My Top 10 Favourite korean dramas

1. AGENCY

"Agency" centers on Go Ah-in, a brilliant copywriter who navigates the challenges and politics of a leading advertising agency. Ah-in’s journey begins as a junior copywriter with dreams of making it big in the fiercely competitive advertising world. Her creativity, determination, and unyielding work ethic quickly set her apart from her peers.

As Ah-in climbs the corporate ladder, she faces numerous obstacles, including office politics, gender bias, and intense competition from colleagues like Choi Chang-soo, who feels threatened by her rising influence. Despite these challenges, Ah-in remains focused on her goal of becoming the first female executive in the agency.

Ah-in’s relationship with Kang Han-na, a junior copywriter, plays a significant role in the story. Han-na’s admiration for Ah-in and her own aspirations in the advertising world add depth to the mentor-mentee dynamic. Their bond highlights themes of empowerment and the importance of supporting women in the workplace.

Park Sung-jun, the creative director, becomes a crucial figure in Ah-in’s life, both professionally and personally. Their collaboration on major campaigns showcases the creative process and the high-pressure environment of advertising. Their budding romance adds another layer of complexity to Ah-in’s life as she balances her professional ambitions with her personal desires.

2. Behind Your Touch

The series is set in a small rural town where everyone knows each other, and life seems simple and quiet. However, beneath the surface, the town is full of secrets waiting to be uncovered.

Bong Ye-bun, a local veterinarian, discovers she has a unique gift: she can see people's memories when she touches them. While initially overwhelmed by her ability, she soon realizes she can use it to help others and solve mysteries.

Moon Jang-yeol, a detective with a strong sense of justice, finds himself frequently clashing with Ye-bun. Despite their differences, they form an unlikely partnership when they realize her ability can help him solve crimes. Together, they work on various cases, ranging from petty thefts to more serious crimes, unraveling the hidden truths within their community.

Bae Ok-hee, Ye-bun's supportive and inquisitive friend, often joins their investigations. Her background as a journalist provides valuable insights and sometimes leads them to new clues. The trio's dynamic adds a layer of humor and warmth to the series.

As Ye-bun and Jang-yeol spend more time together, their professional relationship starts to develop into a romantic one. They learn to appreciate each other's strengths and grow closer as they navigate the challenges of their investigations and personal lives.

3. Misaeng ; Incomplete life

Jang Geu-rae’s life has been centered around baduk, a strategic board game, since childhood. However, when he fails to become a professional player, he finds himself unprepared for the real world. Through a connection, he lands an internship at One International, a large trading company. Despite his lack of conventional qualifications, Geu-rae is determined to succeed.

At One International, Geu-rae faces numerous challenges. He struggles with the basics of office work, corporate politics, and the competitive nature of the business environment. His colleagues, initially skeptical of his abilities and background, often underestimate him.

Oh Sang-sik, Geu-rae's team leader, quickly recognizes his potential and work ethic. He becomes a mentor to Geu-rae, teaching him the ropes and standing up for him when necessary. Their relationship is central to Geu-rae's development and his journey through the company.

Ahn Young-yi, another intern, deals with sexism and other obstacles despite her exceptional skills and work ethic. She becomes an ally to Geu-rae, and their mutual support helps them navigate the challenging corporate landscape.

Jang Baek-ki, who initially views Geu-rae as an unworthy competitor, gradually comes to respect him. Han Seok-yool, with his unconventional methods and street-smart approach, also becomes a friend and supporter of Geu-rae.

The series delves into the personal and professional struggles of these characters, highlighting the harsh realities of corporate life, including the pressures, sacrifices, and small victories that define their journeys.

4. Marriage Contract

Kang Hye-soo is a widowed mother working multiple jobs to support her daughter, Eun-sung. Her life takes a devastating turn when she is diagnosed with a brain tumor. With her time running out and worried about her daughter's future, Hye-soo is desperate to find a way to secure Eun-sung's future.

