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!

 

After a game of intense wits, forlorn longing, and a seemingly unending battle for the throne, historical K-Drama "Captivating The King" has come to its climactic end. With Cho JungSeok and Shin SaeKyeong at its helm, as the drama's name suggests, audiences were captivated by the tvN series from the start.

Now that it's over, however, there will surely be a noticeable absence from the weekend drama roster. And while there are many amazing series currently on air, there was something special about "Captivating The King" that appears once every few months. Many might be looking for a drama with a similar plot or underlying themes. So if this sounds like you, you've definitely come to the right place.

Here are a few K-Dramas that you can watch if you enjoyed the thrilling, yet heartfelt "Captivating The King".

 

1. "My Dearest"

Cast: NamKoong Min, Ahn EunJin, and more

Summary: "My Dearest" dives into the love story between noblewoman Yu GilChae and the mysterious Lee JangHyun. They must navigate their relationship while also tackling the effects of war.

Reasons To Watch: "My Dearest" experienced resounding success, immersing audiences into a war-torn world with a pinch of incredible yearning. Both NamKoong Min and Ahn EunJin provided stunning performances, causing audiences to feel a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Similar to "Captivating The King", "My Dearest" will keep you at the edge of your seats, ready to binge well into the night.

 

2. "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo"

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

Summary: During a solar eclipse, Go HaJin is transported from modern day to Goryeo times. 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.

Reasons To Watch: "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo" is a timeless masterpiece, praised for its stellar cast and immersive plot. The brothers' battle for the throne is intense, causing temperatures to rise and jaws to drop straight to the floor out of shock. Coming into the drama, just know that you'll be in for a ride of the lifetime, exploring a story filled with intense emotions and complex relationships. At the end, you'll naturally want to watch "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo" over and over again.

 

3. "Under The Queen's Umbrella"

Cast: Kim HyeSoo, Kim HaeSook, Choi WonYoung, Moon SangMin, SF9's Chani, Yoon SangHyeon, Yoo SeonHo, Kim MinGi, and more

Summary: Tells the story of the dignified and graceful Queen HwaRyeong, who dismisses the royal protocol of education to raise her troublesome sons into proper princes.

Reasons To Watch: Kim HyeSoo pilots her character of Queen Im HwaRyeong to sheer perfection. She completely embodies a queen of elegance, strength, and smarts. She stands as a firm pillar of the royal family, even in the midst of hardship and constant attacks from her enemies. Im HwaRyeong's strength directly opposes the fragile and obedient image of many female characters in the realm of historical K-Dramas. She packs a punch in more ways than just physical, showcasing the exact reason why she is the queen of the nation.

 

4. "Bloody Heart"

Cast: Lee Joon, Kang HanNa, Jang Hyuk, and more

Summary: Lee Tae, ​the king who has to throw away his beloved woman to survive, and YooJung, who has to be a heavy fighter to survive, point swords at each other's necks.

Reasons To Watch: "Bloody Heart" and "Captivating The King" are similar in many regards. Both series' main characters go through a significant change, taking on the burdens of their time. They are faced with overwhelming power struggles, sincere character development, and a heartachingly beautiful romance. You won't be able to take your eyes off of the screen the moment "Bloody Heart" begins.

 

5. "The King's Affection"

Cast: Park EunBin, SF9's RoWoon, Nam YoonSou, VICTON's ByungChan, Bae YoonKyung, Jung ChaeYeon, and more

Summary: Revolves around the secret court romance between Lee Hwi and Jung JiUn. Lee Hwi is a woman who was abandoned because she was born as a girl. When her twin brother died, she took his place as the crown prince while trying to keep her identity and affection for her first love.

Reasons To Watch: Lee Hwi (Park EunBin) harbors a secret that she's kept hidden all these years. It is in upholding this secret that she continuously chooses to push forward and put on the mask of a ruler, which was meant to be bestowed upon her brother. However, she shows immense grit and undeniable charm that Jung JiUn (RoWoon) isn't the only person who falls for her. Both Park EunBin and RoWoon give mind-blowing performances that showcase their acting prowess. "The King's Affection" will grab hold of your heart and won't easily let it go.

