Popular Korean Dramas in the United States

Korean dramas, or K-dramas, have taken the world by storm, and the United States is no exception. With their captivating storylines, diverse genres, and relatable characters, K-dramas have found a dedicated audience among American viewers. From heartwarming romances to thrilling mysteries, here are some of the most popular Korean dramas in the United States that have made a lasting impact on viewers.

“Crash Landing on You”

Crash Landing on You is one of the most beloved K-dramas worldwide, and its popularity in the United States is undeniable. The story follows Yoon Se-ri, a South Korean heiress who accidentally paraglides into North Korea, where she meets Ri Jeong-hyeok, a North Korean soldier. The two fall in love despite the cultural and political divide between their countries.

The drama blends romance, comedy, and drama with a touch of suspense, creating an unforgettable viewing experience. With its heartfelt performances, beautiful chemistry between the leads, and the exploration of both North and South Korea’s contrasting lives, Crash Landing on You has earned a devoted fan base in America.

“Squid Game”

SQUid Game became a global phenomenon when it was released on Netflix in 2021, and its impact in the United States was immense. This survival drama revolves around a group of financially struggling individuals who compete in children’s games for a life-changing cash prize. However, the games quickly turn deadly, and the contestants must fight to survive.

What makes Squid Game so compelling is its mix of social commentary, suspense, and moral dilemmas. The show critiques inequality, greed, and the human desire for survival at all costs. With its shocking plot twists, unforgettable imagery, and unique concept, Squid Game quickly became one of the most-watched series on Netflix, drawing millions of American viewers.

“Vincenzo”

Vincenzo is a crime-comedy drama that follows Vincenzo Cassano, an Italian-Korean lawyer and mafia consigliere who returns to Korea after a power struggle within the mafia. He takes on a case involving a corrupt corporation and teams up with a quirky lawyer, Hong Cha-young.

The drama combines action, suspense, and dark humor, offering a unique mix of crime-fighting and comedy. With its charismatic lead actor Song Joong-ki and a strong supporting cast, Vincenzo became a massive hit in the U.S., particularly with fans of action-packed dramas with a touch of humor and romance.

“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay”

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay is a heartwarming and thought-provoking drama that explores mental health, healing, and personal growth. The story follows Moon Gang-tae, a caregiver at a psychiatric hospital, and Ko Mun-yeong, a successful children’s book author who struggles with her own mental health issues. As they form an unlikely bond, they begin to help each other heal from past traumas.

This drama’s honest portrayal of mental illness, paired with its stunning visuals and strong performances, resonated with many American viewers. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay gained popularity due to its sensitive handling of difficult topics, as well as its emotional depth and unique storyline.

“Itaewon Class”

Based on a webtoon, Itaewon Class follows Park Sae-ro-yi, a young man who opens a bar-restaurant in Itaewon, Seoul, to seek revenge against a powerful food conglomerate that destroyed his life. The series explores themes of revenge, social justice, and finding one’s identity in a world full of corruption.

With its diverse cast of characters, strong messages about perseverance and fighting against societal norms, and compelling storylines, Itaewon Class quickly became a favorite among American viewers. The drama’s relatable themes and inspirational message of standing up for what’s right helped it become a hit.

“Descendants of the Sun”

Descendants of the Sun is one of the most famous K-dramas internationally, and its popularity in the U.S. is a testament to its emotional storytelling and strong performances. The series follows Yoo Si-jin, a special forces captain, and Kang Mo-yeon, a doctor, as they fall in love while stationed in a war-torn country.

The drama’s blend of romance, action, and military operations made it a captivating watch. With its heart-pounding moments, touching love story, and powerful themes of sacrifice, Descendants of the Sun became a massive hit, especially among viewers who enjoy action-packed, emotionally driven dramas.

“Goblin”

Goblin, also known as Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, is a fantasy romance that follows Kim Shin, a 900-year-old goblin who seeks to end his immortal life, and Ji Eun-tak, a young woman who holds the key to his fate. Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of the supernatural, and the series explores themes of fate, love, and sacrifice.

What made Goblin stand out was its unique blend of fantasy, romance, and tragedy, coupled with strong performances from the cast, including Gong Yoo and Kim Go-eun. The drama’s emotional depth and beautiful cinematography, along with its intriguing premise, made it one of the most popular K-dramas in the United States.

Why K-Dramas Are Gaining Popularity in the U.S.

The rise of K-dramas in the U.S. can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing availability of streaming platforms like Netflix, which has made it easier for American audiences to access international content. Additionally, K-dramas offer unique storytelling, compelling characters, and cultural insights that many viewers find refreshing and captivating.

K-dramas also explore universal themes such as love, friendship, family, and personal growth, making them relatable to people around the world, including American audiences. The emotional depth and intricate plotlines, combined with the high production quality, have led many viewers to embrace K-dramas as a staple in their entertainment consumption.

Whether you’re a fan of romance, action, or heartwarming stories, there’s a K-drama for everyone. As more people in the U.S. discover the magic of Korean dramas, it’s clear that the global reach of K-dramas will only continue to grow.