20 Best and Popular Korean Historical Dramas that are Exciting and Heartwarming

Kapanlagi.com - Among the many genres of Korean drama, sageuk or historical dramas set in a royal palace are particularly interesting. Especially with a series of the best and most popular Korean royal palace dramas that make it difficult for viewers to move on.

A series of recommended Korean royal palace dramas often tell stories of power struggles or throne battles. However, there are also romance and comedy genres in the best and most popular Korean royal palace drama recommendations.

There are even royal-themed drakor dramas that are expected to have a second sequel to find out the continuation of the story of some of the best Korean royal palace drama recommendations. Well, if you are a fan of saeguk-themed drakor dramas, there are several the best and most popular Korean royal palace drama recommendations.

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

1. 'THE RED SLEEVE'

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The best Korean historical drama of 2021 is THE RED SLEEVE. This royal-themed drama was released on November 12, 2021. Starring famous Korean actors such as Lee Jun Ho, Lee Se Young, Kang Hoon, Jang Hee Jin, Oh Dae Hwan, and others, THE RED SLEEVE successfully captivates the audience.

THE RED SLEEVE is a drama, history, and romance genre. It combines a romantic story with the royal family. The synopsis of THE RED SLEEVE is about Crown Prince Lee San and a servant named Sung Deok Im.

After the Crown Prince ascends the throne to become the king, Lee San struggles to become a perfect leader. However, after meeting Sung Deok Im, Lee San begins to show a side of himself that is unknown to many. A romantic side suddenly appears in Lee San when he is with Deok Im.

Wanting to make the servant his concubine, but Sung Deok Im refuses. This is because Deok Im is ambitious and wants to live freely. Moreover, a concubine is known to have a life that she considers to be full of restrictions and even lack of freedom. What is the love story between Lee San and Sung Deok Im? You can watch THE RED SLEEVE, which has a high rating of 8.7 based on IMDb.

2. 'MR. QUEEN'

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Besides THE RED SLEEVE, there is also a recommendation for the best Korean royal drama of 2020, namely MR. QUEEN. MR. QUEEN was released in 2020 with a total of 20 episodes. MR. QUEEN is played by Shin Hye-sun who acts alongside Kim Jung-hyun.

Genre of romance comedy and fantasy with a royal theme, MR. QUEEN successfully captures the attention of the audience. Moreover, the acting of these two famous stars is so full of chemistry. Although there are also some controversies that arise in the Korean drama MR. QUEEN.

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

Initially, he was confused as to why he was 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 in the Joseon period while looking for a way to return to his original body. This is where the love story and funny moments begin between Queen Cheorin, the soul of the chef, and King Cheoljong. You can make this Korean royal drama recommendation an interesting and exciting watch. Moreover, its rating is quite high at 8.9.

3. 'MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO'

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MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO is the best recommendation for a Korean royal drama that makes it hard for viewers to move on. The story in this royal drama is very exciting and interesting. Released in 2016, MOON LOVERS: SCARLET HEART RYEO starred famous actors such as 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 is 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 surprised to find herself in a bathhouse with royal princes.

After realizing that she is trapped in the Goryeo Dynasty era, Go Ha-jin starts living her life with the identity of Hae-soo. Hae-soo meets one of the royal princes and falls in love at first sight. The prince's name is Wang Wook, the 8th prince.

However, their love story does not go well. Hae-soo then also falls in love with the 4th prince, Wang So, who has a unique characteristic of covering his face with a mask. Their love story successfully makes viewers emotional even though it ends quite tragically. Because of political competition, power struggles, and friendship 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 recommendation for Korean royal dramas that you shouldn't miss. This is because MOON EMBRACING THE SUN is one of the best historical dramas released in 2012. Starring Kim Soo Hyun and Han Ga In.

The synopsis of MOON EMBRACING THE SUN tells the story of King Lee Hwon and Wol. They had actually met and were supposed to be engaged since they were teenagers. However, the Queen Mother thwarted their plans. This evil Queen Mother tried to kill Heo Yeon Woo, the noble princess.

She succeeded in her plan, but it turned out that the noble princess was brought back to life. Unfortunately, she lost her memory and grew up with the name Wol, now working as a fortune teller. This is where the love story and meeting between Lee Hwon and Wol, who is actually Heo Yeon Woo, takes place. What is the continuation of their story? You can watch it through various streaming channels. In addition, the historical 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 a recommendation for the best Korean royal dramas. LOVE IN THE MOONLIGHT was released in 2016 with the genres of drama, comedy, and history. In addition, 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 Crown Prince Lee Young who is involved in a romance with Hong Ra-on. Hong Ra-on hides her identity as a woman by dressing as a man. She is a famous love counselor, and it is through this job that she meets the Crown Prince.

