Best KDramas of 2024 from Marry My Husband to The Trunk! [Ranked] 

This year is about to get over and guess what we are all pumped up for? That’s right… the ULTIMATE list of the best K-dramas of 2024! 

TBH, this year has been a hell of a ride for all korean drama fans. And I had a blast. From Twinkling Watermelon to Queen of Tears, there have been plenty of dramas that made a mark. 

But which among these was the best? The best of the best? If you are also searching for the best drama list, I have you covered! 

Best KDramas of 2024 You MUST Watch! 

It is really tricky to choose just 13 K-dramas for a best-of list this year because there are so many excellent ones. Some eagerly anticipated shows have not even been released yet. 

For example, Netflix will broadcast the second season of Squid Game on December 26. Other K-dramas, such as the suspenseful thriller When the Phone Rings, have only released six episodes thus far. (And even though I’ve liked what I’ve seen, I can’t suggest a K-drama until I’ve seen how it ends.) 

The dramas that have most affected me this year include a wide range of subjects, including time travel, queer relationships, competitive sports, mental health concerns, retribution, and child abandonment. 

This list of the top K-dramas of 2024 is a great place to start if you’re searching for something to watch during the holidays or throughout the year. 

13. Squid Game Season 2

First on the list, Squid Game Season 2 delivers a mix of thrills and disappointments. The return of Seong Gi-hun, played by Lee Jung-jae, offers a gripping narrative as he attempts to dismantle the deadly game. 

Furthermore, the new characters and games add intrigue, but the season suffers from predictability and excessive dialogue, lacking the shocking intensity of its predecessor. 

Critics noted that the pacing felt stretched, with unresolved plot threads hinting at a third season. While the stylized violence remains captivating, the emotional depth and fresh twists are sorely missed, leaving fans divided on its overall impact. 

12. Family By Choice

Secondly, Family by Choice has to be on the list of the best Kdramas of 2024. It beautifully explores the bonds of a chosen family. 

Based on the Chinese series Go Ahead follows Kim San-ha, Yoon Ju-won, and Kang Hae-jun, who grow up together under the care of their fathers after losing their mothers. 

Additionally, the series portrays heartfelt relationships and emotional depth, with standout performances from Hwang In-youp and Jung Chae-yeon. 

However, some viewers criticized its pacing and predictable plot twists. Overall, it offers a touching narrative about love, loss, and the complexities of familial ties. 

11. Doctor Slump 

Third, Doctor Slump is a romantic comedy that follows two former rivals, Nam Ha-neul and Yeo Jeong-woo, at career lows. 

Park Shin-hye and Park Hyung-sik deliver commendable performances, showcasing their characters’ struggles with mental health and professional setbacks. 

While the series effectively explores resilience and personal growth themes, it falters with pacing issues and a somewhat predictable plot. Additionally, critics noted that it occasionally veered into melodrama, detracting from its comedic elements. 

Overall, Doctor Slump offers a heartfelt narrative but lacks the sharpness needed to elevate it beyond typical rom-com fare. 

10. The Judge from Hell 

The Judge from Hell is a fantasy drama featuring Park Shin-Hye as Kang Bit-na, a demon judge exiled to Earth in a mortal’s body. 

Tasked with punishing ten ruthless criminals, Bit-na’s journey intertwines with kind-hearted detective Han Da-on, played by Kim Jae-young. 

Moreover, the series explores themes of justice and redemption but has received mixed reviews for its pacing and predictability. 

While the performances are strong and the premise intriguing, some critics feel it lacks the depth needed to fully engage viewers, leaving them wanting more from its exploration of good versus evil. 

9. Love in the Big City

Love in the Big City is a groundbreaking 2024 K-drama that explores the complexities of LGBTQ+ relationships through the eyes of Go Young, a gay university student navigating love and identity in Seoul. 

With a strong performance by Nam Yoon-su, the series highlights themes of friendship, acceptance, and personal growth. 

While some critics noted pacing issues and a tendency toward melodrama, its authentic portrayal of societal challenges and emotional depth makes it a standout. 

Overall, this series deserves recognition for its bold storytelling and representation, resonating with audiences and fostering important conversations about love in all its forms. 

