27 Recommendations for the Best and Most Popular Korean Historical Dramas, Exciting and Heartfelt

Kapanlagi.com - Among the many genres of Korean drama, sageuk or historical dramas are indeed very interesting. Moreover, there is a list of recommended Korean dramas set in royal backgrounds that are the best and most popular, making it hard for viewers to move on.

A series of recommended dramas often tell stories about the struggle for the throne or power. However, there are also romance and comedy genres found in the best and most popular recommended Korean royal dramas.

There are even drakor with royal themes that are hoped to have a second sequel to know the continuation of the stories of several recommended best Korean royal dramas. Now, if you are a fan of sageuk-themed drakor, there are several recommended Korean dramas that are the best and most popular.

Want to know what the best and most popular Korean drama recommendations are? Let's check below for the best Korean royal drama recommendations, KLovers.

1. 'THE RED SLEEVE'

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The best recommended Korean historical drama in 2021 is THE RED SLEEVE. This royal-themed drama was released on November 12, 2021. Starring famous Korean actors, THE RED SLEEVE successfully makes the audience feel emotional. Among the cast are Lee Jun Ho, Lee Se Young, Kang Hoon, Jang Hee Jin, Oh Dae Hwan, and others.

THE RED SLEEVE itself has the genres of drama, history, and romance, where there is a blend of romantic and royal family stories. The synopsis of THE RED SLEEVE tells the story of a Crown Prince named Lee San and a servant named Sung Deok Im.

After the Crown Prince ascends to the throne as king, Lee San struggles to become the perfect leader. However, after meeting Sung Deok Im, Lee San begins to show a side of himself that many do not know. A romantic figure suddenly emerges in Lee San when he is with Deok Im.

He wants to make the servant his concubine, but Sung Deok Im refuses. The reason is that Deok Im has an ambitious character and wants to live freely. Moreover, a concubine is known to have a life that she considers full of limitations and even lack of freedom. What is the love story between Lee San and Sung Deok Im? You can witness it by watching THE RED SLEEVE, which has a high rating of 8.7 based on IMDb.

2. 'MR. QUEEN'

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In addition to THE RED SLEEVE, there is also a recommendation for the best Korean historical drama of 2020, namely MR. QUEEN. MR. QUEEN was released in 2020 with a total of 20 episodes. MR. QUEEN stars Shin Hye-sun alongside Kim Jung-hyun.

With a genre of romantic comedy and fantasy, this historical drama MR. QUEEN successfully captured the audience's attention. Especially since the chemistry between these two famous stars is so strong. However, there were also several controversies that arose in the Korean drama MR. QUEEN.

Meanwhile, the synopsis of MR. QUEEN tells the story of two people from different dimensions and times who swap souls. A chef named Jang Bong-hwan jumps into a pool from the upper floor of an apartment. However, when he wakes up, he finds himself in the body of Queen Cheorin, who is the wife of King Cheoljong.

At first, he is confused about why he ended up trapped in the queen's body. Hoping to return to his original body, the chef begins to live life with the identity of the queen during the Joseon period while searching for a way to get back to his original body. This is where the funny and romantic story begins between Queen Cheorin with the chef's soul and King Cheoljong. You can make this recommendation for a Korean historical drama an interesting and exciting watch. Moreover, it has a pretty high rating of 8.9.

3. 'MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO'

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MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO is recommended as one of the best royal Korean dramas that makes it hard for viewers to move on. The story in this royal drama MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO is very exciting and interesting. Released in 2016, MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO stars famous actors including Lee Joon-Gi, Lee Ji-eun, Kang Ha-neul, Nam Joo-Hyuk, Ji Soo, Baek-Hyun EXO, and others.

The synopsis of MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO tells the story of a woman named Go Ha-Jin from the modern world who gets trapped in the Goryeo Dynasty era. She finds herself in the past after falling into a lake. When she wakes up, Go Ha-jin is shocked to suddenly be in the royal princes' bathhouse.

After realizing she is trapped in the Goryeo Dynasty, Go Ha-jin begins to live her life under the identity of Hae-soo. Hae-soo meets one of the royal princes and falls in love at first sight. The prince is named Wang Wook, who is the 8th prince.

However, her love story does not go well. Hae-soo then also falls in love with the 4th prince, Wang So, who is characterized by his face being covered by a mask. Their love story successfully makes the audience feel emotional even though it ends quite tragically. Due to political rivalry, power struggles, and friendships that test their love story. This is what makes the drama titled MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO hope for a second sequel to know the continuation of their story.

