Top 11 Historical Korean Dramas That Will Always Be Fan Favorites
- Disha Paul
- May 17
- 5 min read
Historical K-dramas have a charm of their own. They offer gripping stories set in royal courts, wartime struggles, and age-old traditions. From political rivalries to forbidden romances, these dramas have something for every viewer.
Whether you're new to the genre or have already watched a few fan-favorites, this list covers some of the best ones that continue to leave a lasting impression.
Why Historical K-Dramas Stand Out?
These dramas take you back in time—sometimes to real events, other times to fictional stories inspired by Korea’s past. You’ll find detailed costumes, intense plots, and powerful emotions, all wrapped in historical settings.
They don’t just focus on history. Many of them tackle themes like identity, love, loyalty, and rebellion that still resonate today.
1. Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)
Aired: August 29 – November 1, 2016
No. of Episodes: 20
Cast: Lee Joon Gi, IU, Kang Ha Neul
Streaming Platform: Viki, Netflix
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo follows Go Ha Jin, a 21st-century woman who time-travels to the Goryeo Dynasty. She becomes entangled in the lives of royal princes, particularly the enigmatic 4th Prince, Wang So.
The series delves into themes of love, betrayal, and political intrigue, set against a richly detailed historical backdrop.
2. Alchemy of Souls (2022)
Aired: June 18, 2022 – January 8, 2023
No. of Episodes: 30 (Part 1: 20 episodes; Part 2: 10 episodes)
Cast: Lee Jae Wook, Jung So Min, Go Youn Jung, Hwang Min Hyun
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Set in a fictional kingdom, Alchemy of Souls centers on mages who can swap souls. The story follows Naksu, a skilled assassin whose soul becomes trapped in a frail body. As she seeks to regain her powers, she encounters love and uncovers secrets that could alter the fate of the realm.
3. Under the Queen's Umbrella (2022)
Aired: October 15 – December 4, 2022
No. of Episodes: 16
Cast: Kim Hye Soo, Kim Hae Sook, Choi Won Young
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Under the Queen's Umbrella portrays Queen Im Hwa Ryeong's efforts to reform her troublemaking sons into proper princes. Balancing royal duties and maternal instincts, she navigates palace politics with wit and determination, offering a fresh take on Joseon Era court life.
4. Mr. Queen (2020-2021)
Aired: December 12, 2020 – February 14, 2021
No. of Episodes: 20
Cast: Shin Hae Sun, Kim Jung Hyun
Streaming Platform: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
In Mr. Queen, a modern-day chef finds himself in the body of Queen Cheorin during the Joseon Dynasty. The series combines historical setting with comedic elements as the protagonist adapts to royal life, leading to humorous and unexpected situations.
5. My Dearest (2023)
Aired: August 4 – November 18, 2023
No. of Episodes: 21
Cast: Namkoong Min, Ahn Eun Jin, Lee Hak Joo
Streaming Platform: Viki
Set during the Qing invasion of Joseon, My Dearest tells the poignant love story of Lee Jang Hyun and Yoo Gil Chae. Amidst war and societal upheaval, their relationship faces trials that test their devotion and resilience.
6. The Red Sleeve (2021-2022)
Aired: November 12, 2021 – January 1, 2022
No. of Episodes: 17
Cast: Lee Jun Ho, Lee Se Young, Kang Hoon
Streaming Platform: Viki
The Red Sleeve chronicles the romance between King Jeongjo and court lady Seong Deok Im. The drama explores the tension between duty and desire, highlighting the personal sacrifices made within the confines of royal expectations.
7. The Tale of Lady Ok (2024-2025)
Aired: November 30, 2024 – January 26, 2025
No. of Episodes: 16
Cast: Lim Ji Yeon, Choo Young Woo, Yeonwoo, Kim Jae Won
Streaming Platform: Viu, Kocowa
The Tale of Lady Ok follows the ascent of Lady Ok from commoner to queen. Her intelligence and resilience challenge societal norms, offering a narrative that emphasizes female empowerment within a historical context.
8. Bridal Mask (2012)
Aired: May 30 – September 6, 2012
No. of Episodes: 28
Cast: Joo Won, Park Ki Woong, Jin Se Yun
Streaming Platform: Viki, Kocowa
Bridal Mask is set in 1930s Seoul during Japanese occupation and follows a Korean police officer working for the colonial government. Unknown to others, he secretly becomes the masked vigilante "Gaksital", fighting against Japanese oppression.
Packed with intense action, heartbreaking sacrifice, and political intrigue, this drama delivers a powerful narrative of national resistance and personal redemption.
9. The Crowned Clown (2019)
Aired: January 7 – March 4, 2019
No. of Episodes: 16
Cast: Yeo Jin Goo, Lee Se Young, Kim Sang Kyung
Streaming Platform: Viki, Netflix
Set in the Joseon Dynasty, The Crowned Clown tells the story of a volatile king and the clown who is brought in to impersonate him. As political intrigue unfolds, the lines of loyalty and deception blur.
The series skillfully explores themes of identity and duty, drawing viewers into a richly constructed historical narrative that appeals to both domestic and international fans.
10. Mr. Sunshine (2018)
Aired: July 7 – September 30, 2018
No. of Episodes: 24
Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Kim Tae Ri, Yoo Yeon Seok
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Mr. Sunshine captures the era of the early 1900s during the Joseon Dynasty, focusing on a young boy who becomes a U.S. Marine. The intricate storylines intertwine love and national identity while showcasing the struggles of a nation facing colonial forces.
The stunning cinematography and well-crafted script resonate deeply with viewers, making it a classic in the historical drama genre.
11. 100 Days My Prince (2018)
Aired: September 10 – October 30, 2018
No. of Episodes: 16
Cast: Do Kyung Soo, Nam Ji Hyun
Streaming Platform: Netflix, Viki
In 100 Days My Prince, Crown Prince Lee Yul loses his memory and ends up living as a commoner. During his time away from the palace, he experiences life from a different perspective, leading to unexpected romance and personal growth.
Before You Start Watching
This list includes a mix of old classics and newer hits. Some are heavy on romance, while others focus more on action or politics. There’s also a growing trend of mixing history with fantasy or comedy.
Pick one based on your mood, you might end up binge-watching more than you planned.
Which of these historical Korean dramas have you seen already? Do you have a personal favorite that’s not on the list?
Let us know in the comments!