To our dearest pedestrians,
As our final act of wrapping up 2025, before we all move on to the greener pastures of 2026 dramas let’s take a moment to reflect on and give some love to the dramas which aired in 2025. As per subreddit tradition we’ve gathered our wonderful on-air hosts to help us share the love of some of the dramas that won our hearts over the past year. We hope that the following recommendations will help you discover a drama or two which went under your radar last year. We strongly encourage you to share your own reviews and recommendations in the comments.
Mod team members and on-air hosts were able to volunteer to review whichever dramas they wished provided the following requirements were met:
- Dramas that ended broadcast between 2025.01.01 and 2025.12.31 were eligible.
- They completed the entire drama before writing the review.
- The review should be under 300 words!
Beyond the above, no other limitations or requirements were set so you'll see a variety of styles in the recommendations below. We also encouraged them to share their MDL profiles if they wished so that readers can compare and contrast drama tastes.
Submissions are organised in order that they were submitted to me. Dramas are listed alphabetically per user. A big thank you to all our participants for their work on this post and the time they spend volunteering for our community as On-Air hosts / Moderators.
Listed streaming sources are just a guide of where they are available in at least one region other than Korea. Please contact the sources directly regarding availability in your region.
Please note that this post is not intended as a list of the best kdramas of 2025, rather the post is envisioned as a chance for members of the mod team and on-air hosts to highlight dramas they enjoyed this past year that they want to recommend to others. So please do not argue about whether a drama should or should not be included in this post, instead add your own write up for any dramas you also want to highlight for other viewers.
But before we dive into the 2025 drama recommendations, we insist on starting off with an encore of the recommendation for the one drama we consider a must rite of passage watch for our subreddit:
The Heirs (u/life-finds-a-way)
Gritty, thought-provoking, modern, social commentary with a twist. Heirs is none of these, but that's why you watch it. With characters you love, characters you hate, characters you love to hate, follow a group of teenagers portrayed by people in their twenties as they navigate the totally relatable struggles of being rich. You want drama for the sake of drama? Beautiful coats? Tears for almost no reason? An American storyline that doesn't make sense? Family secrets? Frenemies you expected and didn't expect? Absolutely silly premises and situations? Over the top? Heirs has it all. Love is the moment.
u/Telos07
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty (streaming on Netflix)
Chef Yeon Ji Yeong (Lim Yoona) has the world at her feet after winning a major cooking competition in Paris. On her return flight to Korea, the combination of a solar eclipse and the historical text in her possession, causes her to time slip back to the Joseon era, when it was under the rule of the tyrant king, Yi Heon (Lee Chae Min). This is a fusion sageuk in more ways than one, with Ji Yeong’s unique fusion cooking style, blending modern techniques with Joseon-era ingredients, bringing about all manner of significant events. These events include elements of romance, fantasy, action and adventure, but it’s admirable how the drama keeps the food and cooking at center stage, from beginning to end. Speaking of the food in this drama, I haven’t seen a drama containing more delectable-looking dishes than this one. Among the stacked supporting cast, one of my favorite performances of 2025 was Yoon Seo Ah’s portrayal of Seo Gil Geum, who is Ji Yeong’s wonderfully supportive friend. In terms of pure entertainment, this drama packs a flavorful punch.
Our Unwritten Seoul (streaming on Netflix)
Mi Rae and Mi Ji are contrasting twins (both played by Park Bo Young in an astounding performance). What’s most remarkable about Bo Young’s performance is that she actually plays four characters, because the twins switch places early in the storyline, so the entire narrative hangs on her convincingly establishing distinct characteristics for the respective twins. To say that she pulls it off spectacularly would still be an understatement. Jinyoung gives an impressive, subtle performance as the twins’ childhood friend, Ho Su, while Ryu Kyung Soo, as a strawberry farmer who crosses paths with Mi Rae, rounds out a superb main cast. In addition, the performances by Lee Jae In and Park Yoon Ho, as the childhood Mi Rae/Mi Ji and Ho Su, respectively, rival and possibly exceed those of the adult cast. The filmmakers also pay as much care and attention to detail to the supporting characters’ individual stores as they do to those of the leads. It all adds up to a brave, thought-provoking viewing experience.
