth mentioning such as for the K-Drama "Bread, Love and Dreams" which aired in 2010 that reached a record 50.8% rating! Another of their K-Drama hits with sky-high ratings is "Descendants of The Sun" (2016) with a 38.8% rating.

Make sure to check out the KBS dramas with the highest ratings from 2015-2020 in this article:

Here are the top KBS dramas with the highest ratings since 2020!

Note: This ranking does not include daily and weekend dramas. 'Drama specials' and 'weekend drama specials' are also not included in the ranking.

 

1. "Royal Secret Agent" - 14%

"Royal Secret Agent" is the KBS drama with the highest rating (since 2020) at a 14% rating. Starring INFINITE's L (Kim MyungSoo), Kwon NaRa, and Lee YiKyung, many hailed the drama as one of the best historical K-Dramas out there. The drama turned its viewers into detectives who were just as invested in cracking the story as the characters and made for an immersive experience.

 

2. "Goryeo–Khitan War" - 13.8%

"Goryeo-Khitan War" is a 32-episode long and old-style historical drama that gained the hearts of a lot of viewers. It tells the story of the King of Goryeo named HyeonJong who united Goryo with various events including by leading the war with the Khitans. Starring Kim DongJun, Choi SooJung, and Ji SeungHyun, the drama ended with its highest rating at 13.8% (the drama started at 5%).

Note: this drama is a special drama to commemorate the 50th anniversary of KBS.

3. "The King's Affection" - 12.1%

"The King's Affection" was hailed as a drama that gives you butterflies, as K-Drama lovers couldn't get enough of the sweet storyline and affectionate chemistry between the main couple. Add to that the visual beauty of this historical drama and the deal is sealed. Starring RoWoon and Park EunBin, the drama earned a rating of 12.1%.

 

4. "King Of Tears, Lee BangWon" - 11.7%

"King Of Tears, Lee BangWon" told the history of King TaeJong in a way that put a refreshing twist on the well-known history of the king. The drama was particularly enjoyed by history buffs for the way that it kept the already-known narrative exciting. Starring Joo SangWook, Kim YeongCheol, Ye JiWon, and Park JinHee, the drama made a rating of 11.7%.

 

5. "Woman of 9.9 Billion" - 11.6%

This is yet another drama that made a bold impression on K-Drama lovers. Many found the narrative thrilling and filled with suspense that had you on the edge of your seat waiting to see how it ended. Starring Cho YeoJeong and Kim KangWoo, the drama achieved a rating of 11.6%.

 

6. "River Where the Moon Rises" - 10%

This drama earned praise for many elements from the cast's acting portrayals, to the cinematography, to the OST, and more. Fans couldn't get enough of the electric chemistry between the actors, too. Starring Kim SoHyun, Na InWoo, Lee JiHoon, and Choi YuHwa, "River Where The Moon Rises" earned a rating of 10%.

 

7. "Oasis" - 9.7%

This drama took a fresh approach to an educational lesson on Korean history. Many were impressed with the actors who gave the noir drama its depth. "Oasis", starring Jang DongYoon, Seor InA, and Choo YoungWoo, secured a rating of 9.7%.

 

8. "Bloody Heart" - 8.9%

"Bloody Heart" earned a rating of 8.9%. Starring Jang Hyuk, Lee Joon, and Kang HanNa, the drama was praised for the depth of its storyline and characters. With a riveting narrative, the characters each carried out their convictions in a convincing way.

 

9. "Police University" - 8.5%

"Police University" was a K-Drama filled with life lessons and sweet moments that brought a lot of fun to the screen. Starring Cha TaeHyun, JinYoung, and f(x)'s Krystal, the drama earned an 8.5% rating.

 

10. "Moonshine" - 7.6%

"Moonshine" did what a lot of dramas can't do easily. It mixed the complex world of politics with a romantic comedy aspect that made for a pleasant viewing experience. Fans were especially pleased with the emotional conviction of the actors, Yoo SeungHo and Girl's Day's HyeRi - earning the drama a 7.6% rating.

 

11. "Forest" - 7.4%

"Forest" gained a lot of praise for its beautiful setting and beautiful story. Many fans expressed that watching the drama had a healing effect on them and that they appreciated the sweet chemistry between the main characters, played by actors Park HaeJin and Cho BoAh, too. This earned the drama ratings of 7.4%.

 

12. "Curtain Call" - 7.2%

"Curtain Call" was a fresh kind of period drama well-received by many fans. The drama carried a deep sentiment that appealed to viewers. Starring Kang HaNeul, Ha JiWon, and Go DooShim, the drama secured 7.2% ratings.

