Korean political dramas have carved out their own niche in the world of television, captivating audiences worldwide with their compelling narratives, intricate storylines, and the perfect blend of political and human drama.
Let’s dive into the world of this fascinating show, and explore some of the best productions that have left an indelible impression on viewers. Below are the 12 best K-dramas related to politics that you must watch!
Best Korean Political Dramas List
1. My Dearest
“My Dearest” enters the realm of Korean historical dramas with politics as a recent addition, promising an engaging storyline that blends political complexity with romance.
Set in Korea’s past, the series tells the love story between a noblewoman and a mysterious man who appears in her hometown in the 1600s during the Qing invasion.
As war begins, the couple finds themselves separated before they can even begin to understand their feelings.
This K-drama was released in 2023 and has 2 parts with a total of 21 episodes. You can watch it on Viki. Stars Namkoong Min, Ahn Eun Jin, Lee Hak Joo, and Lee Da In.
2. Vincenzo
A standout in this genre, “Vincenzo” brings a unique blend of crime, politics, and dark humor. This K-drama follows a Korean-Italian mafia lawyer who finds himself entangled in a web of corruption within the country’s power structure.
Smart storytelling and a gripping storyline make this one of the best Korean political dramas available on Netflix. Released in 2021 and has 20 episodes. Stars Song Joong Ki, Jeon Yeo Been, and Ok Taec Yeon.
3. Mr. Queen
The series offers a charming mix of palace history and political intrigue. Taking viewers back in time, this K-drama creatively explores gender politics as a modern man is trapped in the body of a Joseon Dynasty queen.
The show skillfully navigates the dynamics of power and government in the past. This Korean TV show was released in 2020 and has 20 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Shin Hye Sun and Kim Jung Hyun.
4. Mr. Sunshine
Set in the late 19th century, “Mr. Sunshine” is one of the best Korean dramas with cinematography that presents a historical canvas intertwined with political turmoil, love, and patriotism.
The series follows a Korean-born American soldier who returns to his homeland amidst political upheaval, grappling with his identity and loyalties. Its rich historical context adds depth to the political narrative.
Released in 2018 and has 24 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Lee Byung Hun, Kim Tae Ri, and Yoo Yeon Seok.
5. Kingdom
Breaking convention, “Kingdom” combines political intrigue with the horror genre, set in the Joseon era. The series introduces a unique narrative where a struggle for political power meets a mysterious outbreak that threatens the kingdom, resulting in a tense and intense storyline.
This K-drama related to politics was released in 2019 and has 6 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Ju Ji Hoon, Ryu Seung Ryong, and Bae Doo Na.
6. Youth of May
Set against the backdrop of the Gwangju Uprising of 1980, “Youth of May” intricately weaves political activism, romance, and tragedy.
The show highlights the struggles and sacrifices of young people during a tumultuous period in Korean history, showcasing the intersection of personal life and the political landscape.
One of these Korean political dramas is available on Netflix. Released in 2021 and has 12 episodes. Stars Lee Do Hyun, Lee Do Hyun, Lee Sang Yi, and Geum Sae Rok.
7. The King’s Affection
“The King’s Affection” explores the dynamics of monarchy and politics through a touching story of love and duty. This K-drama explores the complexities of the royal family and the political consequences of personal choices, offering a new perspective on traditional power structures.
The story is set when twins are considered a bad omen. As a result, when the Crown Princess Consort gave birth to twins, an order was sent to kill her daughters.
To save her, he secretly left the palace. Several years later, twin daughters named Dam Yi returned to the palace to work as maids.
There she distances herself from everyone, but Dam Yi begins to develop feelings for Jung Ji Woon, her first true love.
Released in 2021 with 20 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Starring Park Eun Bin and Rowoon.
8. The King: Eternal Monarch
Spanning a parallel universe, this one of the best romance dramas manages to combine fantasy with political drama. The series follows the journey of a king who crosses dimensions to confront political enemies while navigating personal relationships across different worlds.
This K-drama was released in 2020 and has 16 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Lee Min Ho, Kim Go Eun, Woo Do Hwan.
9. Big Mouth
This is one K-drama that successfully explores the world of investigative journalism, exposing political scandals and corruption. The series highlights power struggles in media and politics and highlights the ethical dilemmas journalists face.
The story follows Park Chang Ho, a man known since his school days as “Big Mouth” because he talks big and promises big things but can’t deliver on them.
He is also a well-known lawyer with a very low success rate who was hired by the Mayor due to his incompetence. Unfortunately, he is framed as the notorious and mysterious con artist “Big Rat” and sent to prison.
Released in 2022 and has 16 episodes. You can watch it on Disney Plus and Hulu. Stars Lee Jong Suk, Im Yoon Ah, and Kim Joo Heon.
10. The K2
Action-packed and politically charged, “The K2” tells the story of a former mercenary who is hired as a bodyguard for the wife of a presidential candidate. The series combines adrenaline-pumping sequences with subtle political intrigue.
One of the best Korean political dramas is available on Netflix. It was released in 2016 and has 16 episodes. Stars Ji Chang Wook, Im Yoon Ah, Song Yoon Ah, and Jo Sung Ha.
11. The Devil Judge
Set in a dystopian society, “The Devil Judge” explores a unique concept where court trials are broadcast as entertainment. This thought-provoking Kdrama explores the moral ambiguities in justice and the manipulation of public opinion for political gain.
Released in 2021 and has 16 episodes. You can watch it on Netflix. Stars Ji Sung, Kim Min Jung, Park Jin Young, and Park Gyu Young.
12. Vagabond
“Vagabond” takes viewers on a thrilling journey, combining espionage, action, and political conspiracies. The series follows a stuntman who uncovers a government conspiracy after a plane crash, uncovering a web of political intrigue and corruption.
This is one of the best Korean political dramas that you must watch on Netflix. It was released in 2019 and has 16 episodes. Stars Lee Seung Gi, Bae Suzy, and Shin Sung Rok.
That’s the list of the best Korean political dramas that you must watch. Thank you for reading this article, have a nice day, and enjoy watching!
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