Top 12 Must-Watch K-Dramas & Movies Set In The Modern Era

Korean cinema and television have long been known for their ability to blend compelling storytelling with deep emotional impact. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in dramas and movies that bring real historical events to life. These productions serve as both entertainment and education, shedding light on significant moments that have shaped the nation.

From political struggles and democracy movements to shocking crime cases and unsolved mysteries, Korean filmmakers and drama creators have masterfully reconstructed real-life events. With meticulous research, powerful performances, and cinematic excellence, these stories not only honor the past but also resonate with contemporary viewers, offering lessons and reflections on society, justice, and resilience.

Let’s explore the Top 12 K-Dramas and Movies About The Modern Era You Need To Know!

As in Lee ChangDong’s “Peppermint Candy”, let’s get on the train of historical cinema.

 The Early 1900s: The Korean Empire & The Fall of Joseon

1. Mr. Sunshine (2018) 📺

Netflix Official

“Mr. Sunshine“ is a drama featuring Kim TaeRi as Go AeSin and Lee ByungHun as Choi Eugene and set in the late 1800s and early 1900s, following Korea’s resistance against foreign influence and the fall of the Joseon Dynasty.

Blending suspense and plot twists, this drama takes you to the heart of the Korean resistance and the turmoil of those who either want to save their country or destroy it. As we follow the characters, we also witness the changes in Korean society, including the introduction of trains, streetlights, and other innovations brought by the Japanese.

Netflix Official

“Mr. Sunshine” stands out as one of the best K-Dramas depicting this era. It not only entertains but also challenges viewers to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for their homeland, making it a deeply moving and unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for a drama that will completely captivate you, it is the one to dive into. From the very first episode, it grabs your attention and never lets go, always leaving you wanting more.

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2. Pachinko (2022) 📺

Apple TV Official

“Pachinko“ is a gripping drama adapted from the bestselling novel by Lee MinJin. Featuring Lee MinHo as Koh HanSu and Kim MinHa as Kim SunJa, it is set across multiple generations, it follows a Korean family’s journey from the 1910s during Japanese occupation to their struggles as immigrants in Japan. The series explores themes of identity, survival, and family, highlighting the challenges of living as outsiders in a foreign land. With powerful storytelling and emotional depth, “Pachinko” brings to life the complex history and personal struggles of those caught between two cultures.

Apple TV Official

If you’re looking for a drama that will pull at your heartstrings, “Pachinko” is an absolute must-watch. It’s one of those rare shows that will have you hooked from start to finish—constantly leaving you wanting more! A powerful tale of resilience and family that you won’t be able to stop thinking about.

3. The Last Princess (2016) 🎬

CJ ENM Official

“The Last Princess“ (2016) is a historical drama based on the true story of Princess DeokHye, the last princess of the Joseon Dynasty. The film depicts her life as she is taken to Japan during Korea’s colonization and her struggles to return to her homeland. It delves into themes of identity, sacrifice, and resilience, as DeokHye battles to preserve her royal heritage under Japanese control. A powerful performance and a gripping storyline, “The Last Princess” showcases the tragic yet inspiring journey of a woman torn between two nations and cultures.

CJ ENM Official

For those who appreciate historical dramas with emotional depth, “The Last Princess” offers a heartfelt story. While it may not be action-packed, the film delivers strong performances and a powerful script, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the credits roll. Son YeJin as the Princess DeokHye will take you on a journey through countless emotions.

 Japanese Occupation (1910-1945) & Korean Resistance

4. Capital Scandal (2007) 📺

KBS Official

“Capital Scandal “(2007) is a romantic historical drama set during the Japanese occupation of Korea in the 1930s. Starring  Kang JiHwan as Wan SunWoo and Han JiMin as Na YeoKyung, the series centers on a young, idealistic reporter and his involvement in uncovering a web of secrets surrounding the colonial government. At this time, journalism was heavily controlled; nobody could publish anything freely, and many newspapers were either censored or erased from the Korean media. And so it easily became a way for the people to own their word and freedom more clearly.

Through its witty storytelling and charming characters, “Capital Scandal” highlights the complexities of resistance against foreign rule while offering an entertaining look at a turbulent period in Korean history.

5. Mal-Mo-E: The Secret Mission (2019) 🎬

Lotte Entertainment

“Mal-Mo-E: The Secret Mission“ is a passionate film about preserving the Korean language and legacy during the Japanese occupation. In the 1940s, the Korean language began to disappear from newspapers, schools, and daily life, leaving younger generations unable to speak or write in Korean. Elders, many of whom were illiterate, found it increasingly difficult to connect with their children’s education. The movie features the famous actor Yoo HaeJin as Kim PanSoo and Yoon KyeSang as Ryu JungHwan. With their acting skills, they will make you laugh just as much as they will make you cry.

Lotte Entertainment

The film highlights the struggles of a parent unable to engage in their child’s school life. However, at its core, it is a story about a group of teachers and scholars who risk their lives to create a Korean dictionary—secretly compiling words from every region of Joseon, from Gwangju to Busan, Seoul, and Pyeongyang. “Mal-Mo-E: The Secret Mission” illustrates the vital role of language in preserving history. As the Japanese occupation continued, Korean heritage rapidly faded, and those who attempted to keep it alive faced severe punishment. This film is an emotional tribute filled with love, history, and deep appreciation for Korean culture.