 

13. "The Law Cafe" - 7.1%

"The Law Cafe" earned the high ratings of 7.1%. Starring Lee SeungGi and Lee SeYoung, this law-and-order type drama had fans rolling with laughter at the witty antics and had their hearts fluttering at the romantic moments.

 

14. "Sell Your Haunted House" - 6.9%

"Sell Your Haunted House" was complimented for its beguiling cast and the amazing way that it presented the horror genre to the K-Drama screen. Starring Jang NaRa and CNBLUE's Jung YongHwa, the drama secured a rating of 6.9%.

 

15. "Bad Prosecutor" - 6.3%

"Bad Prosecutor" gained a lot of praise for its thrilling action investigation storyline and comedy-filled scenes. The chemistry between the two leads was also unmatched. Starring EXO’s D.O. and Lee SeHee, the drama secured 6.3% in ratings.

 

16. "Cheat On Me, If You Can" - 5.8%

Many enjoyed this drama for its crime-novel-esque storytelling style and for the thrill of unraveling the mystery together with the main character. Starring Cho YeoJeong and Go Jun, "Cheat On Me, If You Can" earned 5.8% in ratings.

Which of these KBS dramas is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

 

There's an incredible amount of amazing historical K-Dramas that grace millions of small screens every year. They hold everything from political struggles, nail-biting action, and tender romance. The many stories strike at viewers' hearts in a way that they'll be remembering the scenes for months on end.

For many parts of these dramas, it's the riveting storylines and eye-catching plot that immerses viewers from beginning to end. But what makes these series so great are the incredible characters that develop overtime and win the hearts of drama fans worldwide. While much focus is shown towards the king of the nation, sometimes it's the queen that takes all the spotlight. They showcase their worth and portray that there's more to ruling a kingdom than

With that in mind, here's a few charismatically charming queens that we would totally serve under.

 

1. Ki SeungNyang (Ha JiWon) - "Empress Ki"

Legendary actress Ha JiWon was highly praised for her portrayal of Ki SeungNyang, the Ki Empress. While the series spanned a total of 51 episodes, Ha JiWon, along with the rest of the cast, were able to keep viewers immersed from beginning to end. Ki SeungNyang's ability to work behind the scenes yet still let her presence be known is outstanding, showcasing her ability to stand up to her enemies all on her own. With so much strength as a single person, with people behind her Ki SeungNyang's strength is multiplied tenfold, able to conquer millions of viewers' hearts in a second.

 

2. Queen HwaRyeong (Kim HyeSoo) - "Under The Queen's Umbrella"

Queen HwaRyeong carried an indisputable grace that shone through the darkness. Despite the various hardships she faced, Queen HwaRyeong never cracked underneath the pressure and continued moving to the beat of her own drum. Her astounding resilience made her an invaluable asset to the king, as well as his most beloved partner. Right until the finale, she shows all the reasons why she deserves to have the title of Queen.

 

3. Tae Al Ha (Kim OkBin) - "Arthdal Chronicles"

Tae Al Ha isn't your typical Queen who solely uses her words to resolve conflicts. She's the type of person to rush on the battlefield and stand side by side with her King and army to fight to retain her spot of power. She's cunning and a trained killer, able to inflict fear in the hearts of her enemies. While Tae Al Ha does possess some form of motherly care, she's a Queen you would not want to mess with. Although serving under her banner would provide some well desired perks and a lifetime's worth of protection.

 

4. Shin ChaeKyung (Park MinYoung) - "Queen For Seven Days"

Although she's the queen of rom-coms, Park MinYoung has constantly showcased her ability to take on any genre out there. She absolutely grew in her role as Shin ChaeKyung, earning praise from critics and netizens alike. If the title wasn't a dead giveaway, she does need to relinquish her throne. However, throughout the series you'll find yourself wholeheartedly rooting for Shin ChaeKyung and that even if she must vacate her position as queen, she'll find some happiness waiting for her in the end.

 

5. Queen Kim SoYong (Shin HaeSun) - "Mr. Queen"

While many historical K-Dramas are wrought with intense heartache and gripping political struggles, "Mr. Queen" errs more on comedy and will have you clutching to your sides in laughter. Park HyeSun's portrayal of Queen Kim SoYoung will have you smiling from ear to ear, silently hoping for the drama to never end. Just imagining being one of her attendants brings an immense joy that you would want to last forever.

Which K-Drama Queen would you want to serve under?

