Top 10 Most Watched K-Dramas On Netflix In The First Half Of 2024

The first half of 2024 saw Korean shows continuing to dominate global streaming platforms, with Netflix hosting some of the most binge-worthy shows. From emotional rollercoasters to heartwarming romances and thrilling mysteries, here’s a closer look at the top 10 most-watched K-Dramas on Netflix, based on total hours viewed.

1. “Queen of Tears”

A true standout of 2024, this drama captivated audiences with its emotionally charged storyline. Centered around a woman facing incredible hardships and her journey to reclaim her life, it pulled in 689.5 million hours. Its strong performances and deeply resonant themes made it a global hit, cementing its place at the top.

2. “My Demon”

This fantasy romance quickly became a fan favorite, logging 311.2 million hours of viewership. The story follows a human woman who strikes an unusual deal with a demon, leading to unexpected love and adventure. Its unique blend of supernatural elements and romantic tension kept viewers hooked.

3. “True Beauty”

With 293.5 million hours streamed, this lighthearted yet heartfelt drama tells the story of a high school girl who finds confidence through makeup while learning about true self-worth. The coming-of-age storyline, combined with romantic and comedic moments, resonated with audiences around the globe.

4. “Doctor Slump”

This medical-themed K-Drama isn’t your average hospital story. It explores the personal and professional crises of a group of doctors facing burnout. With a total of 258.1 million hours viewed, the drama’s unique mix of humor and real-life struggles appealed to a wide range of viewers.

5. “Welcome To Samdal-ri”

Set in a picturesque rural village, this slice-of-life drama collected 199.2 million hours of viewing time. Its heartwarming story about a city woman returning to her hometown to rediscover herself struck a chord with audiences, offering a refreshing break from the typical urban settings of many K-Dramas.

6. “King the Land”

A classic love story between an heir to a conglomerate and a hardworking hotel employee, this romantic drama earned 198.2 million hours of watch time. The series stood out thanks to its charming leads and a feel-good story about overcoming obstacles in the name of love.

7. “Gyeongseong Creature”

Set during the 1940s in a turbulent period of Korea’s history, this historical thriller brought in 134.4 million hours of viewership. Its combination of mystery, horror, and historical drama created an intense and gripping atmosphere, making it a standout among period dramas.

8. “Crash Landing on You”

Although it first premiered in 2019, this beloved romance continues to captivate viewers, amassing 131.2 million hours in the first half of 2024 alone. The story of a South Korean heiress and a North Korean soldier who fall in love despite their circumstances remains one of the most iconic K-Dramas of all time.

9. “Parasyte: The Grey”

With a mix of horror, sci-fi, and suspense, this adaptation of the popular Japanese manga series kept audiences on the edge of their seats, leading to 126.8 million hours viewed. Its dark and unsettling themes, coupled with great special effects, made it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

10. “Captivating the King”

Rounding out the list is this historical drama with 122 million hours streamed. Set in the Joseon era, the show follows a young woman navigating palace intrigues while catching the eye of the king. Its lush costumes, intricate plot, and well-rounded characters drew in viewers who love period dramas.