Must-Watch K-Dramas 2025: Highest Rated Titles Ranked!
- Disha Paul
- 11 minutes ago
- 4 min read
2025 was a standout year for K-dramas, with several series earning strong praise from viewers and critics alike. From tender nostalgia to medical intensity, coming-of-age stories and time slip romance, this list brings together the most celebrated titles that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Below are the highest-rated dramas of 2025, each notable for storytelling, performances, and viewer impact.
Aired: March 7 – March 28, 2025
No. of Episodes: 4
Cast: IU, Park Bo-gum, Lee Jun-young, Yeom Hye-ran
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Jeju Island, the series follows Ae-sun, a spirited young woman who dreams of becoming a poet, and Gwan-sik, a devoted man who loves her. The story spans decades and is told through the voice of their daughter, tracing small joys, hardships, and the warmth of family life.
The drama earned widespread acclaim for its performances and writing, and it swept major awards in 2025. Its nostalgic tone and emotional storytelling made it a global favorite.
Aired: January 24, 2025
No. of Episodes: 8
Cast: Ju Ji-hoon, Choo Young-woo, Ha Young, Yoon Kyung-ho
Streaming Platform: Netflix
The Trauma Code follows Baek Kang-hyuk, a brilliant trauma surgeon who joins a struggling hospital and faces relentless emergencies. The series explores life-or-death decisions, the pressure on medical teams, and the emotional cost of treating critical patients.
With intense medical scenarios and strong performances, the drama became a hit among viewers who enjoy realistic, fast-paced hospital storytelling.
3. Study Group
Aired: Jan 23, 2025 - Feb 20, 2025
No. of Episodes: 10
Cast: Hwang Min-hyun, Han Ji-eun, Cha Woo-min
Streaming Platform: Multiple Korean broadcasters and streaming platforms
Study Group follows Yoon Ga-min, a student known for his fighting skills, who forms a study group at a tough high school in hopes of getting into college. The story blends coming-of-age themes with action, loyalty, and friendship.
The drama stands out for its energetic cast and relatable school moments, mixing humor with heartfelt character development.
Aired: Apr 12, 2025 - May 18, 2025
No. of Episodes: 12
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Resident Playbook follows four inexperienced OB-GYN residents as they navigate the emotional highs and lows of hospital life. The series focuses on their growth, ethical dilemmas, and the deep bonds formed inside the maternity ward.
Viewers praised the show for its warm storytelling, emotional episodes, and the realistic portrayal of young doctors finding their way.
5. Our Unwritten Seoul
Aired: May 24, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
No. of Episodes: 12
Cast: Park Bo-young, Park Jin-young, Ryu Kyung-soo
Streaming Platform: TVING, Netflix, and tvN
Our Unwritten Seoul tells the story of two twin sisters with completely different personalities. One is a former athlete, while the other works in a government office. Through their intertwined lives, the drama shows family relationships, personal struggles and the bittersweet lessons of adulthood.
The show gained high viewership and strong streaming numbers, becoming one of the most talked-about cable dramas of the year.
6. The Winning Try
Aired: July 25 – August 30, 2025
No. of Episodes: 12
Cast: Yoon Kye-sang, Im Se-mi, Kim Yo-han
Streaming Platform: SBS TV and Netflix
The Winning Try centers on a struggling high school rugby team that has never won at the National Sports Festival. Their new coach, a former rugby star, steps in to guide them toward teamwork, redemption, and newfound confidence.
The combination of sports action, heartfelt character arcs, and underdog spirit made the drama a fan favorite.
7. Bon Appétit, Your Majesty
Aired: August 23 – September 28, 2025
No. of Episodes: 12
Cast: Im Yoon-ah, Lee Chae-min, Kang Han-na, Choi Gwi-hwa
Streaming Platform: tvN and Netflix
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty is a time slip romance about a modern French cuisine chef who suddenly finds herself in the Joseon era after an eclipse. Caught in palace politics, she must adapt to ancient traditions while captivating the king with new flavors.
The drama achieved impressive global streaming success and won viewers over with its creativity and strong chemistry between leads.
8. Undercover High School
Aired: February 21 – March 29, 2025
No. of Episodes: 12
Cast: Seo Kang-joon, Jin Ki-joo, Kim Shin-rok
Streaming Platform: Viki
Undercover High School follows a National Intelligence Service agent who disguises himself as a student to infiltrate a criminal operation. Juggling school life, friendships, and secret missions leads to comedic chaos and unexpected emotional connections.
With its mix of action, comedy, and youthful energy, the show delivered an entertaining and refreshing viewing experience.
9. Head Over Heels
Aired: Jun 23, 2025 - Jul 29, 2025
No. of Episodes: 12
Cast: Cho Yi-hyun, Choo Young-woo
Streaming Platform: Prime Video and tvN
Head Over Heels tells the story of a high school girl who secretly works as a shaman with spiritual abilities. When a mysterious new student arrives, she senses a threat and takes it upon herself to protect him while concealing her identity.
The fantasy romance elements and strong youthful chemistry made this drama a sweet and captivating release in 2025.
Final Thoughts
These titles defined 2025 with strong acting, creative ideas, and unforgettable storytelling. Some dramas delivered heartfelt emotion while others explored high-stakes tension, but all of them made a lasting impact on viewers.
Which of these 2025 K-dramas did you enjoy the most? Share your favorite in the comments and let us know what you’re adding to your watchlist next.
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