Throughout the world of K-Dramas, various broadcasting stations bring numerous series to the home of fans all across the globe. One of these stations is the illustrious MBC. MBC is one of the most popular broadcasting channels, with its K-Dramas consistently placing in the best ratings list. The channel continues to deliver high-quality productions appealing to fans in South Korea and abroad. As such, MBC drama ratings rise to the very top, with many reaching record highs.

Here are the top MBC Dramas with the highest ratings since 2020!

 

1. "Knight Flower" - 18.4%

Starring Lee Hanee and Lee JongWon, the historical drama "Knight Flower" starred high in ratings and quickly reached high ratings. The drama gained even more popularity in its last weeks and reached the ratings of 18.4% with its final episode. In 2024, the drama broke the previous records held by "The Red Sleeve". The drama is available on Viki, Kocowa, Apple TV, and Prime Video.

 

2. "The Red Sleeve" - 17.4%

Among historical K-Dramas, "The Red Sleeve" was phenomenally made, filled with moments of romance and yearning that cannot be easily forgotten. Due to its massive success, it gained 17.4% ratings, making it the highest rated series among MBC K-Dramas from 2020 to 2023. Luckily for fans new and old, the K-Drama is available to watch on Rakuten Viki.

 

3. "Big Mouth" - 13.7%

"Big Mouth" made big waves during its initial run. The chemistry between Lee JongSuk and Girls' Generation's YoonA was magnificent, and combined with a compelling storyline, it became an immediate hit, reaching 13.7% ratings. The drama can be watched via streaming site Hulu.

 

4. "My Dearest (part 1 & 2)" - 12.9%

Starring NamKoong Min and Ahn EunJin, "My Dearest" gained massive success and tugged on the heartstrings of all its viewers with a total of 21 episodes. Reaching its highest rating of 12.9% with the final episodes, it puts the series as one of the most watched of MBC. "My Dearest" is currently available on Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.

 

5. "Wonderful World" - 11.4%

"Wonderful World" (2024) is a revenge and thriller drama starring Kim NamJoo and ASTRO's Cha EunWoo. The drama went viral on social media and the mysterious story caught attention. The drama peaked at 11.4% with its 9th, 11th, and 13th episodes. It started at 5.3%.

 

6. "Chief Detective 1958" - 10.1%

The retro crime drama "Chief Detective 1958" starring Lee JeHoon, Lee DongHwi, Choi WooSung, Yoon HyunSoo, and Seo EunSoo started with 10.1%. The drama started after "Wonderful World" and garnered a lot of attention to be able to start with such high ratings.

 

7. "The Veil" - 9.8%

Also starring NamKoong Min, "The Veil" kept audiences at the edge of their seats with its various twists and turns. Its captivating suspense allowed the drama to reach its highest ratings of 9.8%, landing it at number four among MBC dramas. "The Veil" is available to watch via Rakuten Viki or Kocowa.

 

8. "The Story of Park's Marriage Contract" - 9.6%

"The Story of Park's Marriage Contract" based on webtoon gained a lot of popularity. Bae InHyuk and Lee SeYoung's chemistry was amazing and the story was full of mystery so the drama gained a lot of viewers. The drama started at 5.6% and reached the highest rating of 9.6%.

 

9. "Tracer" - 9.0%

This MBC drama depicted the hard working performance of the National Tax Service. Featuring a cast with Yim SiWan, Go AhSung, Son HyunJoo, and much more, "Tracer" reached its highest rating at 9.0%, earning it the fifth spot among MBC dramas so far. "Tracer" is available on Rakuten Viki, Kocowa, and Wavve.

 

10. "The Golden Spoon" - 7.8%

"The Golden Spoon" is a webtoon-based drama that followed poor, yet studious Lee SeungCheon (BTOB's SungJae) and chaebol son Hwang TaeYong (Lee JongWon) as they switched lives during adolescence and adulthood. The drama explored the stark differences between the extremely rich and those living in poverty. While there were moments of crushing heartache, there were scenes of uplifting hope that lit up all the dark spaces in your heart. "The Golden Spoon" earned its highest ratings at 7.8% and is available on Disney+ and Hulu.