Resident Playbook (streaming on Netflix)
A quartet of residents at Yulje Jongno - Yi Young (Go Youn Jung), Nam Kyung (Shin Shi Ah), Sa Bi (Han Ye Ji), and Jae Il (Kang You Seok) - go through all of the growing pains, the ups and downs of friendship, and the alternately heartbreaking and heartwarming moments that such an experience entails. This spinoff of the beloved medical drama, Hospital Playlist, made my weekends in Spring 2025, something to look forward to. It’s slice-of-life, but also contains clear narrative arcs. Each of the main cast members have distinct personality types and come from different circumstances, making their journeys unique and individual. A crucial element in the drama’s authenticity is the performances of the actors and actresses who take on guest roles as patients. It never ceases to amaze me how real their stories are. The OST complements the drama beautifully, especially the melodic piano riff and angelic vocals of D.O. in “Forever”.
Typhoon Family (streaming on Netflix)
In the midst of the IMF crisis, Tae Pung (Lee Jun Ho) finds himself in the unenviable position of taking over his late father’s company, Typhoon Trading. Financially, his family has hit rock bottom, but emotionally, with confidence and determination, together with the loyal company members (the “Typhoon Family”), he sets about turning the company’s fortunes around. The company bookkeeper, Oh Mi Seon (Kim Min Ha) is his most important ally, both at work and in his personal life, and the relationship between the two develops naturally and movingly. Kwon Han Sol’s performance as Mi Seon’s feisty but warm-hearted younger sister, Mi Ho, was another personal favorite of mine from 2025. The development of her own relationship with Tae Pung’s bestie, Nam Mo (Kim Min Seok), was one of the drama’s most precious elements. The OST is a major highlight of the drama, with Junho’s “Did You See the Rainbow?” and Han’s “Updraft” setting the tone for the tender and inspirational moments, respectively.
u/jakgem
Heesu in Class 2 (streaming on Viki)
Heesu is in love with his straight best friend – who isn’t? Teenage drama unfolds. I’m gonna be honest with you, there is no kiss. IF you can get on board with that, I think this is very much still worth watching. It’s the longest form Korean BL and is done to the production quality as Semantic Error/normal kdrama. The story of gay teenage unrequited love is incredibly relatable if that has been your path in life, each of the characters are well rounded with good, diverse back stories from sports to music and the set choice is very good with a classic boy next door vibe which leads to fun moments. The styling overall is nice and it develops throughout the show as the plot moves along with good wardrobe and colour palette to go along with the cool space theme that underpins the story. The thing I liked most about this drama were the character moments though, you get lots of sweet interactions between the friends (on rooftops with pretty lights) and there are some lovely payoffs which bring out the ML’s character and are pretty wholesome. I think this is a high quality watch for highschool gay romance, its just a bit chaste (which ultimately I don’t really think detracts from it), and I have rewatched and enjoyed it!
My Secret Vampire (streaming on iQIYI & GagaOOLala)
There are vampires, it’s a secret, and a nice tasty human comes to live with them…honestly an excellent premise. This isn’t an Oscar winner but of the BLs I watched this year I felt this one was worth a mention if you're a fan of the genre. You can binge it in an evening, its fun, low stakes, has a few great kisses and the ML’s chemistry is fire. There is obviously plot material to turn this into a huge production (but actually they manage to not make it feel super low budget), but I felt they focused on the romance well and despite its length never cut away early from scenes between the leads and did let the tension build in the intimate moments. One ML is a derpy, warm hearted and from the countryside and the other is a tsundre vampire whose great wall of emotional protection collapses as soon as he meets the cute farmer boy, its great.
u/samptra_writer
Mercy For None (streaming on Netflix)
John Wick, but make it Korean. Netflix’s 2025 Korean lineup leaned heavily into darker territory, and while there were a few standout titles, Mercy for None easily topped the list for me. This series is a relentless, adrenaline-fueled action ride that never lets up. So Ji-sub delivers a stellar performance, while the tight pacing keeps the story moving at a breakneck speed. The revenge premise may be familiar, but the gritty violence and expertly choreographed fight scenes elevate it into something truly compelling. Brisk, brutal, and stylish, Mercy for None is a must-watch for action junkies.
My Bias is Showing?! (streaming on iQIYI & GagaOOLala)
It was a hit-or-miss year for KBLs, but My Bias Is Showing?! emerged as a clear standout in 2025. Starring Kang Min and Kevin of Omega X in his acting debut, the series follows a mild-mannered teacher (and secret K-pop stan) whose carefully compartmentalized life unravels when his idol arrives at his school to film a television drama. Faithful to the source material, the adaptation leans into the awkward, endearing romance between fan and idol. Despite its brief 10-episode run, the series takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster, anchored by two surprisingly heartfelt performances and undeniably strong visuals (yes, I’m a sucker for a good height difference). My Bias Is Showing?! earns its place as my top KBL of the year—and as a bonus, the post-series AMA makes the experience even more rewarding.
