Best Korean Dramas: 2016-2019 You Need To Watch!
Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the amazing world of Korean dramas? From 2016 to 2019, we've seen some seriously unforgettable shows that have captured hearts worldwide. So, grab your snacks, get comfy, and let's explore the best Korean dramas from those golden years! I will give you the list of the best Korean Dramas from 2016 to 2019, including: Goblin, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo, Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, Mr. Sunshine, and Hotel del Luna.
Goblin (2016-2017)
Goblin, also known as Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, is not just a drama; it's a cultural phenomenon. This series blends fantasy, romance, and a touch of comedy into a mesmerizing story that will keep you hooked from the first episode. The drama revolves around Kim Shin, an immortal goblin who seeks to end his immortality by finding his bride. His life intertwines with Ji Eun-tak, a cheerful high school student who can see ghosts and is destined to be the goblin's bride. The storyline is enriched by the bromance between the goblin and the Grim Reaper, creating hilarious and heartwarming moments that add depth to the series.
One of the reasons Goblin stands out is its stunning cinematography. Each scene is visually breathtaking, from the snow-covered landscapes of Canada to the traditional Korean settings. The drama’s use of color, light, and composition elevates the storytelling, making every episode a visual treat. The production quality is top-notch, with meticulous attention to detail that enhances the overall viewing experience. The original soundtrack (OST) of Goblin is another masterpiece. The songs perfectly capture the emotions of the scenes, amplifying the impact of key moments. Tracks like "Stay With Me" by Chanyeol and Punch, and "Beautiful" by Crush, became instant hits and are still loved by fans today. The music is so integral to the drama that it almost acts as another character, enhancing the emotional resonance of the story.
The performances in Goblin are exceptional, with the cast delivering unforgettable portrayals of their characters. Gong Yoo’s portrayal of the lonely and powerful goblin is both captivating and nuanced. Kim Go-eun shines as Ji Eun-tak, bringing a perfect blend of innocence and strength to her character. The chemistry between Gong Yoo and Kim Go-eun is electric, making their romance believable and deeply moving. Lee Dong-wook as the Grim Reaper and Yoo In-na as Sunny provide fantastic support, adding layers of complexity and humor to the series. Goblin is more than just a drama; it's an experience. Its perfect blend of fantasy, romance, and comedy, combined with stunning visuals and an unforgettable soundtrack, makes it a must-watch. Whether you're a long-time K-drama fan or new to the genre, Goblin will leave a lasting impression and set a high bar for what a K-drama can achieve.
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo (2016-2017)
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo is a delightful coming-of-age story that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside. Set in a sports university, the drama follows Kim Bok Joo, a talented weightlifter, as she navigates the challenges of love, friendship, and pursuing her dreams. Unlike typical romantic dramas, this series focuses on the everyday lives of young athletes, making it incredibly relatable and charming. The story begins with Bok Joo, who has dedicated her life to weightlifting, discovering her feelings for a swimmer named Jung Joon-hyung. As she tries to balance her training with her newfound crush, she learns valuable lessons about herself and what she truly wants in life. The drama beautifully portrays the struggles and triumphs of young athletes striving for success while dealing with the ups and downs of young love.
What makes Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo so special is its authenticity. The characters feel real, and their struggles are relatable. The drama doesn’t rely on over-the-top dramatic events; instead, it focuses on the small, everyday moments that make life meaningful. The friendships between the weightlifters are heartwarming, and the camaraderie among the athletes adds depth to the story. The romance between Kim Bok Joo and Jung Joon-hyung is sweet and genuine. Their relationship develops naturally, and their interactions are filled with adorable moments that will make you smile. The drama avoids common K-drama tropes, offering a refreshing and realistic portrayal of young love.
The performances in Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo are outstanding, with the cast bringing their characters to life with sincerity and charm. Lee Sung-kyung shines as Kim Bok Joo, perfectly capturing her character’s strength, vulnerability, and determination. Nam Joo-hyuk is equally impressive as Jung Joon-hyung, portraying his character’s playful nature and hidden emotional depth. Their chemistry is undeniable, making their romance all the more believable and enjoyable. The supporting cast, including the weightlifting team and the swimming team, adds richness and humor to the drama. If you’re looking for a K-drama that will make you laugh, cry, and feel good about life, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo is a perfect choice. Its relatable characters, heartwarming story, and genuine romance make it a timeless classic that you’ll want to watch again and again. So, grab your friends, get ready to cheer for Bok Joo, and enjoy this feel-good drama that celebrates the beauty of youth and friendship.
Strong Woman Do Bong Soon (2017)
Strong Woman Do Bong Soon is a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and fantasy that offers a unique and entertaining viewing experience. The drama follows Do Bong Soon, a woman born with superhuman strength, as she navigates the challenges of protecting others while pursuing her dreams. Her life takes an exciting turn when she becomes the bodyguard of Ahn Min-hyuk, the quirky and charismatic CEO of a gaming company. As they work together to solve a series of crimes, their relationship blossoms into a sweet and hilarious romance. The combination of Bong Soon’s incredible strength and Min-hyuk’s playful personality creates a dynamic and engaging storyline that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
One of the standout features of Strong Woman Do Bong Soon is its clever integration of different genres. The drama seamlessly blends romantic comedy with elements of suspense and crime-solving. Bong Soon’s superhuman strength adds a unique twist to the typical K-drama formula, allowing for creative and entertaining action sequences. The comedic timing of the cast is impeccable, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that will leave you in stitches. At the same time, the drama tackles serious themes such as justice, safety, and the importance of using one’s abilities for good. This balance of lighthearted humor and meaningful messages makes Strong Woman Do Bong Soon a well-rounded and satisfying series.
