Over the past decade, Korean dramas have captured the hearts of millions around the world. Thanks to streaming platforms and word-of-mouth buzz, some K-dramas have gone beyond national borders and become viral sensations. These series sparked global conversations, inspired memes, and even influenced fashion and music trends. If you’re new to the Hallyu wave or looking to relive some of the most iconic shows, this list will take you through ten Korean dramas that truly went viral internationally.
1. Squid Game (2021)
No list of internationally viral Korean dramas is complete without Squid Game. This dystopian survival series became a cultural phenomenon almost overnight. With its intense storyline, shocking twists, and social commentary, Squid Game broke records on Netflix, topping charts in over 90 countries. Viewers around the world were captivated by the deadly childhood games, unforgettable characters like Seong Gi-hun and the mysterious Front Man, and the haunting imagery of the masked guards.
Beyond the screen, the series inspired Halloween costumes, TikTok challenges, and deep discussions about class and capitalism. Even non-K-drama fans couldn’t escape its impact. It marked a turning point for Korean content on a global stage.
2. Crash Landing on You (2019)
Crash Landing on You is a romantic drama that took an unlikely premise and turned it into one of the most beloved love stories in K-drama history. When a South Korean heiress accidentally paraglides into North Korea and meets a kindhearted soldier, their story unfolds with humor, heart, and suspense.
The chemistry between Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin was electric, and fans across the globe couldn’t get enough. It became one of the highest-rated Korean dramas of all time and gained a massive following in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The show also sparked interest in North-South Korean relations and brought attention to Korean military culture.
3. Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God) (2016)
Goblin combined fantasy, romance, and mythology in a way that mesmerized international audiences. Starring Gong Yoo as an immortal goblin and Kim Go-eun as the girl destined to end his cursed life, the drama blended stunning cinematography with emotional storytelling.
What made Goblin go viral was its unique plot, poetic dialogues, and a soundtrack that tugged at everyone’s heartstrings. The bromance between the goblin and the grim reaper added a layer of charm that kept fans coming back. From fan edits to social media tributes, this drama remains one of the most talked-about series even years after its release.
4. Itaewon Class (2020)
Released during the early months of the pandemic, Itaewon Class struck a chord with global viewers for its message of resilience, diversity, and standing up against injustice. Park Seo-joon’s portrayal of a determined young man who opens a bar in Itaewon after being wronged by a powerful company earned widespread praise.
The drama highlighted social issues like racism, transgender identity, and economic inequality. With its multicultural cast and vibrant setting in Seoul’s famous Itaewon district, the show resonated strongly with international fans and encouraged meaningful conversations online.
5. Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)
This heartwarming legal drama introduced viewers to Woo Young-woo, a brilliant attorney with autism spectrum disorder. Park Eun-bin’s portrayal was deeply moving and sparked a global conversation about neurodiversity and representation in media.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo not only topped streaming charts but also touched millions with its compassionate storytelling. Fans appreciated the way it handled sensitive issues with care, and the series’ catchphrases, whale metaphors, and adorable scenes quickly spread across social media platforms worldwide.
6. Vincenzo (2021)
A Korean-Italian mafia consigliere returning to Seoul and battling corruption with style? That’s Vincenzo; a mix of crime, comedy, and action that won over a global audience. Song Joong-ki’s performance as Vincenzo Cassano was both charming and fierce, and fans loved the unique mix of Italian mafia elements with Korean drama flair.
The show went viral for its bold characters, witty writing, and intense courtroom drama. It also became known for its dark humor and unpredictable plot twists, making it one of the most binge-worthy series on Netflix. Memes, reaction videos, and fan edits flooded the internet for months after it aired.
7. My Love from the Star (2013)
Years before Korean dramas became mainstream globally, My Love from the Star led the charge. Starring Kim Soo-hyun as an alien stranded on Earth and Jun Ji-hyun as a quirky actress, the drama mixed sci-fi and romance in a way that captured hearts around the world.
Its popularity soared in countries like China, the Philippines, and the U.S., turning its leads into international stars. The drama also influenced food trends (like chimaek: fried chicken and beer) and boosted tourism in South Korea. It remains a classic that introduced many fans to the magic of K-dramas.
8. All of Us Are Dead (2022)
Zombie apocalypse meets high school drama in All of Us Are Dead. This gripping horror series turned a group of teenagers into overnight global stars. Set during a sudden zombie outbreak at a high school, the show kept viewers on edge with its fast pace, emotional depth, and brutal realism.
It climbed Netflix’s top 10 charts in over 80 countries shortly after its release and sparked renewed interest in Korean horror storytelling. Fans praised its strong performances, particularly from young actors, and admired how it balanced gore with meaningful social commentary.
9. The Glory (2022–2023)
Written by acclaimed screenwriter Kim Eun-sook, The Glory is a revenge drama that captivated viewers with its intense story about school bullying and justice. Song Hye-kyo’s transformation into a woman seeking vengeance after years of trauma was both haunting and empowering.
The drama went viral for its dark tone, gripping performances, and emotional resonance. Audiences in the U.S., Latin America, and Europe were especially drawn to its bold portrayal of abuse and retribution. The storytelling was sharp, and every episode left fans eagerly waiting for the next twist.
10. Kingdom (2019)
Kingdom introduced the world to a new genre: historical zombie horror. Set during the Joseon Dynasty, this visually stunning series combined palace politics, deadly conspiracies, and a mysterious plague that reanimates the dead.
With high production value, clever writing, and edge-of-your-seat suspense, Kingdom became an international sensation. Its global success proved that historical Korean stories could be just as thrilling and cinematic as any Hollywood production. The series earned praise for its originality and sparked renewed interest in Korean historical dramas, or “sageuk.”
Bottom line
Korean dramas have come a long way from being niche entertainment to becoming a global phenomenon. These ten dramas not only entertained viewers but also left lasting impressions that crossed language and cultural barriers. Whether through unforgettable characters, emotional storytelling, or bold themes, each series listed here played a part in spreading the Korean Wave even further across the world.
As streaming platforms continue to invest in Korean content, it’s likely we’ll see even more K-dramas going viral in the years to come. So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to dive into these internationally beloved dramas and experience what millions of fans around the globe are talking about.
