Short Korean dramas with fewer than 12 episodes offer a perfect solution for viewers seeking quick entertainment without a long commitment. These series deliver compact yet intense narratives that span various genres, from sci-fi suspense to romantic comedy. They are ideal for busy audiences who want quality storytelling in bite-sized episodes.
The trend of brief K-dramas has grown in popularity due to their convenience and engaging plots. Each story is carefully crafted to maximize emotional impact and pace despite the limited runtime. Here are ten recommended Korean dramas that you can finish in no more than 12 episodes.
1. The Silent Sea – 8 Episodes
Set in 2075, this Netflix original portrays a world suffering from severe shortages of food and water. A special team is sent to a lunar base to retrieve a mysterious sample, unveiling secrets with high stakes for humanity’s survival.
2. A Shop for Killers – 8 Episodes
Adapted from Kang Ji Young’s novel, this series follows Jian, an orphan raised by her uncle whose sudden death pulls her into a dangerous realm of professional assassins. Jian must protect her inheritance amidst lethal threats. Starring Lee Dong Wook and Kim Hye Joon, it streams on Bilibili.
3. Pyramid Game – 10 Episodes
At Baekyeon High School, a cruel popularity-ranking game punishes the lowest-ranked students weekly. Su Ji, initially a target, vows to dismantle this vicious tradition. This drama, based on the namesake webtoon, features Bona and Jang Da A on Viu.
4. Parasyte: The Grey – 6 Episodes
Based on a Japanese manga, this sci-fi thriller explores alien parasites invading humanity. A parasite fuses with student Jung Soo In, granting him extraordinary abilities. It is available for viewing on Netflix.
5. High School Return of a Gangster – 8 Episodes
After an accident, the soul of a gangster inhabits a bullied high schooler, Song Yi Hyeon. His altered demeanor surprises everyone. This drama, adapted from a web novel by Hol Rol, stars Yoon Chan Young and Bong Jae Hyun, and streams on Viu and Amazon Prime Video.
6. Queenmaker – 11 Episodes
This Netflix drama centers on Hwang Do Hee, a political mastermind who turns against the corporation she once served after betrayal. It reveals the cunning politics of power struggles in business and government.
7. Death’s Game – 8 Episodes
Adapted from a webtoon by Lee Won Sik and Gul-chan, this dark fantasy follows Choi Yi Jae, whose despair leads to deadly encounters with Death itself. He must survive thirteen repeated lives or perish forever. The cast includes Seo In Guk and Park So Dam, available on Amazon Prime Video.
8. Bloodhounds – 8 Episodes
Based on Jeong Chan’s webtoon, it tells the story of two ex-soldiers, Kim Geon Woo and Hong Woo Jin, who fight to protect their values as they face escalating challenges. The series streams on Amazon Prime Video.
9. Love to Hate You – 10 Episodes
This romantic comedy on Netflix depicts Yeo Mi Ran, an accomplished lawyer, and Nam Kang Ho, a successful actor, both struggling in love. They enter a fake relationship that leads to unexpected developments.
10. Mask Girl – 7 Episodes
Also on Netflix, this drama is adapted from Maemi and Hee See’s webtoon about Kim Mo Mi, who lives a double life as a masked streamer due to insecurities about her appearance. Her life takes a dark turn as terrifying events unfold.
These short but impactful Korean dramas are highly recommended for viewers who want engaging stories without spending weeks watching lengthy series. They offer a satisfying balance of emotion, suspense, and entertainment within a limited episode count. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Viu, and Bilibili provide easy access to these titles, catering to diverse tastes and schedules.
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