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Classic Korean dramas still hold a special place in the hearts of K-drama fans, even years after their airing. Strong stories, emotionally charged performances, and timeless life messages make some classic titles remain relevant and worth rewatching today.
From historical romance to action thrillers and inspiring tales, these dramas not only bring nostalgia but also offer storytelling quality that rivals modern dramas. Each title conveys deep life values and provides emotional entertainment.
If you are looking for captivating and meaningful viewing, this list of classic Korean drama recommendations deserves a spot on your watchlist. Here is the third part of the timeless classic drama selection.
1. King of Baking, Kim Tak Goo

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
Raising the story of Kim Tak Goo, this drama captivates through the struggle of an illegitimate child who is expelled from his family but later becomes an heir due to his talent in baking. He starts from scratch and faces various family conflicts, business rivalries, and a love triangle.
In his journey, Tak Goo must determine the direction of his life amidst the power struggles in the bread industry. He is also faced with a dilemma between two women, one who once betrayed him and another who always supports him.
This drama conveys the message that hard work and integrity can overcome background and injustice. Tak Goo becomes a symbol of hope for many viewers who believe in struggle and sincerity.
2. Iljimae

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
Iljimae is a drama set in the Joseon era that tells the story of a mysterious thief who steals from the rich and corrupt to help the common people. Born as a noble child, he is adopted by a family from the Qing Dynasty after his family is massacred.
After returning to Joseon, he hides his identity and becomes Iljimae, a masked figure known for his bravery in upholding justice. He leaves plum blossoms at the scene of his actions as a symbol of struggle.
Wrapped in action and historical drama, Iljimae showcases the protagonist's inner conflict and personal revenge that touches the hearts of the audience. His character represents the spirit of resistance against tyranny.
3. Athena

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
As a spin-off of "IRIS", "Athena: Goddess of War" presents an exciting story about espionage and geopolitics. The drama follows the efforts of the President of South Korea to develop nuclear energy as a solution for the future.
However, this project faces many obstacles, including terrorism, sabotage, and the struggle for secret information. Secret agents are assigned to rescue a key scientist who defects from North Korea.
Tension escalates as a global conspiracy emerges, putting national security at risk. "Athena" offers thrilling action and sharp ideological conflicts, perfect for fans of high-class action dramas.
4. Faith

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
Faith or The Great Doctor combines elements of history with fantasy and romance. This drama tells the story of a plastic surgeon from modern times who is kidnapped and brought to the Goryeo era by Choi Young, a royal general.
The doctor must survive in a completely foreign world, without modern technology, while getting involved in escalating political conflicts. She gradually falls in love with Choi Young, who initially is just fulfilling his duty.
The conflict between fate and personal will is the main theme of this drama. Faith shows that love can transcend time, background, and differences in life principles.
5. The Goddess of Fire, Jung Yi

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
This drama follows the story of Yoo Jung, the first woman to become a leading ceramic artist in the Joseon era. She faces gender discrimination and social pressure on her journey to the pinnacle of the ceramic art world.
Amid fierce competition in the royal workshop of Bunwon, Yoo Jung remains steadfast in her values of honesty and hard work. Her talent for creating beautiful ceramics becomes a symbol of determination and courage.
Her love story with Prince Gwanghae also adds an emotional dimension. The Goddess of Fire, Jung Yi beautifully intertwines elements of history, art, and the struggle of women.
6. She Was Pretty

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
She Was Pretty highlights the life of Kim Hye-jin, who undergoes significant changes after adulthood. From a beautiful and popular girl, she becomes an ordinary woman with low self-esteem due to life's pressures.
When she reunites with her first love, Ji Sung-joon, who is now handsome and successful, Hye-jin tries to hide her identity because of her insecurities. Misunderstandings color their relationship.
This drama shows the importance of self-acceptance and seeing beauty from the heart, not just outward appearance. Hye-jin's emotional transformation makes this drama so touching and relatable.
7. Pretty Man

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
Pretty Man tells the story of Dokgo Ma-te, a man who realizes that his good looks can be a weapon to achieve success. With great ambition, he wants to conquer the business world and power.
His encounter with Hong Yoo-ra, a former daughter-in-law of a conglomerate, changes the course of his life. Yoo-ra challenges him to learn from 10 influential women so he can grow into a complete man.
This drama presents life lessons from each encounter Ma-te experiences, making him more emotionally and spiritually mature. Pretty Man is a reflection on personal growth wrapped in a story of romance and competition.
8. Brilliant Legacy

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
Brilliant Legacy or Brilliant Inheritance tells the story of Go Eun-seong, a young girl who loses everything due to a family tragedy. Fate brings her to become the heir of a food company owned by a grandmother she helped.
She must prove herself worthy of receiving the inheritance by managing a nearly bankrupt company. This process introduces her to characters that challenge her in various aspects of life.
The themes of hard work, honesty, and family strength are at the core of this drama. Brilliant Legacy presents an emotional drama that is touching and motivating.
9. Shine or Go Crazy

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
Shine or Go Crazy features Wang So, a prince who is shunned because he is prophesied to bring destruction. He meets Shin Yool, the last princess of the Balhae kingdom who is believed to bring light.
Their political marriage gradually develops into true love, despite facing political conflict, betrayal, and throne ambitions. Prophecies and fate become the common thread of their story.
This drama is rich in palace intrigue, action, and emotion. The love story wrapped in history and myth makes it stand out among similar genre dramas.
10. I Hear Your Voice

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)
Park Soo-ha is a teenager with the ability to read minds, which emerged after witnessing his father's murder. He meets Jang Hye-sung, a public defender who once saved him with her testimony in court.
They reunite to fight for the truth, especially in legal cases involving victims who have no voice. Soo-ha uses his ability to uncover unspoken facts.
I Hear Your Voice harmoniously blends supernatural elements and law. Their struggle presents a message about justice, courage, and the power of conscience.
(kpl/khs)
Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.