Han Ji-hoon is a wealthy and successful businessman, but his life is far from perfect. His estranged mother is in desperate need of a liver transplant, but finding a suitable donor within the family is challenging. Ji-hoon’s stepbrother, Han Jung-hoon, suggests that Ji-hoon find a willing donor by entering into a contract marriage.

Hye-soo, in dire need of money and security for her daughter, agrees to the contract marriage with Ji-hoon. According to the agreement, Hye-soo will become Ji-hoon's wife and act as a liver donor for his mother in exchange for financial security and care for her daughter after her death.

Initially, their relationship is purely transactional, filled with misunderstandings and conflicts. However, as they spend more time together, Hye-soo’s sincerity, strength, and dedication to her daughter begin to break down Ji-hoon's emotional barriers. Ji-hoon, who starts as cold and pragmatic, gradually becomes more caring and empathetic, especially towards Hye-soo and Eun-sung.

Their relationship evolves from one of convenience to genuine affection and love. Ji-hoon finds himself deeply moved by Hye-soo’s plight and her love for her daughter, while Hye-soo begins to see Ji-hoon as more than just a means to secure her daughter's future.

5. Tell me What you Saw

The series begins with a string of gruesome murders that bear similarities to the work of a notorious serial killer known as “The Guy,” who was believed to have died years ago. Oh Hyun-jae, once a celebrated profiler, has been living in seclusion since his fiancée’s death, which he believes was caused by “The Guy.”

Cha Soo-young, a rookie detective with a perfect memory, gets involved in the investigation. Her exceptional ability to recall every detail she sees makes her an important part of the team. Hwang Hwa-young, the team leader, pairs her with Hyun-jae, hoping his experience and her unique skill will help solve the case.

As Hyun-jae and Soo-young delve into the investigation, they uncover a complex web of clues that point to the possibility that “The Guy” might still be alive. The investigation takes them through numerous twists and turns, revealing dark secrets and unexpected connections among the characters.

6. So I married an Antifan

Lee Geun-young is a journalist struggling to make a name for herself. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters the famous K-pop star Hoo Joon at an event. Due to a misunderstanding, she is fired from her job and blames Hoo Joon for her misfortune, leading her to become his ardent anti-fan.

In a twist of fate, a reality TV show offers Geun-young the chance to live with Hoo Joon, documenting their interactions as fan and anti-fan. Though initially reluctant, both agree to participate for different reasons: Hoo Joon for his image and Geun-young for the opportunity to rebuild her career.

As they navigate the challenges of living together, their constant bickering and misunderstandings begin to give way to mutual respect and understanding. Geun-young starts to see the real Hoo Joon behind his public persona, while Hoo Joon realizes Geun-young's genuine and spirited nature.

The series explores themes of love, forgiveness, and the pressures of fame. As Hoo Joon and Geun-young's relationship evolves from hostility to friendship and eventually romance, they both learn important lessons about trust and acceptance.

7. Memorist

Dong Baek discovered his ability to read memories when he was a teenager. This power, while useful in solving crimes, also brings him significant pain and challenges. He becomes a detective known for his unorthodox methods and remarkable success rate in capturing criminals.

The series kicks off with Dong Baek using his abilities to solve various cases, but the narrative quickly focuses on a particularly challenging and dangerous serial murder case. The murderer, known as "The Eraser," is able to erase memories, making it extremely difficult for the police to gather evidence and catch him.

Han Sun-mi, a profiler with a deep understanding of the human psyche, joins Dong Baek in his pursuit of "The Eraser." Together, they navigate the complexities of the case, combining Dong Baek's supernatural abilities with Sun-mi's analytical skills.

As they dig deeper, they uncover connections to past traumas and unresolved cases that have haunted both of them. Sun-mi’s past, in particular, is intertwined with the current investigation, adding personal stakes to their mission.

