In 2020, the Korean drama industry continued to captivate audiences both domestically and internationally with a wide array of compelling series. These dramas, ranging from heartfelt romances to intense thrillers, not only won hearts but also achieved remarkable viewing rates. Here’s a look at some of the top-ranking Korean dramas of 2020, celebrated for their storytelling, performances, and, notably, their impressive viewership ratings. This ranking highlights the dramas that stood out in a year filled with high-quality productions, setting new benchmarks for popularity and audience engagement.
1. The World of the Married – JTBC, Peak Viewership Rating: 28.4%
“The World of the Married” has emerged as a groundbreaking Korean drama, achieving remarkable success in terms of viewership and cultural impact. This series has not only captivated audiences with its enthralling narrative but also set new standards in the Korean television industry.
Viewing Rate
The series achieved unprecedented success in ratings, consistently breaking records. It became the highest-rated drama in Korean cable TV history, with ratings peaking at an astonishing 28.4%. This feat was indicative of the show’s gripping storyline and its widespread appeal across diverse audience demographics. The drama’s ability to maintain and increase its viewership over its run is a testament to its compelling content and production quality.
Cast
The series boasts a stellar cast, led by the talented Kim Hee-ae, who plays Ji Sun-woo, and Park Hae-joon, who portrays her husband, Lee Tae-oh. Their performances, characterized by intense emotion and depth, have been widely praised for bringing the complex characters to life. The supporting cast, including Han So-hee, Park Sun-young, and Kim Young-min, also contributed significantly to the drama’s success, delivering powerful performances that resonated with the audience.
Plot
The plot of “The World of the Married” revolves around the themes of marriage, infidelity, and revenge. It tells the story of Ji Sun-woo, a successful doctor who seems to have a perfect life until she discovers her husband’s affair. The series then unfolds into a gripping tale of betrayal, emotional turmoil, and the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones. The realistic portrayal of relationships and moral dilemmas faced by the characters adds depth to the narrative, making it not just entertaining but also thought-provoking.
2. Dr. Romantic 2 – SBS, Peak Viewership Rating: 27.1%
“Dr. Romantic 2,” the sequel to the highly acclaimed Korean medical drama “Dr. Romantic,” has garnered significant attention and praise for its engaging narrative, strong performances, and realistic depiction of hospital life.
Viewing Rate
“Dr. Romantic 2” achieved impressive viewership ratings, marking it as one of the most successful Korean dramas of 2020. The series not only maintained the high standards set by its predecessor but surpassed them, recording peak ratings of 27.1%. These numbers reflect the drama’s wide appeal and the strong connection it established with its audience.
Cast
The drama features a mix of returning and new cast members, blending experience with fresh talent. Han Suk-kyu reprises his role as the brilliant but eccentric surgeon, Dr. Kim Sa-bu (Dr. Romantic), anchoring the show with his powerful performance. The cast also includes Ahn Hyo-seop and Lee Sung-kyung, who bring new dynamics and perspectives to the series. Their performances, along with the supporting cast, contribute to the drama’s depth and authenticity, making the characters relatable and the medical scenarios convincing.
Plot
Set in a small, humble hospital called Doldam Hospital, “Dr. Romantic 2” continues to explore the challenges and realities of the medical profession. The series delves into the personal and professional growth of young doctors, as they navigate through the complexities of healthcare under the guidance of Dr. Kim Sa-bu. The drama skillfully combines elements of romance, drama, and ethical dilemmas, presenting a multifaceted view of the medical world. It tackles various medical cases, each bringing a new challenge and learning experience for the characters, thereby keeping the audience engaged and emotionally invested.
3. The Penthouse – SBS, Peak Viewership Rating: 23.3%
“The Penthouse” is a riveting South Korean television series that has captivated audiences with its dramatic portrayal of ambition, revenge, and betrayal among the elite in society.
Viewing Rate
“The Penthouse” achieved extraordinary success in terms of viewership, becoming one of the most talked-about K-dramas. Its intense storyline and cliffhangers led to consistently high ratings, with the series often dominating its time slot. The show’s popularity persisted throughout its run, demonstrating its ability to engage and retain a large audience.
Cast
The series boasts an ensemble cast, with each actor delivering compelling performances that add depth to their complex characters. Key cast members include Lee Ji-ah as Shim Su-ryeon, a woman with a tragic past and a thirst for revenge; Uhm Ki-joon as Joo Dan-tae, a successful yet ruthless businessman; and Kim So-yeon as Cheon Seo-jin, an ambitious woman driven by her desire for status and power. The dynamic interactions among these characters form the crux of the drama’s gripping narrative.
Plot
Set in the luxurious Hera Palace, “The Penthouse” revolves around the lives of wealthy families and their intricate relationships. The story unfolds layers of secrets, lies, and scandals, revealing the dark side of high society. The drama masterfully depicts the lengths to which people will go to secure their position and protect their secrets. It is a tale of power struggles, revenge, and the extreme measures people take in pursuit of ambition.
