It is quite common for Korean dramas to be adapted from or based on the storylines of J-Dramas or C-Dramas. These Korean remakes might offer different scenes and atmospheres from their original version or even deviate from the original plot. On the other hand, Korean dramas have also been remade into other languages such as "Good Doctor" (2013) in English in the U.S., "Signal'" (2016) to Japanese, "Princess Hours" (2006) to Thai, and so on and so forth.

In recent years, more and more American and European dramas are being adapted into K-Dramas, generating interest in both the original and the remake.

 

1. "Little Women"

The beloved coming-of-age novel "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott received a K-Drama adaptation of the same name and premiered in September 2022. Starring Kim GoEun, Nam JiHyun, Park JiHu, and Wi HaJun, the drama explored the lives and relationships of three sisters as they take on the world on their own terms. The novel has been adapted numerous times before and as such, expectations were higher than ever for the Korean remake, receiving an average of 7.737% viewership nationwide.

 

2. "Cleaning Up"

The gripping British drama about stock wars and insider trading, "Cleaning Up" is getting a K-Drama adaptation in 2022, starring Yum JungAh, Jeon SoMin, Kim JaeHwa, Lee MooSaeng and Na InWoo in the leading roles. Set in the Bested Investment Securities office, the story revolves around cleaners who stumble upon some sensitive information about insider trading and decide to turn their lives around. "Cleaning Up" is scheduled to air in the 1st half of 2022.

 

3. "One Ordinary Day"

Starring Kim SooHyun and Cha SeungWon, "One Ordinary Day" is the Korean remake of the BBC series "Criminal Justice". While expectations were undoubtedly high for this adaptation, the show definitely exceeded them, delivering a truly excellent narrative.

 

4. "Uncle"

The BBC Three sitcom "Uncle" was remade into a K-Drama of the same name in 2021, starring Oh JungSe and Jeon HyeJin. The drama was dearly beloved by viewers, which led to the highest viewership rating of 9.3% nationwide.

 

5. "Criminal Minds"

"Criminal Minds", one of the most popular U.S. crime and mystery TV series, was adapted into a K-Drama in 2017, starring Lee JoonGi. It had around 3% of ratings in Korea (cable channel).

 

6. "The Good Wife"

"Good Wife" is an American legal and political TV series that started in 2009 and completed airing in 2016. The Korean remake aired in 2016 with Jeon DoYeon and Yoo JiTae. It had approximately 6.2% of the ratings (cable channel).

 

7. "Entourage"

From 2004 to 2011, "Entourage" was broadcasted in the U.S and garnered considerable popularity among viewers worldwide. tvN decided to remake the series with Seo KangJoon as the lead male character but the drama, unfortunately, did not perform too well. It acquired less than 1% of ratings.

 

8. "Suits"

From 2011 to 2019, "Suits" was broadcasted in the U.S and went on to have 9 seasons. Realizing its popularity and potential in the Korean entertainment market, KBS decided to remake "Suits" and cast Park HyungSik and Jang DongGun in the leading roles. The show turned out to be hugely successful in Korea as well, ending with an average viewership rating of 10.7%.

 

9. "Mistress"

The British TV series "Mistresses" first aired in 2013 and in 2018, this mystery drama was remade in Korea. Starring Han GaIn and Shin HyunBeen, the drama achieved an average viewership rating of 1.234% nationwide.

 

10. "The World Of The Married"

One of the highest-rated shows in the history of K-Dramas, "The World of the Married", starring Kim HeeAe, Park HaeJoon, and Han SoHee is adapted from the BBC One TV series "Doctor Foster".

 

11. "Money Heist: Korea - Joint Economic Area"

The Spanish series, simply named "Money Heist", was initially aired on Antena 3 for the first two seasons and then was picked up by streaming giant Netflix for three more, making it a total of five seasons in all. The show then saw a Korean adaptation in 2022 starring Park HaeSoo, Jun JongSeo, Yoo JiTae, and more. Within its first week, the show topped the Global Top 10 list of international Netflix TV shows.

 

12. "Behind Every Star"

"Behind Every Star" is based on the French TV series "Call My Agent!" and made its premiere in November 2022. It features Lee SeoJin and Kwak SunYoung, among many others. The show reached a 3.139% average viewership nationwide.

 

13. "Woori The Virgin"

"Jane The Virgin" was a sensational American TV series that spanned across five seasons. The Korean remake, "Woori The Virgin" premiered in May 2022, featuring Im SooHyang and Sung Hoon. With their chemistry and the lighthearted adaptation, the show reached a 3.6% average viewership nationwide.

