While blockbusters like Queen of Tears and Marry My Husband dominated K-drama headlines in 2024, some of the year’s most compelling stories are quietly shining in the shadows. If you’re tired of algorithm-driven top picks and crave fresh narratives with soul-stirring performances, you’re in the right place. In this curated guide, we’re spotlighting 10 underrated K-dramas that flew under the radar but deserve your attention. Whether you’re a thriller junkie, romance lover, or history buff, these hidden gems—streaming on Netflix, Viki, and beyond—promise to surprise, move, and captivate you. And of course don’t miss our tips on how to spot your next Korean drama hidden gem.
Underrated Gems from 2023
1. “The Killing Vote” (2023)
- Genre: Thriller/Mystery
- A masked vigilante hosts a national poll to decide whether criminals should be executed. Explores morality and justice.
- Why Underrated?: Overshadowed by bigger 2023 hits like The Glory.
2. “Night Has Come” (2023)
- Genre: Survival/Thriller
- High school students are forced into a deadly real-life mafia game. Tense and dark, with a young ensemble cast.
- Why Underrated?: Aired on U+ Mobile TV, a lesser-known platform.
3. “A Good Day to Be a Dog” (2023)
- Genre: Fantasy/Romance
- A woman cursed to turn into a dog must break the spell with help from a reclusive teacher. Quirky and heartfelt.
- Why Underrated?: Mixed reviews early on, but later praised for its humor and chemistry.
4. “The Matchmakers” (2023)
- Genre: Historical/Rom-Com
- A widowed scholar and a matchmaker team up to marry off four spinsters in Joseon-era Korea. Lighthearted and witty.
- Why Underrated?: Buried under bigger historical dramas like My Dearest.
5. “Daily Dose of Sunshine” (2023)
- Genre: Medical/Mental Health Drama
- A nurse works in a psychiatric ward, tackling stigma around mental health. Starring Park Bo-young.
- Why Underrated?: Quiet release on Netflix but praised for its sensitive storytelling.
Underrated Gems from 2024
1. “Doctor Slump” (2024)
- Genre: Medical/Rom-Com
- Former rivals (Park Hyung-sik and Park Shin-hye) reunite as struggling doctors. A mix of humor and heartfelt moments.
- Why It Might Be Underrated?: Competed with high-profile releases like Marry My Husband.
2. “Flex x Cop” (2024)
- Genre: Crime/Comedy
- A chaebol heir becomes a detective, clashing with a no-nonsense partner. Starring Ahn Bo-hyun.
- Why It Might Be Underrated?: Mistaken for a generic procedural, but praised for its satire.
3. “The Bequeathed” (2024)
- Genre: Horror/Mystery
- A woman inherits a cursed family grave, unearthing dark secrets. Directed by Yeon Sang-ho (Train to Busan).
- Why It Might Be Underrated?: Released on Netflix but overshadowed by flashier thrillers.
4. “Knight Flower” (2024)
- Genre: Historical/Action
- A widow leads a double life as a vigilante in Joseon. Starring Honey Lee.
- Why It Might Be Underrated?: Historical dramas often struggle to break into mainstream buzz.
5. “LTNS” (2024)
- Genre: Comedy/Drama
- A sexless married couple spies on cheating neighbors to blackmail them. Dark humor with social commentary.
- Why It Might Be Underrated?: Aired on TVING (a Korean platform) with limited international promotion.
How to Find Underrated Dramas
- Check Niche Platforms:
- Korean platforms like TVING, Wavve, or Coupang Play often host smaller, experimental dramas.
- Look for titles on Viki’s “New and Rising” section or Netflix’s “Korean Releases” beyond the algorithm’s top picks.
- Follow Critics and Communities:
- YouTube channels like Cereal or KDrama OG spotlight underrated shows.
- Reddit’s r/kdrama and MyDramaList forums often discuss hidden gems.
- Look for Short-Form Series:
Many underrated dramas are 6–10 episodes (e.g., Night Has Come). Check platforms like YouTube Originals or KakaoTV. - Search Festival Nominations:
Titles screened at Series Mania or Busan International Film Festival often prioritize storytelling over commercial appeal.
Final Tip
Underrated dramas often gain traction weeks after release through word-of-mouth. Search for phrases like “hidden gem 2024 K-drama” or “underrated [month] 2024 drama” on social media for real-time recommendations!
Why These Hidden Gems Matter
Korean dramas have always been a treasure trove of storytelling, but in an era of endless content, quieter shows often get drowned out by flashy trailers and A-list star power. The dramas on this list remind us that greatness isn’t always measured by viewership charts or viral memes. They thrive in subtlety—whether it’s a retired ballet dancer finding purpose, a cursed librarian hearing ghosts’ whispers, or a Joseon-era vigilante fighting injustice.
These underrated series also reflect the diversity of K-dramas in 2024: shorter formats, experimental genres, and narratives unafraid to tackle grief, identity, and societal flaws. So, the next time you’re scrolling through streaming platforms, take a chance on a lesser-known title. You might just find your new favorite show—and join the chorus of fans saying, ‘Why didn’t this get more hype?!’
Got a hidden gem to recommend? Share it in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going! For more under-the-radar picks, explore our guides.
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