However, over time, 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 problems in their relationship? This recommendation for a Korean royal drama can entertain you and make you feel emotional at the same time.

6. 'THE EMPRESS KI'

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The next best Korean drama recommendation is THE EMPRESS KI. It was released in 2013 with a high rating of 8.6. With a total of 50 episodes, THE EMPRESS KI successfully immersed the audience in its storyline. The cast of THE EMPRESS KI consists of 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 taken as tribute. By chance, Ki Seung Nyang meets the crown prince of the Goryeo kingdom, who is disguised as an ordinary citizen named Wang Yoo.

The identity of the crown prince is eventually revealed, and he appoints Ki Seung Nyang as his subordinate. Moreover, she is also skilled in archery and fighting. However, Ki Seung Nyang's identity as a woman is not yet known. The task begins with becoming the companion of Ta Hwan, the Prince of the Yuan Dynasty played by Ji Chang Wook.

It turns out that there are royal relatives who intend to kill Ta Hwan, who is so weak and cowardly. They both try to protect and save Ta Hwan from Prime Minister El Temur. The story of Seung Nyang, Ta Hwan, and Wang Yoo begins with such complexity. Moreover, Seung Nyang turns out to be Ta Hwan's concubine after he ascends the throne and makes her Empress Ki. You can watch the excitement of the story of THE EMPRESS KI on several streaming channels.

7. 'KINGDOM'

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KINGDOM is the best recommendation for Korean historical dramas with action, drama, and history genres. This royal drama tells the story of a mysterious virus that turns people into zombies. Some of the cast members include Joo Ji Hoon, Ryu Seung Ryong, Bae Doo Na, and others.

The first season of KINGDOM was released in 2019. The synopsis of the first season of KINGDOM tells the story of Prince Lee Chang's struggle to uncover and protect the people from a mysterious virus outbreak. His journey begins at a clinic to find out the cause of the king's death.

However, he finds many dead bodies there and prepares to come back to life as a zombie or kill them. In addition, the Prince tries to find out the truth about his father's death, the King, who made him a traitor and even killed his father. There are several sequels to this royal drama KINGDOM that you shouldn't miss.

8. 'HWARANG'

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HWARANG is also the best recommendation for Korean historical dramas. HWARANG was released in 2016 and starred famous actors such as Park Seo-joon, Go Ara, Park Hyun-sik, V BTS, and others, making this royal drama a must-watch.

Meanwhile, the synopsis of HWARANG tells the story of the lives of noble sons who are members of a group called Hwarang. This group has a special mission to protect the King of the Silla Kingdom. However, the Queen had previously hidden her son, fearing that he might threaten her child's safety.

Unbeknownst to her, the Queen's son disguised himself as a member of Hwarang. In addition to having an exciting story about royal power, there is also a romantic love story and friendship that will keep you entertained. Therefore, HWARANG can be considered the best recommendation for Korean historical dramas.

9. SECRET ROYAL INSPECTOR AND JOY

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If you're looking for the best and most entertaining funny Korean royal drama recommendation, SECRET ROYAL INSPECTOR AND JOY might be the answer. Yes, if usually Korean royal dramas seem stiff, SECRET ROYAL INSPECTOR AND JOY is actually the opposite.

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

Along the way, he meets an independent widow who participates in every investigation. Slowly but surely, love sparks grow between them. Yes, not only funny, this drama also presents a romantic story.

10. GU FAMILY BOOK

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The next best Korean royal drama recommendation comes from 2013, namely GU FAMILY BOOK. Although it is quite old, this drama is still one of the best and should not be missed. This royal drama tells the story of a gumiho or fox demon mythology creature.

It is told that at that time, a half-gumiho human lived. In his life, he tried to find a book that could help him transform into a complete human. The journey of the search is certainly not easy. Various things happen that make the story even more exciting to watch.

11. MOONSHINE

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MOONSHINE is also one of the best recommended Korean historical dramas that you shouldn't miss. This drama features a romantic and touching love story. Not only about romance, MOONSHINE also presents a story about heartwarming friendship. 

The drama MOONSHINE tells the relationship between two people from different backgrounds. It tells the story of a woman who sells illegal drinks to support and pay off her family's debts. On the other hand, an inspector comes from a distant area assigned to investigate the case of illegal alcohol sales, then ends up in a romantic relationship with the woman selling alcohol.