4. 'MOON EMBRACING THE SUN'

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MOON EMBRACING THE SUN is a recommended royal Korean drama that you shouldn't miss. This is because MOON EMBRACING THE SUN is one of the best royal dramas released in 2012. It stars Kim Soo Hyun alongside Han Ga In.

The synopsis of MOON EMBRACING THE SUN tells the story of King Lee Hwon and Wol. They have actually met and were even arranged to be married since their teenage years. However, the Queen Mother sabotages their plans. This evil figure, the Queen Mother, attempts to kill Heo Yeon Woo, the noble princess.

Her plan succeeds, but the noble princess is brought back to life. Unfortunately, she loses her memory and grows up with the name Wol, now working as a fortune teller. This is where the love story and reunion between Lee Hwon and Wol, who is none other than Heo Yeon Woo, takes place. What happens next in their story? You can watch it through various streaming channels. In addition, the royal drama MOON EMBRACING THE SUN also has a high rating of 8.1.

5. 'LOVE IN THE MOONLIGHT'

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LOVE IN THE MOONLIGHT is also recommended as one of the best royal Korean dramas. LOVE IN THE MOONLIGHT was released in 2016 with the genres of drama, comedy, and history. Additionally, the cast includes Park Bo-Gum, Kim Yoo-Jeong, Kwak Dong-yeon, and others.

The synopsis of LOVE IN THE MOONLIGHT tells the story of the Crown Prince named Lee Young who falls in love with Hong Ra-on. Hong Ra-on hides her identity as a woman by pretending to be a man. She is a very famous love advisor. It is through this job that she meets the Crown Prince.

However, gradually Hong Ra-on's identity as a woman begins to be revealed. This could put her life in danger. Will Hong Ra-on and Crown Prince Lee Young be able to overcome the issues in their relationship? This recommended royal Korean drama can entertain you while also giving you feels.

6. 'THE EMPRESS KI'

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The next recommendation for the best Korean drama is THE EMPRESS KI. THE EMPRESS KI was released in 2013 with a high rating of 8.6. With a total of 50 episodes, THE EMPRESS KI successfully immerses viewers in the storyline of THE EMPRESS KI.

The cast of THE EMPRESS KI includes Ji Chang-Wook, Ha Ji-Won, Baek Jin Hee, and others. The synopsis of THE EMPRESS KI tells the story of Ki Seung Nyang, who disguises herself as a man to avoid being made a tribute. By chance, Ki Seung Nyang meets the crown prince of the Goryeo kingdom, who is disguised as a commoner named Wang Yoo.

The identity of the crown prince is eventually revealed, leading him to take Ki Seung Nyang as his subordinate. Moreover, she has excellent archery and fighting skills. However, Ki Seung Nyang's identity as a woman remains unknown. Her journey begins as a companion to Prince Ta Hwan of the Yuan Dynasty, played by Ji Chang Wook.

It turns out that there are royal relatives who intend to kill the weak and cowardly Ta Hwan. Both of them strive to protect and save Ta Hwan from Prime Minister El Temur. The story of Seung Nyang, Ta Hwan, and Wang Yoo begins in a very complicated manner. Moreover, Seung Nyang eventually becomes Ta Hwan's concubine after he ascends to the throne, making her Empress Ki. You can watch the exciting story of THE EMPRESS KI on various streaming channels.

7. 'KINGDOM'

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KINGDOM is recommended as one of the best Korean historical dramas with action, drama, and history genres. This historical drama tells the story of a mysterious virus that turns people into zombies. The cast includes Joo Ji Hoon, Ryu Seung Ryong, Bae Doo Na, and others.

Season 1 of KINGDOM was released in 2019. The synopsis of the first KINGDOM revolves around the struggle of Crown Prince Lee Chang as he tries to uncover and protect the people from the outbreak of a mysterious virus. His journey begins at a clinic to find out the cause of the king's death.

However, there he discovers many corpses that are preparing to come back to life and either kill or become zombies. In addition, the Crown Prince seeks to uncover the circumstances of his father's death, the king, which has led him to be considered a traitor, even accused of killing his own father. There are several sequels to the historical drama KINGDOM that you shouldn't miss.

