Cream of the crop
The shows I rated between 9 and 10 (according to my rating system) and that I consider to be the best of the best. It's a mix of genres so you're bound to find something you'll like here. This list is not ranked. All entries are subject to change.
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1. Alias: Healer
Korean Drama - 2014, 20 episodes
Probably Ji Chang Wook's best work, where he plays a reporter-by-day/hero-by-night type character alongside the gorgeous Park Min Young's Lois Lane.
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2. Aterizare Forțată în Brațele Tale
Korean Drama - 2019, 16 episodes
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3. Circle
Korean Drama - 2017, 12 episodes
A science fiction detective story that proves at least some kdrama writers get what science fiction is all about.
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4. Daebak Real Estate
Korean Drama - 2021, 16 episodes
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5. Encounter
Korean Drama - 2018, 16 episodes
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6. Fights Break Sphere: Season 1
Chinese Drama - 2018, 45 episodes
Not as faithful an adaptation of the original webnovel as the (superior) animated series but an entertaining show on its own that echoes Harry Potter at times. Leo Wu's and Baron Chen's master-student relationship is definitely a highlight.
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7. Go Back Couple
Korean Drama - 2017, 12 episodes
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8. Goblin
Korean Drama - 2016, 16 episodes
Without a doubt writer Kim Eun Sook's best work and my favourite fantasy drama after Hotel del Luna. Perfect balance of romance, comedy and drama, complemented by a solid script and a great soundtrack.
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9. Handmade Love
Korean Special - 2020, 8 episodes
A short web drama that puts many standard-length kdramas to shame. Lee Soo Hyuk is great as the god Woven and has very good chemistry with Lee Su Ji's Sa Rang (hehe) and Park Seung Ji's Joey. I truly hope they come back for a second season.
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10. Hospital Playlist
Korean Drama - 2020, 12 episodes
The best slice-of-life medical-themed kdrama you'll find.
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11. Hotel del Luna
Korean Drama - 2019, 16 episodes
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12. Încă o Dată
Korean Drama - 2016, 8 episodes
Korea does Groundhog Day and even provides a good explanation for it, delving into the backgrounds of both main leads. Solid acting from Kim Myung Soo and Yoon So Hee in a well-executed storyline that wastes no time and has a really great soundtrack.
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13. Joy of Life
Chinese Drama - 2019, 46 episodes
Game of Thrones? Pft! Watch this show instead! An (over)indulgence of clever characters and cunning agendas that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Stay tuned for Season 2!
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14. Lies of Lies
Korean Drama - 2020, 16 episodes
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15. Meet Yourself
Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes
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16. Mr. Queen: The Bamboo Forest
Korean Special - 2021, 2 episodes
Mr Queen is a highly entertaining kdrama, in no small part thanks to Shin Hye Sun's amazing performance, and I thoroughly recommend it, but The Bamboo Forest gave us the better ending.
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17. O Noapte de Primăvară
Korean Drama - 2019, 32 episodes
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18. Perfect Marriage Revenge
Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes
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19. Shooting Star
Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes
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20. The Imperial Coroner
Chinese Drama - 2021, 36 episodes
Smart protagonists and antagonists? Tang Dynasty Sherlock and Watson are joined by a solid ensemble cast as they solve cases and unmask a conspiracy. I hope this isn't the last we see of them.
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21. Viața Ei Privată
Korean Drama - 2019, 16 episodes
This list wouldn't be complete with at least one romcom from romcom queen Park Min Young. Her Private Life made the cut for its overall quality and all-around great male lead.
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22. When the Weather Is Fine
Korean Drama - 2020, 16 episodes
A slow burner romance with Park Min Young and Seo Kang Joon that takes place in a small town in the countryside. Perfect drama to watch during winter season. Just grab yourself a hot cup of coffee and join the town's cozy book club.
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23. While You Were Sleeping
Korean Drama - 2017, 32 episodes
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24. Wu Fa Lian Ai De Li Zhi Pai
Chinese Drama - 2021, 35 episodes
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25. You Are My Glory
Chinese Drama - 2021, 32 episodes