 

14. "Designated Survivor: 60 Days"

The US political thriller series, "Designated Survivor", initially premiered in 2016 and the Korean remake came into fruition three years later in 2019. With Ji JinHee at the forefront, the series earned a 4.464% viewership nationwide.

 

15. "Less Than Evil"

British psychological crime thriller "Luther" had viewers glued to their seats across multiple series while it aired on BBC One. It was remade by various countries, including South Korea. "Less Than Evil" kept audiences coming back for more week after week, earning a 7.2% viewership nationwide. Considering Shin HaKyun's talent, it seems only natural that so many remained interested in the MBC drama.

 

16. "Romance Is A Bonus Book"

American rom-com drama series, "Younger", reached critical claim and was a series loved all across the country. Korea tried their hand at an adaptation, resulting in "Romance Is A Bonus Book". Veteran and experienced actors in Lee NaYoung and Lee JongSuk took the leading roles, creating a drama that's loved even today. The tvN series earned 5.151% nationwide viewership.

Have you watched any of these adaptations?

OTT platforms have brought the world a little closer with their roster of incredible entertainment from every part of the world, facilitating a whole new wave of globalization in the new digital age. In the absence of the restrictions of cable TV, a viewer in one part of the world can consume and appreciate art and entertainment from another. One of the biggest contributors to this has been the OTT giant Netflix and its Korean original shows.

In recent times, Netflix has upped its game in the arena of Korean entertainment with the huge and still rising popularity of the same. Besides bringing numerous classics on board, Netflix has also been churning out some incredible original content for fans worldwide.

If you’re a fan of K-Pop, K-Dramas, variety shows, and more, here are our picks for the best Korean shows, movies, and more that you can watch now on Netflix!

Let us know which of these you’ve already watched, which ones you’d like to watch next, and which ones you’d advise your K-entertainment-loving friends to watch!

Note: We are using the official summaries of the shows mentioned, as seen on Netflix.

 

1. "Doona!" - Drama

When: 2023

Cast: Suzy, Yang SeJong

Summary: A college student navigates life and school while dealing with a unique predicament — he's living with a beautiful former K-Pop idol.

For: Fans of idol-related stories and melodramas.

Why Watch?: If you've always wondered what it must be like to live the glamorous life of a K-Pop idol, take a dive into the dark side with "Doona!" and you'll leave with renewed empathy for your favorite K-Pop stars. As for the romance at the centre of the drama, it is truly warm and healing yet painful in a way that leaves a deep impression. The chemistry between Suzy and Yang SeJong is electric, making for some heart-fluterring scenes that will definitely give you butterflies.

 

2. "Bloodhounds" - Drama

When: 2023

Cast: Woo DoHwan, Lee SangYi, Kim SaeRon, Park SungWoong

Summary: Three friends working for a benevolent moneylender band together to take down a ruthless loan shark who preys on the financially desperate.

For: Fans of action and suspense.

Why Watch?: "Bloodhounds" is not just an action drama. It is a story of friendship, family, perseverance, and resilience. Woo DoHwan, Lee SangYi, and Kim SaeRon deliver stellar performances, and their dynamic is simply off the charts. The comedy peppered in throughout the series is refreshing, while the action scenes are cathartic, to say the least.

 

3. "The Devil's Plan" - Variety Show

When: 2023

Cast: Ha SeokJin, SEVENTEEN's SeungKwan, Lee SeeWon, Park KyeongRim, Suh DongJoo, Kwak JoonBin, Orbit, Guillaume Patry, Lee HyeSung, Cho YeonWoo, Suh YuMin, Kim DongJae 

Summary: 12 contestants face off in games of wit, strategy, and wisdom over 6 nights and 7 days. Who will be crowned the ultimate victor?

For: Fans of brain/strategy games and reality shows.

Why Watch?: If you enjoy reality shows like "Big Brother", you will love "The Devil's Plan". Contestants live together for seven days, within which time they must compete against each other in intricately designed games to win the ultimate prize. From teamwork to betrayal, twists and turns, eliminations, penalties, and more, this show is filled with entertainment that you do not want to miss.

 

4. “Kingdom” Seasons 1 and 2; “Kingdom: Ashin of the North” - Drama & Special Episode

When: 2019 - 2021

Cast: Ju JiHoon, Bae DooNa, Jun Ji Hyun, Kim SeongGyoo, Ryu SeungRyong

Summary: While strange rumors about their ill king grip a kingdom, the crown prince becomes their only hope against a mysterious plague overtaking the land.

