There is no definitive answer to this as it depends on individual preferences, but some will argue that the drama series “Descendants of the Sun” (KBS2, 2016) is the number one Korean series. It is set in a small fictitious country and follows the romance between the main characters who serve their military duty there.
The series gained immense popularity due to what is considered one of the best screenplays in the history of Korean TV dramas, as well as its strong and multi-dimensional characters. It received numerous awards and topped various polls, including the Chinese drama review site Doulao and the list of “Most Popular Pages on Naver” for 2016.
Other series that have been contenders for the title of No. 1 Korean series include “Goblin” (tvN, 2016-2017), “Crash Landing on You” (tvN, 2019-2020), “The Heirs” (SBS, 2013), “Reply” series (tvN, 2012-2016), “My Love from the Star” (SBS, 2013-2014) and “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God” (tvN, 2016-2017). All of these series have gained immense popularity and critical acclaim among viewers.
No matter which series viewers believe is the No. 1 Korean series, they will likely agree that the Korean drama industry has produced some fantastic series that have entertained and moved viewers around the globe.
