Top 8 Most Underrated Kdramas Of 2023

Ah, the world of K-dramas, expanding like the universe itself. 2023 was no exception, a year bursting with diversity that reached audiences across the globe. It wasn’t just your typical rom-coms; K-dramas in 2023 boldly treaded into uncharted territories. We’re talking action, fantasy, heart-touching narratives, thrilling plots, and some good old social commentary – the whole shebang.

But wait, in the midst of the headliners like ‘The Good Bad Mother’ and ‘Sweet Home 2,’ there’s a secret stash of underrated gems that didn’t quite make it to the spotlight. Let’s unravel the top 8 underrated K-dramas of 2023, each offering a different flavor, a unique story that goes beyond your usual K-drama narrative.

1. Twinkling Watermelon: A Musical Time Travel Adventure

First on the list is ‘Twinkling Watermelon,’ a musical escapade directed by Son Jong-hyun, exclusively on Viki. Picture this – a young music prodigy time-travels to join a band called Watermelon Sugar, where his dad was the star back in the day. This 16-episode rollercoaster delivers a symphony of love, music, and passion, offering viewers a second chance to connect through the power of a good melody.

2. Perfect Marriage Revenge: Melodrama on the Rise

Now, if you’re a fan of melodrama and second chances, ‘Perfect Marriage Revenge’ is your jam. Sung Hoon and Jung Yoo-min take you on a 12-episode rollercoaster of revenge and transformation. The chemistry between Sung Hoon and Jung Yoo-min adds layers to the familial vendetta, making it a gripping narrative on Viki.

3. Call It Love: Revenge with a Romantic Twist

Streaming on Disney+ Hotstar, ‘Call It Love’ flips the script on revenge plots. Lee Sung-kyung and Kim Young-kwang lead this 16-episode romantic drama, turning betrayal into an unexpected romance. Sung-kyung’s nuanced performance and Young-kwang’s vulnerability make this series a captivating exploration of love tangled in the threads of revenge.

4. The Killing Vote: Unleashing Vigilante Justice

Step aside from the usual K-drama tropes; ‘The Killing Vote’ delves into the murkier side of humanity. With Park Hae-jin, Park Sung-woong, and Lim Ji-yeon, this 16-episode vigilante drama follows a mysterious figure who decides criminals’ fates through surveys and texts. Brace yourself for a show that keeps you on the edge, blurring the lines between justice and vengeance.

5. Daily Dose of Sunshine: Shedding Light on Mental Health

Taking a spotlight on mental health, ‘Daily Dose of Sunshine’ boasts an impeccable performance by Park Bo-young. This healing drama authentically portrays individuals navigating mental health challenges. Bo-young’s portrayal adds a layer of authenticity to this must-watch series, showing us how to address mental health issues with empathy.

6. The Secret Romantic Guesthouse: Unveiling Secrets in a Charming Inn

Secrets take center stage in ‘The Secret Romantic Guesthouse,’ featuring Shin Ye Eun. Once the cherished daughter of a prosperous family, Yoon Dan Oh now manages a guesthouse. This series promises a delightful mix of mystery and romance as guests harbor profound secrets, unveiling a world of intrigue within the charming inn setting.

7. All That We Loved: A Love Triangle with a Cellular Twist

‘All That We Loved’ introduces a love triangle with a unique twist—cellular memory. Starring Sehun from EXO, the drama explores the concept that memories can be transferred along with donated organs. The charismatic cast adds depth to this 16-episode romance, unfolding a captivating narrative of intertwined fates.

8. Queenmaker: Politics, Power, and Unlikely Alliances

Venturing into the political arena, ‘Queenmaker’ features Kim Hee Ae and Moon So Ri. The series follows Hwang Do Hee, a general manager, aligning with Oh Kyung Sook, a human rights lawyer, in a mayoral candidacy bid. The clash of opinions sets the stage for an engaging political drama, where unlikely alliances form against a backdrop of power struggles.

Conclusion: A Toast to the Unsung Heroes

As we bid adieu to 2023, let’s raise a glass to these underrated K-dramas that didn’t quite make it to the A-list. Each series on this list offers a unique blend of plot, performance, and emotion, providing a richer, more nuanced viewing experience. Whether you’re in the mood for the enchanting melodies of ‘Twinkling Watermelon’ or the intense drama of ‘The Killing Vote,’ these hidden gems deserve a prime spot on your watchlist.

Cheers to the unsung heroes of K-drama!