K-dramas continue to captivate global audiences with their unique storylines, engaging characters, and deep emotions. While major hits often dominate the screens, there are several underrated gems that deserve attention. If you’re craving something fresh and thrilling, here are five lesser-known K-dramas that promise to surprise and engage.
The Midnight Romance in Hagwon
The Midnight Romance in Hagwon Seo Hye-Jin (Jung Ryeo-Won), a Korean language teacher for 14 years in Daechi’s competitive education hub, grapples with her post-teaching future and forgotten dreams. Her ex-student Lee Joon-Ho (Wi Ha-Joon) returns after 10 years, now a rookie instructor at her academy. Once credited with his success, their reunion stirs emotions and challenges Seo Hye-Jin’s path. The series explores ambitions, second chances, and an evolving relationship between a teacher and her former protégé.
Where to watch: Viki Rakuten
The Tyrant
The Tyrant Program’s last sample goes missing, triggering a tense pursuit. Lim Sang (Cha Seung-Won), a former agent, is tasked with eliminating those connected to the program. Choe (Kim Sun-Ho), a shadowy government bureau director, operates the Tyrant Program covertly, while Paul (Kim Kang-Woo), a foreign intelligence agent, seeks to destroy the sample. Packed with action and intrigue, the series pits secretive factions against each other in a deadly chase.
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Brewing Love
Chae Yong-Joo (Kim Se-Jeong), a cheerful ex-special forces soldier turned liquor saleswoman, faces a branch closure. To save her workplace, she must sell a new beer crafted by sensitive brewmaster Yoon Min-Joo (Lee Jong-Won), who leads a peaceful rural life. Their clashing personalities spark chemistry as Yong-Joo disrupts his world. Meanwhile, rivalry brews with planning manager Bang A-Reum (Shin Do-Hyun) and Yong-Joo’s carefree friend Oh Chan-Hwi (Baek Sung-Chul).
Where to watch: Viki Rakuten
My Sweet Mobster
Seo Ji-Hwan (Um Tae-Goo), a former gangster-turned-CEO, hires ex-gangsters to rehabilitate their lives. Go Eun-Ha (Han Sun-Hwa), a kids’ YouTube creator known as Mini Sister, cherishes her childhood memory of a kind older boy. When Eun-Ha accidentally injures Ji-Hwan, she panics, unaware he recognizes her. Their worlds intertwine as they rediscover forgotten bonds, navigating redemption, healing, and unexpected romance.
Where to watch: Netflix, Viki Rakuten
Serendipity Embrace
Lee Hong-Ju (Kim So-Hyun), a skeptical animation PD, reunites with her first love, Kang Hu-Young (Chae Jong-Hyeop), after 10 years. A financial planner who witnessed her heartbreaking past, Hu-Young’s return stirs unresolved emotions. The series follows their fateful reconnection, with free-spirited novelist Bang Joon-Ho (Yun Ji-On) and best friend Kim Hye-Ji (Kim Da-Som) adding layers to Hong-Ju’s story of love, regret, and new beginnings.
Where to watch: Viki Rakuten
