The Best Historical KDramas Of All Time
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Vote on the best historical Korean dramas of all time.
If you're looking for shows like Moon Embracing the Sun, here are the best Korean historical dramas ever, ranked by fans everywhere. From royal historical dramas, like Moon Lovers, to shows set during the late Joseon period, like Mr. Sunshine, this list of historical Kdramas features comedy, fantasy, action, and of course, romance. Some good Korean historical dramas include The King in Love, starring Girls' Generation's Yoona; supernatural horror series Kingdom; and Jumong, one of the most popular Korean dramas of all time.Â
Vote up the top Korean historical drama series, and keep checking back as we update the list with new historical Kdramas as they premiere.Â
- 1Shin Hye-sun, Gim Jeong-hyun, Chong-ok Bae
A royal whirlwind, this drama takes us on a hilarious journey as a modern-day chef finds himself trapped in the body of a Joseon-era queen. With an exceptional cast including Shin Hye-sun and Kim Jung-hyun, the show's wit and charm have viewers hooked from beginning to end.
- 2Lee Joon-gi, Lee Ji-eun, Kang Ha-neul
An epic tale of romance, politics, and time travel, this drama has captured hearts with its star-studded cast of Lee Joon-gi and IU. Set in the Goryeo Dynasty, it showcases breathtaking costumes, vibrant sets, and a heart-wrenching story that keeps fans on edge.
- 3Kim Hye-soo, Kim Hae-sook, Choi Wonyoung
Under the Queen's Umbrella gracefully unfolds a tale of transformation and growth set within the majestic confines of the royal court. With Kim Hye-soo, Kim Hae-sook, and Choi Won-young at the helm, this series delves into the challenges faced by elite tutors tasked with molding unruly, troublemaker princes into responsible heirs. As viewers become immersed in this fictional Joseon dynasty world, they are treated to a captivating blend of palace intrigue, unconventional teaching methods, and the unyielding determination to create proper princes fit for their noble roles.
- #483 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #143 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #137 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- 4Do Kyung-soo, Nam Ji-hyun, Jo Sung-ha
Wrapped in mystery and romance, this tale tells of a crown prince suffering from amnesia while hiding from assassins. Starring EXO's D.O. and Nam Ji-hyun, viewers are drawn into their world as they navigate treacherous politics masked by sweet moments of love.
More 100 Days My Prince
- #32 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- #37 of 171 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Netflix, Ranked
- #34 of 170 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Viki, Ranked
- 5Han Hyo-joo, Ji Jin-hee, Lee So-yeon
A masterpiece set during Korea's Joseon era; it revolves around a humble servant girl who rises through ranks to become one of the most powerful women in history. Han Hyo-joo dazzles as Dong Yi while Ji Jin-hee offers an exceptional performance as King Sukjong.
- 6Han Ga-in, Kim Soo-hyun, Jung Il-woo
A supernatural love story set against the backdrop of political intrigue during Korea's Joseon era. Kim Soo-hyun and Han Ga-in’s enchanting chemistry coupled with an engaging storyline keeps audiences hooked to their screens as they follow this historical drama.
More Moon Embracing the Sun- #59 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- #44 of 170 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Viki, Ranked
- #8 of 30 onThe 30 Best K-Dramas On Prime Video, Ranked
- 7Lee Jun-ho, Lee Se-young, Kang Hoon
A poignant love story between a king and his court lady unfurls amidst political strife. With an acclaimed cast featuring Lee Junho and Lee Se-young, this drama weaves together tender moments with heartrending decisions, leaving audiences with bated breath.
- 8Ha Ji-won, Joo Jin-mo, Ji Chang-wook
Showcasing the life of a Goryeo-born woman who becomes a powerful warrior and politician in the Yuan Dynasty, Ha Ji-won’s portrayal of Empress Ki is nothing short of mesmerizing. The show boasts breathtaking visuals, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters.
More Empress Ki- #89 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- #10 of 30 onThe 30 Best K-Dramas On Prime Video, Ranked
- #29 of 73 onThe Most Tragically Beautiful Korean Dramas Ever
- 9Park Bo-gum, Kim Yoo-jung, Jinyoung
This coming-of-age story is bathed in moonlight as Park Bo-gum plays a charming crown prince who falls for Kim Yoo-jung’s crossdressing character during political upheaval. The series offers a delightful blend of romance, humor, and palace intrigue.