For: Fans of horror, thrillers, and political dramas.

Why watch?: "Kingdom" is one of the best Korean Netflix original shows to date. This brilliant show takes modern fears and socio-political issues and plants them in Joseon, using the motif of the zombie to address important issues in society. There’s not a single dull moment in this entire show, over two seasons and one special episode and it’s definitely worth the sleepless nights.

 

5. “So Not Worth It” - Drama

When: 2021

Cast: Park SeWan, Shin HyeonSeung, GOT7’s Choi YoungJae

Summary: New friends, new loves and new experiences mix together inside a colorful college dormitory in Korea that's home to students from around the world.

For: Fans of lighthearted slice of life dramas, campus romances, and sitcoms.

Why watch?: “So Not Worth It” is Netflix’s first Korean sitcom and features a star studded cast of actors, idols, foreign actors/variety show stars and more.

 

6. “Extracurricular” - Drama

When: 2020

Cast: Kim DongHee, Jung DaBin, Park JuHyun

Summary: A model high school student who's steeped in a world of serious crime finds his double life upended when a classmate takes an interest in his secret.

For: Fans of psychological thrillers and realistic portrayals of society.

Why watch?: “Extracurricular” was a turning point for Korean dramas as it opened up a whole new arena for dark, gritty, and unconventional narratives based on some iota of truth in society.

 

7. “Love Alarm” and “Love Alarm Season 2” - Drama

When: 2019 - 2021

Cast: Kim SoHyun, Jung GaRam, Song Kang

Summary: In a world where an app alerts people if someone in the vicinity likes them, Kim JoJo experiences young love while coping with personal adversities.

For: Fans of bubbly campus romances who do not mind a bit of cheesiness.

Why watch?: “Love Alarm” is one of the most popular Korean Netflix original shows and for good reason too. Its novel concept, amazing cast, and story development will leave you hooked.

 

8. “Move To Heaven” - Drama

When: 2021

Cast: Lee JeHoon, Tang JunSang, Hong SeungHee

Summary: Finding life in all that’s left behind, a detail-oriented trauma cleaner and his estranged uncle deliver untold stories of the departed to loved ones.

For: Viewers who are looking for something different from the usual sweetness of Korean dramas and do not mind darker themes.

Why watch?: Despite being based on a rather grim theme, at the end of the day “Move To Heaven” is a heartwarming coming-of-age drama about family, friendship, and love. If you're looking for memorable Korean Netflix original shows, this one will be right up your alley.

 

9. “The School Nurse Files” - Drama

When: 2020

Cast: Jung YuMi, Nam JooHyuk

Summary: Wielding a light-up sword through the dark corners of a high school, a nurse with an unusual gift protects students from monsters only she can see.

For: Fans of supernatural and fantasy dramas.

Why watch?: This drama is full of adventure, action, mystery and thrill. Its bite sized format allows for it to be the perfect weekend binge.

 

10. “Sweet Home” - Drama

When: 2020

Cast: Song Kang, Lee JinUk, Lee SiYoung, Go MinSi, Lee DoHyun

Summary: As humans turn into savage monsters and wreak terror, one troubled teen and his apartment neighbors fight to survive — and to hold on to their humanity.

For: Fans of horror and webtoon-based dramas.

Why watch?: This drama is based on an incredibly popular webtoon and does complete justice to the same. Each actor’s performance is strikingly brilliant, which contributes to the hard-hitting impact of the drama.

 

11. “Persona” - Drama

When: 2019

Cast: Lee JiEun (IU), Bae DooNa, Park HaeSoo

Summary: An exploration of different personas in an eclectic collection of four works by critically acclaimed Korean directors.

For: Fans of slow-burn stories that culminate to a more than satisfying conclusion.

Why watch?: Fans of intellectual storylines will definitely appreciate this work for its subtle nuances and gripping narratives. The cast is just the cherry on top!

 

12. “Night In Paradise” - Film

When: 2021

Cast: Um TaeGoo, Jeon YeoBeen, Cha SeungWon

Summary: Hiding out in Jeju Island following a brutal tragedy, a wronged mobster with a target on his back connects with a woman who has her own demons.

For: Fans of action thrillers.

Why watch?: This film will have you at the edge of your seat from start to finish as you find yourselves rooting for the unlikeliest characters.

 

13. “The 8th Night” - Film

When: 2021

Cast: Lee SungMin, Park HaeJoon, Kim YooJung

Summary: With prayer beads in one hand and an ax in the other, a monk hunts down a millennia-old spirit that's possessing humans and unleashing hell on Earth.

