Kdramas have continued to evolve, and the 4th generation – spanning from around 2018 to 2023- brought its fresh storytelling, standout acting, and unforgettable soundtracks. The era introduced bold themes and global stars. Here are 22 of the best 4th generation K-dramas that captured hearts and screens across the world.
1. Destined With You
A civil servant uncovers a cursed book and an unexpected romance with a lawyer. A mystery, fate, and forbidden love collide in this magical slow-burn fantasy drama.
2. Behind Your Touch
A veterinarian with psychic powers teams up with a detective in a small town. This quirky mystery blends supernatural comedy with unexpected emotional depth.
3. Strong Girl Nam-soon
A girl with superhuman strength returns to Korea to find her birth parents. An action, crime, and laughter come together in this fun female-led adventure.
4. Crash Course in Romance
A former athlete and a star math tutor fall into an unlikely romance. This heartfelt story mixes slice-of-life struggles with sweet chemistry.
5. Bloodhounds
Two young boxers get caught in a dangerous loan shark underworld. A full of action, loyalty, and intensity, this drama is a gripping underdog story.
6. Weak Hero Class 1
A quiet top student uses strategy to fight bullies in a violent school. A raw and emotional, it’s a survival story wrapped in brutal realism.
7. Alchemy of Souls
A powerful soul is trapped in a weak body in a magical world. A fantasy, romance, and stunning lore define this epic two-part saga.
8. Unlock My Boss
A tech CEO gets trapped in a smartphone, and a jobless man finds it. In this drama, tech meets fantasy in this humorous and heartfelt underdog tale.
9. Business Proposal
An office worker pretends to be her friend on a blind date – only to meet her boss. This workplace rom-com is full of laughs, heart-flutters, and lovable side characters.
10. Vincenzo
A Korean-Italian mafia consigliere returns to Korea for revenge. A stylish, darkly funny, and intense, this crime drama has a cult following.
11. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha
A city dentist opens a clinic in a seaside village and meets the local handyman. This feel-good romance captures healing, humor, and small-town charm.
12. True Beauty
A girl masters makeup to hide her appearance and finds unexpected love. A high school rom-com that explores beauty standards, identity, and growth.
13. The Uncanny Counter
Demon hunters disguised as noodle shop workers fight evil spirits. An action-packed and emotional, this supernatural team drama is full of heart.
14. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
A caregiver and a troubled author confront their traumatic pasts together. A visually stunning and deeply emotional, this healing drama is unforgettable.
15. Tale of the Nine Tailed
A nine-tailed fox protects humans while searching for his reincarnated lover. This fantasy romance blends mythology, action, and past-life love.
16. Mr. Queen
A modern-day chef’s soul ends up in the body of a Joseon queen. A hilarious, sharp, and full of twists, it’s a time-travel period comedy like no other.
17. Hospital Playlist
Five doctors and lifelong friends navigate work, love, and music. A heartwarming and slice-of-life, this medical drama is comfort food for the soul.
18. Crash Landing on You
A South Korean heiress crash-lands in North Korea and meets a soldier. Their forbidden love story is emotional, romantic, and culturally rich.
19. Angel’s Last Mission: Love
A mischievous angel must help a blind ballerina find love to return to heaven. A fantasy, tragedy, and romance intertwine in this moving love story.
20. Her Private Life
A professional art curator hides her obsession with a K-pop idol. A funny, steamy romance that explores identity and fangirl culture.
21. The Secret Life of My Secretary
A cold-hearted boss softens after losing his ability to recognize faces. This rom-com blends corporate life, memory twists, and a heartwarming love story.
22. Romance Is a Bonus Book
A single mom lies about her credentials to land a job at a publishing house. This is a slow-burn noona romance that celebrates second chances in life and love.
—-Karen Mwenda
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