 

11. "Tomorrow" - 7.6%

While this webtoon-based drama had various moments of uplifting comedy, it also did an excellent job at exploring hard-hitting topics. This involved aspects of mental health, life after death and those left behind, as well as the will to live on. At its highest peak, "Tomorrow" earned 7.6% in ratings. This MBC K-Drama is available on streaming platform, Netflix.

 

12. "Doctor Lawyer" - 7.2%

Starring the iconic actor, So JiSub, "Doctor Lawyer" is a fusion of medical and law, providing the best of both worlds. As Han YiHan (So JiSub) searched for the truth, viewers could not help but remain by his side. With the help of its loyal viewers, the MBC drama reached its highest ratings of 7.2%, placing it at eighth on this list. "Doctor Lawyer" is currently available on Disney+ and Hulu.

 

13. "Kkondae Intern" - 7.1%

Adapted from the winning script from MBC's 2018 drama writing contest, "Kkondae Intern" follows the reversal of roles between Ka YeolChan (Park HaeJin) and Lee ManSik (Kim EungSoo). The office comedy provided viewers a reason to smile and laugh, week after week, and reached its highest ratings of 7.1%. "Kkondae Intern" is available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.

 

14. "Dinner Mate" - 6.1%

A story of strangers to lovers, Kim HaeKyung (Song SeungHeon) and Woo DoHee (Seo JiHye) unexpectedly meet on Jeju Island. Bonding over their respective heartaches and love of food, they remain in contact and gradually fall for one another. "Dinner Mate" earned its highest ratings at 6.1% and is available to watch via streaming sites iQIYI and Prime Video.

 

15. "Find Me In Your Memory" - 5.4%

"Find Me In Your Memory" is a moving story between Lee JungHoon (Kim DongWook) and Yeo HaJin (Mun KaYoung). While the drama had its fair share of romance, it also offered moments of healing that aided broken souls everywhere. The drama earned its highest ratings at 5.4%, landing at eleventh among MBC K-Dramas. It is available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.

 

16. "The Forbidden Marriage" - 4.9%

"The Forbidden Marriage" certainly had it all: a budding romance, a swoon-worthy second lead, a love triangle that broke your heart, and so much more. Audiences certainly agreed, sticking with the drama for every new episode, helping it reach its peak at 4.9% ratings. "The Forbidden Marriage" is available to watch on Prime Video, Rakuten Viki, and Kocowa.

 

17. "Kokdu: Season Of Deity" - 4.8%

"Kokdu: Season Of Deity" was filled with quirky characters, electrifying chemistry, and a romance that withstood the test of time. Switching between historical and modern, "Kokdu: Season Of Deity" had fans constantly coming back for more, earning 4.8% ratings. The MBC drama is made available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Wavve.

 

18. "When I Was Most Beautiful" - 4.7%

"When I Was Most Beautiful" is a heartbreaking love story featuring Oh YeJi (Im SooHyang) who is caught between brothers Seo Hwan (Ji Soo) and Seo Jin (Ha SeokJin). As they navigated feelings of love and jealousy, audiences remained glued to their seats, watching the story unfold. With the help of its dedicated viewers, the series earned 4.7% ratings, placing it at number fourteen among MBC K-Dramas. "When I Was Most Beautiful" is available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.

 

19. "From Now On, Showtime!" - 4.6% & "The Game: Towards Zero" - 4.6%

Comedic with a touch of mystery, "From Now On, Showtime!" was able to captivate viewers with its lighthearted storyline and incredible lineup of actors. On the other hand, there was the more serious, thriller series "The Game: Towards Zero" which kept viewers shrouded in suspense. While two different genres, these series earned its highest ranking at 4.6%, tying at number fifteen among MBC K-Dramas.

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

 

K-Dramas based on webtoons are trending and Korean production companies are doing more and more of them. The trend of turning webtoons into awesome K-Dramas is rolling into 2024 with even more excitement! At Kpopmap, we got you covered on the dramas that are confirmed to hit your screens this year or later based on webtoon.