8. 'HWARANG'

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HWARANG is also recommended as one of the best historical Korean dramas. HWARANG was released in 2016. Starring renowned actors such as Park Seo-joon, Go Ara, Park Hyun-sik, V BTS, and others, this historical drama is definitely worth watching.

Meanwhile, the synopsis of HWARANG tells the story of the lives of noble sons who are part of a group called Hwarang. This group has a special mission to protect the King of the Silla kingdom. However, the queen hides her son out of concern for his safety.

Unbeknownst to her, the queen's son disguises himself as a member of the Hwarang. In addition to an exciting story about royal power, there are also romantic love stories and friendships that will keep you entertained while watching. Thus, HWARANG can be recommended as one of the best historical Korean dramas.

9. SECRET ROYAL INSPECTOR AND JOY

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If you are looking for the best funny and entertaining royal-themed Korean drama, SECRET ROYAL INSPECTOR AND JOY might be the answer. Yes, while royal Korean dramas usually seem stiff, SECRET ROYAL INSPECTOR AND JOY is quite the opposite.

This drama has a very fresh story with entertaining comedic elements. SECRET ROYAL INSPECTOR AND JOY tells the story of a royal secret agent assigned to investigate corruption cases in various regions. Together with two bodyguards, the secret agent conducts inspections to catch criminals.

Along the way, he meets an independent widow who joins him in every investigation. Gradually, seeds of romance grow between them. Yes, not only is it funny, but this drama also presents a romantic story.

10. GU FAMILY BOOK

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Next on the list of the best historical dramas is from 2013, titled GU FAMILY BOOK. Although it is considered quite old, this drama remains one of the best historical dramas that should not be missed. This historical drama tells the story of a mythical creature, the gumiho, or nine-tailed fox.

The story follows a half-gumiho human who is trying to find a book that can help him transform into a complete human. The journey of this search is certainly not easy. Various events occur, making the story even more exciting to follow.

11. MOONSHINE

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MOONSHINE is also one of the best historical drama recommendations you should not miss. This drama features a romantic and touching love story. Not only about romance, MOONSHINE also presents a story about friendship that is heartwarming.

The drama MOONSHINE tells the story of the relationship between two people from different backgrounds. It follows a woman who sells illegal alcohol to support and pay off her family's debts. Meanwhile, an inspector from a distant area is assigned to investigate the case of illegal alcohol sales, and ends up getting romantically involved with the woman selling the alcohol.

12. QUEEN FOR SEVEN DAYS

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The next recommendation for the best Korean historical drama has a story that is equally exciting. Not only is it thrilling, but this Korean drama QUEEN FOR SEVEN DAYS also has a very touching story. The drama QUEEN FOR SEVEN DAYS tells the story of a woman known as Lady Shin. Lady Shin is a member of the royal family, who due to political intrigue must abdicate the throne in an instant.

As the title suggests, QUEEN FOR SEVEN DAYS narrates the tale of a queen who ascends the throne but only for seven days. What makes it sad is that Lady Shin has to step down due to the deceit of a political rival, one of whom is her former husband whom she once loved dearly.

13. 100 DAYS MY SPRING

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The next recommendation for the best Korean historical drama is titled 100 DAYS MY SPRING. This historical drama has a romantic story. The story begins when a crown prince goes missing from the kingdom. The crown prince goes missing for 100 days. Before he disappears, he had enacted a rule requiring women to marry before the age of 28. On the other hand, there is a woman named Hong Sim who is the head of a private detective agency.

Although she can be considered successful in her career, this woman is still unmarried. Therefore, her position is quite threatened by this new rule. One day, the crown prince falls off a cliff and suffers from amnesia. Then, Hong Sim saves the crown prince. After experiencing many events, will Lee Yool change his decision to enact the rule that puts women at a disadvantage? Watch it directly to find out what happens next!

14. ALCHEMY OF SOULS

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The drama ALCHEMY OF SOULS is also a must-watch recommendation for royal Korean dramas. This colossal drama has a quite interesting story. It tells the tale of a woman whose soul is swapped with that of a legendary assassin.

The soul swap during the Joseon era leads Mu Deok to meet a man named Jang Uk. He comes from a noble family of that time. This Korean drama, with its captivating story and available on Netflix, has garnered so much attention that there will be a season 2, KLovers. Thus, it is a shame to miss it.

