One of the best things about thriller K-dramas is they know how to stay true to its genre. When you hear the word “thriller,” you can expect heart-pounding moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat. As a huge fan of K-dramas, I encountered a lot of amazing thrillers that definitely deserve more recognition. I’d love to share the reasons why they are must-watch shows with you, and don’t worry, this recommendation list is spoiler-free!
“The Veil“
“The Veil” is undeniably one of the best K-dramas of 2021. It delves into the story of Han Ji Hyuk (Namkoong Min), a top field agent of the National Investigation Service (NIS) who mysteriously disappeared for a year while on a surveillance operation in China. Upon his return, he has no recollection of the mission or who betrayed him and his team. With the assistance of his colleague, Seo Soo Yeon (Park Ha Sun), and his partner, Yoo Je Yi (Han Ji Eun), he embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind the events of a year ago.
Why it’s a must-watch: “The Veil” offers not only riveting action sequences but also a mind-bending plot that mirrors Han Ji Hyuk’s own confusion about the events from one year prior. Was his mission a failure? Did he stumble upon something extraordinary? Is the fault with his enemies or the organization itself? To uncover the answers, you’ll need to watch it!
Namkoong Min’s unwavering dedication to his roles is evident in “The Veil.” He underwent rigorous physical training, gaining 10 kilograms of muscle to perfectly portray his character, an NIS agent. This commitment earned him the Daesang (Grand Prize), one of the most prestigious awards in the industry.
“Kairos“
When someone asks for an intriguing sci-fi thriller, “Kairos” is my top recommendation. Its unique premise involves characters from two different timelines. The story begins with Kim Seo Jin (Shin Sung Rok), who appears to have a perfect life until his daughter vanishes without a trace, and his wife, Kang Hyun Chae (Nam Gyu Ri), takes her own life in despair. Seemingly without hope, he unexpectedly contacts Han Ae Ri (Lee Se Young), who is living one month behind his timeline. They can communicate only at 10:33 PM every day, leaving them just one minute to talk.
Initially baffled by their unexplainable connection, Seo Jin and Ae Ri form an alliance to help each other in their respective times. Ae Ri aims to prevent Seo Jin’s daughter from going missing, while Seo Jin seeks to locate Ae Ri’s missing mother, who vanished after visiting the hospital.
Why it’s a must-watch: “Kairos” is a brilliantly written drama from start to finish. It’s the kind of show that delivers “AHA” moments as you start connecting the dots and piecing together the puzzle of its intricate plot. With numerous mysteries and a cast of characters you’ll have a hard time knowing who to trust, it’s a thrilling ride. The significance of the time “10:33 PM” in the story adds an intriguing layer to the narrative.
“CHIP-IN“
K-dramas featuring murder whodunnit mysteries are relatively rare, making “”CHIP-IN” a must-watch. The story revolves around the death of a wealthy and renowned painter during his 58th birthday celebration, leaving behind a vast fortune. The central question becomes, “Who is responsible for his death?” Is it his ex-wife (Kim Jung Young), who resents him for having a mistress? His mistress (Oh Na Ra), desires his wealth and only wants it to go to her only daughter (Kim Hye Jun)? Or perhaps his good-for-nothing half-brother (Han Soo Hyun)?
Why it’s a must-watch: First, “CHIP-IN” is a concise 8-episode series, ensuring a tight and engaging storyline. Second, the drama’s setting within the painter’s opulent mansion during his birthday party provides ample room for potential suspects, including the maid, nephew, niece, and anyone else present when he met his demise. Who do you think is responsible for his death?
“Partners For Justice“
K-dramas frequently excel in crime thrillers with detectives as the main characters, but “Partners For Justice” sets itself apart by featuring a talented and eccentric forensic doctor (Jung Jae Young) as its male lead. He joins forces with a bright and cheerful rookie prosecutor (Jeong Yu Mi) to solve different cases in each episode.
Why it’s a must-watch: This drama is unique in that it focuses on forensic science, giving viewers an in-depth look at autopsy processes. “Partners For Justice” stands out as one of the most thrilling series thanks to its strong storytelling and the introduction of unique cases rarely seen elsewhere.
“Taxi Driver“
“Taxi Driver” is part of the best K-dramas of all time and I know a lot would agree. The story centers around Kim Do Ki (Lee Je Hoon), a taxi driver part of a Deluxe Taxi Service that offers revenge on behalf of victims who are failed by the legal system. He works together with Jang Sung Chul (Kim Eui Sung), the CEO of the taxi company, Ahn Go Eun (Pyo Ye Jin), a hacker, and mechanics Choi Kyung Goo (Jang Hyuk Jin) and Park Jin Eon (Bae Yoo Ram) to capture wrongdoers and execute the revenge in the most satisfying way.
Why it’s a must-watch: “Taxi Driver” transcends being just another K-drama. It sheds light on various social issues relevant to today’s society. The drama also incorporates real-life cases, highlighting the inadequacies of the legal system. The fact that it was renewed for a third season shortly after the second season‘s release in February 2023 underscores its widespread appeal.
“365: Repeat The Year“
Another exceptional sci-fi thriller is “365: Repeat The Year,” a time-traveling drama. The story revolves around a group of individuals who are given the opportunity to travel back in time by one year. Each of them has a compelling reason to “reset” their lives, whether it’s to prevent an accident, save a loved one, correct past mistakes, or amass wealth. However, as they alter their fates, mysterious events unfold, and they soon discover that those who reset their lives begin to die one by one.
Why it’s a must-watch: “365: Repeat The Year” stands out as a well-crafted sci-fi thriller. It effectively explains the time-travel concept, and viewers will find themselves deeply engrossed in the storyline, rooting for the main characters while trying to unravel the mysteries.
These are the top thrillers on my recommendation list, and I hope you’ve found your next binge-worthy show! All of them are available for streaming on KOCOWA+ with professional English subtitles.
1 Comment
Kairos is literally one of the best k-dramas out there and not just as a thriller. Everyone’s acting was too notch but Lee Seyoung and Shin Sungrok just hit it out of the park. Seriously a must watch drama.