Remember all those dramas we loved from 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 dramas based on webtoon? Get ready for a new list filled with stories and unforgettable characters that are sure to keep us hooked with popular webtoon getting adapted into dramas.

We're splitting it into two parts: first, the dramas we know are coming in 2024 or soon, and second, the webtoons that waiting for cast announcement (no confirmation of broadcast).

Here are the dramas based on webtoon confirmed to air in 2024 or later.

We'll be updating this list all year long (like the previous years), so you won't miss a thing! Just bookmark us.

Note: Only dramas starting in 2024 and onward are covered.

Note: Some of these dramas were announced in 2023 but their broadcasting news is yet to be released.

 

1. "Love Song for Illusion" /  Schedule status: January 1, 2024

The webtoon "Fantasy Sonata" (in Korean "환상연가") by Vanziun is being adapted into a drama under the name "Love Song for Illusion". This story is about a King who has two sides to his personality, and a woman named Yeon Wol who wants revenge for her family. Yeon Wol comes from a noble family called Yeon clan. She pretends to be someone named KyeRa and tries to assassinate the King. However, something strange happens, and she loses her memory because of a mysterious scent. When she wakes up the next day, she finds herself as the King's concubine and can't remember her past.

Park JiHoon and Hong YeJi are confirmed to be leading the drama.

Check out the introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

2. "Marry My Husband" / Schedule Status: January 1, 2024

The webtoon "Marry My Husband" (in Korean "내 남편과 결혼해줘) by Seong SoJak is being adapted into a drama. The story revolves around JiWon, a woman with a limited time ahead of her, goes back in time to a decade ago. She's haunted by thoughts of revenge because her husband, who had an affair with her closest friend, was the one who took her life.

Park MinYoung, Na InWoo, Lee YiKyung, Song HaYoon, Highlight's Lee GiKwang, and Gong MinJeung are casted into drama.

Check out the introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

3. "Flowers That Bloom At Night" / Schedule Status: January 12, 2024

The webtoon "Flowers That Bloom At Night" (in Korean "밤에 피는 꽃") by Toli, Jeongro, Yuna, and Bess. It is a comedic historical drama that follows the a 15-year widow lives a double life, helping people at night while wearing a mask.

Lee Hanee and Lee JongWon are part of the casting of the drama.

Webtoon: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

4. "Spirit Fingers" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Spirit Fingers" (in Korean "스피릿 핑거스") by Han KyoungChal was announced to be adapted into a drama. It is a school romance story about a girl joining an art club and learning to love and stand out for herself.

Park JiHu, Cho JunYoung, and Golden Child's Choi BoMin are part of the cast. The drama was filmed between March and October 2023.

Check out an introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

5. "Study Group"/ Schedule Status: Second half of 2024

The webtoon "Study Group" (in Korean "스터디그룹"), which is part of YLAB's Blue String Universe, written by Shin HyungUk and illustrated by Yoo SeungYeon, is being produced into a drama by TVING. It is a high school action drama which revolves around the strongest boy who dreams of being a top student. Yun GaMin, a high school student, longs to excel in his studies, but sadly, his talent lies solely in fighting. At the lackluster Yusung Technical High School, he decides to form a study group. This begins their (real) blood-splattering tale of their entrance exam journey.

Hwang MinHyun and Han JiEun are the lead actors of the drama.

Check out the introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

6. "Shop Of The Lamp" / Schedule Status: TBA

The webtoon "Shop Of The Lamp" (in Korean "조명가게") by Kang Full was announced to be adapted into a drama. This webtoon is a horror and thriller genre, depicting strange things happening there against the backdrop of a dark, remote lighting shop away from the village. Strangers visit the lighting shop in a deserted place every day. Those who keep hovering around the store as if trying to say something eventually turn around without leaving any words.

SeolHyun and Ju JiHoon are part of the casting.

Check out an introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

7. "Pyramid Game" / Schedule Status: Februuary 29, 2024.

The webtoon "Pyramid Game" (in Korean "피라미드 게임") by Dalgonyak was announced to be adapted into a drama. The webtoon deals with subtle bullying in school life. Students cast their votes once a month in a popularity poll that creates a ranking system determining the school's social hierarchy. SuJi, a new transfer student, aims to climb the pyramid and rise to the top from the bottom, potentially changing the game's outcome.