15. UNDER THE QUEEN'S UMBRELLA

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Next, there is the drama UNDER THE QUEEN'S UMBRELLA which is included in the recommendations for the next royal Korean dramas. This drama is set in the Joseon era, focusing on the character of Queen Im Hwa Ryeong. The queen is portrayed as a strong figure willing to sacrifice for her family.

The conflicts that occur here are fictional stories with no ties to historical events. In the tale, Queen Im Hwa Ryeong protects her immediate family as well as her extended family. She is the wife of King Lee Ho and has five children. This drama has successfully attracted attention and garnered a large audience.

16. THE TALE OF NOKDU

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The next royal Korean drama is THE TALE OF NOKDU. The drama THE TALE OF NOKDU also presents a romantic comedy series that can entertain you. This drama also tells many stories of mysteries and royal politics that are beyond the viewers' expectations.

There are also many mysteries presented in this drama, which make it hard for you to stop watching. The drama THE TALE OF NOKDU tells the story of a man named Nokdu, played by Jang Dong Yoon, who disguises himself as a woman named Mrs. Kim to enter a mysterious women's village.

17. POONG, THE JOSEON PSYCHIATRIST

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Then there is a royal Korean drama titled POONG, THE JOSEON PSYCHIATRIST which is adapted from a novel by Lee Eun So and based on the author's imagination. This story is actually inspired by the Treatise on Medicine from the seventh king of the Joseon Dynasty, King Sejo.

It is mentioned that one of the eight categories of medical doctors is sim'eui, which is related to healing wounded hearts. The story follows a royal doctor named Yoo Se Poong who gets involved in a palace conspiracy.

He is then expelled and opens his own clinic. This long-established saeguk drama with a medical genre is not just entertainment. It can also be a new knowledge for KLovers. Therefore, KLovers must definitely watch this recommended royal Korean drama airing in 2022.

18. THE CROWNED CLOWN

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The drama THE CROWNED CLOWN is a Korean historical drama adapted from the 2012 film MASQUERADE. This drama tells the story of a king named Yi Heon who wants to escape from those who want to kill him. He places a clown who resembles him on the royal throne.

Then, the clown becomes a just king who cares for his people. This drama presents a story of history, romance, and melodrama that can leave an impression on you. The drama THE CROWNED CLOWN is categorized as a drama that received quite high ratings in 2019. It is a royal Korean drama that is worth watching.

19. BLOODY HEART

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Next on the recommendation list for royal Korean dramas in 2022 is a drama titled BLOODY HEART. This royal Korean drama contains a fictional historical story about Lee Tae, the eldest legitimate son of King Sunjong, who becomes king after a rebellion.

As a king, Lee Tae believes that any action can be justified to achieve his goals. He wants to rule as an absolute monarch, but First Prime Minister Park Gye Won opposes that idea. Full of political elements, this drama is not to be missed

20. THE FORBIDDEN MARRIAGE

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And the next recommendation for a royal Korean drama is titled THE FORBIDDEN MARRIAGE. This drama, adapted from a web novel of the same name, is a fictional historical story set in the era of the Joseon Dynasty. The drama tells the tale of the marriage ban imposed by King Lee Heon after his wife, Crown Princess Ahn, tragically passed away.

The king then meets Ye So Rang, a tea shop owner who manages to enter the palace. Ye So Rang deceives the king by claiming that she can be possessed by the spirit of the late crown princess. This royal Korean drama, which aired in 2022, is one that you definitely shouldn't miss.

21. THE KING'S AFFECTION

Korean drama about the kingdom (credit:mydramalist)

THE KING'S AFFECTION is the best royal Korean drama with a tragic story set in the Joseon era. This romantic historical drama stars Park Eun Bin and Rowoon. The story focuses on the life of a twin princess who must live as a prince after her brother passes away.

This drama was released in 2021 and tells the story of the princess who hides her true identity to survive in the palace. She is raised as Crown Prince Lee Hwi, who must keep her secret from being discovered.

Amidst political tension, Lee Hwi begins to develop feelings for her teacher, Jung Ji-Un. This forbidden love becomes the center of emotional conflict between status, identity, and unexpressed feelings.

22. ROOKIE HISTORIAN GOO HAE RYUNG

Korean drama about the kingdom (credit:mydramalist)

ROOKIE HISTORIAN GOO HAE RYUNG is a Korean historical drama with a light romance genre. Set in the 19th century, this drama stars Shin Se Kyung and Cha Eun Woo. The story follows Goo Hae Ryung, a female historian who challenges social norms during the Joseon era.