Which K-Drama are you watching now that "Captivating The King" is over?

TV Network JTBC is one of the most popular networks whose dramas have gotten global recognition for their interesting storylines, great locations, and famous actors.

Here are the top dramas with the highest ratings on the JTBC network.

Please note that these ratings are the highest ratings ever reached, not the dramas' total average ratings.

 

1. "World Of The Married" - 28.4%

The thriller drama released in 2020 is still regarded as one of the most compelling K-Dramas to date. Starring Kim HeeAe, Park HaeJoon, and Han SoHee the K-Drama 2 years after its release still rank number 1 with the highest ratings in the network's history as it has an all-time high viewer rating of 28.4%.

 

2. "Reborn Rich" - 26.9%

When a loyal employee of a conglomerate is murdered by his employers, he has a chance to get his revenge as he is reborn as the grandson of the family. Armed with the knowledge of the future and the company, he steadily gains the influence and power he needs to become the next chairman of the company. However, even with his knowledge and smarts, his path is not a rosy one as other forces create stumbling blocks on his way toward revenge. Starring Song JoongKi, Shin HyunBin, and Lee SungMin, with its engrossing storyline, the series gripped the attention of many viewers which saw its ratings reach an impressive high of 26.9%.

 

3. "SKY Castle" - 23.8%

The drama that centers around the lives of four women and their families has been quite popular for its deep, real, and meaningful storyline that had a grip on the reality that many viewers faced. Released in 2019, the drama with a stellar cast featuring actors like Kim SeoHyung, Yoon SeAh, Yum JungAh, Kim HyeYoon, and Oh NaRa, to name a few, ranks high on this list with 23.8% viewer ratings.

 

4. "Doctor Cha" - 18.5%

"Doctor Cha" reached one of the best-ever ratings for JTBC dramas. This 2023 medical drama starring Uhm JungHwa, Kim ByungChul, Myung SeBin, and Min WooHyuk started with 4.9% and rapidly gained popularity. It reached 18.5% with its 12th and final episode.

 

5. "Itaewon Class" - 16.5%

The webtoon-based drama that gained prominent global recognition in 2020 with 16.5% ratings. Starring top actors Park SeoJun and Kim DaMi the youth-themed fast-paced K-Drama was a refreshing story that engrossed the minds of the viewers with its realistic storyline, impressive dialogues, and an OST that many refer to as one of the best.

 

6. "Agency" - 16.0%

"Agency" starring Lee BoYoung, Son NaEun, Jo SungHa, and Han JoonWoo was popular and even reached 16.0% with its last episode when it only started at 4.8%. Viewers have been captivated by Lee BoYoung's character, Go AhIn, who becomes the first female executive member of a large advertising agency.

 

7. "King The Land" - 13.8%

"King The Land" starring 2PM's JunHo and Girls' Generation's Yoona was popular not only worldwide but also in Korea. The romance between the heir of King Hotel and his hardworking employee gained more and more audience with their swoon-worthy scenes. Starting with 5.1%, the drama reached 13.8% with its final episode.

 

8. "Welcome to Samdal-ri" - 12.4%

The 2023-2024 romantic comedy "Welcome to Samdal-ri" starring the two popular and talented actors Ji ChangWook and Shin HaeSun was popular. The drama tells the story of two childhood friends with an unfinished romance who reunited after a famous photographer faces a scandal and returns to her hometown in Jeju Island. The drama started at 5.2% and reached its best-ever ratings at 12.4% with its final episode.

 

9. "The Lady Of Dignity" - 12.1%

The K-Drama series follows the life of a woman whose life turns around when her father-in-law loses all his finances and a mysterious caregiver with a heartbreaking story who moves in with the family to take care of him. With its clever storyline and impressive performances by its cast, the drama released in 2017 and starring Woh AhJin and Kim SunAh has a high rating of 12.1% on the network.