For: Fans who love all things gore, horror, and some jumpscares.

Why watch?: We cannot talk about the best Korean Netflix original shows without this horror masterpiece. This film will satisfy all horror fanatics with its chilling storyline, incredibly well-made scenes, and especially amazing CGI work. Remember to cancel out the scare with a comedy later because this film will haunt you in your nightmares.

 

14. “Time To Hunt” - Film

When: 2020

Cast: Lee JeHoon, Ahn JaeHong, Choi WooShik

Summary: Wanting to leave their dystopian world behind for a faraway paradise, three outlaws plot a money heist — and draw the attention of a vicious killer.

For: Fans of thrillers and action films.

Why watch?: Remember to breathe while watching this film because danger lurks at every corner. “Time To Hunt” is the very definition of a film that will have you nervously rocking back and forth until the end.

 

15. “The Call” - Film

When: 2020

Cast: Park ShinHye, Jun JongSeo, Kim SungRyoung

Summary: Connected by phone in the same home but 20 years apart, a serial killer puts another woman’s past — and life — on the line to change her own fate.

For: Fans of thrillers and murder mysteries.

Why watch?: This film is a rollercoaster of twists and turns that will leave you trying to patch hints together until the bigger picture is revealed.

 

16. “Space Sweepers” - Film

When: 2021

Cast: Song JoongKi, Kim TaeRi, Jin SunKyu

Summary: Chasing after space debris and faraway dreams in year 2092, four misfits unearth explosive secrets during the attempted trade of a wide-eyed humanoid.

For: Fans of space adventure stories with a tinge of deep emotions.

Why watch?: This film will give you laughter, tears, excitement, and warm your heart with the sweetest tale of a chosen family, up in space.

 

17. “Sweet and Sour” - Film

When: 2021

Cast: Jang KiYong, Chae SooBin, Jung SooJung (Krystal)

Summary: Faced with real-world opportunities and challenges, a couple endures the highs and lows of trying to make a long-distance relationship survive.

For: This film is for everyone!

Why watch?: This film is a mind-blowing piece of solid writing, amazing acting, and perhaps the most intriguing plot twist ever that is sure to leave you thinking about it for the rest of the day.

 

18. “BLACKPINK: Light Up The Sky” - Documentary Film

When: 2020

Cast: BLACKPINK

Summary: Record-shattering Korean girl band BLACKPINK tell their story — and detail the hard-fought journey of the dreams and trials behind their meteoric rise.

For: This is for BLINKs (of course) and K-Pop fans in general as well as those who are interested in the inner workings of the K-Pop industry.

Why watch?: This docu-film is an enlightening glimpse into the world behind the glitz and glamour that comes from being the world’s biggest K-Pop group. Even if you’re not a BLINK, you need to watch this.

 

19. “Busted!” - Variety Show

When: 2018 - 2021

Cast: Yoo JaeSuk, Park MinYoung, Lee SeungGi, EXO’s SeHun

Summary: Tackling different mysteries in each episode of this game show, seven sleuths get closer to solving the biggest one of all: What happened to Project D?

For: Variety show fans, K-Drama fans and K-Pop fans alike!

Why watch?: This variety show features your favourite K-Drama stars, variety show experts and K-Pop idols all in one fun investigative show that will brighten up your day with laughter and entertainment.

 

20. “Twogether” - Variety Show

When: 2020

Cast: Lee SeungGi, Jasper Liu

Summary: Paired together for an unforgettable trip across Asia, stars Lee Seung-gi and Jasper Liu become buddies as they connect with fans and local cultures.

For: This show is for everyone who’s trying to cope with the quarantine blues.

Why watch?: Go on a virtual vacation with your favourite K-Drama and C-Drama stars Lee SeungGi and Jasper Liu from the comfort of your own home. Not only is this a travel reality show but it is also full of love and laughter that will rejuvenate you and leave you feeling all sorts of happy feelings. “Twogether” is a must-watch.

 

 

Note: This poll was first opened in August 2021. "Doona!", "Bloodhounds" and "The Devil's Plan" have been added to the poll in November 2023.

 

Have you ever found yourself swooning over an actor on screen because of their height? The Korean entertainment industry boasts a number of tall, handsome, and talented actors who have won the hearts of fans worldwide. Be it their towering physique or their heart-fluttering height difference with their leading ladies, there's no denying that they are heartthrobs. Here are the tallest Korean actors with heights over 187cm that you might just fall in love with!

Note: This article has been updated.