8. The Trunk

The Trunk blends mystery and romance, centering on Noh In-ji, played by Seo Hyun-jin, and her contract marriage with Han Jeong-won, portrayed by the beloved Gong Yoo. 

Their relationship unfolds amidst a mysterious trunk that unravels dark secrets linked to a matchmaking service. 

Fans were thrilled to see Gong Yoo return to the screen, bringing his magnetic charm and depth to the role. 

Above all, the series deserves recognition for its intriguing plot, emotional resonance, and exploration of complex relationships, making it a standout addition to this year’s K-drama lineup. 

7. A Shop for Killers

A Shop for Killers is the next in the best Kdramas of 2024. It intricately weaves action, suspense, and emotional depth. 

Following Jian, who discovers her uncle’s hidden life as she inherits a mysterious shopping mall, the series immerses viewers in a thrilling world of assassins. The storytelling is engaging, with unexpected twists that keep audiences on edge. 

Praised for its stunning cinematography and strong performances, it has been recognized as one of the best international TV shows of 2024 by The New York Times. Its unique action and character development blend makes it a must-watch for drama enthusiasts. 

6. Marry My Husband

Marry My Husband is one of 2024’s standout K-dramas, blending revenge, time travel, and romance into a gripping tale. 

Based on a popular webtoon, this series follows Kang Ji-won (played by Park Min-young), a woman who suffers betrayal from her husband and best friend. 

After an untimely death, Ji-won wakes up ten years in the past with a chance to rewrite her destiny. 

Instead of following the same path, she decides to change everything—this time, she aims to make her husband fall for her best friend to expose their betrayal. 

This drama has a hit’s ingredients: suspenseful twists, heartfelt moments, and a strong female lead seeking justice. Viewers love the emotional depth of Ji-won’s journey and the satisfying revenge plot. 

Furthermore, with an engaging storyline and strong performances, Marry My Husband is a must-watch for fans of revenge dramas with a touch of romance. 

5. Death’s Game

If you enjoy existential dramas with a fantasy twist, Death’s Game will captivate you. 

This unique series, based on a hit webtoon, stars Seo In-guk as Choi Yi-jae, a man who experiences death multiple times but gets a chance to restart his life each time he dies. 

With each new beginning, he learns valuable lessons about love, regret, and the meaning of life. 

The drama’s intriguing premise and Seo In-guk’s compelling performance keep viewers hooked. 

Death’s Game seamlessly balances dark themes with moments of hope and humor. It’s a thought-provoking watch for anyone who enjoys reflective narratives. 

4. Welcome to Samdal-ri

Welcome to Samdal-ri is a heartfelt drama set in a picturesque countryside village. Starring Ji Chang-wook and Shin Hye-sun, the series follows Jo Sam-dal, a city dweller who returns to his hometown, seeking a simpler life. 

This slice-of-life drama captures the charm of rural Korea while exploring themes of community, belonging, and second chances. 

Additionally, with its warm storytelling and relatable characters, Welcome to Samdal-ri feels like a comforting escape, making it a perfect addition to your watchlist. 

3. Queen of Tears

Queen of Tears is a romantic comedy that explores the complexities of love and marriage through the story of Hong Hae-in, a chaebol heiress, and Baek Hyun-woo, her husband from a humble background. 

As their relationship faces challenges, including Hae-in’s health crisis, the couple embarks on a journey of rediscovery and reconciliation. 

The series, featuring strong performances by Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won, has garnered acclaim for its emotional depth and humor. 

Its impressive ratings and viewership on Netflix highlight its resonance with audiences, making it a standout K-drama of 2024.  

2. Twinkling Watermelon

Twinkling Watermelon is a fantasy romance that intertwines the lives of two teenagers from different eras. 

The story follows Han Seung-jae, who travels back to meet the charming and spirited Yoo Seon-woo. 

Their enchanting connection transcends time and space, leading to heartfelt moments of laughter and love. 

The drama’s unique premise and endearing characters have captivated viewers, making it a delightful addition to the K-drama landscape. 

1. Plankton

Mr. Plankton tells the story of a man who finds himself lost in life after a series of disappointments. 

As he navigates his struggles, he encounters various quirky characters who help him rediscover his passions and purpose. 

The series combines humor with poignant moments, offering a relatable narrative that resonates with many viewers. Its engaging storytelling and character development have made it a noteworthy K-drama.