 The Korean War (1950-1953) & Its Aftermath

6. Comrades (2010) 📺

KBS Official

“Comrades“ is a gripping war drama that explores the brotherhood, sacrifice, and struggles of South Korean soldiers during the Korean War. Rather than focusing solely on combat, the series delves into the emotional and psychological toll of war. Starring incredible actors like Choi SooJong as Lee HyunJoong, Lee TaeRan as Lee SooKyung and Lee DukHwa as Park Woong, the story presents a nuanced perspective, portraying both North and South Korean soldiers as individuals caught in a devastating conflict beyond their control.

KBS Official

With realistic battle sequences, compelling character development, and heartfelt storytelling, “Comrades” captures the brutality of war while emphasizing themes of loyalty, morality, and humanity. The series offers a moving portrayal of the cost of war, making it one of the most poignant and unforgettable depictions of the Korean War in television history.

7. TaeGukGi: Brotherhood of War (2004) 🎬

TaGukGi : Brotherhood of War Official Poster

“TaeGukGi: Brotherhood of War” is a powerful war movie that follows two brothers, JinTae (Jang DongGun) and JinSeok (Won Bin), whose unbreakable bond is torn apart by the chaos of the Korean War. As JinTae becomes consumed by his mission to shield his younger brother, the horrors of war twist his fate, forcing them onto opposing sides of a ruthless conflict.

KOFIC Official

With its visceral, unrelenting battle sequences and deeply personal storytelling, “TaeGukGi” is not just a war film—it is a gut-wrenching exploration of love, loyalty, and the irreversible scars left by war. Through breathtaking cinematography and emotionally charged performances, the film captures both the horrors of combat and the tragic human cost of division, making it one of the most unforgettable and haunting portrait of the Korean War ever brought to screen.

Protests & The Fight for Democracy (1919-1987)

8. Youth of May (2021) 📺

KBS Official

Set against the turbulent Gwangju Uprising of 1980, “Youth Of May” explores the lives of a medical student and a nurse whose blossoming romance unfolds during one of South Korea’s most pivotal and tragic moments in history. The uprising, which saw citizens rise up against the authoritarian military regime, is depicted with emotional depth, providing a window into the lives of everyday people caught in the chaos.

KBS Official

Through its compelling narrative and rich historical context, the drama provides an invaluable understanding of the Gwangju Uprising, making it a vital watch for those wanting to comprehend the depth of the struggle for democracy in South Korea. Lee DoHyun as Hwang HeeTae and Go MinSi as Kim MyungHee will know how to completely immerse you in those nightmares.

9. 1987: When the Day Comes (2017) 🎬

CJ ENM Official

“1987: When the Day Comes” is an essential film about the student uprisings of the 1980s, particularly capturing two of Korea’s most tragic events: the death of Park JongChul and mostly Lee HanYeol. Through the story of a young student, YeonHee played by Kim TaeRi who isn’t a prominent figure in the uprising, the film reveals the horrifying truths of police torture, violent attacks, and government decisions.

Here again, journalism plays an important role and is synonym of freedom, truth and on the other side, treason. In a country ruled by censure, journalists risked their lives to share and express to the people what was happening behind the cameras.

CJ ENM Official

As a brilliantly written and executed film,“1987: When the Day Comes” is a must-watch for anyone wanting to understand Korea’s uprisings, particularly the role of students in this struggle. It immerses viewers in an ocean of doubt, sadness, and frustration. The director masterfully plays on the audience’s desire for a different outcome, despite knowing the tragic ending. With its attention to delicate details and the haunting landscapes of 1980s Korea, the film captures a world that seemed so perfect, yet so broken.

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11. Twenty Five, Twenty One (2023) 📺

TVN Official

“Twenty Five, Twenty One” is a compelling coming-of-age drama set during South Korea’s financial crisis in the 1990s, following the intertwined lives of a young athlete, Na HeeDo (Kim TaeRi) and a struggling reporter, Baek YiJin (Nam JooHyuk), as they navigate personal challenges, dreams, and the rapidly changing world around them. The series beautifully captures themes of youth, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness amidst economic instability, showcasing the emotional turbulence of growing up during such a transformative period.

TVN Official

The financial crisis plays a key role in shaping the characters’ lives, as both them are forced to confront the harsh realities of their society. Their journeys reveal how individuals and families were impacted by the crisis, whether through economic struggles, shifting societal roles, or personal setbacks. “Twenty-Five, Twenty-One” intricately weaves these socio-political challenges into the characters’ personal growth, offering a poignant look at how economic hardship influences not only careers and relationships but also the future of an entire generation.

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Real Crimes & Court Cases

12. Memories of Murder (2003) 🎬

Memories Of Murder Official Poster

“Memories of Murder” is one of the classics: a gripping crime thriller by Bong JoonHo, set in 1980s Korea during a time of political unrest and social upheaval. Featuring the famous and known to be the Bong JoonHo’s preferred actor, Song KangHo plays Park DooMan and Kim SangKyun: Seo TaeYoon, the film follows two detectives investigating a series of murders, while grappling with flawed police methods and growing frustration.

Memories Of Murder Official Trailer

Beyond its central investigation, the film highlights the broader societal impact of the military regime’s repression, reflecting how corruption, fear, and the failure of institutions affect not only the detectives but the lives of the people around them. “Memories of Murder” skillfully blends a suspenseful crime story with a powerful critique of the societal and political systems that hinder the pursuit of justice.

Korean cinema and television beautifully bring history to life, blending captivating stories with emotional depth. From the Joseon Dynasty to the fight for democracy, these films and dramas offer a powerful look at Korea’s past, leaving lasting impressions on viewers and ensuring its history is remembered.