Sometimes you want to enjoy a good K-drama but don’t have the time to dive into a 16 or 20-episode series. That’s where short K-dramas come to the rescue. These quick watches are perfect for a weekend binge or a lazy evening, and many of them still manage to deliver a powerful story in just a few episodes. Whether you’re new to K-dramas or just looking for something short and satisfying, this list has got you covered. Here are ten of the best Korean dramas with under 10 episodes that you can finish fast.
1. Soundtrack #1 (2022)
“Soundtrack #1” is a beautiful story about friendship, love, and timing. It stars Park Hyung-sik and Han So-hee as two longtime friends who suddenly begin to question their feelings for each other after living together for two weeks. The drama is only four episodes long, but it’s packed with emotional depth, cozy cinematography, and a heartwarming soundtrack. If you love slow-burn romances with gentle pacing, this is the perfect short drama to start with.
2. One Ordinary Day (2021)
If you’re into crime and legal thrillers, “One Ordinary Day” is an intense mini-series that you can’t miss. This eight-episode drama stars Kim Soo-hyun as a college student who is suddenly accused of murder, and Cha Seung-won as the quirky lawyer who tries to help him. The story is gritty, suspenseful, and thought-provoking. Despite its short length, it dives deep into the flaws of the justice system and the fear of being wrongly accused. It’s the kind of show you’ll want to finish in one sitting.
3. Move to Heaven (2021)
“Move to Heaven” is a heartfelt and deeply moving series about life, death, and healing. It follows a young man with Asperger’s syndrome who runs a trauma cleaning business with his ex-convict uncle. Each episode tells the story of a different deceased person through the belongings they left behind. The series has ten episodes, but each one feels like a standalone movie. If you’re looking for something emotional, meaningful, and incredibly human, this drama is a must-watch.
4. My Name Is Loh Kiwan (2024)
For something bold and emotional, “My Name Is Loh Kiwan” delivers a powerful punch in just a few episodes. This Netflix mini-series follows a North Korean defector trying to seek refugee status in Belgium while facing discrimination, isolation, and emotional pain. The story also explores a complex romance that gives the character strength. It’s short, intense, and beautifully acted. With only six episodes, you’ll be amazed by how much it leaves you thinking even after the final scene.
5. Somebody (2022)
“Somebody” blends crime, romance, and psychological thriller into one haunting experience. This short drama revolves around a young woman who created a social media app, and the mysterious man she meets through it, who may be hiding a dark secret. With only eight episodes, the story unfolds quickly but manages to maintain suspense and emotional complexity. It’s not your typical love story, and that’s what makes it so captivating. The slow, eerie tone builds a sense of dread that keeps you hooked till the end.
6. The Sound of Magic (2022)
“The Sound of Magic” is a musical fantasy drama about a struggling high school student who meets a mysterious magician living in an abandoned amusement park. Starring Ji Chang-wook, Choi Sung-eun, and Hwang In-yeop, this six-episode series is visually stunning and full of dreamlike moments. It explores themes of growing up, mental health, and believing in magic even when life feels hopeless. The songs are catchy, and the message is deeply moving. If you want something different and whimsical, this short K-drama is worth every minute.
7. Glitch (2022)
“Glitch” is a mystery sci-fi drama with a unique storyline about alien abductions, cults, and personal discovery. It follows a woman searching for her missing boyfriend, only to find herself entangled in strange phenomena and secrets she didn’t expect. This ten-episode drama has quirky characters, bizarre moments, and surprisingly emotional undertones. If you enjoy stories with a bit of everything: suspense, humor, and heart, this is a fast-paced ride you’ll want to binge in one go.
8. Live On (2020)
“Live On” is a high school romance drama with only eight episodes, making it a quick and light watch. It centers on a social media influencer who joins her school’s broadcasting club and crosses paths with a perfectionist classmate. What starts as a typical teen drama gradually reveals deeper issues like bullying, trust, and self-worth. The chemistry between the leads feels fresh, and the characters are easy to relate to. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a school-based love story that wraps up nicely without dragging on.
9. The Hymn of Death (2018)
If you’re in the mood for a tragic romance based on a true story, “The Hymn of Death” is a beautiful yet heartbreaking choice. This three-episode drama tells the story of Korea’s first soprano and her doomed love affair with a married playwright during the Japanese occupation. Lee Jong-suk and Shin Hye-sun deliver emotionally powerful performances, and the historical backdrop adds richness to the love story. It’s poetic, sad, and unforgettable, all in under four hours of screen time.
10. Page Turner (2016)
“Page Turner” is an inspiring three-episode drama about a talented pianist whose life changes after a tragic accident. She loses her ability to play, but through new friendships and unexpected experiences, she learns how to dream again. The drama explores passion, loss, and perseverance in a way that’s both uplifting and touching. Despite its short length, the characters are fully developed, and the story has a satisfying emotional arc. It’s the kind of drama that leaves a lasting impression even with minimal runtime.
Bottom line
Short K-dramas prove that great storytelling doesn’t always need a long runtime. In just a few episodes, these series can make you laugh, cry, think, and feel deeply connected to their characters. Whether you want romance, thriller, mystery, or drama, there’s something on this list that suits every mood and schedule. The best part is that you can finish them in a day or two without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
So, the next time you’re looking for something binge-worthy but don’t have much time, try one of these short K-dramas under 10 episodes. They’re fast, engaging, and full of unforgettable moments.