4. Crash Landing on You – tvN, Peak Viewership Rating: 21.7%
“Crash Landing on You” is a South Korean drama that captivated a global audience with its unique storyline, combining romance, comedy, and drama against the backdrop of the North-South Korean divide.
Viewing Rate
“Crash Landing on You” achieved remarkable viewership ratings, both domestically and internationally. It became one of the highest-rated tvN dramas in South Korean cable television history. Its popularity soared not just in Korea but also across various streaming platforms globally, where it was well-received for its engaging narrative and production quality.
Cast
The series features a star-studded cast that played a significant role in its success. Hyun Bin stars as Ri Jeong-hyeok, a North Korean army officer, and Son Ye-jin plays Yoon Se-ri, a South Korean chaebol heiress. Their on-screen chemistry was a major highlight of the show, garnering widespread praise. The supporting cast, including Seo Ji-hye and Kim Jung-hyun, also delivered strong performances, adding richness to the story.
Plot
The plot of “Crash Landing on You” revolves around Yoon Se-ri, who accidentally paraglides into North Korean territory and meets Ri Jeong-hyeok. The series then unfolds into a heartwarming and often humorous story of love and compassion across the divide. It explores themes of forbidden love, cultural differences, and the lingering tensions between North and South Korea. The drama also provides glimpses into North Korean life, adding an element of intrigue and authenticity to the narrative.
5. Stove League – SBS, Peak Viewership Rating: 19.1%
“Stove League” is a South Korean television drama that garnered significant acclaim for its unique storyline centered around the world of professional baseball. The series is notable for its insightful look into sports management and the behind-the-scenes dynamics of a baseball team.
Viewing Rate
“Stove League” achieved impressive viewership ratings, marking a new high for sports-themed Korean dramas. It consistently ranked high during its broadcast period, culminating in peak ratings that reflect its broad appeal. The drama’s success is attributed to its engaging narrative and the way it captivated audiences with a fresh perspective on sports dramas.
Cast
The drama features a strong cast, led by Namgoong Min, who plays Baek Seung-soo, the newly appointed general manager of the fictional baseball team Dreams. His portrayal of a calm, strategic, yet passionate leader won widespread praise. Park Eun-bin, as Lee Se-young, the operations manager, and Jo Byeong-gyu, as Han Jae-hee, a young pitcher, also delivered noteworthy performances. The chemistry among the cast members and their portrayal of complex characters added depth to the series.
Plot
“Stove League” revolves around the underperforming baseball team Dreams and their journey under the guidance of Baek Seung-soo. The story focuses on the team’s struggles and the efforts to turn their fortunes around. Unlike typical sports dramas that focus on the game itself, “Stove League” delves into team management, strategy, and the challenges faced by those running the team. It offers a realistic and compelling look at the world of sports management, making it relatable not only to baseball fans but to a wider audience.
6. Itaewon Class – JTBC, Peak Viewership Rating: 16.5%
“Itaewon Class” is a South Korean television series that resonated deeply with viewers for its unique storyline, rich character development, and its portrayal of societal issues. Based on a webtoon of the same name, it stands out as a drama that combines personal revenge, business rivalry, and social commentary.
Viewing Rate
“Itaewon Class” enjoyed significant viewership, both domestically and internationally, making it one of the most successful K-dramas of 2020. Its popularity was reflected in consistently high ratings throughout its run. The show gained a substantial following for its unconventional narrative and dynamic storytelling, which appealed to a diverse audience.
Cast
The series is led by Park Seo-joon, who plays Park Sae-ro-yi, an ex-convict turned restaurateur. His powerful performance as a principled and determined character earned him widespread acclaim. Kim Da-mi stars as Jo Yi-seo, a highly intelligent but sociopathic character, whose complex relationship with Park Sae-ro-yi is central to the plot. The supporting cast, including Yoo Jae-myung and Kwon Nara, also delivered compelling performances, adding to the drama’s depth.
Plot
“Itaewon Class” follows the story of Park Sae-ro-yi, who sets out to build a restaurant business in the competitive neighborhood of Itaewon after facing personal tragedies and injustices. The drama explores themes of revenge, ambition, and the challenges of young entrepreneurs. It also tackles various social issues such as class disparity, racism, and transgender rights, making it socially relevant and thought-provoking. The series stands out for its portrayal of resilience and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.
7. Hyena – SBS, Peak Viewership Rating: 14.6%
“Hyena” is a South Korean legal drama that gained attention for its sharp narrative and dynamic portrayal of lawyers who cater to the elite of society. Known for its intense and fast-paced storyline, it delves into the competitive world of high-stakes law and the moral ambiguities that come with it.
Viewing Rate
“Hyena” enjoyed considerable viewership, reflecting its popularity among audiences seeking a sophisticated and gritty drama. The show’s ratings were consistently strong, a testament to its compelling content and the way it captivated viewers with its portrayal of the legal world and its complexities.
Cast
The series features Kim Hye-soo as Jung Geum-ja and Ju Ji-hoon as Yoon Hee-jae, two fiercely competitive lawyers who often cross paths and ideologies. Kim Hye-soo’s portrayal of a lawyer who uses any means necessary to win her cases was particularly praised for its intensity and depth. Ju Ji-hoon, as a talented but somewhat naive lawyer, provided a perfect counterbalance. The chemistry between the lead actors, along with strong performances from the supporting cast, added layers to the drama’s engaging narrative.
Plot
“Hyena” focuses on the lives and battles of lawyers who represent the top 1% of society. The drama explores their cutthroat tactics, personal ambitions, and the ethical dilemmas they face. It paints a picture of a legal world where the line between right and wrong is often blurred, and justice can be a complex concept. The series is notable for its critical look at social inequality and corruption, presented through gripping legal cases and personal stories of the characters.
8. Hospital Playlist – tvN, Peak Viewership Rating: 14.1%
“Hospital Playlist” is a beloved South Korean television series that has captured the hearts of viewers with its heartwarming portrayal of the lives of doctors and nurses. This medical drama is known for its unique blend of humor, emotion, and the day-to-day experiences of healthcare professionals.
Viewing Rate
“Hospital Playlist” achieved impressive viewership ratings, both within South Korea and internationally. Its success can be attributed to its relatable portrayal of the medical profession and the strong bonds of friendship and love. The series was particularly praised for its realistic and empathetic depiction of hospital life, which resonated with a wide audience.
Cast
The drama features an ensemble cast of Jo Jung-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok, Jung Kyung-ho, Kim Dae-myung, and Jeon Mi-do, who play five doctors who have been friends since medical school. Each character is distinct and well-developed, contributing to the series’ warmth and depth. The chemistry among the cast members is one of the show’s highlights, depicting the strength and comfort of long-standing friendships.
Plot
Set in Yulje Medical Center, “Hospital Playlist” revolves around the lives of five doctors and their journey through the challenges and joys of working in a hospital. The series explores various aspects of their personal and professional lives, including their interactions with patients, their individual struggles, and their strong bond with each other. Unlike many medical dramas that focus on high-intensity medical cases, “Hospital Playlist” is more about the everyday life in a hospital, infused with humor, warmth, and the little moments that make life meaningful.
9. Good Casting – SBS, Peak Viewership Rating: 12.3%
“Good Casting” is a South Korean television series that combines elements of action, comedy, and espionage in a refreshing and entertaining way. The drama gained attention for its unique concept and engaging narrative that revolves around a team of female secret agents.
Viewing Rate
“Good Casting” garnered considerable viewership, reflecting its popularity for delivering a mix of genres effectively. The series maintained steady ratings throughout its run, appealing to audiences with its blend of humor, action-packed sequences, and compelling storyline.
Cast
The drama features an impressive ensemble cast, with Choi Kang-hee, Yoo In-young, and Kim Ji-young playing the lead roles as secret agents. Each character brings their unique skill set and personality to the team, creating an interesting dynamic. Their performances, coupled with a strong supporting cast, add depth to the drama’s entertaining and often comedic narrative.
Plot
“Good Casting” follows the story of three female National Intelligence Service (NIS) agents who are brought back into the field for an undercover mission. The mission involves infiltrating a conglomerate to uncover corruption and industrial espionage. The series stands out for its portrayal of strong and capable female leads, a deviation from the typical male-dominated espionage genre. It skillfully balances the elements of action and comedy, while also delving into the personal lives and challenges faced by the agents.
10. Mr. Queen – tvN, Peak Viewership Rating: 11.8% (Rising in 2021)
“Mr. Queen” is a unique South Korean historical drama with a twist of fantasy and comedy, known for its humorous and unconventional storyline. The series garnered attention and praise for its creative plot, engaging performances, and its blend of historical and modern elements.
Viewing Rate
“Mr. Queen” achieved significant viewership ratings, reflecting its popularity among audiences seeking a light-hearted yet captivating historical drama. Its ratings were consistently strong, highlighting the drama’s appeal and its ability to engage a wide range of viewers with its unique concept and humorous approach.
Cast
Shin Hye-sun stars as Kim So-yong, the Queen in the Joseon era, with a modern-day chef’s spirit trapped inside her body. Kim Jung-hyun plays King Cheoljong, who appears to be a weak and ineffective king but harbors his own secrets. Their chemistry and the comedic timing of the cast, including the supporting characters, were key factors in the success of the drama. The performances were well-received for their ability to blend historical authenticity with modern humor.
Plot
The plot of “Mr. Queen” is centered around a modern-day chef who finds himself trapped in the body of a Queen in the Joseon dynasty. This leads to a series of comedic and dramatic events as he navigates life in the palace with the knowledge and sensibilities of a 21st-century individual. The show is notable for its humorous portrayal of historical figures and events, juxtaposed with modern-day attitudes and language. It cleverly combines elements of romance, drama, and comedy, while also touching on deeper themes of power, identity, and gender.
You may like 10 Best Korean Dramas in 2021