WJSN's BoNa, Jang Daa, Ryu DaIn, Kang NaEon, Jeong HaDam, Shin SeulKi and Ha Yullia are casted for the drama.

Check out an introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

8. "Cashero"/ Schedule Status: TBA

The webtoon "Cashero" (캐셔로) by team befar was announced to be turned to a webdrama. The drama is said to be produced by Netflix. Its story revolves around the story of ordinary superheroes who protect the daily lives of other ordinary people.

2PM's JunHo and Kim HyangGi are said to be reviewing their offer to appear in the drama.

Check out an introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

9. "Perfect Family" / Schedule Status: TBA

The webtoon "Perfect Family" (in Korean "완벽한 가족") by N.B & JUNE will be adapted into a drama. It is a psychological thriller about a young schoolgirl who shocks everyone by admitting she murdered a classmate named Park KyungHo. What's even more unsettling is how her mother reacts. Instead of being horrified, her main concern is upholding the façade of a flawless family. She'll go to great lengths to preserve that image.

Park JuHyun, Yoon SeAh, and Kim ByongChul are confirmed to be casted into the drama.

Check out the introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

10. "Treat Me Carelessly" / Schedule Status: TBA

The webtoon "Treat Me Carelessly" (in Korean "함부로 대해줘) by SunWoo will be adapted in to a drama. The drama revolves around Shin YunBok, a student from Seongsan village, whose beliefs are firmly grounded in Confucianism and his interactions with Kim HongDo, his art mentor, known for a brash and candid disposition.

INFINITE's L (Kim MyungSoo) and Lee YouYoung are in talks for the drama casting.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

11. "One: High School Heroes" / Schedule Status: TBA

The webtoon "ONE" (in Korean "원") by Lee EunJin is adapted into the drama "One: High School Heroes." It tells the story of the transformation of EuiGyeom (the protagonist) who is being excessively pressured by his father to excel in academics for some reason.

Lee JungHa, Lim HyunTae, Kim SangHo, and Kim JooRyeong are confirmed to be casted into the drama.

Webtoon: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

12. "Cinderella at 2AM" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Cinderella at 2AM" (in Korean "새벽 두 시의 신데렐라") by Aigome will be produced into a drama. The story revolves around Ha YoonSeo, who, for the past three years, has been in a relationship with Seo JooWon. However, it's been two months since she found out that JooWon is the youngest son of a conglomerate. Hearing from JooWon's mother that she should break up with her son, Ha YoonSeo accepts money as compensation. Despite her deliberate attempts to create distance and end the relationship, JooWon remains persistent and continues his efforts to change YoonSeo's heart.

Shin HyunBeen and Moon SangMin are in talks for the drama casting.

Webtoon: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

13. "S Line"/  Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "S-Line" (in Korean "S라인") by NOMABI is confirmed to be produced into a drama. The drama is a fantasy thriller that portrays various social scenarios that unfold when one day a visible "red line" appears above a person's head, connecting them to someone they had a physical relationship with, revealing something so private to everyone. This affects the course of the society, especially with the revelations come with consequences.

Lee SooHyuk, OH MY GIRL's Arin, and Lee DaHee are confirmed to be casted into the drama.

Check out the introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

14. "Wedding Impossible"/ Schedule status: February 26, 2024

The romance webtoon "Wedding Impossible" (in Korean "웨딩 임파서블") by Lee Chung and Song JungWon is announced to be adapted into a drama. It is a romance with conflicted desires between a gay chaebol heir who asks an unknown actress to marry and the chaebol's ambitious brother.

Jun JongSeo, Kim DoWan and Moon SangMin are cast in this drama. The first episode will air on February 26 at 8:50PM KST.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

15. "History of Losers" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "History of Losers" (in Korean "찌질의 역사") by Kim Poong and Sim YoonSoo is announced to be adapted into a drama. It tells the story of 20 years old boys who evolve into men. It tells the pathetic stories of them never getting mature.