For new K-Dramas fans and non addicts to K-Dramas, it is often hard to make a great watchlist. You most probably ask your friend’s opinions or read the reviews online to make your selection, but sometimes it is not enough. We hope this list will help you find the dramas you are looking for!

After listing up, the best romantic comedy and best action thriller romance dramas, here are the best romance historical dramas. If you are a beginner to K-Dramas, historical dramas might look unattractive to you. It is a question of taste but Korean historical dramas are very diverse. Some have few historical elements and are easy to watch. It is simply like another drama but with a pretty historical background. While some are approachable and easy-to-understand, some have complex and political plots. Your only task is to choose wisely according to your taste!

For K-Drama addicts, you probably have watched all of the drama listed below, if not, it is time to add to your watchlist.

Note: This list was first published in 2019 and updated several times with new releases. Latest update: November 2023. This is not a ranking.

 

1. "The Moon Embracing The Sun"

When: 2012

Cast: Kim SooHyun, Han GaIn, Jung IlWoo, Kim MinSeo

Summary: When they were young, Crown Prince Lee Hwon falls in love with Yeon Woo who is chosen to be the Crown Princess. However, because of political schemes, a shaman put a curse on her. People think she is dead but she resurrected with memory loss. Eight years later, she becomes a shaman and the Crown Prince still cannot forget his -dead- true love. They ended up meeting in the palace. The young King starts to investigate her death and she starts to remember her past.

For: Viewers looking for an unforgettable romantic drama.

Why watch?: This drama's plot and acting are just perfect. Viewers are hook from the beginning to the end. The drama mixes genre with romance, fantasy, and comedy. You will be on a roller coaster of emotions and dearly attached to the characters.

 

2. "Jang OkJung, Living by Love"

When: 2013

Cast: Kim TaeHee, Yoo AhIn, Hong SooHyun

Summary: It tells the story of one of the most famous -villain- royal concubines in the Joseon Dynasty. The story takes place before and after she becomes queen.

For: Viewers looking for a romantic drama with deadly political fights.

Why watch?: The first part focuses on the romance of the two main characters and the latter part of the drama is more political with the various political schemes and relation with the King, the Queen, and the concubines. The story is addictive and viewers want to know to which extent the characters' greediness can go.

 

3. "Warrior Baek DongSoo"

When: 2011

Cast: Ji ChangWook, Yoo SeungHo, Yoon SoYi, Shin HyunBin

Summary: This drama has themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and honor in the middle of political schemes in Joseon by the Crown Prince, assassin guilds, and others.

For: Viewers looking for an epic historical drama with bromance, swords fight, and beautiful cinematography.

Why watch?: More than romance, it is a drama that focuses on brotherhood. For those of you who like sword fights, assassins, and friendship, this is for you! Both actors acting are perfect and the surrounding actors too. Viewers are held onto their universe from the beginning to the end and it deeply touches viewers' hearts.

 

4. "Hwarang"

When: 2016-2017

Cast: Park SeoJun, Go Ara, Park HyungSik, SHINee's MinHo, BTS's V

Summary: The regent of the Kingdom of Silla is hiding her son. She also creates a new elite name Hwarang - a group of young people. Inside the trained Hwarang, her son (the future king) and a commoner have a secret.

For: Viewers looking for a cute and light historical drama with handsome and funny male leads.

Why watch?: It is easy to watch for all the public. The plot is cute and fresh. Moreover, it might be a nice first step into Korean historical dramas for those unfamiliar with Korean history.

 

5. "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo"

When: 2016

Cast: Lee JoonGi, IU, Kang HaNeul, Nam JooHyuk, Ji Soo, Hong JongHyun, EXO's BaekHyun, etc

Summary: During a solar eclipse, Go HaJin is transported from modern to Goryeo times. She wakes up in the middle of the numerous royal princes. Her story then begins. She first falls in love with the kind 8th Prince but later changes to the 4th Prince. This prince is known for being fearless and hides his face with a mak. She is trapped in the princes' rivalry over the throne.

For: Viewers looking for drama bringing viewers on a roller-coaster of emotions.

Why watch?: Lee JoonGi is one of the actors whose acting in historical dramas is not to miss. The other actors in supporting roles are also popular. The drama while being eye-candy and is quite complex in its addictive plot and numerous characters. It is well balanced between cute and dark.

 

6. "Empress Ki"

When: 2013-2014

Cast: Ha JiWon, Ji ChangWook, Joo JinMo

Summary: It tells the love story and political ambition of Empress Ki, a lady from Goryeo taken against her will as a palace woman that ended up as Yuan Empress.

For: Viewers looking for an intense love story and breathtaking political fights.