 

1. Lee KiWoo - 193cm

The tallest actor on this list is the handsome Lee KiWoo, who recently appeared in "Miraculous Brothers". The actor has also starred in various hit K-Dramas like "Agency", "18 Again", and "My Liberation Notes".

 

2. Lee KwangSoo - 192cm

All-round entertainer and superstar Lee KwangSoo is one of the first actors who come to mind when thinking of the tallest Korean actors. He revealed in an interview that he is 192cm tall.

 

3. Yoon KyunSang - 192cm

The famous actor who is just as known for his tall height as he is for his acting skills, has starred in many hit and critically acclaimed dramas like "Rose Mansion" and "Clean With Passion For Now".

 

4. RoWoon - 190.5cm

One of the hottest Korean actors at the moment, RoWoon has impressed viewers with his many successful projects like "Extraordinary You", "She Would Never Know", "The King's Affection", "Tomorrow" and most recently, "Destined With You". He is set to appear in "The Matchmakers" next.

 

5. Moon SangMin - 190cm

Moon SangMin is a rising star who has impressed fans with his acting. His height is officially 190cm according to his profile, but he revealed that he is exactly 190.5cm tall. Moon SangMin gained much praise for his role in "Under The Queen's Umbrella" and is in talks to lead the upcoming drama "Wedding Impossible".

 

6. Kim YoungKwang - 189cm

The versatile actor who has wowed fans with his multifacated performances in K-Dramas like "The Secret Life of My Secretary", "Somebody" and "Call It Love" has also impressed fans with his towering physique. He is 189cm tall. Kim YoungKwang is currently appearing in "Evilive".

 

7. Park SeoHam - 189cm

Breakout world star Park SeoHam of "Semantic Error" fame made many fans' hearts flutter with his height. He is officially 189cm tall. However, he once revealed that his real height is 193cm.

 

8. Byeon WooSeok - 189cm

Model-turned-actor, Byeon WooSeok has made a place for himself in fans' hearts all over the world. He has notably starred in series like "Record of Youth", "Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency", "Moonshine", and is currently appearing in "Strong Girl NamSoon".

 

9. Kim HyunJin - 189cm

Kim HyunJin impressed fans worldwide with his role in "Cheer Up", not only for his acting and visuals but also for his height. He is an actor that many K-Drama fans have their eyes on. He is 189cm tall.

 

10. Lee TaeHwan - 188.8cm

You just can't help but fall for Lee TaeHwan's smile and his height makes it even easier. The handsome actor has starred in numerous projects like "Come Back Mister", "What's Wrong with Secretary Kim", "Touch", "Secret Royal Inspector", and more recently, the JTBC series "Thirty, Nine".

 

11. Ju JiHoon - 188.7cm

This top star has been making fans swoon over his height since making his acting debut in 2002. With a filmography filled with more hit projects than we can count, fans will always tune in to watch the actor in any series or movie he stars in. He is currently in talks to star in "Shop Of The Lamp".

 

12. CNBLUE’s Lee JungShin - 188.5cm

CNBLUE member and actor Lee JungShin has proved his mettle as an actor by starring in dramas like "Summer Guys", "Cinderella and Four Knights", and most recently "Sh**ting Stars", winning the hearts of viewers everywhere.

 

13. Kang Hui - 188cm

The model and actor gained recognition for his stunning visuals and height in the BL series "Cherry Blossoms After Winter". Fans are looking forward to his next project.

 

14. Cha SeungWon - 188cm

Cha SeungWon is a leading figure in the Korean entertainment industry. His outstanding career needs no introduction but some of his recent projects include "Sinkhole", "Night in Paradise", "One Ordinary Day" and "Our Blues".

 

15. Koo JaSung - 188cm 

This talented model and actor received much love from fans for his endearing personality and acting skills. Of course, his height also added to his appeal. Koo JaSung is 188cm tall. He most recently appeared in a main role in "Sponsor".

 

16. Kim WooBin - 188cm

Well known as one of the most talented and handsome actors in Korea, Kim WooBin is a Hallyu top star, to say the least. His latest K-Dramas "Our Blues" and "Black Knight" were incredibly well-received and fans are excited to see what the actor has in store for us next.

 

17. Lee HaMin - 188cm

Stealing hearts as the hot-headed rocker Lee SiGuk in "Twinkling Watermelon", rookie actor Lee HaMin has a strikingly tall physique. He is 188cm tall, catching viewers' attention at once.

Which of these tall K-Drama actors is your favorite? Tell us in the comments section down below!