More Love in the Moonlight- #22 of 312 onThe Best Korean Dramas Of All Time
- #9 of 75 onThe Best Korean Dramas Of 2018
- #42 of 165 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Viki, Ranked
- 10Lee Young-ae, Han Ji-min, Jin-hee Ji
A timeless classic that follows the life of a woman who becomes the first-ever female royal physician. Lee Young-ae's portrayal of Jang Geum has left an indelible mark on viewers as they witness her trials and triumphs in this tale of perseverance.
More Dae Jang Geum- #99 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- #22 of 57 onThe 50+ Best Korean Hospital Dramas, Ranked
- #38 of 80 onThe 60+ Best Costume Drama TV Shows
- 11Lee Jae-wook, Jung So-min, Hwang Min-hyun
Alchemy of Souls expertly blends history with supernatural elements as souls are fused together to alter the course of destiny. This riveting sageuk keeps audiences on their toes with its unique premise, intriguing characters, and well-crafted plotlines that leave viewers eagerly awaiting each episode.
More Alchemy of Souls- #31 of 171 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Netflix, Ranked
- #13 of 58 onEvery TV Show Coming To Netflix In June 2022
- #12 of 25 onRewrite History With These Historical Fantasy Shows
- 12Bae Doona, Ju Ji-hoon, Ryu Seung-ryong
Zombie-infested Joseon is brilliantly depicted in this thrilling series that combines horror, action, and politics. With exceptional performances from Ju Ji-hoon and Bae Doona, it sets itself apart from other historical dramas by offering a unique twist on the genre.
More Kingdom- #276 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #96 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
- #306 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- 13Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri, Yoo Yeon-seok
Set during the late Joseon period at the turn of the century, this drama weaves together romance, patriotism, and personal growth as American soldier Eugene Choi (played by Lee Byung-hun) returns to his homeland. The star-studded cast shines among beautiful cinematography and captivating storylines.
More Mr. Sunshine- #58 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- #4 of 171 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Netflix, Ranked
- #6 of 35 on35+ Movies And Shows With Sunshine In The Title
- 14Yoo Ah-In, Kim Myung-Min, Shin Se-Kyung
This epic sageuk charts the lives of six legendary dragons at the dawn of Joseon dynasty. Yoo Ah-in delivers a riveting performance alongside Kim Myung-min and Shin Se-kyung. The show masterfully blends political intrigue with heart-pounding action sequences.
- 15Park Eun-bin, Kim Ro Woon, Lee Pil-mo
A heartwarming story of an abandoned princess who grows up disguised as her deceased twin brother only to fall in love with her own bodyguard. The King's Affection showcases Park Eun-bin's incredible acting prowess alongside Rowoon’s charming performance.
More The King's Affection- #399 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
- #593 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #79 of 171 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Netflix, Ranked
- 16Yeo Jin-goo, Lee Se-young, Kim Sang-kyung
A thrilling case of mistaken identity unfolds when a lowly clown impersonates a tyrannical king to save his people from suffering further cruelties. Yeo Jin-goo’s dual role captivates viewers as he navigates the treacherous world of palace politics in this gripping historical drama.
- 17Park Seo-joon, Go Ara, Park Hyung-sik
Set during the Silla dynasty, this drama follows a group of elite warriors who struggle to find their place amidst love, loyalty, and duty. With its star-studded cast, including Park Seo-joon and Go Ara, Hwarang offers a visually stunning glimpse into ancient Korea.
More Hwarang- #49 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- #18 of 170 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Viki, Ranked
- #39 of 152 onThe Best Romantic Comedy K-Dramas Ever
- 18
The Tale of Nokdu
Jang Dong-yoon, Kim So-Hyun, Kang Tae-OhThis gender-bending tale features Jang Dong-yoon as a skilled fighter pretending to be a woman as he seeks answers about his family's past. The heartfelt romance between him and Kim So-hyun keeps audiences invested in this delightful historical comedy.
- 19Song Il-gook, Han Hye-jin, Kim Seung-soo
The legendary story of Jumong (Song Il-gook) unfolds as he unites three warring tribes and establishes Goguryeo kingdom. With epic battles and captivating tales of friendship, betrayal, and romance, this series remains an all-time favorite amongst historical drama enthusiasts.
- 20Park Min-young, Yeon Woo-jin, Lee Dong-gun
In a tragic tale of love and sacrifice, Queen for Seven Days follows the poignant story of a short-lived queen who falls victim to palace politics. Park Min-young delivers a stunning performance as the doomed queen, capturing viewers' hearts as she navigates her way through treacherous waters. A tearjerker for the ages, this drama leaves its mark on history.
