K-dramas have taken the world by storm, with global hits like Crash Landing on You, Goblin, and Squid Game. But beyond these mainstream favorites, there are several underrated K-dramas that deserve just as much attention. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just starting your K-drama journey, these hidden gems offer unique storytelling, brilliant performances, and emotional depth that shouldn’t be overlooked.
In this list, we highlight some of the most underrated K-dramas that may have flown under your radar but are absolutely worth watching!
Just Between Lovers (2017)
Genre: Romance, Melodrama
Aka Rain or Shine
If you love heartwarming yet emotional stories, Just Between Lovers is a must-watch. The drama follows two individuals who survived a tragic accident in their childhood and reconnect years later, helping each other heal from past traumas. Lee Junho and Won Jin-ah deliver outstanding performances, making this one of the most beautifully written and acted K-dramas that didn’t get the recognition it deserved.
Deep emotional storytelling, Strong character development and Realistic portrayal of trauma and healing, are some of the reasons for watching this Kdrama
Chicago Typewriter (2017)
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Mystery
This hidden gem blends history, fantasy, and romance into a gripping tale. Yoo Ah-in plays a famous writer suffering from writer’s block, only to discover a mysterious typewriter that connects him to his past life during Korea’s 1930s Japanese occupation. With an engaging plot and a beautiful OST, Chicago Typewriter is a drama that leaves a lasting impact.
Unique time-travel concept, Strong chemistry among leads and Beautiful cinematography with storytelling, make this drama a must watch.
The Smile Has Left Your Eyes (2018)
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Romance
Starring Seo In-guk and Jung So-min, this psychological drama is a dark, intense love story with thriller elements. The plot revolves around a mysterious man with a hidden past and a woman who gets entangled in his life. The drama is unpredictable, keeping viewers hooked until the very last episode.
The kdrama features an unpredictable storyline with Seo In-guk’s phenomenal acting and emotional and thought provoking themes
Life on Mars (2018)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Mystery, Crime
A Korean remake of the British series with the same name, Life on Mars is a brilliant crime thriller. Jung Kyung-ho plays a detective who gets into an accident and wakes up in the 1980s, trying to solve a case while figuring out if he’s dreaming or truly in the past. The drama’s nostalgic vibe, thrilling plot twists, and engaging mystery make it a must-watch.
Unique time-travel crime thriller, Strong performances from the cast and Cleverly written storyline, are some of the reasons why you should watch this kdrama.
Be Melodramatic (2019)
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Slice of Life
This slice-of-life drama focuses on the struggles of three 30-year-old best friends trying to navigate careers, relationships, and personal growth. Unlike typical K-dramas, Be Melodramatic feels incredibly real and relatable, with witty dialogue, emotional depth, and humor. It’s one of the best underrated K-dramas if you’re looking for something different from the usual romance-heavy plots.
This Kdrama is hilarious and emotional, with relatable characters and struggles. It is a fresh, modern take on adulthood
Missing: The Other Side (2020)
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller
If you love mystery with supernatural elements, Missing: The Other Side is an underrated masterpiece. The story follows a man who stumbles upon a village where the spirits of missing people reside. Each episode unravels heartbreaking yet hopeful stories, making it both emotional and thrilling.
Its unique and touching concept, emotional yet suspenseful storytelling and a satisfying blend of mystery and drama makes this drama a must watch.
While many K-dramas gain international fame, these underrated gems offer just as much. Whether you enjoy thrillers, romance, fantasy, or slice-of-life dramas, this list has something for everyone.
Have you watched any of these K-dramas? Or do you have your own hidden gems to recommend? Let us know by sharing this post on your social media accounts and tagging us.