Over the last decade, Korean media has exploded in America! From BTS topping the Billboard charts to Parasite being the first non-English Best Picture winner at the Oscars, and Squid Game being one of the best dramas in years, Korean entertainment is dominating pop culture. But for those who haven’t been immersed in K-dramas since the early 2000s watching shows on public access television, it can be tough to know what to check out next. That's why we've delved deep within Netflix's catalog to dig out the treasures hidden within its depths. Here are some of the most underrated K-dramas currently available on the platform.
Extracurricular (2020) - Rotten Tomatoes: 92% | IMDb: 7.6/10
This thriller surrounds illegal sex work in South Korea and follows the life of Kim Dong-hee, a gifted high school student who moonlights as a security guard for some of the local sex workers to pay for college. With its captivating narrative filled with unexpected twists, Extracurricular never lets the audience settle comfortably before throwing another complication at them. The series shines with its grounded story about survival—a theme uniting all main characters, including the desperate father who resorts to stealing from his abandoned son.
Mine (2021) - Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 7.6/10
Feel like indulging in a classic chaebol drama infused with mystery and murder? Mine follows two women played by Kim Seo-hyung and Lee Bo-young, who marry wealthy husbands within strict high-society circles. Tasked with burying their true selves to become obedient wives, their world is upended by a mysterious death, spinning the family and their dynamics out of control.
Mask Girl (2023) - Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 7.3/10
Based on the Naver webtoon by Mae-mi and Hee-se, Mask Girl is a dark psychological thriller featuring multiple actresses portraying the main character as she develops her masked internet persona. The fast-paced series presents itself as both breathtakingly colorful and morally complex, embodying transformations through its vivid narrative and stunning cinematography.
My Mister (2018) - IMDb: 9.0/10
A heartbreakingly relatable slice-of-life drama, My Mister explores the connection between two office workers from different generations. With poverty and family obligations weighing heavily on their respective lives, they find solace and healing together, showcasing the power of human connection and resilience.
Navillera (2021) - Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 8.7/10
This inspirational story follows a retired man, played by Park In-hwan, who finally pursues his lifelong dream of learning ballet, supported by a young prodigy. Navillera breaks the traditional narrative mold with its heartfelt storytelling, making it one of the more uplifting entries on Netflix.
The Light in Your Eyes (2019) - IMDb: 7.8/10
A tale of growing old and making amends, The Light in Your Eyes blends humorous and intimate moments as it examines the life of Kim Hye-ja, who becomes aged prematurely due to magic. The series initially presents as a fantasy time travel story but reveals deep truths about life and relationships as it develops.
Queenmaker (2023) - Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 7.5/10
With political intrigue reminiscent of Scandal, Queenmaker follows Kim Hee-ae and Moon So-ri as they collaborate to rejuvenate the image of a human rights lawyer running for mayor. This gripping narrative reflects the messiness of politics, making it both thrilling and impactful.
Daily Dose of Sunshine (2023) - Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 8.2/10
Evoking the vibes of early Scrubs, Daily Dose of Sunshine portrays the life of Park Bo-young as she navigates the challenges of working as a nurse on the psychiatric wing of the hospital. The show offers poignant insights alongside surprising comedic elements, focusing on their emotional labor and the weights they carry.
These underrated K-dramas on Netflix showcase diverse storytelling, ranging from heartwarming tales to intense psychological thrillers. With engaging characters and innovative plots, they’re more than worth the watch for fans seeking something off the beaten path. Dive in and discover what you’ve been missing!