 

10. "The Good Bad Mother" - 12.0%

The 2023 drama "The Good Bad Mother" starring Ra MiRan, Lee DoHyun, Ahn EunJin, and Yoo InSoo was popular. From the start of the drama at 3.6% to the final episode at 12.0% the drama had a constant rise in ratings and interest. Lee DoHyun acts as a cold prosecutor and one day an accident made him become like a child and he went to live back with his mom acted by Ra MiRan.

 

11. "Strong Girl NamSoon" - 10.4%

"Strong Girl NamSoon" is the spinoff of the popular drama "Strong Girl BongSoon" starring Lee YouMi, Kim JungEun, Kim HaeSook , Ong SeongWu, and Byeon WooSeok. The rom-com follows three strong women born with supernatural powers and how they fight a drug cartel. The comedy earned a lot of interest like "Strong Girl BongSoon" which reached 10.4% with its final episode.

 

12. "Dazzling" - 9.7%

The mystery melodrama centers around a woman who mysteriously ages while trying to tamper with time in order to save her father. Now 70 years old, she embarks on a journey towards reverting the changes while also dealing with how to approach her family and friends who cannot recognize her and a young lover whose affection she holds dearly. Starring Han JiMin, Kim HeeJa, and Nam JooHyuk, the 2019 drama was well loved.

 

12. "Strong Girl BongSoon" - 9.7%

The rom-com follows a woman born with supernatural powers and a tech CEO who seeks her protection as he is a target by an unknown individual. Starring Park BoYoung and Park HyungSik, the funny and interesting series reached 9.7% viewership ratings.

 

13. "Divorce Attorney Shin" - 9.5%

"Divorce Attorney Shin" aired in 2023. The drama started at 7.3% and ended at the high ratings of 9.5%. Cho SeungWoo acts as Shin SungHan a professor who turns into a lawyer specializing in divorce. In 12 episodes, this refreshing law drama stole the hearts of viewers.

 

14. "My Kids Give Me A Headache" - 9.2%

The family drama follows the storyline of three-generational families who live in one house. Filled with so much love, and warmth, and depicting the inter-family relationship as seen today, the series released in 2013 portrays a storyline that also showcases the way societies view families and the different forms the word takes. Each episode saw high ratings as viewers were extensively engrossed by the storyline. The drama reached 9.2% ratings.

 

15. "Misty"- 8.5%

The story is about a popular anchorwoman who becomes a prime suspect in a murder case and her ex-husband who was once a prosecutor but is now a public defender and takes up her case. A story about the complicated thread of love and reconciliation, the series was released in 2018, stars Kim NamJoo and Jin JiHee whose brilliant portrayal of their characters led to the success of the series which got a high viewership rating of 8.5% on the network.

 

16. "Doctor Slump" - 8.2%

Park HyungSik and Park ShinHye take on the role of doctors who ended up in a slump in "Doctor Slump". The casting and story grabbed the interest of many reaching 8.2% with its 10th episode.

 

17. "Thirty-Nine" - 8.1%

This melodrama revolves around the deep story of friendship, love and life of three friends who are about to turn 40. The drama stars prominent actresses Son YeJin, Jeon MiDo and Kim JiHyun. With the chemistry of the said actresses and the touching element of the tearjerker, the high rating of 8.1% achieved by the drama was no longer a surprise.

 

18. "Forecasting Love and Weather" - 7.8%

The office romance drama that stars prominent K-Drama stars Park MinYoung, Song Kang, Yoon Bak, and Girl's Day YuRa portrays the story of the staff of the National Weather Service, the complications of love in the workplace, the dynamics of family, and the societal demands and expectations on youths today.

 

19. "The Good Detective" - 7.6%

The riveting crime drama filled with so much suspense, twist, and turns ranks number 10 on this list with 7.6% ratings. Starring Lee Elijah, Jang SeungJo, and Son HyunJoo the series capture the journey of a veteran detective, a young genius, and a reporter on the quest to uncover the truth of a mysterious murder that happened 5 years ago.

Which of these dramas have you watched? Let us know in the comments section below.