Korean drama enthusiasts are constantly searching for the best currently airing series with the highest ratings to fill their precious time. The following is a curated list of the nine hottest ongoing Korean dramas, each excelling in viewer ratings and earning critical acclaim as must-watch titles this season.
1. The Murky Stream
This gripping historical crime thriller quickly overtakes conversation with its powerful narrative, set in the lawless era of Joseon. Starring Ro Woon, Shin Ye Eun, and Park Seo Ham, the storyline highlights the struggle for justice along the now-polluted Gyeonggang River. The series secures an impressive rating of 8.0, making it the most highly recommended ongoing drama. The Murky Stream has only nine episodes and is exclusively available to stream on Disney+.
2. A Hundred Memories
Set during the 1980s in South Korea, this drama beautifully captures everyday life through the eyes of Ko Yeong Rye, a bus conductor intent on bringing hope to her passengers. Featuring Kim Dami, Shin Ye Eun, and Heo Nam Jun, the series resonates well thanks to its dramatic yet light-hearted take on human connections. With a strong rating of 7.8, A Hundred Memories stands out for those seeking heartwarming stories. It spans 12 episodes and can be seen on Viki and TVING.
3. Shin’s Project
Combining mystery, business intrigue, and comedy, Shin’s Project delights audiences with the story of Mr. Shin, a chicken shop owner and legendary negotiator. Played by Han Suk-kyu, the protagonist intervenes in local chaos, resolving disputes with his razor-sharp wit. The series maintains a 7.8 viewer rating, showing strong audience support since its release. Shin’s Project also features Bae Hyun-seong and Lee Re, and airs on TVING for a 12-episode run.
4. Walking on Thin Ice
Emotion runs high in this crime thriller-drama, featuring Lee Young Ae as Kang Eun Su, a mother who simply wishes for family happiness. Her journey, alongside husband Park Do Jin and their daughter, is filled with suspense and humanity, exploring life’s complexities through 12 episodes. The show holds a solid 7.8 rating and is available on Viki, a trusted source for international drama streaming.
5. Our Golden Days
Offering a different approach with lasting emotional impact, this family drama centers on the intertwined friendships and romances of three main characters. Starring Jung Il-woo, Jung In-sun, Chun Ho-jin, and Lee Tae-ran, the show covers 50 episodes—a treat for viewers who favor slow-burn storytelling. With a 7.6 viewer rating, Our Golden Days streams on Viki and Prime Video.
6. My Youth
Romance and melodrama come together in this tale of two souls repeatedly brought together by fate. Song Joong-ki, Chun Woo-hee, and Lee Joo-myung lead the cast in a story known for tender moments and warmth. Boasting a 7.6 rating, My Youth’s 12 episodes are accessible on Viki and Viu, known for their extensive collections of Asian dramas.
7. Confidence Queen
The action-packed, crime-comedy Confidence Queen follows a master con artist who cleverly ensnares criminals using her unmatched skills. Park Min-young and Park Hee-soon spearhead this adrenaline-filled series, with each episode packed with smart twists and clever dialogue. Standing at a 7.5 viewer rating, the show offers 12 exciting episodes on Prime Video.
8. To The Moon
Blending romance, drama, and comedy, To The Moon follows marketing manager Da Hae (Lee Sun Bin) as she navigates timorous career choices and transformational offers from her charismatic colleague Eun Sang. The drama stands out for its relatable depiction of office life and aspiration, earning a rating of 7.5. Audiences can watch all 12 episodes via Wavve or Kocowa.
9. No Mercy
Closing the list is No Mercy, a suspenseful thriller centered around the devastating consequences of voice phishing experienced by actress So Min and her family. With Lee Joo Young, Koo Jun Hoe, and Ji Seung Hyun leading the cast, the concise eight-episode format delivers a powerful punch, earning a rating of 7.4. The series is exclusively available on Disney+.
Quick Reference Table: 9 Highest-Rated Ongoing Korean Dramas
| No | Title | Rating | Genre | Main Cast | Episodes | Where to Watch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Murky Stream | 8.0 | Historical, Crime | Ro Woon, Shin Ye Eun, Park Seo Ham | 9 | Disney+ |
| 2 | A Hundred Memories | 7.8 | Drama, Life, Romance | Kim Dami, Shin Ye Eun, Heo Nam Jun | 12 | Viki, TVING |
| 3 | Shin’s Project | 7.8 | Mystery, Comedy | Han Suk-kyu, Bae Hyun-seong, Lee Re | 12 | TVING |
| 4 | Walking on Thin Ice | 7.8 | Thriller, Life | Lee Young Ae, Kim Young Kwang | 12 | Viki |
| 5 | Our Golden Days | 7.6 | Family, Romance | Jung Il-woo, Jung In-sun, Chun Ho-jin | 50 | Viki, Prime Video |
| 6 | My Youth | 7.6 | Romance, Melodrama | Song Joong-ki, Chun Woo-hee | 12 | Viki, Viu |
| 7 | Confidence Queen | 7.5 | Action, Crime, Comedy | Park Min-young, Park Hee-soon | 12 | Prime Video |
| 8 | To The Moon | 7.5 | Romance, Drama, Comedy | Lee Sun Bin, Ra Mi Ran, Ham Ji U | 12 | Wavve, Kocowa |
| 9 | No Mercy | 7.4 | Thriller, Crime | Lee Joo Young, Koo Jun Hoe | 8 | Disney+ |
These nine dramas highlight the top-performing, currently airing Korean titles that have captured both critical praise and audience devotion. Each drama delivers its own unique flavor, whether you’re in the mood for pulse-pounding thrillers, heartfelt romance, or stories about family and personal growth.
For fans eager to watch, these series are available on popular streaming platforms like Disney+, Viki, TVING, Prime Video, and more. Check the platforms in your area, as some dramas have exclusive streaming rights on certain services. With genres ranging from crime and action to melodrama and comedy, viewers are sure to find a Korean drama that matches their personal preference and mood.
The high viewer ratings, as reported by multiple drama-tracking and review sites, reflect the strong scripts, compelling performances, and innovative direction in each chosen drama. Fields such as historical, contemporary, and family-centered storytelling are richly represented. Each entry on this list stands out through either critical performance or audience engagement, proving that Korean dramas continue to evolve and attract a global audience.
These recommendations ensure that viewers have access to the best Korean entertainment currently on-air. Make sure to bookmark the dramas above and enjoy quality time with these popular series available this season.
