K-dramas in 2025 offer a thrilling mix of genres, from time-traveling adventures to intense courtroom dramas. Here are nine exciting series that promise to captivate audiences.
Time-Traveling Escapades
"Bon Appétit, Your Majesty" features Girls' Generation's Yoona as Yeon Jiyoung, a French-trained chef who unexpectedly time-travels to the Joseon era. After winning a major culinary competition, she finds herself in the royal kitchen, cooking for King Lee Heon, a food-obsessed tyrant played by Lee Chae Min. This fantasy rom-com combines mouth-watering meals with palace intrigue and time-travel hijinks. The series explores whether modern gastronomy can win over ancient royalty.
"The First Night with the Duke" tells the story of an ordinary college student who is transported into a minor character in her favorite romance novel set in historical times. Throughout the series, she attempts to steer the novel's plot back on track.
Legal Dramas and Courtroom Chaos
For those who enjoy legal dramas, "Beyond the Bar" offers a grounded exploration of ambition and mentorship at a top law firm. The series follows rookie lawyer Kang Hyomin as she navigates complex cases and office politics under the guidance of her cold, demanding mentor, Seok Hoon, played by Lee Jinwook. The drama explores what justice truly means as she clashes with her mentor while developing into a confident attorney.
"Law and The City" follows the lives of five associate attorneys as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of their daily lives in the bustling legal district of Seocho. Expect sharp courtroom scenes and touching friendships.
Thrillers and Action
"Mary Kills People" is a remake of the Canadian series of the same name, starring Lee Bo-young as Woo Sojung, an ER doctor who secretly assists terminally ill patients in ending their lives through euthanasia. As her secret operation grows, the risk of discovery intensifies.
"Mercy For None" is an action noir K-drama series that follows Nam Ki-jun, a former gang member who returns to his gang to take revenge on those responsible for his brother's death. Themes of revenge, betrayal, and loss are central to the series.
"Twelve" is an action fantasy series that features celestial warriors who embody the Zodiac spirits and live hidden among humans. They are called upon to protect the world from ancient evil spirits. The series stars Ma Dong-seok, Seo In-guk, and Park Hyung-sik.
Romantic and Heartwarming Stories
"When Life Gives You Tangerines" is a heartwarming romantic drama starring IU and Park Bo-gum. The series revolves around their characters, Ae Soon and Gwen Sik, who meet under unusual circumstances and discover the power of love and resilience. The drama chronicles their relationship over four seasons in 1950s Jeju Island.
"Love, Take Two" begins airing on August 4 and stars Yum Jung Ah as Lee Jian, a 43-year-old single mother who reconnects with her first love as her medical student daughter begins rebelling. The story explores second chances, family struggles, and the emotional ties that link two generations.
These nine K-dramas showcase the wide range of genres and compelling narratives that continue to make Korean dramas popular worldwide. Whether you're in the mood for time-travel adventures, legal intrigue, thrilling action, or heartwarming romance, there's a K-drama to suit every taste.
