The 10 Highest-Rated K-Dramas of 2024: From ‘Queen of Tears’ to ‘Lovely Runner’, ‘Pyramid Game’ and More

2024 was a year full of unforgettable K-drama experiences. From heartwarming romances to thrilling crime thrillers, the Korean theater industry continued to captivate audiences around the world. With a wide range of genres and talented actors, there was something for everyone.

In this article, we take a look at the ten highest-rated K-dramas of 2024 as voted by fans on IMDb. These series showcased the best of Korean storytelling and left a lasting impression on viewers. Whether you’re a seasoned K-drama fan or new to the genre, this list is sure to introduce you to some must-watch shows.

1. Queen of Tears

Rating: 8.8

“Queen of Tears” features a captivating romance between elite characters portrayed by Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won. The narrative combines humor and heartfelt moments and shows the ups and downs of their relationship in a glamorous setting.

The series has become a cultural phenomenon, achieving record viewership and recognition for its compelling storyline and strong performances. It is hailed as one of the greatest K-dramas of all time and is well received by audiences around the world.

2. Nice runner

Rating: 8.5

“Lovely Runner” follows a passionate K-pop fan who embarks on a thrilling journey to save her idol from impending doom. Combining elements of suspense and heartfelt connection, this fantasy-romantic drama showcases the chemistry between lead actors Kim Hye-yoon and Byeon Woo-seok. Its unique premise and intriguing plot twists have garnered widespread attention, making it a surprise hit in 2024.

3. The Game of Death

Rating: 8.2

In Death’s Game, the protagonist faces a harrowing challenge in which he must die twelve times as punishment for his past actions.

This thrilling drama explores themes of identity and love amid thrilling twists and turns that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The series’ captivating narrative and well-developed characters have earned it wide praise from audiences.

4. A shop for killers

Rating: 8.1

A Shop For Killers, also known as The Killer’s Shopping Mall, delves into the dark underbelly of crime with its captivating storyline. The series is characterized by intense action sequences and unexpected plot developments, captivating viewers throughout its runtime. The cast’s strong performances further enhance this exciting drama and make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

5. Marry my husband

Rating: 7.9

Combining themes of revenge and romance, “Marry My Husband” is about a protagonist who seeks justice against those who have wronged him in life. The series combines emotional depth with exciting plot twists, making it both a captivating film and a commentary on love and betrayal. His unique narrative style was well received by audiences and contributed to its high rating.

6. Flex X Cop

Rating: 7.8

Flex The show masterfully blends humor with action and showcases character development as the protagonist overcomes challenges within the police force while building relationships with colleagues.

7. Wonderful world

Rating: 7.7

Wonderful World offers a fascinating exploration of human emotions through its diverse characters who face personal struggles and societal challenges. The series combines drama with moments of levity, creating a balanced viewing experience that will resonate with many viewers looking for a heartfelt story.

8. Pyramid game

Rating: 7.6

Pyramid Game takes place in a high-risk school environment where popularity can mean the difference between life and death for students. The series tackles serious topics such as bullying while delivering an intense narrative full of suspense and social commentary, drawing comparisons to other popular thrillers such as Squid Game.

9. Gyeongseong Creature

Rating: 7.3

Set against a backdrop of historical turmoil, “Gyeongseong Creature” combines horror elements with profound storytelling as characters fight for survival amidst monstrous threats. This K-drama captivates viewers by combining historical context with supernatural elements, creating a compelling narrative that captivates audiences.

10. Parasyte: The Gray One

Rating: 7.1

Parasyte: The Gray explores themes of survival and humanity in its captivating storyline featuring parasitic creatures that threaten society. The series has been praised for its unique premise and thought-provoking commentary on human nature, making it an intriguing addition to the K-drama landscape in 2024

READ ALSO: 7 Exciting K-Drama Releases in the Last Quarter of 2024: Lee Jung Jae’s Squid Game 2, Gong Yoo-Seo Ji Hye’s The Trunk, and More