Why watch?: The drama is long of 51 episodes. Some might think at first sight that it is too long but it is not. The memorable love story and political schemes have enough time to develop. The viewers can only root for the strong lead female character. The superb acting of the main actors is a plus.

 

7. "Six Flying Dragons"

When: 2015-2016

Cast: Yoo AhIn, Kim MyungMin, Shin SeKyung, Byun YoHan, Yoon KyunSang, Chun HoJin

Summary: It covers the transition from Goryeo to Joseon. It tells the story around the foundation of the new dynasty and especially young prince Lee BangWon.

For: Viewers looking for an epic and political drama about one of the most captivating periods of Korean history.

Why watch?: First of all, the drama has romance but it is minor, and second, the drama has over 50 episodes. Despite a solid cast and strong plot, the drama might not be for everyone. However, if you like great historical and political plot, this is for you and highly recommended.

 

8. "Bridal Mask"

When: 2012

Cast: Joo Won, Jin SeYeon, Park KiWoong, Han ChaeAh, Shin HyunJoon

Summary: It is the Korean version of a superhero during Imperial Japanese rule. It tells the love story of a hero without a name that has to throw away love because of his fate and the woman who tries to protect him.

For: Viewers looking for a cliffhanger drama when Korea was under Japanese rule with romance.

Why watch?: If you want to learn about this period of Korean history, the drama might be a good reason to watch. The plot is catchy. Viewers hold their breath throughout the show. The love story and brotherhood make it even more intense.

 

9. "The Emperor: Owner of the Mask"

When: 2017

Cast: Yoo SeungHo, Kim SoHyun, Kim MyungSoo (INFINITE's L)

Summary: It tells the story of the Crown Prince fighting the Pyeonsuhwe society that controls the water supply thanks to their power. In this battle for the people, the Crown Prince and the girl who is popular among the people develop their love story.

For: Viewers looking for a love story with an appealing plot and action scenes.

Why watch?: Acting is good and the characters made it worth watching. The love story is touching and the development of the story is interesting.

 

10. "Gu Family Book"

When: 2013

Cast: Lee SeungGi, Suzy, Sung Joon, Yoo YeonSeok, Lee YuBi

Summary: A half-man and half-gumiho loves one ordinary woman and he will try his best to live like a human.

For: Viewers looking for a mysterious and fantastical love story.

Why watch?: The fantasy genre is intriguing and there are plenty of action scenes to enjoy. The love story is pure and will make you smile and cry. It is also easy to watch for viewers not used to historical dramas.

 

11. "Rookie Historian Goo HaeRyung"

When: 2019

Cast: Shin SeKyung, ASTRO’s Cha EunWoo, Park KiWoong

Summary: The story is set in the 19th century where men and women are not seen as equal. A woman will try to become a historian and try to 'change' society. And it tells the romance between her and the prince.

For: Viewers looking for a cute and fun romance historical drama about women's social issues with a handsome lead.

Why watch?: This historical drama is quite new in the sense that it gives light to women's social issues in Joseon (and still relatable to some extent in the modern time). The lead female character is strong, smart, and dependent while the lead male character is cute and has many things to learn. They have a lot of cute and lovely romantic scenes.

 

12. "The Tale of Nokdu"

When: 2019

Cast: Kim SoHyun, Jang DongYoon, Kang TaeOh

Summary: It tells the romance between a man who is disguising as a woman to infiltrate a community for widows and a girl that hates the idea of becoming a gisaeng.

For: Viewers looking for an exciting historical drama with perfect chemistry.

Why watch?: "The Tale of Nokdu" is a must-watch historical romance drama. It has the whole package to be a captivating drama: romance, comedy, action, mystery, and politics. The male character is cross-dressing which is the opposite of the usual frame. The plot will hook you from the beginning to the end and you will end up rooting for the lead couple.

 

13. "Mr. Queen"

When: 2020-2021

Cast: Shin HyeSun, Kim JungHyun, Bae JongOk, Kim TaeWoo

Summary: Due to a sudden accident, the soul of a wild man from modern Korea entered Queen Kim SoYong's body in Joseon. It tells the scandalous story of a soul that ran away from its body and the King CheolJong who has two faces.

For: Viewers looking for a hilarious historical drama with perfect acting.

Why watch?: This drama has received a lot of love due to its hilarious characters and story. Shin HyeSun, one of the most talented actresses, took on the role of a man from modern time who arrived in the body of the Queen in Joseon. She portrayed the character flawlessly making viewers connect with the arrogant man pretending to be a woman. Aside from it, you can expect political fights and a not-so-easy to understand king.