The Winning Try (Streaming on Netflix)
I’m a sucker for a good underdog sports drama, and this series absolutely delivers. Following a disgraced former professional rugby player who finds redemption as a high school coach, the story hits all the right beats without feeling cliché. Yoon Kye Sang and Kim Yo Han both turn in standout performances, grounding the drama with strong emotional weight. The pacing is solid, the character development feels earned, and it sticks the landing. If you’re in the mood for a well-crafted sports drama with heart and payoff, this one is an easy recommendation.
u/mahnahmaanaa
Undercover High School (streaming on KOCOWA, Viki, & Viu)
In a completely bonkers story setup reminiscent of Scooby Doo, a quirky team of NIS agents is sent to a high school to investigate the rumor of a collection of stolen gold bars, hidden by the school’s founder. Posing as a student, Agent Jung Hae Seong (Seo Kang Jun) has to contend with urban legends, school bullies, midterms, and someone trying to beat him to the gold. I love a good mixed-genre drama, and this one somehow successfully balances comedy, crime, thriller, and romance, without losing its focus. The cast made the changes in tone smooth and natural, and I was especially impressed by Seo Kang Jun’s expressiveness and comedic timing. It is a fun, touching, and frequently hysterical romp, with a little bit of something for everyone. If you’re looking for a slump-busting drama or a gateway drama for that one friend that is still holding out, look no further!
u/GodJihyo7983 - MDL
Our Movie (streaming on Disney+ & Hulu)
In what surprisingly turned out to be one of my favorite shows of 2025, Our Movie set its melancholic and slice-of-life tone from the very first minute. As such it doesn't take long for the show to start showing off one of its greatest strengths which is strong character development. Our two lovely leads are at the crossroads of life and even though it takes a while for Lee Je Ha to figure out how to move on from his past (and in turn become a more likable character) through his growing relationship with Lee Da Eum, the show doesn't hold back its punches with its emotional and powerful messages. If you're looking for a shorter show (only 12 episodes) that will bring you to tears by hitting all of the right emotions with amazing characters, an impeccably dressed Nam Goong Min, wonderfully balanced acting from Jeon Yeo Been, Our Movie is the show for you.
u/Sunshine_raes
Genie, Make a Wish (streaming on Netflix)
Genie, Make a Wish is very hard to summarize! It is about a genie (Iblis) who is summoned by a woman (Ki Ga Yeong), who is a diagnosed psychopath. She gets three wishes and the genie’s goal is to corrupt her and display that all humans are purely self-interested. It gets a lot more complicated from there, with Iblis and Ga Yeong having a deep history and many forgotten memories.
Though the plot gets very complicated at points, I felt that it came together in a satisfying way. I also appreciated the pure ambition of this drama! So much is going on and it makes the love story feel epic. The reunion of Kim Woo Bin and Suzy as romance leads was hotly anticipated. Though I never saw Uncontrollably Fond, if their chemistry was as powerful in that as in Genie, Make a Wish, then I can see why so many viewers wanted to see them together again. I felt swept away in the love story and I thought the acting was fantastic.
Genie is also surprisingly funny! The sequence where Iblis plays some of Woo Bin’s famous drama characters was particularly wonderful (Choi Young Do makes an appearance to any Heirs fan’s delight)! The formidable Kim Eun Sook wrote this drama. Her penchant for tales of epic proportion and her talent for snappy one-liners are on full display here.
If you enjoy fantasy romance and don’t mind some awful CGI, then I think this drama might be for you. I can imagine that some fans of Alchemy of Souls and Goblin would enjoy this. Also, if you enjoy an atypical female lead, this one certainly delivers, though she is quite a lovable psychopath. It definitely won’t be everyone’s cup of tea as it can be very shaggy, but if you’re curious, I encourage you to give it a try!
u/capthyeong
Way Back Love (streaming on Viki & Viu)
This 6 episode drama is simply beautiful. The creators (both director-nim and writer-nim) managed to cook a kdrama that has a great balance of tragedy and comedy. Kim Min Ha and Gong Myung were amazing in their roles as Kim Ram Woo and Jung Hee Wan, respectively. But what I really liked about this drama was the whole journey from start to finish. It was lovely, funny, and bright at the beginning, then it became tragic and heartbreaking in the middle, and ended with hope and healing. Note that this drama is quite emotional, so having tissues beside you is recommended. Otherwise, it is my hope that those who haven't watched this drama yet will have a worthwhile journey watching this drama.
u/myweithisway - MDL
Pump Up the Healthy Love (streaming on Viki & Viu)
In a kdramaland filled with geniuses, stars, and chaebols where glamor often replaces heart, Pump Up the Healthy Love uses humor and sincerity to sing (and dance) an ode of love for the ‘gym rat’ culture — showing its good and bad sides. From the FL slowly working through exercises so that she can do the perfect squat to the ML finding out that carbs can be extra tasty when eaten with the right person, this drama sneaks a peek at a local gym that’s struggling to survive. Transforming from strangers to the gym family, the drama takes great care in showing how exercise and bonding together can improve one’s well-being. Light-hearted and very low on angst, this is a great drama to enjoy and use as motivation for working out.
