When it comes to K-dramas, some shows receive worldwide recognition, while others, despite having excellent storytelling and performances, remain hidden gems. As a passionate K-drama fan, I’ve come across many underrated K-dramas that deserve more love. If you’re tired of mainstream titles and looking for something fresh, here are 10 underrated K-dramas you should add to your watchlist.
Table of Contents
1. Life (2018) – A Medical Drama Beyond the Ordinary
Unlike typical hospital dramas, Life focuses on power struggles and ethical dilemmas within the medical industry. With brilliant performances from Lee Dong-wook and Cho Seung-woo, this drama offers intense storytelling that will keep you engaged from start to finish. If you enjoy thought-provoking narratives, this underrated K-drama is a must-watch.
2. Just Between Lovers (2017-2018) – A Heartfelt Healing Romance
This beautifully crafted romance tells the story of two people connected by a past tragedy. Junho and Won Jin-ah deliver deeply emotional performances, making Just Between Lovers one of the most underrated K-dramas in the romance genre. If you love slow-burn love stories with healing themes, you’ll adore this drama.
3. Strangers from Hell (2019) – A Psychological Thriller That Will Haunt You
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, Strangers from Hell is a must-watch. This underrated K-drama follows a young man who moves into a creepy apartment complex, only to realize that his neighbors are far from normal. Im Si-wan’s gripping performance and Lee Dong-wook’s eerie role make this series a chilling experience.
4. My Country: The New Age (2019) – A Historical Drama with Intense Action
This underrated K-drama is packed with powerful performances, stunning cinematography, and emotional storytelling. My Country: The New Age follows two friends turned rivals in the fight for justice during the turbulent Goryeo-to-Joseon transition. If you loved The King’s Affection, this historical drama should be on your list.
5. Children of Nobody (2018-2019) – A Dark and Mysterious Ride
A perfect blend of mystery and psychological drama, Children of Nobody follows a child psychologist who unravels shocking secrets related to abused children. Kim Sun-a delivers a stellar performance, making this one of the most underrated K-dramas in the thriller genre.
6. Kairos (2020) – A Suspenseful Time-Travel Thriller
Kairos is an exciting time-travel drama that keeps you on edge with its unpredictable twists. A man in the present and a woman in the past communicate to change their destinies. Despite its gripping plot, Kairos remains one of the most underrated K-dramas that deserve more recognition.
7. Hyena (2020) – A Legal Drama with a Unique Edge
If you love strong female leads and legal dramas, Hyena is the perfect underrated K-drama for you. Kim Hye-soo and Ju Ji-hoon’s on-screen chemistry as rival lawyers makes this show entertaining and powerful. It’s fast-paced, witty, and filled with courtroom battles that will keep you hooked.
8. Missing: The Other Side (2020) – A Supernatural Mystery That Touches the Heart
Missing: The Other Side explores a mysterious village where the souls of missing people reside. This underrated K-drama masterfully blends fantasy, crime, and emotional storytelling. If you enjoy supernatural mysteries, this drama is an absolute gem.
9. The Smile Has Left Your Eyes (2018) – A Dark and Tragic Romance
Unlike typical romance dramas, The Smile Has Left Your Eyes takes a dark and psychological approach to love. Seo In-guk and Jung So-min deliver outstanding performances in this tragic love story filled with secrets and unexpected twists. It’s an underrated K-drama that will leave a lasting impression.
10. Duel (2017) – A Sci-Fi Thriller About Human Cloning
For those who love sci-fi thrillers, Duel is one of the most underrated K-dramas in the genre. It follows a detective who encounters human clones while trying to solve a kidnapping case. The action-packed storyline and intense performances make this a thrilling watch.
Why These Underrated K-Dramas Deserve More Attention
Many of these underrated K-dramas didn’t receive the hype they deserved due to limited promotions, competing with bigger titles, or simply airing at the wrong time. However, each of them offers exceptional storytelling, emotional depth, and memorable characters that make them worth watching.
Where to Watch These Hidden Gems
Most of these underrated K-dramas are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Viki, iQIYI, and Kisskh. Check your local streaming services to find where they’re available.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for unique and refreshing stories, these underrated K-dramas are perfect for your next binge-watch. Have you watched any of them? Let me know in the comments which ones you loved or if you have other underrated K-dramas to recommend!