 

14. "Royal Secret Agent"

When: 2020-2021

Cast: Kim MyungSoo (INFINITE's L), Kwon NaRa, Lee YiKyung

Summary: It is the comic investigation story of late Joseon secret royal inspectors who are the secret ears of the palace. They actively and cheerfully eradicate corruption and help victims of injustice.

For: Viewers looking for an easy-to-watch and funny historical drama with a bit of romance.

Why watch?: The most fun and lovely trio (funniest bromance ever) are going for adventures across the country. This drama will put you in a good mood and make you laugh hard. But at the same time, their investigations are also nerve-breaking and captivating. It is the perfect ratio of comedy and action.

 

15. "Bossam: Steal the Fate"

When: 2021

Cast: Jung IlWoo, Girls' Generation's (Kwon) YuRi, Shin HyunSoo

Summary: A man who kidnaps widows for remarriage life is turned upside down when he kidnaps a princess by mistake.

For: Viewers looking for an emotional romance touching on the women's condition in Joseon with politics.

Why watch?: The background of this drama about widow and women in Joseon make it memorable. The overall atmosphere is quite serious and emotional as the lead characters' situations are far from being happy once. Complex love relationships, dangerous situations, and politics are keywords.

16. "The King's Affection"

When: 2021

Cast: Park EunBin, SF9's RoWoon, Nam YoonSoo, VICTON's ByungChan, Bae YoonKyung, DIA's Jung ChaeYeon

Summary: It is the secret court romance drama of a woman who was abandoned because she was born as a girl. When her twin brother died, she began to pretend to be him: the crown prince while trying to keep her identity and affection for her first love.

For: Viewers looking for a good plotline and a sweet love story.

Why watch?: The plot of the drama is woman-centered and mainly focuses on Park EunBin acting as the king. On one side, you have beautiful flowery sets and her affection for RoWoon, and on the other side, her being scared of being caught and all the political schemes. This combination makes this drama a good one to watch.

 

17. "The Red Sleeve"

When: 2021-2022

Cast: 2PM’s Lee JunHo, Lee SeYoung

Summary: A record of a mournful court romance between a court lady who wanted to protect the life she had chosen and a king who put the country ahead of love.

For: Viewers looking for a touching drama that makes them cry.

Why watch?: It is a sad love story (better to know before starting) that moved the heart of countless viewers. This is not only the acting and chemistry of quality but also the thoughts on what is love compared to your personal life's aspirations that make this drama stand out. It is by far a high-quality historical K-Drama you don't want to miss.

 

18. "The Forbidden Marriage"

When: 2022-2023

Cast: Kim YoungDae, Park JuHyun, Kim WooSeok

Summary: “The Forbidden Marriage” is a delightful and exhilarating palace fraud drama about a marriage scammer who claims to be possessed by the spirit of the king’s late wife.

For: Viewers looking for a hilarious romantic comedy

Why watch?: The king (Kim YoungDae) can't forget his late wife but the scammer (Park JuHyun) pretends to be possessed by her spirit and this is all how they got closer. The drama is full of comic moments and gives watchers comfort and a happy time. Really entertaining! The drama directing and set were also very romantic and pretty giving us beautiful scenes. Note that this drama added a modern twist to its old story making it even more relatable. 

 

Bonus. "Alchemy of Souls" Season 1 & 2

*Note: "Alchemy of Souls" is not a historical drama. It is complete fiction and is not set in any time in Korean history. However, this drama might interest fans of historical drama so we are adding it as a bonus.

When: 2022-2023

Cast: Lee JaeWook, Jung SoMin (S1), Go YunJung (S2), Hwang MinHyun, Shin SeungHo, Oh My Girl’s Arin, and more.

Summary: “Alchemy of Souls” is set in a great country that does not exist in history or on maps; a fantasy romance drama in which the protagonist's fates have been twisted due to magic.

For: Viewers looking for an unforgettable drama full of twists and addictive elements

Why watch?: This drama has a lot of addicted and passionate fans for a reason. This drama has no miss and has become a new classic drama! Action, fantasy, romance, bromance, mysteries, shocking twists, beautiful costumes and sets, high-quality CGIs, etc all make this drama truly unmissable! Between tears, laugh, and smiles, this drama has all to steal your heart.

 

You can also recommend to readers through the poll (opened on June 23, 2021) and the comments. (Note that "The King's Affection", "The Red Sleeve", "The Forbidden Marriage", and "Alchemy of Souls" were added later than the other dramas in the poll)

 

Check out other K-Drama watchlists below: