Red Sleeve and 4 Other Most Captivating Historical K-Dramas to Binge
Palace intrigue, love triangles, and cold-blooded betrayals.
Historical dramas are a fascinating journey into the world of ancient times, palace intrigue and epic destinies. We have chosen five exciting Korean historical series that combine drama, romance, and rich culture.
1. Red Sleeve, 2021-2022
The drama is based on the life and love of real-life King Jeongjo and royal noblewoman Ui-bin Seong. Set in the Joseon Kingdom, Red Sleeve follows two members of the royal court.
Yi San, a righteous prince, plans to change the laws of the kingdom once he takes the throne from his cruel grandfather. He falls in love with a wise court lady and persuades her to become his concubine.
2. The King's Affection, 2021
The plot of this drama is based on an ancient Korean superstition – if a queen gives birth to twins, the entire dynasty will face great misfortune.
Therefore, The King's Affection begins with the ruler ordering the death of a baby girl who was born with the crown prince. But the mother could not allow this, so she hid the princess and raised her with the servants in secret from her husband.
Years later, the girl returns to the palace and becomes a servant. But when her twin brother dies, she must become a prince – dress as a man and be raised as a future king.
3. My Dearest, 2023
Unlike many dramas that focus on a prosperous period in Korean history, My Dearest is set during the turmoil caused by the Japanese invasion of Joseon.
The show tells the story of how even in the most difficult times, people laugh, fall in love, and continue to live their lives to the fullest. The main characters are played by Ahn Eun-jin and Namkoong Min, who are great at portraying strong-willed characters who go through hardships together.
4. Empress Ki, 2013-2014
The viewer will be captivated by the main character's journey from an ordinary Korean woman to a powerful empress of the Chinese Yuan Dynasty. Ki Seung-nyang rises to power even though she does not come from the upper class.
The drama has more than one love triangle – Ki fights with a rival for the emperor's heart, while two rulers fight for her own affection. And all of this is supported by a gripping political drama.
5. Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung, 2019
This show is a great choice for those who are new to Korean historical dramas, especially for K-pop fans, as it stars the famous Korean singer Cha Eun-woo, who is also a member of the group Astro.
The story is set in the early 19th century. The main character, Goo Hae-ryung, dreams of becoming a historian, but faces public condemnation because she is a woman.
Despite the reproaches of those around her, she persistently pursues her goal. Hae-ryung meets Prince Yi Rim and their love story begins.