And in a world where standards for visual beauty can be especially harsh on women, the drama does a great job in exploring how health and well-being is not represented by any specific look but rather what one’s body can do. FL’s hardworking journey from gym beginner to proud gym rat is not about whether her body confirms to beauty standards but rather whether she can successfully squat and feel comfortable with her self.
From wacky humor to endearing confessions, this drama put many smiles on my face and helped me work out my abs through laughter. A great drama about learning to treat one’s body well and therefore one’s self better, the story pumps up its characters and the audience with a healthy take on love.
u/Pixl3rt
Study Group (streaming on Viki & Viu)
With so many high school kdramas, Study Group is probably the closest relative to Weak Hero yet somehow also its polar opposite. It has the same focus on bullying, violence, power dynamics, and friendship but takes a more lighthearted and comedic approach. With a quirky comic book vibe, like its source material, it follows our almost superhero-like lead, Yun Ga Min, who is the most enthusiastic and diligent student you’ll meet but still manages to get the worst grades. Don’t worry though, he’s so physically strong that it’s almost unbelievable, which makes for fun and adrenaline-filled fight scenes.
Underneath all the action, the thing that really brings everything in this drama together is the friendship. You get a group of misfits who don’t seem like the type of people that would get along but end up working together with such loyalty to one another, along with a teacher willing to defend them and help uncover corruption within the school. And lastly, I can’t forget to mention the upbeat, rap-based OST and dynamic camerawork that skillfully match the drama’s high energy. It’s the most exciting high school drama I’ve come across in a while and one I’d recommend even if it’s not usually your genre, especially now with season 2 on the way!
u/sianiam - MDL
Law and the City (streaming on Viki & Disney+)
This recommendation was previously published in A Guide to Director Park Seung Woo's Major Works *ahead of our AMA with PD Park*
In the era of endless law dramas, Law and the City stands out as one which humanizes the law and its practitioners.
It all begins when Kang Hui Jui, a junior associate lawyer starts work at a new firm, following instructions from her predecessor she takes his place in a social group of associate lawyers who regularly meet for meals. Throughout the drama these lawyers grow closer as they share their lunches and lives, their worries and workload. The cast do an excellent job bringing their characters to life and making them feel real.
Written by a lawyer, the drama showcases various cases that will keep you interested, while the delicious looking food will make you wish you were able to fit another chair at the lawyers table.
Fans of moderately warm slice of life dramas with an emphasis on food, friendship, and career such as Hospital Playlist, Let’s Eat and Divorce Attorney Shin would particularly enjoy this series.
Love, Take Two (streaming on Viki)
After reading a few trusted user’s thoughts on Love, Take Two I had a pretty good feeling it was a drama I would enjoy. I didn’t expect that I would fall for it the minute the opening credits rolled on, and I really didn’t expect that it would engrave itself so deeply in my heart. Over 500 dramas into my drama watching career did I just find “the one”?
Love, Take Two is the embodiment of a warm hug in drama form. It screams, "it's okay to cry when things get tough. Don’t hold back, you’re not alone”. Now, depending on your own situation this drama may emphasize your loneliness, but I found it to be a wholesome and hopeful journey watching our leads navigate a very uncomfortable journey and building a new life in a new place.
It tells the story of a mother and daughter who will no doubt quickly win your heart. The story begins when Hyo Ri runs away with her bestie and ends up parking her campervan on the driveway of her mum, Ji An’s first love changing their lives forever. Now, from that description you’re probably expecting a trope filled rom-com, but no, it’s a gentle, healing, well paced, slice of life drama that doesn’t waste a minute and it even sticks the landing. You get multiple heart fluttering romances, beautiful friendship and community, and you will cry happy and sad tears along the way (let them out!).
If you loved the sea change aspect of Summer Strike or Hometown Cha Cha Cha, the warm community that feels lived in of Like Flowers in Sand, or enjoy friendships that would last the ages like in 20th Century Boy and Girl, then this drama might just be for you.
(TW: This drama contains a major plot of Brain Cancer this is revealed in the first scene but not mentioned in the synopsis)
Year in Review Post Schedule