- 21Yoo Seung-ho, Kim So-hyun, Kim Myung-soo
A royal spectacle of epic proportions, this drama revolves around a masked emperor's quest to bring justice and peace to his people. With an ensemble cast of Yoo Seung-ho, Kim So-hyun, and L, it has left fans entranced from the very first episode. Brimming with political intrigue and heart-wrenching romance, it's no wonder this show has become a veritable classic among Korean historical dramas.
- 22Jun Ji-hyun, Lee Min-ho, Lee Hee-joon
A fantastical tale where mermaids encounter modern-day Seoul captivates viewers with its enchanting love story. Featuring Lee Min-ho and Jun Ji-hyun, this drama showcases their undeniable chemistry while adding an element of whimsy to the historical genre.
- #7 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- #10 of 170 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Viki, Ranked
- #10 of 152 onThe Best Romantic Comedy K-Dramas Ever
- 23Lee Yo-won, Hyun-Jung Go, Uhm Tae-woong
The legendary rise of Queen Seondeok (Lee Yo-won) from an exiled princess to the first reigning queen in Silla history is showcased in this epic tale filled with political intrigue, romance, betrayals and breathtaking cinematography that keeps audiences captivated till the very end.
More Queen Seondeok- #139 of 170 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Viki, Ranked
- #143 of 162 onThe Most Romantic Korean Dramas Ever
- #52 of 73 onThe Most Tragically Beautiful Korean Dramas Ever
- 24Shin Se-kyung, Cha Eun-woo, Park Ki-woong
Shin Se-kyung takes center stage as a female historian challenging societal norms during the Joseon era. This refreshing take on history combined with Cha Eun-woo’s charismatic prince offers viewers a delightful mix of feminism, romance, and humor.
- #33 of 171 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Netflix, Ranked
- #53 of 162 onThe Most Romantic Korean Dramas Ever
- #59 of 83 onThe 85+ Best Historical Shows On Netflix, Ranked
- 25Min Namkoong, Eun-Jin Ahn, Hak-joo LeeA man with no interest in love and marriage meets a woman who's had two failed marriages but dreams of falling in love again.More My Dearest
- #167 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- #64 of 170 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Viki, Ranked
- #5 of 84 onThe Best Korean Dramas Of 2023
- 26Kim Yoo-jung, Ahn Hyo-seop, Gong Myung
Steeped in mythology and romance, this drama intertwines the fates of painter Hong Cheon-gi (Kim Yoo-jung) and celestial being Ha Ram (Ahn Hyo-seop). With its fantastical elements and captivating visuals, Lovers of the Red Sky offers viewers a unique escape into ancient Korea.
- 27Park Min-young, Yoochun, Song Joong-ki
A lively Joseon-era tale about four students at Sungkyunkwan University navigating friendship, love, and societal expectations. Park Min-young shines alongside Park Yoo-chun, Song Joong-ki, and Yoo Ah-in in this delightful blend of historical setting with a modern twist.
More Sungkyunkwan Scandal- #113 of 330 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
- #67 of 170 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Viki, Ranked
- #79 of 152 onThe Best Romantic Comedy K-Dramas Ever
- 28Kim Tae-hee, Han Seung-yeon, Hong Soo-hyun
Showcasing a tragic love story between Jang Ok-jung (Kim Tae-hee) and King Sukjong (Yoo Ah-in), this drama offers an alternate take on the infamous royal concubine who was executed for plotting against the queen. With its impeccable costumes and enthralling plot, this series keeps viewers glued to their screens.
- 29Lee Seung-gi, Bae Suzy, Sung Joon
Half-human, half-beast – that's what defines Gu Family Book’s protagonist, played by Lee Seung-gi. In an enthralling journey filled with romance and self-discovery, he searches for answers about his mysterious past while fighting evil forces along the way. This heartwarming tale has captured audiences' hearts with its enchanting storyline and compelling characters.
- 30Park Hyung-sik, So-nee Jeon, Pyo Ye-JinPrince Lee Hwan receives a cursed letter from a supernatural entity detailing several dark predictions for his future and is horrified to realize that the curses are indeed coming true one by one. Min Jae-yi, on the other hand, finds herself wanted by the local authorities after being unjustly accused of murdering her family members and unilaterally calling off her arranged marriage.More Our Blooming Youth
- #100 of 170 onThe 150+ Best K-Dramas On Viki, Ranked
- #25 of 84 onThe Best Korean Dramas Of 2023
- #92 of 162 onThe Most Romantic Korean Dramas Ever
