Korean Drama Watchlists
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Historical K-dramas
If you are more interested in historical accuracy than the typical romance-driven sageuk, this list is a good place to start. These dramas come from South Korea’s public broadcaster, KBS, which is known for producing large-scale historical series centered on real rulers, scholars, military leaders, and major historical events. While they are still dramatized for television, they generally place more emphasis on historical figures, political conflicts, and recorded events than the more stylized “fusion sageuk” dramas many viewers know today. More information on each drama can be found on the KBS website.
Looking for more romance, palace intrigue, and fantasy? Check out our curated Best Sageuk K-Dramas watchlist, featuring some of our favorite Korean historical dramas for every type of viewer.
Korea-Khitan War (2023)
Cast: Kim Dong-Joon, Choi Soo-Jong, Ji Seung-Hyun, Lee Won-Jong
The King of Tears, Lee Bangwon (2021)
Cast: Joo Sang-Wook, Kim Yeong-Cheol, Park Jin-Hui, Ye Ji-Won
Jang Youngsil (2016)
Cast: Song Ilguk, Kim Sangkyeong, Park Seonyeong, Kim Yeongcheol
The Jingbirok: A Memoir of Imjin War (2015)
Cast: Kim Sang-joong, Kim Tae-woo, Lim Dong-jin, Lee Jae-yong
Jeong DoJeon (2014)
Cast: Jo Jae Hyun, Yoo Dong Geun, Lee Ah Hyun, Suh In Suk, Park Yo..
Dream of the Emperor (2012)
Cast: Choi Su-jong, Kim Yoo-suk, Park Ju-mi
Gwanggaeto, The Great Conqueror (2011)
Cast: Lee Tae-gon, Jang Sin-yeong
A Pioneer, Lee Je Ma (2002)
Cast: Choi Su-jong, Yu ho-jeong, Kim Yoo-mi
West Palace (1995)
Cast: Lee Yeong-ae, Kim Gyu-cheol, Lee Bo-hee, Kim Bo-seong
Jang Hee-bin (2003)
Cast: Jeon Guang-ryeol, Kim Hye-soo, Park Seon-yeong, Park Ye-jin
Emperor of the Sea (2005)
Cast: Choi Su-jong, Song Il-guk, Chae Si-ra, Su-ae
Immortal Admiral Yi Sun Shin (2005)
Cast: Kim Myung-min, Lee Jae-ryong, Choi Cheol-ho, Choi Jae-seong
The Iron Empress (2009)
Cast: Chae Si-ra, Lee Deok-hwa, Choi Jae-seong, Kim Seok-hoon
The King Dae Joyoung (2007)
Cast: Choi Su-jong, Lee Deok-hwa, Cheong Bo-seok
The Great King Sejong (2008)
Cast: Kim Sang-gyeong, Kim Yeong-cheol, Park Sang-min, Choi Myeong..
The King of Legend (2010)
Cast: Gam Woo-seong, Kim Ji-su, Lee Jong-won, Ahn Jae-mo
The Great Merchant (2010)
Cast: Lee Mi-yeon, Han Jae-seok, Park Sol-mi
The Reputable Family (2009)
Cast: Cha In-pyo, Han Go-eun, Kim Seong-min