Cho ByeongKyu, Song HaYoon and RyeoUn are cast.

Check out the introduction of the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

16. "The Borrowed Body" / Schedule status: TBA

The teen romance webtoon named "Borrowed Body" (in Korean "빌린 몸") by Park SeKye is announced to be adapted into a drama. The story is set in during the first year of high school. Students Sang Yoo, DaRim, and HoYoung are all the three lead characters. We start off with Sang Yoo who is gloomy due to a scandalous rumor and DaRim is a top student, not to mention, also an athlete. Our last lead HoYoung is DaRim's crush.

Studio 329 is in charge of the adaptation. Nam YoonSu, RyeoUn, and Park HaeEun are cast.

Check out our introduction to the webtoon here. You can vote for the actress you want to see here in our dream cast.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

17. "Money Game" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Money Game" and "Pie Game" (the sequel to "Money Game") (in Korean "파이게임") by Bae JinSoo was announced to be adapted into an OTT drama. It tells the story of 8 people, who participate in a TV reality show where eight participants are isolated and left to survive with a shared amount of 44.8 billion KRW. They will win the money they manage to save together.

Chun WooHee, Ryu JunYeol, Park JeongMin, Park HaeJoon, Bae SungWoo, and more are cast.

Get to know more about the webtoon and its characters here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

18. "Chicken Nugget" / Schedule status: March 15, 2024

The science fiction thriller webtoon "Dak Gang Jeong" (in Korean "닭강정") by Park JiDok was announced to be adapted into a drama "Chicken Nugget". The webtoon tells the strange story of how a beautiful young girl, Choi MinAh, is turned into fried chicken because she happens to enter a mysterious machine.

Director Lee ByungHun ("Melo Is My Nature", "Extreme Job" and more) is in charge of the said production. Ahn JaeHong, Ryu SeungRyong, and Kim YouJung are cast for the drama.

Find out about the characters and the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

19. "Aquaman" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Aquaman" (in Korean "아쿠아맨") by Mcqueenstudio will be adapted into a drama. It depicts the love and friendship of young people beyond gender.

It is planned by Kakao Entertainment. Jung WooJin, PENTAGON's HongSeok, Lee SoHee, and Shin SoHyun are the lead actors.

Check out the cast and summary of the drama here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

20. "Vampire Chef" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Vampire Chef" (in Korean "뱀파이어 셰프") by SeoYun and Kim MinHye will be adapted into a drama. It tells the blood purification project of the chef and owner of a restaurant named Hong KiJoon.

Cho YiHyun is in talks to be the childhood friend of Hong KiJoon.

Check out more information about the drama, its characters and our dream cast here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

21. "Things Have Fallen Off" / Schedule status: TBA

The short webtoon "Things Have Fallen Off" (in Korean "떨어져 나간 것") by TaRi will be adapted in a drama. It tells the story of a woman who looks back on her memories with her ex-boyfriend. It would be the Korean version of the movie "About Time".

Moon ChaeWon is in talks.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

22. "The Year We Turned 29" / Schedule status: TBA

The youth romance comedy webtoon 'The Year We Turned 29" (in Korean "아홉수 우리들") written by Soo BakYang is announced to be adapted into a drama. It tells the story of three friends who are 29 years old and who are going through this harsh year ending with a "9".

El-rise who has produced the drama "When the Devil Calls Your Name" is in charge. Kim HyeYoon is in talks.

Have a look at the webtoon and its characters here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

23. "The Witch" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "The Witch" (in Korean "마녀") by Kang Full was announced to be adapted into a drama. It tells the story of a man who loves a woman he calls a "witch".

GOT7's JinYoung and Roh JeongEui are cast.

You can find out more about the webtoon, the adaptation's cast, characters, and more here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

24. "i-Shopping" / Schedule Status: TBA

The webtoon "Child Shopping" (in Korean "아이쇼핑") written by Eum SeYun and illustrated by Ryu GaMyung, will be turned into a drama. It is gripping action thriller that portrays the tale of an abandoned adopted child's fight for survival and vengeance. The plot centers on the revelation of an underground "adoption broker organization" that provides kids for discreet adoptions and even goes so far as to take them back if there's a "refund" request. The narrative unfolds as Tae Shik, who was once involved with this organization, endeavors to rescue these "refunded" children.

