Korean historical dramas, also known as sageuk, blend rich history with engaging storytelling, romance, action, and political intrigue. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just getting started, these K-dramas transport you to Korea’s past with breathtaking cinematography and unforgettable performances. Below, we’ve listed the best historical K-dramas, starting with the latest releases in 2024 and going back in time.
1. Captivating the King (2024)
A gripping tale of love, power, and betrayal, this drama follows a king who falls for a woman working as a spy. As political tensions rise, the king must choose between his duty to the throne and his forbidden love, leading to heart-wrenching consequences.
- Watch Captivating the King full online: Netflix
2. The Impossible Heir (2024)
This drama focuses on a commoner who rises to power in a ruthless political battle, blending romance and revenge with stunning historical settings. With betrayals at every turn, he must fight against noble families and his own personal demons to claim his rightful place.
- Watch The Impossible Heir full online: Disney+
3. My Dearest (2023)
A heartbreaking love story set during the Qing invasion of Joseon, “My Dearest” became one of 2023’s most popular historical dramas with its intense emotions and stellar performances. The drama follows a noblewoman and a warrior whose paths cross during the war, testing their love and survival skills.
- Watch My Dearest full online: Viki, MBC
4. The Secret Romantic Guesthouse (2023)
A lighthearted historical romance about a woman running a guesthouse and three handsome scholars with hidden pasts. As she gets entangled in their secrets, she must also navigate love and political turmoil in a changing society.
- Watch The Secret Romantic Guesthouse full online: Viki, SBS
5. Under the Queen’s Umbrella (2022)
A fresh take on royalty, this drama follows a strong queen who fights to turn her troublemaking princes into worthy kings. Facing opposition from court officials and rival families, she must use her intelligence and courage to protect her sons and secure the future of the dynasty.
- Watch Under the Queen’s Umbrella full online: Netflix
6. Alchemy of Souls (2022)
A mix of fantasy and historical drama, this series follows a powerful female warrior trapped in another’s body and a young noble who seeks her help. Together, they uncover hidden conspiracies and forbidden magic while struggling with their growing feelings for each other.
- Watch Alchemy of Souls full online: Netflix
7. The Red Sleeve (2021)
A tragic romance based on the true story of King Jeongjo and his beloved concubine, this drama is a masterpiece of storytelling and emotion. As a court lady, she fights against royal expectations, while the king battles against his own destiny to be with her.
- Watch The Red Sleeve full online: Viki, MBC
8. Lovers of the Red Sky (2021)
A fantasy romance about a female painter and a blind astrologer who must navigate fate and supernatural forces. Their love story unfolds against a backdrop of palace conspiracies and ancient prophecies that threaten the balance of the kingdom.
- Watch Lovers of the Red Sky full online: Viki, SBS
9. Mr. Queen (2020)
A fun and unique twist on historical dramas, this series features a modern man trapped in the body of a Joseon-era queen. With hilarious moments and unexpected romance, he must navigate palace politics while trying to find a way back to his own time.
- Watch Mr. Queen full online: Viki, tvN
10. Kingdom (2019)
A thrilling mix of zombie horror and historical drama, “Kingdom” follows a crown prince fighting against a mysterious plague that turns people into the undead. As he uncovers a sinister plot against the throne, he must battle both political enemies and the terrifying infected.
- Watch Kingdom full online: Netflix
11. The Crowned Clown (2019)
A gripping story of a lowly jester who takes the place of a paranoid king to save the country from chaos. As he adjusts to palace life, he must deceive cunning ministers and dangerous assassins while struggling with his growing attraction to the queen.
- Watch The Crowned Clown full online: Viki, tvN
12. 100 Days My Prince (2018)
A charming romance about a prince who loses his memory and ends up living as a commoner for 100 days. Unaware of his royal status, he falls in love with a strong-willed woman, leading to a heartwarming and comedic journey of self-discovery.
- Watch 100 Days My Prince full online: Netflix, Viki
13. Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)
A time-travel romance where a modern woman wakes up in the Goryeo era and gets entangled with warring princes. As she struggles to survive in a ruthless court, she must navigate love, betrayal, and fate itself.
- Watch Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo full online: Viki, SBS
14. Empress Ki (2013)
An epic saga following a woman who rises from a Goryeo slave to become the Empress of the Yuan Dynasty. Full of political intrigue, intense battles, and forbidden romance, this drama showcases the strength of one of history’s most powerful women.
- Watch Empress Ki full online: Viki, MBC
15. Jewel in the Palace (2003)
One of the most iconic historical K-dramas, this show tells the true story of the first female royal physician in Joseon. Through her perseverance, she overcomes palace conspiracies and rigid traditions to achieve greatness.
- Watch Jewel in the Palace full online: Viki, MBC
Final Thoughts
Historical K-dramas offer a perfect mix of action, romance, and historical depth. Whether you’re looking for fantasy, political intrigue, or heart-wrenching love stories, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab some popcorn and start your next K-drama binge!
Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments!
