Top 15 Hand Picked Best Historical Korean Dramas
Unlocking the Past: A Journey Through Time
Korean dramas have a unique way of captivating the heart and soul with their intricate storylines and well-developed characters. Among the vast array of genres, historical Korean dramas hold a special place in the hearts of many. These dramas, often set in different eras of Korean history, offer a glimpse into the past while weaving fictional narratives with real historical events and figures. From palace intrigues to legendary heroes, these dramas provide a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Let’s embark on a journey through time and explore some of the best historical Korean dramas that will transport you to a different era.
1.Moon Embracing the Sun
“Imagine being torn apart from your first love only to be reunited years later under completely different circumstances. ‘Moon Embracing the Sun’ brings this scenario to life with a mix of historical drama, romance, and supernatural elements. This Korean drama follows the story of a young king, Lee Hwon, and a female shaman, Wol, who were once in love as teenagers but were tragically separated due to palace conspiracies.
The show is a gripping tale of love, power, and betrayal. Kim Soo-hyun and Han Ga-in deliver captivating performances as the lead characters, making you root for their love story despite the obstacles.
‘Moon Embracing the Sun’ is not just a historical drama; it also delves into themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the struggle for power. The characters’ journey from innocence to maturity is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you cry, reflect on the complexities of love and power, and transport you to a different era, ‘Moon Embracing the Sun’ is definitely worth a watch.”
2.Jewel in the Palace
“Ever felt inspired by stories of ordinary people achieving extraordinary things? ‘Jewel in the Palace’ is one such tale that will leave you feeling inspired and empowered. This Korean drama is based on the true story of Jang Geum, the first female royal physician of the Joseon Dynasty. The show follows her journey from being a kitchen maid to becoming the king’s personal physician.
The drama is a perfect blend of history, romance, and drama. Lee Young-ae delivers a powerful performance as Jang Geum, making you root for her character from the very start.
‘Jewel in the Palace’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and the fight for justice. The characters’ struggles and triumphs will resonate with anyone who has ever faced challenges in their own life.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you cry, cheer, and reflect on the strength of the human spirit, ‘Jewel in the Palace’ is definitely worth a watch.”
3.Kingdom
“Imagine a world where the dead come back to life and threaten the very existence of humanity. ‘Kingdom’ brings this nightmare to life with a mix of historical drama, thriller, and horror. This Korean drama is set in the Joseon period and follows the journey of a crown prince who is forced to embark on a mission to investigate a mysterious plague that is spreading across the country.
The show is a gripping tale of power, betrayal, and survival. Ju Ji-hoon delivers a captivating performance as the crown prince, making you root for his character as he battles both the undead and the corrupt officials.
‘Kingdom’ is not just a zombie apocalypse drama; it also delves into themes of political intrigue, social inequality, and the struggle for justice. The characters’ journey from despair to hope is both terrifying and inspiring.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat, make you reflect on the complexities of human nature, and transport you to a different era, ‘Kingdom’ is definitely worth a watch.”
4.Six Flying Dragons
“Ever been fascinated by the power struggles and political intrigues of the past? ‘Six Flying Dragons’ dives deep into this theme with a mix of historical drama, action, and political intrigue. This Korean drama is set in the end of the Goryeo era and the beginning of the Joseon era, and follows the journey of six characters who are involved in the foundation of the Joseon Dynasty.
The show is a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and the quest for power. Yoo Ah-in, Kim Myung-min, and Shin Se-kyung deliver captivating performances as the lead characters, making you root for their characters as they navigate the turbulent waters of politics and power.
‘Six Flying Dragons’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of leadership, friendship, and the struggle for justice. The characters’ journey from being nobodies to becoming key figures in the foundation of a new era is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you reflect on the complexities of leadership and the quest for power, ‘Six Flying Dragons’ is definitely worth a watch.”
5.Empress Ki
“Ever wondered about the life of a historical figure who defied all odds? ‘Empress Ki’ brings to life the story of a Goryeo-born woman who ascends to power despite the strict confines of the Yuan dynasty. This Korean drama follows the journey of Ki Seung-nyang, a woman who rises from humble beginnings to become the Empress of the Yuan dynasty.
The show is a captivating tale of love, power, and betrayal. Ha Ji-won, Joo Jin-mo, and Ji Chang-wook deliver powerful performances as the lead characters, making you root for their characters despite the challenges they face.
‘Empress Ki’ is not just a historical drama; it also delves into themes of female empowerment, political intrigue, and the struggle for justice. The characters’ journey from being powerless to becoming key figures in the political landscape is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you reflect on the complexities of power, love, and the human spirit, ‘Empress Ki’ is definitely worth a watch.”
