Watching K-dramas has become a favorite pastime for many, providing entertainment, relaxation, and engaging content. As a form of breather for people, K-dramas introduce diverse stories, characters, and settings that offer an escape from reality.
Whether you’re a fan of classic love stories or gripping thrillers, there is surely a K-drama that fits your taste. With intricate plots and epic narratives, K-dramas allow you to enter new worlds at your own pace, one episode at a time.
Here are the different genres of K-dramas you can check out:
Makjang Dramas
If you’ve seen clips of K-dramas where someone slaps another person, throws water in their face, or kneels in front of a powerful individual, then you’ve likely encountered a Makjang drama. Characterized by exaggerated circumstances, Makjang dramas are considered “over-the-top” dramas.
This genre typically features ridiculous birth secrets like long-lost family members or illegitimate children, complicated relationships, and extramarital affairs. Additionally, many characters lack a moral compass and commit one evil deed after another, blinded by greed. Examples of K-dramas in this genre are Sky Castle, Penthouse: War in Life, and The World of the Married.
Sageuk (Historical Dramas)
A unique genre of K-dramas is the Sageuk, or historical dramas, which showcase traditional Korean culture and history. Taking viewers on a trip to the past, historical dramas contain various cultural references, introducing ancient Korea’s beautifully designed palaces, distinct clothing, and overall lifestyle.
The characters represent the societal roles of the period—from kings, queens, princes, and princesses to eunuchs, court maids, palace guards, and servants. Examples of K-dramas in this genre are Hwarang, Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, and Empress Ki.
Slice-of-Life Dramas
Centered on the highs and lows of everyday life, slice-of-life dramas tell simple yet touching stories that resonate deeply, adding depth to the mundane. Often focused on friendships, family bonds, and workplace experiences, slice-of-life dramas are loved for their familiarity and relatability. Examples of K-dramas in this genre are My Mister, My Liberation Notes, and Misaeng: Incomplete Life.
Medical Dramas
As the name implies, medical dramas feature stories about the medical field. They tell meaningful stories about people in hospitals, such as doctors, nurses, and patients. Medical terms are frequently explained on screen so the audience can learn about the concepts.
On top of being educational, medical dramas are often heartrending as they deal with the lives and deaths of people. Examples of K-dramas in this genre are Doctors, Dr. Romantic, and Hospital Playlist.
Legal Dramas
Like medical dramas, legal dramas are focused on a particular profession—the field of law. Featuring lawyers, prosecutors, and judges, legal dramas often revolve around serving justice to oppressors and protecting victims of corruption or unfair treatment. Examples of K-dramas in this genre are Lawless Lawyer, Bad Prosecutor, and Miss Hammurabi.
Romance
In K-dramas, romance is usually not a standalone theme. It often incorporates other genres like comedy, fantasy, or even action to introduce twists and add depth to the story. Typically, it contains tropes like childhood friends becoming lovers, school or office romances, and love triangles. Cliché as they may be, fans still enjoy watching them for the emotional experience.
One of the most enjoyable genres for fans, romance K-dramas are filled with heart-fluttering moments, chance encounters, and amusing banter between the leads. Examples of K-dramas in this genre are Business Proposal, Cinderella and the Four Knights, and What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?
Mystery/Thriller
Known for creating feelings of suspense and anticipation until the end, mystery/thriller dramas feature unimaginable plot twists and sudden revelations that keep your eyes glued to the screen. This genre is sure to keep you on your toes as you try to figure out who the criminal masterminds are.
Though mystery/thriller K-dramas often include elements of horror, they are exciting for fans who love playing detective and deducing clues throughout the series. Examples of K-dramas in this genre are Signal, Flower of Evil, and Mouse.
Fantasy
Bringing the most imaginative stories to viewers, fantasy K-dramas are characterized by its supernatural and otherworldly elements. Featuring extraordinary creatures like ghosts, goblins, mermaids, or aliens, fantasy K-dramas introduce you to magical realms and various adventures that would make your viewing experience all the more interesting. Examples of K-dramas in this genre are “Tale of the Nine-Tailed,” “My Demon,” and “The Legend of The Blue Sea.”
Action
Often paired with crime themes, the action genre is enjoyed for its intense fighting scenes and cool action sequences. Viewers find excitement in how the lead characters usually go against villains who are more powerful than them, making their triumphs feel even more satisfying.
You’ll definitely get hooked with the enthralling chases, shootouts, explosions and stunts that action K-dramas offer. Examples of K-dramas in this genre are “Vagabond,” “Healer,” and “The City Hunter.”
These are just the beginning of what K-dramas can offer, and there are a lot more to discover. With the diversity of genres in K-drama, you’ll never run out of series to watch as each has a unique element in its storyline. K-dramas also combine genres together, making it extra fun for viewers. Based on your mood or preference, you can choose to watch a K-drama under a certain genre first then explore many others afterward!
