Korean dramas have taken the world by storm, with millions of viewers hooked on their emotional storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, and unforgettable characters. While there are countless great series out there, some dramas have stood out not just for their storylines but for receiving the highest viewer ratings across Korea and internationally. These ratings often reflect how deeply audiences connect with the story and how satisfied they feel from start to finish.
Here are the 10 highest-rated Korean dramas according to viewers that you simply can’t miss.
1. The World of the Married (2020)
Topping the list is The World of the Married, a gripping psychological drama that left Korean audiences stunned with every twist and turn. It achieved a peak nationwide rating of 28.4%, making it the highest-rated cable K-drama in Korean television history. The story revolves around a seemingly perfect marriage that unravels due to betrayal and revenge. Viewers praised the intense acting performances, especially by Kim Hee-ae, who delivered a powerful portrayal of a woman confronting infidelity and emotional collapse. This drama isn’t just about betrayal; it’s a raw and emotional look at the complexities of love, trust, and survival in a fractured relationship.
2. Reply 1988 (2015)
Few Korean dramas have resonated so deeply with audiences as Reply 1988. This slice-of-life drama captures the essence of family, friendship, and first love in a quiet Seoul neighborhood during the late 1980s. With a finale rating of 18.8%, it remains one of the most beloved dramas of all time. What viewers appreciated most was its nostalgic storytelling, which felt both comforting and heartwarming. Every character felt real, and the series beautifully portrayed the warmth of community and growing up in simpler times. It’s not just a drama; it’s a trip back to your childhood.
3. Sky Castle (2018)
Sky Castle took viewers into the cutthroat world of South Korea’s elite families, where parents would do anything to get their children into the top universities. This drama reached a massive 23.8% rating on JTBC, thanks to its dark satire and sharp social commentary. Viewers found themselves completely hooked by the intense plot and morally complex characters. The series pulled back the curtain on academic pressure, privilege, and parental obsession. Many fans couldn’t stop watching because it felt all too real, reflecting issues that many families experience in modern Korea.
4. Crash Landing on You (2019)
Romance and suspense meet in Crash Landing on You, one of the most talked-about dramas in K-drama history. It follows a South Korean heiress who accidentally paraglides into North Korea and meets a stoic army officer. The chemistry between Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin was electric, and fans were thrilled by their real-life relationship afterward. This drama earned a peak rating of 21.7% and found global popularity on Netflix. What set it apart was its unique premise, touching love story, and careful handling of sensitive themes about life in North and South Korea.
5. Goblin (2016)
Also known as Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, this fantasy drama became a cultural phenomenon not just in Korea but around the world. Gong Yoo played a cursed immortal goblin looking for his bride to end his eternal life. The stunning cinematography, poetic dialogue, and heartbreaking romance helped it reach 18.7% viewership. Viewers were captivated by the supernatural world it created, combined with deeply human emotions. It was more than a fantasy; it was a story about loneliness, redemption, and the bittersweet nature of love and letting go.
6. Mr. Sunshine (2018)
Created by the writer of Goblin and Descendants of the Sun, Mr. Sunshine took historical dramas to new heights. Set during the late Joseon period, it tells the story of a Korean boy who becomes a U.S. Marine and returns to Korea, where he falls in love with a noblewoman. The series was praised for its sweeping visuals, emotional depth, and complex political themes. It received strong ratings, peaking at 18.1%. Viewers were moved by its powerful portrayal of patriotism and sacrifice, especially during a tumultuous time in Korean history.
7. Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)
Extraordinary Attorney Woo took the world by surprise with its heartfelt and empowering story of a young lawyer with autism spectrum disorder. Park Eun-bin delivered a standout performance that helped the series become one of ENA’s most successful dramas, with ratings reaching 17.5%. What viewers loved most was how the drama handled Woo Young-woo’s challenges and strengths with warmth and sensitivity. Each episode tackled different legal cases, but at its core, the show was about empathy, resilience, and understanding people beyond their labels. It resonated deeply with audiences from all walks of life.
8. Itaewon Class (2020)
Bold, rebellious, and full of heart, Itaewon Class told the story of a group of misfits who challenge societal norms by building a restaurant business in Seoul’s most diverse neighborhood. The series became a major hit, peaking at 16.5% in viewership. Park Seo-joon’s performance as the driven and morally upright Park Sae-ro-yi drew praise for his emotional range. Viewers loved the show’s themes of justice, revenge, and inclusion, as well as its diverse cast of characters. The drama’s message about overcoming prejudice and chasing your dreams struck a chord with younger audiences in particular.
9. Vincenzo (2021)
Blending crime, comedy, and action, Vincenzo delivered something totally fresh to viewers. Song Joong-ki stars as a Korean-Italian mafia consigliere who returns to Korea and ends up fighting corruption in unexpected ways. The series became one of tvN’s most-watched dramas with ratings exceeding 14.6%. Viewers enjoyed its stylish storytelling, quirky humor, and high-stakes plot twists. What made it stand out was how it balanced thrilling mafia drama with moments of levity and deep character development. It proved that even a morally gray antihero can win hearts when fighting for the right cause.
10. Hospital Playlist (2020)
Hospital Playlist stood out not with drama or suspense, but with its peaceful, slice-of-life storytelling about five doctors who have been friends since medical school. Viewers loved its slower pace and emotional authenticity, with ratings climbing to 14.1%. Each episode gave a glimpse into their personal and professional lives, with a balance of heartfelt moments and light comedy. What viewers cherished most was how real everything felt, from the friendships to the medical cases to the jam sessions in their band. It’s a healing drama in every sense of the word.
Bottom line
Korean dramas continue to grow in global popularity, but it’s the emotional connection with the audience that often determines which ones are remembered forever. The dramas on this list didn’t just pull in high numbers; they captured hearts, started conversations, and created unforgettable memories for fans around the world.
Whether you’re new to K-dramas or a long-time fan, these highest-rated series are definitely worth your time. They represent the best of what Korean television has to offer: compelling stories, rich characters, and messages that stay with you long after the final episode.
