As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to look back on our favorite K-drama moments of the year! As part of our special 2024 Korean Dramas and Shows Wrapped, let’s celebrate the best K-dramas that graced our screens this year.
The dramas featured in this list are some of the most-loved shows on KOCOWA+ and have won viewers over with their quality scripts, well-paced storytelling, stunning cinematography, and exceptional performances from the cast. These shows were entertaining from start to finish, proving why they deserve to be recognized as KOCOWA+’s best dramas of 2024.
“Knight Flower” – Historical Action Comedy
When it comes to the best historical comedy-drama of 2024, Lee Ha Nee and Lee Jong Won’s “Knight Flower” takes the crown. This isn’t your typical sageuk (historical drama)—it’s a women-centric series about a Joseon widow, the daughter-in-law of a prestigious noble family, who secretly becomes a vigilante at night to help those in need.
This investigative historical action-romance-comedy offers fresh stories of the Joseon people in nearly every episode, blending humor, suspense, and heartwarming moments effortlessly. What sets this drama apart is how natural the comedy feels, making it very hilarious, despite the serious tones often found in historical dramas. It concluded with an impressive nationwide rating of 18.4% for its final episode, setting a new record as MBC’s highest-rated Friday–Saturday drama in history! On top of that, Lee Ha Nee received the Best Actress award at the 2024 Baeksang Arts Awards—one of the many milestones this drama achieved.
“Doubt” – Psychological Thriller
Another ‘Best Drama’ contender for this year is “Doubt,” starring Han Suk Kyu and Chae Won Been. This psychological thriller tells the gripping story of a dedicated profiler and single father, Jang Tae Soo, who uncovers a shocking secret about his daughter that ties her to a murder case he’s investigating.
Despite having only 10 episodes, this drama made a lasting impact with its intense mystery and chilling atmosphere. The storytelling is so immersive that it feels like we’re seeing the world through Jang Tae Soo’s eyes—every twist and discovery hits as hard for us as it does for him. Each puzzle piece fits perfectly, but the bigger picture remains out of reach until the very end. Add to that stunning cinematography that elevates the entire viewing experience making it feel like a cinematic masterpiece. Loved by South Koreans, this drama achieved consistently high ratings, ending on a strong note with 9.6% nationwide viewership!
“Queen of Divorce” – Legal Office Drama
For fans of legal dramas with strong female leads, “Queen of Divorce” starring Lee Ji Ah and Kang Ki Young is an absolute must-watch. This series centers on Korea’s most skilled divorce consultant and her team, who specialize in creating punishment solutions for troubled marriages, ensuring their clients come out on top after messy breakups.
What makes this drama so unique is its case-by-case approach, focusing on different clients, their struggles, and the customized strategies devised to give them an advantage. Unlike traditional legal dramas that focus on courtroom battles, “Queen of Divorce” leans more on providing the best solution for the client. To top it off, the main character’s heartbreaking backstory adds depth to the narrative, making it impossible not to root for her and her team. With its balance of legal smarts and emotional resonance, this drama is truly one of the year’s best.
“Connection” – Action Thriller
When it comes to Ji Sung, you can always count on him to deliver an amazing performance, and “Connection” is no exception! Starring alongside Jeon Mi Do, this action-packed mystery thriller follows a narcotics detective and a reporter who discover that their late friend left them 5 billion won in insurance money. As they dig deeper into his death, they uncover a series of crimes tied to their altered friendship from 20 years ago.
This is one of the best dramas of this year that has managed to become thrilling from the start until the very end. Ji Sung’s portrayal of a narcotics detective battling addiction adds tension to every scene as we hold our breath, wondering if he’ll be caught. The way the story seamlessly connects the present with the characters’ high school past makes it even more intriguing. And let’s not forget—the plot twist near the end is one of the most jaw-dropping moments in K-drama history! With a satisfying ending, “Connection” is truly one of 2024’s finest.
“Beauty and Mr. Romantic” – Romantic Comedy
Moving on from intense genres, let’s dive into everyone’s favorite—romantic comedies! KBS weekend dramas are known for delivering heartwarming and hilarious stories, and “Beauty and Mr. Romantic” is no exception. Starring Im Soo Hyang and Ji Hyun Woo, this drama tells the inspiring story of an actress who loses everything overnight and the producer who helps her get back on her feet because of his unwavering love for her.
This drama is as uplifting as it is entertaining, showing that life’s challenges can be overcome with the support of loved ones. The childhood-friends-to-lovers trope adds depth to their romance, and the chemistry between the leads is undeniable. Written by the same writer behind “Young Lady and Gentleman,” this drama will have you laughing, swooning, and rooting for the characters all the way to the end.
“Su Ji and U Ri” – Medical Romance
Another heartwarming entry is “Su Ji and U Ri,” starring Hahm Eun Jung and Baek Sung Hyun. This romantic medical drama revolves around star doctor Jin Soo Ji, who experiences a fall from her peak, and rookie doctor Chae Woo Ri as they come together to build an unconventional family.
Despite its longer episode count, this drama is worth every moment. Set mostly in a hospital, it highlights not just the leads’ evolving relationship but also the touching stories of patients and their families. These moments remind us of the importance of family and resilience. The playful banter and chemistry between the leads add a lighthearted charm, making them one of the best pairings of the year!
“The Brave Yong Su Jeong” – Revenge Drama
Closing our list is “The Brave Yong Su Jeong,” starring Uhm Hyun Kyung and Seo Jun Young. This drama follows Yong Su Jeong, a charming and outspoken home-shopping host whose life takes a dramatic turn when she meets a poor but hardworking man who turns out to be the hidden heir of a wealthy conglomerate.
While it may seem like a lighthearted slice-of-life story at first, this drama is packed with intense makjang elements. Watching Yong Su Jeong navigate endless misfortunes and betrayals makes you root for her every step of the way. With 124 episodes, you’d think it would feel long, but the gripping plot ensures you’ll be hitting the “next episode” in no time!
Where To Watch?
What’s your favorite K-drama of 2024? If you haven’t watched these amazing shows yet, now’s the perfect time to catch up! All are available for streaming with multiple subtitles on KOCOWA+.
