Best Korean Dramas Of 2016 & 2017: Must-Watch K-Dramas
Hey drama lovers! Are you looking for some amazing K-dramas from 2016 and 2017? Well, you've come to the right place. These years were gold for Korean dramas, giving us stories that made us laugh, cry, and everything in between. Let's dive into some of the best Korean dramas that you absolutely need to watch. Get ready to update your watchlist, guys!
Goblin (2016)
Okay, seriously, where do I even start with "Goblin"? This drama isn't just good; it's a cultural phenomenon. Starring Gong Yoo as the titular goblin, this series took the world by storm, and for good reason. The storyline is a beautiful blend of fantasy, romance, and a touch of comedy, making it a rollercoaster of emotions that you'll never want to get off. The stunning visuals and the hauntingly beautiful soundtrack only add to its appeal. "Goblin" tells the story of Kim Shin (Gong Yoo), an immortal goblin who has been searching for his bride for centuries. His bride is the only one who can end his immortality. Fate brings him together with Ji Eun-tak (Kim Go-eun), a cheerful high school student who can see ghosts and possesses a mysterious destiny. As they navigate their complicated relationship, they encounter a grim reaper (Lee Dong-wook) who has amnesia and a complicated past of his own.
The drama explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the importance of human connection. One of the most remarkable aspects of "Goblin" is its intricate plot. The writer, Kim Eun-sook, masterfully weaves together multiple storylines. She delves into the characters' backstories, creating a rich and immersive world. The bromance between Goblin and the Grim Reaper is iconic, providing many humorous and heartwarming moments amidst the heavier themes. The cinematography is breathtaking, with each scene carefully composed to enhance the story's emotional impact. From the picturesque landscapes of Quebec City to the mystical settings within Korea, the visuals are a feast for the eyes. The soundtrack is equally memorable, featuring songs that perfectly complement the drama's mood and tone. The drama became a huge success both domestically and internationally, earning numerous awards and accolades. It helped solidify the leading actors' status as top stars and boosted the popularity of Korean dramas worldwide. Even years after its release, "Goblin" remains a beloved classic and a benchmark for fantasy romance dramas. If you haven't seen it yet, trust me, you're missing out on a true masterpiece. The themes explored are timeless and universal, making it a drama that resonates with viewers from all walks of life. From the joys of first love to the pain of loss and sacrifice, "Goblin" captures the full spectrum of human emotions.
Descendants of the Sun (2016)
"Descendants of the Sun" was everywhere in 2016, and it's easy to see why. With its blend of romance, action, and drama, this series had something for everyone. The chemistry between Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo was off the charts, making it impossible not to root for their characters. Set against the backdrop of a fictional war-torn country, the drama follows the love story between Captain Yoo Si-jin (Song Joong-ki), a special forces soldier, and Dr. Kang Mo-yeon (Song Hye-kyo), a skilled surgeon. Their relationship is tested by their contrasting beliefs and dangerous circumstances as they work to save lives and maintain peace. The series became a massive hit, not only in Korea but also across Asia and beyond, sparking a renewed interest in Korean dramas and culture. One of the key factors behind its success was its strong storyline, which combined elements of romance, action, and medical drama seamlessly. The writers managed to create a compelling narrative that kept viewers on the edge of their seats, while also delivering heartwarming moments of connection and camaraderie.
The characters in "Descendants of the Sun" are another reason why it resonated with audiences. Yoo Si-jin is portrayed as a charismatic and courageous leader, while Kang Mo-yeon is a strong and independent woman who is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. Their relationship is complex and realistic, as they navigate the challenges of their respective professions and try to find common ground. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, with each character adding depth and richness to the story. The drama's production quality is top-notch, with stunning visuals and realistic action sequences. The filming locations in Greece and South Korea provide a beautiful backdrop for the story, while the special effects and stunts are executed flawlessly. The drama's soundtrack is also memorable, featuring songs that perfectly capture the emotions of the characters and the intensity of the story. "Descendants of the Sun" had a significant impact on Korean pop culture, with its fashion, hairstyles, and catchphrases becoming popular trends. The drama also boosted tourism to its filming locations, as fans flocked to see the places where their favorite scenes were shot. The drama received numerous awards and accolades, including several for its cast and crew. It is considered one of the most influential and successful Korean dramas of all time, and it continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world. Its exploration of love, sacrifice, and duty resonates with viewers of all ages and backgrounds.
