Recommendations for Dramas with the Highest Ratings in the History of Cable TV in Korea

Korean dramas not only provide entertainment but have also become a global phenomenon thanks to their strong storylines and captivating performances. Some titles have even made history with very high ratings on Korean cable television.

With these extraordinary achievements, these dramas prove their production quality and ability to touch the hearts of viewers. Here is a list of the highest-rated Korean dramas ever aired on cable TV.

1. The World of the Married, Rating 28.31%

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)

The World of the Married occupies the top position as the highest-rated drama on Korean cable TV. This drama tells the story of Ji Sun-woo, a family doctor whose life changes drastically after discovering her husband, Lee Tae-oh's infidelity.

The household conflict wrapped in intense emotions makes this story feel real and impactful. Sun-woo not only faces betrayal but also has to protect her child from the effects of divorce and prolonged conflict.

The dynamic storyline, deep character portrayals, and tension-filled plot make this drama a favorite among many viewers. This success led to a fantastic rating of 28.31% during the airing of the final episode.

2. Reborn Rich, Rating 26.948%

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)

Reborn Rich features the story of Yoon Hyun Woo, a loyal secretary who is betrayed and murdered by the Sunyang conglomerate family, where he works. However, he is reborn as Jin Do Joon, the youngest son of that family.

With memories from his previous life, Do Joon plans his revenge and tries to take control of the Sunyang Group. This drama showcases a blend of reincarnation fantasy elements with the intrigue of a large family business.

A clever and surprising story, along with a strong performance from Song Joong-ki, makes this drama stand out and achieve a high rating of 26.948%.

3. Queen of Tears, Rating 24.850%

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)

Queen of Tears tells the story of Baek Hyun Woo, a successful lawyer, and his wife Hong Hae In, the daughter of a wealthy family. After three years of marriage, their relationship is on the brink of collapse.

The tension in their marriage begins to escalate as both face pressure from family and emotional crises. However, a major event opens the way for them to rethink their decision to divorce.

This drama successfully balances emotional elements with stunning visuals and strong chemistry between the main cast, receiving a warm welcome from the audience and achieving a rating of 24.850%.

4. SKY Castle, Rating 23.777%

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)

SKY Castle portrays the lives of the wives of conglomerates living in an elite housing community, who are ambitious to get their children into the best universities. They are willing to do anything for their children's academic success.

This drama depicts the dark side of the education system and social pressures in South Korea. The obsession of parents leading to the psychological destruction of children becomes a central issue in the story.

With a plot full of surprises and sharp social criticism, SKY Castle became a phenomenon and successfully achieved a rating of 23.777%.

5. Crash Landing on You, Rating 21.683%

Drama Poster Illustration (Image by mydramalist)

Crash Landing on You tells the story of Yoon Se-ri, the heir to a South Korean conglomerate, who makes an emergency landing in North Korea while paragliding. She meets Ri Jeong-hyuk, a North Korean officer who helps her hide.

This cross-border love story is wrapped in elements of comedy, political tension, and warm family drama. The chemistry between the main couple is one of the biggest attractions of this drama.

The unique and touching story makes Crash Landing on You one of the most popular dramas, with a rating of 21.683%.

(kpl/khs)