The chemistry between the lead actors, Park Bo-young as Do Bong Soon and Park Hyung-sik as Ahn Min-hyuk, is undeniable. Their interactions are filled with playful banter and genuine affection, making their romance one of the most beloved in K-drama history. Park Bo-young perfectly embodies Bong Soon’s strength and vulnerability, while Park Hyung-sik brings charm and wit to his role as Min-hyuk. The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, adding depth and humor to the story. Strong Woman Do Bong Soon is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys romantic comedies with a touch of fantasy and suspense. Its unique premise, engaging storyline, and lovable characters make it a standout series that will leave you feeling entertained and inspired. Whether you’re a long-time K-drama fan or new to the genre, this drama is sure to capture your heart and keep you coming back for more. So, get ready to laugh, swoon, and cheer for Do Bong Soon as she conquers both crime and love with her incredible strength and unwavering spirit.
Mr. Sunshine (2018)
Mr. Sunshine is an epic historical drama that transports viewers to the late 19th century, a tumultuous period in Korean history. The story follows Eugene Choi, a Korean boy who escapes to the United States during the Shinmiyangyo (U.S. expedition to Korea) and later returns to his homeland as a U.S. Marine officer. As he navigates the complex political landscape of Joseon, he falls in love with Go Ae-shin, a noblewoman who is secretly a member of the Righteous Army fighting for Korea’s independence. Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of a nation on the brink of change, filled with intrigue, sacrifice, and unwavering patriotism. Mr. Sunshine is not just a romance; it’s a powerful exploration of identity, loyalty, and the fight for freedom.
What sets Mr. Sunshine apart is its meticulous attention to historical detail. The drama is visually stunning, with elaborate sets, costumes, and cinematography that bring the late Joseon era to life. The production team went to great lengths to ensure accuracy in their portrayal of historical events and cultural nuances. The drama also features a compelling narrative that weaves together personal stories with broader historical themes. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, each with their own motivations and struggles. The relationships between the characters are deeply moving, filled with love, friendship, and betrayal.
The performances in Mr. Sunshine are exceptional, with the cast delivering powerful and emotional portrayals of their characters. Lee Byung-hun shines as Eugene Choi, capturing his character’s stoicism, intelligence, and inner conflict. Kim Tae-ri is equally impressive as Go Ae-shin, portraying her character’s strength, determination, and unwavering commitment to her country. The chemistry between Lee Byung-hun and Kim Tae-ri is palpable, making their romance both heartbreaking and beautiful. The supporting cast, including Yoo Yeon-seok, Kim Min-jung, and Byun Yo-han, adds depth and complexity to the story. Mr. Sunshine is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates historical dramas with compelling characters and a sweeping narrative. Its stunning visuals, meticulous attention to detail, and powerful performances make it a true masterpiece of Korean television. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a captivating love story, Mr. Sunshine will leave a lasting impression and remind you of the sacrifices made in the name of freedom and independence.
Hotel del Luna (2019)
Hotel del Luna is a captivating fantasy drama that blends romance, mystery, and the supernatural into a mesmerizing story. The drama revolves around the Hotel del Luna, a mysterious hotel that caters exclusively to ghosts. Jang Man-wol, the hotel’s beautiful but cursed owner, has been running the establishment for centuries as penance for a past sin. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Goo Chan-sung, a Harvard graduate who becomes the hotel’s new manager. As they work together to help the hotel’s ghostly guests resolve their unfinished business, they uncover secrets about Man-wol’s past and their own intertwined destinies. Hotel del Luna is a unique and enchanting drama that explores themes of love, loss, and redemption.
One of the key strengths of Hotel del Luna is its imaginative and visually stunning world-building. The hotel itself is a character, with its ever-changing decor and ghostly inhabitants creating a rich and atmospheric setting. The drama’s use of special effects and visual design is top-notch, bringing the supernatural elements to life in a captivating way. The costumes are also a standout feature, with Jang Man-wol’s extravagant and fashionable outfits adding to her character’s allure. The drama's soundtrack is haunting and beautiful, perfectly complementing the story's emotional tone.
The performances in Hotel del Luna are outstanding, with the cast delivering memorable portrayals of their characters. IU shines as Jang Man-wol, capturing her character’s beauty, strength, and hidden vulnerability. Yeo Jin-goo is equally impressive as Goo Chan-sung, portraying his character’s intelligence, compassion, and growing affection for Man-wol. Their chemistry is undeniable, making their romance both sweet and poignant. The supporting cast, including the hotel’s staff and ghostly guests, adds depth and humor to the story. Hotel del Luna is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys fantasy dramas with a touch of romance and mystery. Its imaginative world-building, stunning visuals, and compelling characters make it a standout series that will leave you spellbound. Whether you’re a fan of the supernatural or simply looking for a captivating love story, Hotel del Luna will transport you to a world of ghosts, secrets, and second chances.
So, there you have it, folks! These K-dramas from 2016 to 2019 are absolute gems that deserve a spot on your watchlist. Happy watching, and get ready to fall in love with these amazing stories and characters!
