7 essential K-dramas recommended by your favourite K-pop idols

Netflix has been capitalising on the popularity of K-dramas, investing heavily in South Korean shows and bringing on-board a milieu of popular shows from other networks.

Korean pop culture enthusiasts have always relished the unique overlap between K-dramas and K-pop music. 

Even the biggest K-pop idols are not immune to the allure of K-dramas. They are often quizzed about their favourite series or the ones they are bingeing at the moment.

We have curated seven essential K-dramas recommended by your favourite K-pop idols so that you too can enjoy what they are watching and bask in the afterglow of your favourite celebrity.

Seven essential K-dramas recommended by your favourite K-pop idols:

The Lady in Dignity

Synopsis: The Lady in Dignity follows the lives of two women from vastly different backgrounds. Their paths cross unexpectedly, uncovering hidden secrets and testing them. The series explores issues of class, power, and resilience in the face of adversity.

NCT’s Doyoung told W Korea magazine, “The Lady in Dignity actually motivated my life, and I recommended that drama to my mother. I personally learned many life lessons from Kim Hee Sun’s attitude in the drama.”

Crash Landing On You

Synopsis: Crash Landing On You is a romantic drama series. It follows the unexpected love story between a South Korean heiress and a North Korean officer after she accidentally paraglides into North Korea.

In a VLive broadcast, as reported by Hindustan Times, J-Hope expressed his appreciation for Crash Landing On You. He described it as deeply touching and expressed his desire to encounter a similar emotional journey in his own life.

Sky Castle

Synopsis: Sky Castle depicts the lives of affluent families in an exclusive neighbourhood, all determined to secure top university spots for their children. Amid intense competition and societal pressures, the facade of perfection shatters, revealing the harsh realities they face.

Numerous KPop idols such as RM from BTS, Key from SHINee, members of Mamamoo, Sandara Park, Yunhyeong from iKON, Dino from SEVENTEEN, and Kang Daniel have recommended Sky Castle.

Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin)

Synopsis: Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin) is a fantasy drama series. It follows Kim Shin, a centuries-old goblin cursed with immortality, seeking a human bride to end his eternal life. His path crosses with Ji Eun-tak, a cheerful girl who can see ghosts.

This one has been recommended by Red Velvet Seulgi and BLACKPINK members, especially Lisa and Rosé. BTS member V mentioned in a 2017 Billboard interview that he cherished the drama, confessing to multiple viewings. Similarly, Jungkook shared his admiration for Goblin during a VLive session. The drama’s captivating storyline and acting resonated with both V and Jungkook, reflecting its impact on the members of the popular K-pop group.

Itaewon Class

Synopsis: Itaewon Class follows ex-convict Park Sae-ro-yi as he opens a bar-restaurant in Itaewon, aiming to achieve success while challenging societal norms. The story portrays his journey of growth, his friendships, and his entrepreneurial spirit while navigating personal and professional obstacles in pursuit of his dreams.

Itaewon Class features BTS singer V’s track “Sweet Night” as part of its original soundtrack. Endorsed by BTS V, NCT’s Mark, and NU’EST’s Hwang Minhyun, the K-drama comes highly recommended.

When The Camellia Blooms

Synopsis: When the Camellia Blooms follows the life of a single mother who opens a bar in a small town. She navigates her love life, motherhood, and societal judgments while a serial killer threatens the town.

Another favourite of NCT’s Doyoung, he shared his thoughts on this series, “The ending scene from the [last] episode of ‘When The Camellia Blooms’ always makes me cry. …I watch that episode when I feel like crying. When I feel sad, I don’t try to hold back my tears.”

The World of the Married

Synopsis: The World of the Married is a drama depicting the unravelling of a seemingly perfect marriage between a successful doctor and her husband. Betrayal, infidelity, and revenge take centre stage as the couple navigates the tumultuous aftermath of their relationship’s collapse.

Reportedly, f(x) member Luna, NCT’s Doyoung, and Super Junior Kim Hee-chul have all spoken about watching this K-drama.