13 Recommendations for the Most Exciting Korean Crime Dramas, Full of Cases That Are Tense and Intriguing

Kapanlagi.com - Sometimes what you need is not a sweet romance drama, but the adrenaline from complicated criminal cases. For those who love tension, diving into mysteries, and guessing the culprits from behind the screen, Korean dramas in the crime genre are the right choice.

In recent years, South Korea has released many K-dramas that are not only captivating in terms of acting and cinematography but also strong in storytelling. From serial murders, major conspiracies, to questionable legal systems, it’s all there!

This article summarizes 13 of the best Korean crime dramas filled with challenging and thrilling cases. Arranged chronologically based on the story and airing, let’s take a look one by one; who knows KLovers might find a new show for binge-watching!

1. Unmasked (2025)

Here are 13 crime dramas full of surprises (credit:instagram.com/disneyplushotstarid)

This drama follows the Trigger news investigation team, which is threatened with disbandment after broadcasting controversial news. Starring Kim Hye-soo, UNMASKED showcases the hard work of host Oh So-ryong and his team to save their careers by solving a 20-year-old cold case.

Director Yoo Sun-dong brings a tense atmosphere that feels like a police investigation, even though they are just journalists. This drama has 12 episodes and started airing on January 15, 2025, on Disney+ Hotstar.

2. Voice Season 1-4 (2017-2021)

This is 13 criminal dramas full of surprises (credit:instagram.com/ocn_official_)

Telling the story of the emergency call center 112, this series focuses on Kang Kwon-joo, a voice profiler. Season 1 introduces her to Moo Jin-hyuk, who lost his wife to a serial killer.

Each season presents increasingly insane criminals, from a cartel in the Dark Web (Auction Fabre) to a serial killer with super hearing. The performances of Lee Ha-na and Lee Jin-wook, along with the increasingly complex plot, make this drama a must-watch for all its seasons!

3. Through the Darkness (2022)

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Based on the true story of South Korea's first profiler, this drama features Song Ha Young (Kim Nam Gil) on his mission to understand the minds of serial killers. It's not just about action, but the psychological approach that makes it different.

With a total of 12 episodes, THROUGH THE DARKNESS highlights accurate profiling details and a very realistic investigative atmosphere. Available on Viu and has become a favorite among fans of serious crime genres.

4. Signal (2016)

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SIGNAL is a science fiction drama with a unique concept: two detectives from different eras communicate via walkie-talkie. Park Hae Young (Lee Je Hoon) and Lee Jae Han (Cho Jin Woong) work together to solve an old unsolved case.

This drama has a plot full of twists and is inspired by real cases such as the Hwaseong serial murders. Thanks to its story, SIGNAL successfully won the Baeksang for Best Drama in 2016.

5. Criminal Minds (2017)

This is a list of 13 criminal dramas full of surprises (credit:instagram.com/tvn_drama)

Adapted from the American series, CRIMINAL MINDS in the Korean version presents the NCI profiler team investigating a hospital explosion case. Lee Joon Gi looks cool as Kim Hyun Joon, who is full of intuition and past trauma.

This drama showcases profiling methods and intense teamwork in the field, with each member having their own specialization. A total of 20 episodes can be watched with full tension.

6. Partners for Justice (2018)

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Forensic doctor Baek Beom and rookie prosecutor Eun Sol initially often clash due to their differing views. However, as they keep being brought together for cases, professional chemistry and seeds of love begin to emerge.

This drama is strong in terms of forensics and legal procedures. Each case they handle showcases the technical and emotional sides of their profession.

7. The Judge From Hell (2024)

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Park Shin-hye stars as Kang Bit-na, a judge possessed by Yustitia, a demon who wants to punish the 10 most sinful humans. This drama offers a fantasy twist in the legal system.

Bit-na collaborates with detective Han Da-on, who gradually realizes Bit-na's true identity. With a total of 14 episodes, this drama combines law, morality, and the supernatural into one unique package.

8. The First Responders (2022-2024)

These are 13 crime dramas full of surprises (credit:instagram.com/sbsdrama.official)

Combining police, firefighters, and paramedics, THE FIRST RESPONDERS highlights their teamwork in handling crises. Jin Ho Gae (Kim Rae Won) is a genius detective who synergizes with Bong Do Jin (firefighter) and Song Seol (paramedic).

Season 1 focuses on a chain of arsons, while season 2 tackles bomb threats. Intense collaboration and strong emotions make this drama one of the best action crime series.

9. Tomorrow (2022)

These are 13 crime dramas full of surprises (credit:instagram.com/mbcdrama_now)

Choi Joon Woong falls into a coma and eventually joins the grim reaper team tasked with preventing suicides. This drama carries a deep message about mental health and trauma.

Although it is a fantasy genre, each episode features real cases that are touching. This drama is adapted from a popular Webtoon and stars Rowoon SF9 and Kim Hee Sun.

10. Tell Me What You Saw (2020)

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Genius profiler Oh Hyun-jae (Jang Hyuk) isolates himself after his fiancée is murdered. However, he returns when a similar serial murder pattern re-emerges. He collaborates with young detective Cha Soo-young, who has photographic memory.

This drama presents a mystery-filled investigative plot and an interesting mentor-student dynamic.

11. Chimera (2021)

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Mysterious explosions occur again after a similar incident in 1984. Detective Chae Jae Hyun, Doctor Lee Joong Yeob, and profiler Yoo Jin investigate a case that may involve the same perpetrator.

With a non-linear timeline, CHIMERA successfully builds tension and connects two eras in a single thread of serial murder.

12. Juvenile Justice (2022)

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Sim Eun Seok (Kim Hye Soo) is a judge who despises juvenile offenders. When transferred to the juvenile court, she begins to impose strict sentences for cases such as bullying, domestic violence, and child prostitution.

This drama sharply critiques the juvenile justice system in Korea and sparks heated discussions as it presents the dark side of "young offenders" that are often overlooked.

13. The Devil Judge (2021)

These are 13 criminal K-dramas full of surprises (credit:instagram.com/tvn_drama)

A dystopian world where the courtroom becomes a reality show. Kang Yo-han (Ji Sung) punishes corrupt individuals live on TV. But is he truly justice, or just wearing a mask?

This drama is filled with conspiracy and power struggles. With ratings continuously rising during its airing, THE DEVIL JUDGE poses a big question: who is the real villain?

Come on, read articles about other recommended Korean dramas on Kapanlagi.com. If not now, when?

(kpl/vna)