6.Sungkyunkwan Scandal
“Ever dreamt of defying societal norms to pursue your passion? ‘Sungkyunkwan Scandal‘ brings this dream to life with a mix of historical drama, romance, and comedy. This Korean drama is set in the Joseon era and follows the journey of Kim Yoon-hee, a smart and talented girl who disguises herself as her brother to attend Sungkyunkwan, an all-male Confucian academy, in order to support her family.
The show is a delightful tale of friendship, love, and the pursuit of dreams. Park Min-young, Park Yoo-chun, Yoo Ah-in, and Song Joong-ki deliver captivating performances as the lead characters, making you root for their characters as they navigate the challenges of life in the Joseon era.
‘Sungkyunkwan Scandal’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of gender equality, friendship, and the importance of education. The characters’ journey from being strangers to becoming close friends is both entertaining and heartwarming.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the importance of pursuing your dreams, ‘Sungkyunkwan Scandal’ is definitely worth a watch.”
7.The Princess’ Man
“Ever been caught in a situation where love and loyalty are at odds? ‘The Princess’ Man’ explores this dilemma with a mix of historical drama, romance, and tragedy. This Korean drama is set in the Joseon era and follows the love story of a nobleman’s daughter and the son of a rival faction, whose families are enemies due to political conflicts.
The show is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and the quest for justice. Park Si-hoo and Moon Chae-won deliver powerful performances as the lead characters, making you root for their love story despite the odds.
‘The Princess’ Man’ is not just a historical drama; it also delves into themes of political intrigue, family loyalty, and the struggle for justice. The characters’ journey from being naive and carefree to becoming key players in the political landscape is both inspiring and heart-wrenching.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you reflect on the complexities of love, loyalty, and the quest for justice, ‘The Princess’ Man’ is definitely worth a watch.”
8.Moon Lovers Scarlet Heart Ryeo
“Ever wondered what it would be like to travel back in time and fall in love with a prince? ‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’ explores this fantasy with a mix of historical drama, romance, and time-travel. This Korean drama follows the journey of a 21st-century woman who travels back in time to the Goryeo Dynasty and finds herself entangled in the lives of its royal princes.
The show is a captivating tale of love, power, and destiny. Lee Joon-gi, IU, and Kang Ha-neul deliver captivating performances as the lead characters, making you root for their love story despite the challenges.
‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the struggle for power. The characters’ journey from being strangers to becoming deeply connected is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you cry, reflect on the complexities of love and destiny, and transport you to a different era, ‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’ is definitely worth a watch.”
9.Jumong
“Ever been inspired by stories of legendary heroes who shaped history? ‘Jumong’ brings to life the story of a legendary hero who founded a kingdom against all odds. This Korean drama is based on the life of Jumong, the founder of the Goguryeo kingdom, and follows his journey from being a prince to becoming a legendary hero.
The show is a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and the quest for power. Song Il-gook delivers a powerful performance as Jumong, making you root for his character as he battles enemies and overcomes challenges.
‘Jumong’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of leadership, perseverance, and the struggle for justice. The characters’ journey from being nobodies to becoming key figures in the foundation of a kingdom is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you reflect on the complexities of leadership and the quest for power, ‘Jumong’ is definitely worth a watch.”
10.Queen Seondeok
“Ever been inspired by stories of strong women who defied all odds to rule a kingdom? ‘Queen Seondeok’ brings to life the story of the first female ruler of the Silla kingdom. This Korean drama is based on the life of Queen Seondeok and follows her journey from being a princess to becoming the first female ruler of Silla.
The show is a captivating tale of ambition, betrayal, and the quest for power. Lee Yo-won, Go Hyun-jung, and Uhm Tae-woong deliver powerful performances as the lead characters, making you root for their characters as they navigate the turbulent waters of politics and power.
‘Queen Seondeok’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of female empowerment, political intrigue, and the struggle for justice. The characters’ journey from being powerless to becoming key figures in the political landscape is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you reflect on the complexities of power, leadership, and the human spirit, ‘Queen Seondeok’ is definitely worth a watch.”
11.Love in the Moonlight
“Ever dreamt of a love story that defies all odds? ‘Love in the Moonlight’ brings this dream to life with a mix of historical drama, romance, and comedy. This Korean drama is set in the Joseon era and follows the journey of a young woman who disguises herself as a man to become a eunuch in the royal palace, and the crown prince who falls in love with her.