Yum JungAh and Won JinA, Dex, and Lee NaEun are confirmed for the cast.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

25. "A Killer Paradox" / Schedule Status: February 9, 2024.

The thriller webtoon "The Murder and the Toy" also called "Murder DIEary" (in Korean "살인자난감") by Kkomabi and Nomabi is announced to be adapted into a Netflix drama. It tells the story of a man who became a murderer after an accident and a detective chasing him.

Choi WooShik and Son SukKu are cast for this Netflix original drama.

You can read more about the webtoon, its characters, and more here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

26. "Homeland and Nationality" / Schedule Status: TBA

The webtoon "Homeland and Nationality" (in Korean "조국과 민족") by Kang TaeJin was announced to be produced into a Netflix drama. The story revolves around DoHoon Park, an intelligence agent who is not afraid to resort to violence and torture for the way of his country, and how he was recruited by a South Korean agent with who he makes a secret deal, which he shouldn't have done.

Yoo JaeMyung is in talks for casting. The script was reported to be written by "Narco-Saints" scriptwriter Kwon SungHwi, and it will be directed by Baek SeungHwan.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

27. "HeeSu In Class 2" / Schedule Status: TBA

The webtoon "HeeSu In Class 2" (in Korean "2반 이희수") by Lily was announced to be produced into a web drama. The story is about the youthful romance of HeeSu, an ordinary 18-year old boy, and his neighbor who has a secret.

Lee SangJun and Cho JunYoung are cast for the web drama.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

28. "Jung Nyeon" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Jung Nyeon" (in Korean: "정년이"), written by Seo Ire and illustrated by NaMon, was announced to be produced into a drama. The story revolves around JungNyeon, a girl from Mokpo, who dreams of becoming part of the Gukgeuk Troupe (a play with women as actresses).

Kim TaeRi, Shin YeEun, Ra MiRan, Moon SoRi, and Jung EunChae are confirmed to be cast into the drama.

Check out an introduction to the webtoon here.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

29. "Bastard" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Bastard" (in Korean "후레자식") by Kim KanBi and Hwang YeongChan was announced to be adapted into a drama. It is a thriller story about a high school student named SeonWoo Jin who lives alone with his father, who is a murderer.

Park JiHoon is part of the cast.

Check out an introduction to the webtoon here.

Check out our dream casting for the two other main characters of the show - SeonWoo DongSu (Jin's father) and Yoon Kyun (Jin's girlfriend) here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

30. "Delightful Outcast" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Delightful Outcast" (in Korean: "유쾌한 왕따"), written by Kim SoongRyong, was announced to be produced into a drama. It tells the story of the outcast DongHyeon. On the day of his 15th birthday, he meets SooHyeon, a transferred student and something starts shaking in him.

Sung YuBin, Cho HyunChul, and Won JiAn are part of the casting.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

31. "Haesi's Shinru" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Haesi's Shinru" (in Korean: "해시의 신루"), written by MyeongRan and Yoon LeeSu and illustrated by INUS, was announced to be produced into a drama. In an extra space of the Joseon Palace, a burning triangle romance takes place between a mysterious woman and the monarchs of Korea and China.

32. "Boys Be Brave" / Schedule Status: TBA

The BL drama "Boys Be Brave" is based on the BL webtoon of the named "Roommates" ("고백을 못하고" in Korean). The story revolves around three close friends who catch feelings for each other but are unable to confess them to one other.

This drama is set to be directed by Lim HyunHee, who was also in charge of the successful 2023 BL drama "Our Dating Sim".

The cast is composed of Kim SungHyen, Nam SiAn, Jung YeoJun, and Ahn SeMin.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

33. "Blueming" remake / Schedule Status : TBA

Two years ago, the BL drama "Blueming", based on the webtoon "Who Can Define Popularity" by Tak Bon, was released and this year, a remake should be done. Recently, the company Idol Romance shared on their social medias a casting announcement related to this new project, in hope to do a remake of this first drama.