This drama aired in 2019 and depicts Goo Hae Ryung's struggle to become a female historian in an environment that rejects her presence. She meets Prince Yi Rim, a nobleman who lives in seclusion but harbors a great secret.

In the process, Hae Ryung strives to demonstrate that women also have the ability to write history. Her encounter with the prince blossoms into a gentle and inspiring love story.

23. BON APPETIT, YOUR MAJESTY

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BON APPETIT, YOUR MAJESTY comes with a unique touch of fantasy and romance. This drama is of the historical-fantasy genre and stars Lim Yoon A and Lee Chae Min. The story follows Yeon Ji Young, a French chef who suddenly finds herself thrown into the Joseon era.

Set to air in 2025, this drama shows how Yeon Ji Young accidentally cooks for King Yi Heon, a ruler known for his cruelty. The king is impressed with the flavors of her cooking and brings her to the palace as his personal chef.

However, their relationship develops into an unexpected love story. Amidst the aromas of the royal kitchen and palace intrigues, tensions arise between love, ambition, and power.

24. THE RED SLEEVE

Korean drama about royalty (credit:mydramalist)

THE RED SLEEVE is a Korean drama with a royal theme that is rich in classic and emotional nuances. This drama is of the romance-historical genre, starring Lee Se Young and Lee Junho. The story centers on the relationship between King Jeongjo and a palace maid named Sung Deok Im.

This drama was released in 2022 and is set in the 18th century. Sung Deok Im is a maid who refuses to become a concubine because she wants to live freely. However, after the prince ascends the throne to become King Jeongjo, the feelings of love between them become harder to suppress.

The story depicts the dilemma between love and freedom. Deok Im ultimately becomes the king's concubine, even though she knows that life in the palace will never bring happiness.

25. THE STORY OF PARK'S MARRIAGE CONTRACT

Korean drama about royalty (credit:mydramalist)

THE STORY OF PARK'S MARRIAGE CONTRACT is a Korean royal drama wrapped in fantasy and time-crossing romance. Starring Lee Se Young and Bae In Hyuk, this drama showcases a love story that transcends centuries.

Released in 2023, the drama tells the story of Park Yeon Woo, a woman from the 19th century who suddenly finds herself thrown into modern-day Seoul after a tragedy on her wedding night. She is saved by Kang Tae Ha, the heir of a large company who offers her a contract marriage.

The contract relationship slowly transforms into genuine feelings. The story is unique as it combines the traditional Joseon atmosphere with a modern world full of surprises.

26. MY DEAREST

Korean drama about kingdoms (credit:mydramalist)

MY DEAREST is a Korean royal drama set against a historical backdrop with a touching romance. Starring Namkoong Min and Ahn Eun Jin, this drama is set during the Qing invasion of Joseon. Released in 2023, the story follows Lee Jang Hyun, a mysterious man with a dark secret.

He meets Yoo Gil Chae, a cheerful noblewoman who must face suffering due to war. Amidst destruction and suffering, the two find a love that strengthens them. MY DEAREST presents deep emotions about sacrifice and resilience.

27. LOVERS OF THE RED SKY

Korean drama about kingdoms (credit:mydramalist)

LOVERS OF THE RED SKY is a Korean historical drama that combines romance and artistic fantasy. This drama stars Kim Yoo Jung and Ahn Hyo Seop against the backdrop of the Joseon era. Released in 2021, it tells the story of Hong Cheon Ki, a genius painter who becomes the first woman accepted into the Royal Painting Academy.

She meets Ha Ram, a blind royal official with a mysterious past. The two are connected through fate and love that transcends limitations. Its beautiful visuals and magnificent cinematography make LOVERS OF THE RED SKY one of the most captivating historical dramas.

28. Popular Q&A About Korean Historical Dramas

Q: What is the best historical Korean drama for beginners?
A: Some dramas like Love in the Moonlight, Mr. Queen, and The King's Affection are suitable for new viewers because their plots are light and easy to follow.

Q: Why are historical dramas always popular?
A: Because they combine love stories, politics, and traditional Korean culture in one visually captivating package.

Q: Are Korean historical dramas based on true stories?
A: Most are only inspired by real history with added elements of fiction and romance.

Those are the recommendations for the best and most popular Korean historical dramas. How exciting is that, KLovers?

(kpl/gen/nlw)