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo (2016)
Looking for something cute and heartwarming? "Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo" is your go-to drama. Inspired by the real-life story of weightlifter Jang Mi-ran, this coming-of-age story is both inspiring and adorable. Lee Sung-kyung shines as Kim Bok-joo, a young weightlifter who discovers love and friendship while pursuing her dreams. The drama is a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and sports, making it a refreshing watch. "Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo" tells the story of Kim Bok-joo (Lee Sung-kyung), a talented young weightlifter who attends a sports university. She is dedicated to her sport but also harbors a secret crush on a doctor. Her life takes an interesting turn when she meets Jung Joon-hyung (Nam Joo-hyuk), a swimmer with whom she has a history. As they navigate their feelings and face challenges in their respective sports, they learn to support and encourage each other. The series is praised for its realistic portrayal of youth and its emphasis on friendship and teamwork.
One of the reasons why "Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo" is so beloved is its relatability. The characters are down-to-earth and genuine, and their struggles and triumphs resonate with viewers. The drama also explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and the pressures faced by young athletes. Lee Sung-kyung delivers a standout performance as Kim Bok-joo, capturing the character's strength, vulnerability, and charm. Nam Joo-hyuk is equally impressive as Jung Joon-hyung, portraying his character with warmth and humor. The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, making their romance all the more engaging. The supporting cast adds depth and flavor to the story, with each character contributing to the overall narrative. The drama's production quality is excellent, with vibrant visuals and a catchy soundtrack. The filming locations at a real sports university add authenticity to the story, while the costumes and hairstyles reflect the characters' personalities. The drama's success is attributed to its positive message and its ability to capture the essence of youth. It is a feel-good drama that leaves viewers with a sense of hope and inspiration. Even though it didn't achieve sky-high ratings during its initial broadcast, it gained a cult following and continues to be discovered by new audiences who appreciate its heartwarming story and relatable characters. If you're looking for a drama that will make you smile and feel good about yourself, "Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo" is definitely worth watching.
Strong Woman Do Bong-soon (2017)
Need a dose of girl power? "Strong Woman Do Bong-soon" is here to deliver! This drama combines elements of fantasy, comedy, and romance, creating a unique and entertaining story. Park Bo-young is absolutely charming as Do Bong-soon, a young woman with superhuman strength who becomes a bodyguard for a gaming company CEO. With its quirky characters and exciting plot, this drama is a total blast to watch. "Strong Woman Do Bong-soon" tells the story of Do Bong-soon (Park Bo-young), a seemingly ordinary woman who possesses incredible strength. She uses her powers to protect the innocent and fight against injustice. Her life becomes intertwined with Ahn Min-hyuk (Park Hyung-sik), the CEO of a gaming company, and Guk-doo (Ji Soo), a police officer who is also Bong-soon's childhood friend. As they work together to solve a series of crimes, Bong-soon and Min-hyuk develop feelings for each other. The series is praised for its strong female lead and its blend of genres.
One of the reasons why "Strong Woman Do Bong-soon" is so popular is its empowering message. Do Bong-soon is a role model for women, showing that they can be strong, independent, and capable of anything they set their minds to. The drama also addresses important social issues such as crime, violence, and gender inequality. Park Bo-young delivers a stellar performance as Do Bong-soon, capturing the character's strength, vulnerability, and sense of humor. Park Hyung-sik is equally impressive as Ahn Min-hyuk, portraying his character with charm and charisma. The chemistry between the two leads is electric, making their romance all the more captivating. The supporting cast adds depth and humor to the story, with each character contributing to the overall narrative. The drama's production quality is excellent, with stylish visuals and a catchy soundtrack. The action sequences are well-choreographed and exciting, while the comedic moments are genuinely funny. "Strong Woman Do Bong-soon" had a significant impact on Korean television, paving the way for more dramas with strong female leads. It is considered one of the most successful Korean dramas of all time, and it continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world. If you're looking for a drama that is both entertaining and empowering, "Strong Woman Do Bong-soon" is definitely worth watching. Its message of strength, resilience, and female empowerment resonates with viewers of all ages and backgrounds.
Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016-2017)
Craving some historical drama with a side of pretty boys? "Hwarang" is the perfect pick. This drama follows a group of elite young men in the Silla kingdom as they train to become warriors. With its blend of action, romance, and bromance, "Hwarang" is a visually stunning and entertaining watch. The drama boasts a star-studded cast, including Park Seo-joon, Go Ara, and Park Hyung-sik, adding to its appeal. "Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth" tells the story of a group of young men from elite families who are chosen to become part of the Hwarang, an elite warrior group in the kingdom of Silla. They are trained in martial arts, academics, and leadership, preparing them to serve the kingdom and protect the throne. The drama follows their journey as they navigate political intrigue, personal conflicts, and romantic relationships. The series is praised for its beautiful cinematography, its strong ensemble cast, and its portrayal of youth and camaraderie.
One of the reasons why "Hwarang" is so popular is its visually stunning production. The costumes, sets, and landscapes are all beautifully designed and executed, creating a rich and immersive world. The drama also features plenty of action sequences, with impressive martial arts choreography. The bromance between the members of the Hwarang is another highlight of the drama, with the actors displaying great chemistry and camaraderie. The drama also explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice, as the young men learn to work together and support each other. The cast delivers strong performances, with each actor bringing their own unique charm and talent to their role. Park Seo-joon is charismatic as the leader of the Hwarang, while Go Ara is captivating as the female lead. Park Hyung-sik is also memorable as the young king who must navigate political challenges. The drama's soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring songs that perfectly complement the mood and tone of the story. "Hwarang" had a significant impact on Korean pop culture, boosting the popularity of its cast members and inspiring a renewed interest in Korean history. It is considered one of the most visually stunning and entertaining historical dramas of recent years, and it continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world. If you're looking for a drama that is both beautiful and engaging, "Hwarang" is definitely worth watching. Its combination of action, romance, and bromance makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Defendant (2017)
If you're in the mood for a suspenseful thriller, "Defendant" is a must-watch. Ji Sung delivers a powerful performance as Park Jung-woo, a prosecutor who wakes up one day and finds himself on death row, accused of murdering his wife and daughter. With its gripping plot and intense performances, this drama will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. "Defendant" tells the story of Park Jung-woo (Ji Sung), a respected prosecutor who loses his memory and finds himself wrongly accused of murdering his wife and daughter. He is sentenced to death and must fight to prove his innocence while uncovering the truth behind the crime. The drama is a thrilling and suspenseful legal drama that explores themes of justice, corruption, and redemption.
One of the reasons why "Defendant" is so compelling is its intricate plot. The writers skillfully weave together multiple storylines, keeping viewers guessing until the very end. The drama also features plenty of twists and turns, making it a rollercoaster of emotions. Ji Sung delivers a tour-de-force performance as Park Jung-woo, capturing the character's desperation, resilience, and determination. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with each actor bringing depth and complexity to their role. The drama also addresses important social issues such as corruption, abuse of power, and the flaws in the legal system. The production quality is excellent, with gritty visuals and a haunting soundtrack. The drama's intense atmosphere and suspenseful pacing keep viewers on the edge of their seats. "Defendant" had a significant impact on Korean television, earning high ratings and critical acclaim. It is considered one of the most gripping and suspenseful legal dramas of recent years, and it continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world. If you're looking for a drama that will keep you hooked from beginning to end, "Defendant" is definitely worth watching. Its compelling story and powerful performances make it a must-see.
So there you have it – a list of some of the best Korean dramas from 2016 and 2017. Whether you're into fantasy, romance, comedy, or thrillers, there's something on this list for everyone. Grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to binge-watch some amazing K-dramas!