The new drama is set to have 8 episode of 30 minutes run each, the audition for the casting is open, and the filming should be done in the first half of 2024.

Webtoon links: Korean / English

 

34. "Friendly Competition" / Schedule Status: TBA

The webtoon "Friendly Rivalry" (in Korean "선의의 경쟁") is a thriller mystery GL story by Chae YunSong and Jae YeongSim. The story follows SeulGi, who was no.1 in her old suburban school. Now, having transferred to the prestigious Chaehwa Girls' High in Seoul, she must engage in fierce, friendly competition with her rich and talented rival Jay.

This thriller GL webtoon will get a drama adaptation this year, Girls' Day HyeRi is reportedly part of the cast.

Webtoon links: Korean / Not officially available in English.

 

35. "Just Like Jazz" / SChedule STatus : March 2024

Based on the BL webtoon "Jazz For Two" ("재즈처럼" in Korean) by Clarju, the drama "Just Like Jazz" will tell the story of TaeYi who meets SeHeon, the new transfer student, in the music room. How dare SeHeon play TaeYi's brother’s song? “If I ever catch you playing the piano again...that’ll be the end of you.” And with that begins TaeYi and SeHeon's story, as unpredictable and visceral as jazz.

The drama is set to premiere in March, and the cast is composed of Ji HoGeun, Newkidd's JinKwon, OMEGA X's HanGyeom, and Kim JungHa.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

36. "Delusion" / Schedule status: TBA

The mystery horror historical webtoon "Delusion" (in Korean "현혹") by HongJakGa was announced to be adapted into a drama. It tells the story of vampires set in Gyeongseong in 1935 and Shanghai in the 1800s.

Director Han JaeRim ("The Face Reader", "The King") is in charge. Ryu JunYeol, and Han SoHee will be part of the cast for this upcoming drama.

Check out more about the webtoon and its dream cast here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

Season 2

37. "Weak Hero Class 2" / Schedule status: TBA

The webtoon "Weak Hero" (in Korean "약한영웅") by Seopass and Razen was adapted into a drama last 2022, and it was officially announced that a season 2 is in store for fans of the webtoon and the drama. Season 2 of "Weak Hero Class 1" is expected to continue naturally from where the previous season left off, which is with Yeon ShiEun transferring to Eunjang High School in Yeongdeungpo, after he couldn't get into any schools in Seoul because of BumSeok’s father. It will then explore the story of how Yeon ShiEun got the title of "Eunjang's White Mamba".

Note: The photo will be updated with the new poster upon its release.

The drama will be produced by Wavve. Park JiHoon is said to be returning for the show, while RyeoUn and Bae NaRa are part of the new cast for the 2nd season.

Find out the cast and summary of the 1st season here.

Read more about the 2nd season here.

Check out more about the characters and vote for your dream cast here.

Webtoon links: Korean / English.

 

The Oscar nominations for 2024 are finally out! While South Korea's official entry to the Oscars - "Concrete Utopia" has not been nominated in the "Best International Feature Film" category, the Korean-American film "Past Lives" starring Yoo Teo and Greta Lee has bagged nominations for "Best Picture" and "Best Writing (Original Screenplay)" at the 2024 Oscars. While it may appear that Korean cinema has only recently been acknowledged by the Academy, South Korea has a long history with the Oscars regardless of the 2024 nominations. The "Academy Award for Best International Feature Film", formerly known as "Best Foreign Language Film" was introduced as a category by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1956. South Korea has submitted Korean movies to the Oscars since 1962. Here is a list of every Korean movie to ever be submitted to the Oscars, including nominations and wins.

 

1960s-1980s: The Early Submissions

The period from 1955–1972 was known as the "Golden Age" of Korean cinema where filmmaking thrived despite censorship. The first three films to ever have been submitted to the Oscars came from director Shin SangOk, namely "My Mother and the Roomer", "The Dumb Samyong", and "Rice". This was followed by "Descendants of Cain" (1968), "The Old Craftsman of Jar" (1969), "Mute Samyong" (1973), "Mulleya Mulleya" (1984), "Eoudong" (1985), and "Eunuch" (1986). However, none of these films were nominated.

