Korean dramas, or K-Dramas, continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their compelling storylines, charismatic actors, and stunning visuals. 2025 promises to be another exciting year for K-Drama fans, with a diverse range of shows set to grace our screens. Here are five must-watch new Korean dramas to add to your list:
1. When the Star Gossip
“When the Stars Gossip” is a South Korean romantic comedy series that premiered on January 4, 2025. The narrative centers on Gong Ryong, portrayed by Lee Min-ho, an obstetrician-gynecologist who becomes a space tourist with a concealed agenda.
He journeys to a space station where he encounters Eve Kim, played by Gong Hyo-jin, an elite space scientist embarking on her inaugural mission as a commander. As their paths cross in the unique environment of the space station, an unexpected romance unfolds between the two.
The series is helmed by director Park Shin-woo and penned by writer Seo Sook-hyang. It airs every Saturday and Sunday at 21:20 (KST) on tvN and is available for streaming on Netflix in selected regions.
2.The Queen Who Crowns
“The Queen Who Crowns” is a South Korean historical drama that premiered on January 6, 2025, on TVING and tvN. The series stars Cha Joo-young as Queen Wongyeong and Lee Hyun-wook as her husband, Lee Bang-won, who later becomes King Taejong.
Set during the transition from the Goryeo to the Joseon dynasty, the narrative follows Lady Min (later Queen Wongyeong) from her prestigious lineage in the Goryeo period to her marriage with Yi Bang-won. Together, they navigate the tumultuous political landscape, striving to establish a new regime.
However, their relationship faces challenges as Yi Bang-won ascends to the throne and takes multiple concubines, leading to a deterioration in their bond. The series delves into themes of ambition, power, and the complexities of royal life.
3. Running Mate
“Running Mate” is an upcoming South Korean drama series set to premiere on TVING in 2025. The series marks the directorial debut of Han Jin-won, co-writer of the acclaimed film “Parasite.”
The narrative centers on No Se-hun, portrayed by Yoon Hyun-soo, a model student at Yeongjin High School who, following an unforeseen incident, decides to run for the student council vice presidency to rehabilitate his tarnished image.
As the election unfolds, Se-hun becomes increasingly central to the campaign dynamics. The ensemble cast includes Lee Jung-shik as Kwak Sang-hyun, Choi Woo-sung as Yang Won-dae, and Kim Ji-woo as Ha Yoo-kyung.
The series was showcased at the 28th Busan International Film Festival in October 2023, generating anticipation for its official release.
4. Love Scout
“Love Scout” is a South Korean television series that premiered on January 3, 2025, on SBS TV. The show airs every Friday and Saturday at 22:00 (KST) and is available for streaming on platforms like Wavve in South Korea, as well as Netflix and Viki in selected regions.
The series stars Han Ji-min as Kang Ji-yun, the accomplished CEO of Peoplez, a leading headhunting firm. Despite her professional success, Ji-yun struggles with everyday tasks outside of work. Lee Joon-hyuk portrays Yu Eun-ho, her adept secretary who is also a single father. Eun-ho manages both his professional responsibilities and parenting duties with ease, bringing a warm and considerate presence to Ji-yun’s life.
As they work closely together, their relationship evolves beyond the professional realm. Eun-ho assists Ji-yun in navigating daily life, and through their interactions, they both discover new perspectives on balancing work and personal commitments. The series delves into themes of love, personal growth, and the blending of professional and personal boundaries.
“Love Scout” is directed by Ham Joon-ho and Kim Jae-hong, with a script penned by Ji Eun. The show comprises eight episodes and features a supporting cast that includes Kim Do-hoon and Kim Yoon-hye.
5. Knock Off
“Knock-Off” is an upcoming South Korean black comedy crime drama series slated for release on Disney+ in 2025.
The narrative centers on Kim Seong-jun, portrayed by Kim Soo-hyun, an ordinary office worker whose life is upended by the 1997 Asian financial crisis. Facing unemployment, Seong-jun delves into the world of counterfeit luxury goods, eventually ascending to the position of vice president at Saemul Market.
Jo Bo-ah co-stars as Song Hye-jeong, Seong-jun’s former lover and a special judicial police officer tasked with cracking down on counterfeit operations. The series delves into themes of ambition, morality, and survival, offering a satirical look at the counterfeit industry.
This list is just a glimpse of the exciting K-Dramas that await us in 2025. With diverse genres, compelling storylines, and talented casts, there’s something for every K-Drama enthusiast to enjoy. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and get ready for another year of captivating Korean entertainment.