8. Vincenzo

The story begins with Vincenzo Cassano, born as Park Joo-hyung, who was adopted by an Italian family and became a consigliere for the Mafia. After a power struggle within the Mafia, he returns to South Korea to retrieve a hidden stash of gold concealed in the basement of Geumga Plaza, an old building scheduled for demolition by the corrupt Babel Group.

Upon arriving in Seoul, Vincenzo discovers that retrieving the gold won't be easy. The tenants of Geumga Plaza, each with unique personalities and backstories, initially oppose his plans. However, as Vincenzo gets involved in their lives, he forms an unlikely alliance with them.

Hong Cha-young, a sharp-witted lawyer, initially works for Babel Group's legal arm but switches sides after her father, Hong Yoo-chan, is murdered by Babel. Together, Vincenzo and Cha-young set out to bring down Babel Group and its corrupt leaders.

As they fight against Babel, Vincenzo uses his Mafia tactics to outmaneuver his enemies, leading to numerous thrilling and darkly comedic situations. He also forms a close bond with the tenants of Geumga Plaza, who help him in his quest.

9. Law School

"Law School" revolves around the students and faculty of a prestigious law school in South Korea. The series begins with the shocking death of Professor Seo Byung-ju during a mock trial class. The death is quickly ruled a murder, and Professor Yang Jong-hoon becomes the prime suspect due to his past conflicts with Seo.

The drama follows Jong-hoon's efforts to prove his innocence while continuing to teach his students. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that many people had motives for wanting Seo dead, and numerous secrets about the faculty and students come to light.

The students, especially Kang Sol A and Han Joon-hwi, play crucial roles in uncovering the truth. Sol A's tenacity and moral integrity, coupled with Joon-hwi's intelligence and resourcefulness, lead them to discover critical evidence. Along the way, they learn about the complexities of the legal system, the importance of justice, and the ethical dilemmas lawyers face.

10. Extra Ordinary       Attorney Woo

Woo Young-woo, despite her brilliance, faces significant challenges due to her autism spectrum disorder. She graduates at the top of her class from a prestigious law school but struggles to find a law firm willing to hire her due to her social awkwardness and unconventional behavior. Eventually, she secures a position at Hanbada Law Firm, thanks to the firm's CEO, who recognizes her potential.

At Hanbada, Young-woo's unique approach to cases, including her ability to recall vast amounts of legal precedents and her lateral thinking, often leads to successful outcomes. However, she must also navigate the prejudices and misunderstandings of her colleagues and clients. Her journey is marked by both professional victories and personal growth.

Lee Jun-ho, a litigation team member, becomes an essential support system for Young-woo. He is drawn to her sincerity and brilliance, and their relationship gradually develops into a romantic one. Jun-ho helps Young-woo cope with social interactions and workplace dynamics.

Jung Myung-seok, initially wary of Young-woo’s differences, becomes a key figure in her career. As he mentors her, he learns to value her contributions and advocates for her within the firm.

Exploring the world of K-dramas has been a captivating journey filled with unforgettable characters, gripping storylines, and a range of emotions from laughter to tears. Each drama on this list has left a lasting impact on me, offering unique perspectives and memorable moments that I cherish. Whether it's the heartwarming romance in "So, I married an antifan" the intense legal battles in "Law School," or the inspiring resilience in "Misaeng: Incomplete Life," these dramas have not only entertained me but also provided valuable life lessons and insights.

K-dramas have a special way of blending culture, emotion, and creativity, making them a delightful escape from reality. If you haven't delved into the world of Korean dramas yet, I highly recommend starting with any of these top picks. Each one promises a unique experience that will leave you eagerly pressing "next episode."

Thank you for joining me on this journey through my top 10 favorite K-dramas. I hope my list inspires you to discover new favorites and perhaps even revisit some classics. Don't forget to share your own favorite K-dramas in the comments below – I'd love to hear your recommendations and experiences. Happy watching!

Stay tuned for more reviews and recommendations, and until next time, annyeong!