 

1990s-2000s: The Renaissance

It was during this time, with the relaxation of governmental censorship, that Korean movies slowly started to go global with international screenings at film festivals. Many chaebols also started getting involved in the film industry, paving the way for a renaissance in Korean cinema. South Korea's official submissions to the Oscars during this time included "Mayumi" (1990), "Life and Death of the Hollywood Kid" (1994), "301, 302" (1995), and "Chunhyang" (2000).

With the turn of the millennium, "New Korean Cinema" emerged, accompanied by the rise of blockbusters. Korean movies submitted to the Oscars during this time included titles directed by revolutionary filmmakers such as Lee ChangDong's "Oasis" (2002) and "Secret Sunshine" (2007, starring Song KangHo and Jeon DoYeon), Kim KiDuk's "Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter... and Spring" (2003), Kang JeGyu's "Taegukgi" (2004), Park KwangHyun's "Welcome to Dongmakgol" (2005), Lee JoonIk's "King and the Clown" (2006, starring Lee JoonGi alongside veteran actors Jung JinYoung and Kam WooSung), Kim TaeKyun's "Crossing" (2008) and "A Barefoot Dream" (2010, starring Park HeeSoon), and Bong JoonHo's "Mother" (2009, starring Kim HyeJa, Won Bin, Jin Goo).

 

2010s: A Decade of Recognition

The 2010s brought about increased international acclaim for South Korean cinema. After Bong JoonHo's "Mother", Korean movies became more and more popular overseas. The industry was prolific at this time, with releases like Jang Hoon's "The Front Line" (2011, starring Shin HaKyun and Go Soo) and "A Taxi Driver" (2017, starring Song KangHo), Kim KiDuk's outstanding achievement "Pietà" (2012), which won the "Golden Lion" at the "69th Venice International Film Festival", Kang YiKwan's "Juvenile Offender" (2013), Shim SungBo's "Haemoo" (2014, starring Kim YoonSeok), Lee JoonIk's "The Throne" (2015, starring Song KangHo, Yoo AhIn), and Kim JeeWoon's "The Age of Shadows" (2016, starring Song KangHo, Gong Yoo, Han JiMin).

Finally, in 2018, Lee ChangDong's highly acclaimed film "Burning" (2018, starring Yoo AhIn, Steven Yeun, Jun JongSeo) became the first South Korean movie to be shortlisted for the (then called) "Best Foreign Language Film" category at the Oscars but was not nominated.

Then, in 2019, Bong JoonHo released "Parasite", starring Song KangHo, Lee SunKyun, Cho YeoJeong, Park SoDam, Choi WooShik, Lee JungEun, Jang HyeJin, Jung JiSo, Park MyungHoon and more, and the global film landscape changed forever. "Parasite" not only won an Oscar for "Best International Feature Film" at the 92nd Academy Awards but also the "Best Picture", "Best Director", and "Best Original Screenplay" Awards! "Parasite" was the first-ever non-English-language film to win the Oscar for "Best Picture", opening up a whole new avenue for foreign-language films in this category.

 

2020s: Continuing The Legacy

Ever since "Parasite", many Korean movies have attempted to replicate its success. Oscar submissions since 2020 include director Woo MinHo's "The Man Standing Next" (2020, starring Lee ByungHun, Lee SungMin), Ryoo SeungWan's "Escape From Mogadishu" (2021, starring Kim YoonSeok, Zo InSung, Heo JoonHo), and the master, Park ChanWook's "Decision To Leave" (2022, starring Tang Wei, Park HaeIl), which went as far as being shortlisted but was ultimately not nominated for an Oscar.

In 2023, South Korea's official submission to the 2024 Oscars in the "Best International Feature Film" category was the Lee ByungHun, Park SeoJun, Park BoYoung starrer "Concrete Utopia". As the Oscar nominations for 2024 were revealed, unfortunately, "Concrete Utopia" was not selected. However, South Korea's domination continues with an Oscar nod to "Past Lives". It will be interesting to see what 2024 has in store for the Korean film industry next and which Korean movie will be submitted for the 2025 Oscars.