The show is a delightful tale of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Park Bo-gum and Kim Yoo-jung deliver captivating performances as the lead characters, making you root for their love story despite the challenges.
‘Love in the Moonlight’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of gender equality, friendship, and the importance of being true to oneself. The characters’ journey from being strangers to becoming deeply connected is both entertaining and heartwarming.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the importance of love and self-discovery, ‘Love in the Moonlight’ is definitely worth a watch.”
12.Arthdal Chronicles
“Ever been fascinated by ancient civilizations and mythical tales? ‘Arthdal Chronicles’ dives deep into this theme with a mix of historical drama, fantasy, and action. This Korean drama is set in the mythical land of Arth, and follows the journey of heroes who shape the fate of civilization.
The show is a gripping tale of power, betrayal, and the quest for survival. Song Joong-ki, Kim Ji-won, and Jang Dong-gun deliver powerful performances as the lead characters, making you root for their characters as they navigate the challenges of a mythical world.
‘Arthdal Chronicles’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of leadership, survival, and the struggle for power. The characters’ journey from being nobodies to becoming key figures in the shaping of a civilization is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you reflect on the complexities of leadership, survival, and the human spirit, ‘Arthdal Chronicles’ is definitely worth a watch.”
13.Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth
“Ever been intrigued by the lives of ancient warriors and their secret societies? ‘Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth’ delves into this theme with a mix of historical drama, romance, and action. This Korean drama is set in the Silla kingdom and follows the journey of an elite group of young warriors, known as Hwarang, and their role in shaping the kingdom’s future.
The show is a captivating tale of friendship, love, and the quest for power. Park Seo-joon, Park Hyung-sik, and Go Ara deliver captivating performances as the lead characters, making you root for their characters as they navigate the challenges of youth and leadership.
‘Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of friendship, leadership, and the struggle for justice. The characters’ journey from being strangers to becoming close friends and leaders is both entertaining and heartwarming.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you reflect on the complexities of friendship, leadership, and the quest for justice, ‘Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth’ is definitely worth a watch.”
14.Rebel Thief Who Stole the People
“Ever been inspired by stories of rebels who fought against injustice? ‘Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People’ brings to life the story of a legendary folk hero who stood up against tyranny. This Korean drama is based on the life of Hong Gil-dong, a historical figure often regarded as the Korean Robin Hood, and follows his journey from being a commoner to becoming a legendary hero.
The show is a gripping tale of rebellion, betrayal, and the quest for justice. Yoon Kyun-sang, Chae Soo-bin, and Kim Ji-seok deliver powerful performances as the lead characters, making you root for their characters as they battle against oppression.
‘Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People’ is not just a historical drama; it also explores themes of social justice, leadership, and the struggle for freedom. The characters’ journey from being powerless to becoming key figures in the fight against tyranny is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
So, if you’re in the mood for a drama that will make you reflect on the complexities of rebellion, leadership, and the quest for justice, ‘Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People’ is definitely worth a watch.”
15.The Crowned Clown
“Imagine living a life of poverty and suddenly being thrust into a world of royalty because of a striking resemblance to the king. ‘The Crowned Clown’ spins this intriguing tale with a blend of historical drama, romance, and political intrigue. Set in the Joseon era, it follows a commoner who is brought into the palace to impersonate the king and shield him from assassination plots.
Yeo Jin-goo stars in this riveting drama, playing both the king and the commoner, showcasing his acting prowess as he navigates the complexities of palace politics.
‘The Crowned Clown’ delves deep into themes of identity, love, and the pursuit of justice. It portrays the transformation of the characters from obscurity to pivotal roles in the kingdom, a journey that is both inspiring and thought-provoking.
If you are intrigued by stories that explore the intricacies of identity, leadership, and the pursuit of justice, ‘The Crowned Clown‘ is a must-watch.”
Timeless Tales: The Enduring Legacy of Historical K-Dramas
Historical Korean dramas offer a unique blend of education and entertainment, making them a favorite among fans worldwide. From epic battles to royal romances, these dramas provide a window into Korea’s rich history and culture. While this list includes some of the best historical Korean dramas, it is by no means exhaustive. There are many more gems out there waiting to be discovered. As the popularity of K-dramas continues to grow, so does the demand for more historical dramas. Whether you are a fan of historical dramas or comedy Korean dramas, the world of K-dramas has something for everyone. Happy watching!
Tags: best historical korean dramas, Must-Watch Historical Sageuk Korean Dramas, Popular Historical Korean TV Shows with Compelling Storylines, Recommended Korean Historical Dramas to Watch, Top Historical Korean Dramas of All Time
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