Top Korean Dramas to Watch This Season: Must-See New Releases for Drama Fans

As Korean dramas continue to captivate audiences worldwide, this season introduces several standout titles that have quickly gained attention. Viewers seeking fresh and compelling stories will find a mix of romance, corporate intrigue, political thrillers, and fantasy in the latest offerings. These dramas showcase diverse genres and high production values, maintaining the global appeal of Korean series.

The competitive landscape of Korean dramas this season is intense, with only a few premieres breaking through to achieve significant viewership. According to Nielsen Korea, just a handful of shows have surpassed the 10 percent national rating mark this year. This statistic highlights how challenging it is for new dramas to gain and sustain large audiences amid the proliferation of content.

1. Love Scout
This romantic workplace drama centers on Kang Ji Yun, a perfectionist CEO headhunter, and Yu Eun Ho, a highly capable single-father secretary. Their professional relationship evolves amidst corporate pressures, creating an engaging blend of office dynamics and heartfelt moments. Broadcasted by SBS, Love Scout’s finale reached a national average rating of 12.0 percent, topping all channels during its airtime—a testament to its popularity.

2. The Art of Negotiation
Focusing on high-stakes mergers and acquisitions, this drama delves into the intense power plays within corporate boardrooms. Featuring Lee Je Hoon, it captures the strategic moves of elite dealmakers navigating complex negotiations. The series achieved its highest audience share with a 10.3 percent rating during the final episode, reflecting strong viewer interest in corporate thriller narratives.

3. Buried Hearts
With suspense and political drama at its core, Buried Hearts revolves around massive dark funds and two individuals caught in a web of deceit triggered by the disappearance of billions of dollars. This SBS thriller, starring Park Hyung Sik, stood out as the top-performing mini-series of the season, concluding with an impressive 15.0 percent national average rating. It distinguishes itself by balancing intense emotions and gripping plotlines that keep viewers intrigued.

4. The Haunted Palace
Diving into historical fantasy, The Haunted Palace tells the story of a palace official possessed by an imoogi—an ancient serpent spirit. The narrative follows the possessed official and the reluctant granddaughter of a shaman who refuses to enter the haunted palace. The story also weaves in the reign of a reformist king, blending supernatural elements with political drama to create a unique viewing experience.

5. Bon Appetit, Your Majesty
Although details are less highlighted compared to others, this title is among the anticipated dramas this season. Its intriguing name hints at a blend of royal themes and culinary arts, likely appealing to fans who enjoy historical settings combined with lighter, charming storytelling.

These dramas reflect current trends in Korean television, emphasizing complex characters and layered storytelling. The mix of genres—from romantic comedies to thrillers and supernatural tales—caters to a wide range of viewer preferences. Moreover, the success of some titles in surpassing double-digit ratings points to quality production and effective audience engagement.

For viewers looking to update their watchlist, these recommendations represent some of the most talked-about dramas currently airing. Staying informed about ratings and audience responses can provide guidance on which series are worth investing time in.

Whether interested in corporate battles, emotional revenge stories, or fantasy intrigues, this lineup offers compelling choices that highlight the vibrancy and innovation of today’s Korean drama industry.