12. QUEEN FOR SEVEN DAYS

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The next best Korean historical drama recommendation has a story that is no less exciting. Not only exciting, this Korean drama also has a very touching story. The drama QUEEN FOR SEVEN DAYS tells the story of a woman named Lady Shin. Lady Shin is a member of the royal family, who, due to political intrigue, must abdicate the throne in an instant.

Yes, as the title suggests, QUEEN FOR SEVEN DAYS tells the story of a queen who ascends the throne but only for seven days. What's sad is that Lady Shin has to abdicate the throne because of the cheating done by her political opponents, one of whom is her former husband whom she once loved deeply.

13. 100 DAYS MY SPRING

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The next best Korean royal drama recommendation is titled 100 DAYS MY SPRING. This royal drama has a romantic story. The story begins when a crown prince disappears from the kingdom. The crown prince disappeared for 100 days. Before disappearing, he had enacted a rule that required a woman to marry before the age of 28. On the other hand, the life of a woman named Hong Sim who became a head private detective agent.

Although she can be considered successful in her career, the woman has not yet married. So, her position is quite threatened by the 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 things, will Lee Yool change his decision to enact a rule that corners women? Watch it directly to find out!

14. ALCHEMY OF SOULS

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

The swapped soul in the Joseon era, made Mu Deok meet a man named Jang Uk. He came from a noble family at that time. This Korean drama with an interesting story and aired on Netflix is so interesting that there will be a season 2 for KLovers. So, it's a shame to miss it.

15. UNDER THE QUEEN'S UMBRELLA

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Next up is the drama UNDER THE QUEEN'S UMBRELLA which is included in the recommendation for the next Korean royal drama. This drama takes place in the Joseon era with a focus on the character of Queen Im Hwa Ryeong. The queen is portrayed as a strong figure who is ready to sacrifice for her family.

The conflict that occurs here is a fictional story without any ties to historical events. In the story, Queen Im Hwa Ryeong protects her core family and even her extended family. She is the wife of King Lee Ho and has five children. This drama has successfully attracted a lot of attention and has many viewers.

16. THE TALE OF NOKDU

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The next Korean royal drama is THE TALE OF NOKDU. This drama also presents a romantic comedy series that can entertain you. In this drama, there are also many mysteries and political intrigues that are beyond the expectations of viewers.

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

17. POONG, THE JOSEON PSYCHIATRIST

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

It is mentioned there that one of the eight categories of medical doctors is sim'eui, which is related to healing a wounded heart. It is told that a royal doctor named Yoo Se Poong was involved in a palace conspiracy.

He was then exiled and opened his own clinic. This saeguk drama with a medical genre that has been around for a long time is not just for entertainment. However, it could be new knowledge for KLovers. So, KLovers must watch this royal Korean drama recommendation which aired in 2022.

18. THE CROWNED CLOWN

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THE CROWNED CLOWN is a Korean royal drama that is a remake of the 2012 film MASQUERADE. THE CROWNED CLOWN presents the story of a king named Yi Heon who wants to escape from people who want to kill him. He places a clown who looks like him on the throne.

And then the clown becomes a fair and caring king for his people. This drama presents a historical, romantic, and melodramatic story that can leave an impression on you. THE CROWNED CLOWN is a drama that received a fairly high rating in 2019. And it is a royal Korean drama that is too good to miss.

19. BLOODY HEART

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The next recommended Korean royal drama in 2022 is titled BLOODY HEART. This royal Korean drama tells a fictional historical story about Lee Tae, the legitimate eldest son of King Sunjong who became 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 the idea. Full of political elements, this drama is not to be missed.

20. THE FORBIDDEN MARRIAGE

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And the last recommended Korean royal drama is titled THE FORBIDDEN MARRIAGE. This drama, which is based on a web novel of the same name, is a fictional historical story set in the Joseon Dynasty era. The drama tells the story of the ban on marriage imposed by King Lee Heon after his wife, Crown Princess Ahn, tragically died.

The king then meets Ye So Rang, the owner of a tea shop who manages to enter the palace. Ye So Rang deceives the king by saying that she can be possessed by the spirit of the late Crown Princess. This Korean royal drama that aired in 2022 is one of the best and most popular royal dramas that you shouldn't miss.

Those are the best and most popular Korean royal drama recommendations. How exciting is that, KLovers?

(kpl/gen/nlw)