Top K-Dramas That Defined Each Year – 2015 to 2025

Top K-Dramas That Defined Each Year – 2015 to 2025

From silent couriers to star-crossed lovers, these are the dramas that left the biggest mark year after year.

Over the past decade, Korean dramas have taken center stage in global entertainment. They’ve made us cry, laugh, and binge-watch entire weekends. But which show stood out the most each year? Here’s a year-by-year look at the dramas that truly defined their time—from 2015 to 2025.

2015 – Healer

An action-packed romance with mystery at its core, Healer kicked off the list. Ji Chang-wook played a night courier who keeps to the shadows—until a spirited reporter changes everything. As they uncover the truth about a buried scandal, sparks fly. Viewers were drawn to the drama’s sharp pacing and emotional depth.

2016 – Goblin

Few dramas captured hearts like Goblin. Gong Yoo starred as an immortal warrior waiting for his bride—the only person who can end his curse. Filled with myth, love, and heartbreak, the drama struck a perfect balance between fantasy and deep emotion. It became a cultural phenomenon both in Korea and abroad.

2017 – Strong Woman Do Bong Soon

This year brought laughs and love. Strong Woman Do Bong Soon introduced us to a petite woman with incredible strength. Park Bo-young’s lovable lead won over fans, while her chemistry with Park Hyung-sik delivered some of K-drama’s most iconic romantic moments. It was fresh, funny, and empowering.

2018 – Mr. Sunshine

Set during a turbulent time in Korean history, Mr. Sunshine was as heartbreaking as it was beautiful. Lee Byung-hun portrayed a man caught between two worlds: an American soldier with Korean roots who returns home. The epic romance and stunning cinematography elevated the story into a work of art.

2019 – Crash Landing on You

A literal crash brought two people from opposite worlds together. When a wealthy South Korean businesswoman accidentally ends up in North Korea, she meets a reserved army captain. Their unlikely romance, led by Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin, melted hearts everywhere. The story of love across borders was unforgettable.

2020 – The World of the Married

In a year filled with uncertainty, The World of the Married delivered raw emotion and drama. Kim Hee-ae played a woman whose perfect life collapses after learning her husband has been unfaithful. The show explored betrayal, anger, and healing in a powerful, unfiltered way. Ratings soared—and so did the tension.

2021 – Squid Game

You couldn’t go online without seeing red jumpsuits and green tracksuits in 2021. Squid Game brought high-stakes survival drama to a global audience. With deadly games and haunting social themes, the series broke records on Netflix and became a defining moment in Korean entertainment history.

2022 – All of Us Are Dead

Zombies took over high school in this adrenaline-fueled series. All of Us Are Dead wasn’t just about the undead—it was also about growing up, facing fear, and making impossible choices. With a strong young cast and tight storytelling, the drama became one of Netflix’s biggest international hits.

2023 – Moving

Based on a hit webtoon, Moving told the story of teenagers with superpowers passed down from their parents. What begins as a coming-of-age tale quickly turns into a thrilling battle against a dangerous organization. Family bonds, identity, and action collided in one of the year’s most praised dramas.

2024 – Lovely Runner

Time travel and fate come together in Lovely Runner, a story about a fan who wakes up in the past after the death of her favorite celebrity. Determined to change his destiny, she navigates youth, first love, and second chances. With its creative premise and heartfelt delivery, this drama stole the spotlight.

2025 – The Story Isn’t Over Yet

It’s only halfway through the year, and already titles like When Life Gives You Tangerines and Buried Hearts have gained traction. But with several big-name dramas still to premiere, it’s too early to call a winner. Will a surprise hit take over the second half? Only time will tell.

Looking Back