8 Best Historical K-Drama Series to Enjoy
Take a step back in time with these highly recommended and binge-worthy titles!
The origins of the sageuk—the Hangeul term often used to refer to historical or period dramas—can be traced back to the 1920s; filmmaker Koshu Hayakawa released The Story of Chun-hyang, which was based on a well-known figure in Korean folklore. The genre, which has enjoyed a steady popularity over time, has evolved in leaps and bounds since, bringing some of the most picturesque depictions of Korea’s culture and history—both factual and re-imagined—to both the big and small screens.
On the small screen, sageuk series can be a lengthy watch, with some going over 30 or even 40 episodes—this hasn't stopped the genre’s loyal fans from bingeing them, though. Interested in taking a step back in time? Here are some historical dramas that come highly recommended.
8 Best Sageuk K-Drama Series to Enjoy
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Mr. Sunshine (2018)
Often at the top of the list when sageuk dramas are concerned, Mr Sunshine was hailed for its excellent writing, top-notch acting, and rich cinematography. Set in the early 1900s in Hanseong—now Seoul—this APAN Star Award winner tells the story of Eugene Choi (Lee Byung-hun), a man who was born into slavery in Joseon, but managed to escape to the United States.
Photo Credit: tvN/Netflix
Mr. Sunshine (2018)
After becoming a United States Marine Officer, he returns to Joseon after the war, where he meets and falls in love with the aristocrat Go Ae-shin (Kim Tae-ri). Choi also finds himself neck-deep in the battle for Joseon’s sovereignty after discovering a colonization plot hatched by the Empire of Japan.
Photo Credit: tvN/Netflix
Moon Embracing the Sun (2012)
Adapted from the novel of the same name, this historical fantasy drama centers on the romance between a fictional Joseon Dynasty monarch (Crown Prince Lee Hwon, played by Kim Soo-hyun) and a shaman (Heo Yoon-woo, played by Han Ga-in). In order to maintain her family’s power, the Queen Mother and the Prime Minister conspire to promote his daughter Bo-kyung (Kim Min-seo), who is also her blood relative, to the Crown Princess title.
Photo Credit: MBC
Moon Embracing the Sun (2012)
However, the king chooses Yoon-woo instead, infuriating the Queen Mother, who orders a deadly curse cast on the girl in order for Bo-kyung to be crowned in her stead.
Photo Credit: MBC
Jewel in the Palace (2003)
You may or may not have encountered the Tagalized version of this drama on local television, but its existence alone is a testament to its popularity. Jewel in the Palace stars Lee Young-ae as the historical figure Jang-geum, an orphaned kitchen cook who rises above her rank to become the king’s first female physician.
Photo Credit: MBC
Jewel in the Palace (2003)
Not allowing herself to be restricted by social conventions imposed upon her gender and social class, she strived to better herself, earning the ire of the Chois, the family controlling the royal kitchens, who began to see her as a threat to their operations.
Photo Credit: MBC
Empress Ki (2013)
This multi-awarded series was a hit both domestically and overseas, praised for its plot, character development, and stunning visuals. Ha Ji-won stars as the titular Empress Ki—or Ki Seung-nyang—a historical figure who went from favored concubine to primary empress. Alongside her are Joo Jin-mo as Wang Yoo, the King of Goryeo and Ji Chang-wook as Toghon Temur, the Emperor of Yuan, both competing for her affection.
Photo Credit: MBC
Empress Ki (2013)
A major theme here is how she ascends to power despite being the classist and sexist restrictions prevalent during the time period; this was, however, met with controversy by historians due to the series painting her in a too-positive light.
Photo Credit: MBC
The Crowned Clown (2019)
The series centers on a Joseon king, Yi Heon, and his doppelgänger, a performer clown named Ha-seon (both played by Yeo Jin-goo). Fearing for the king’s life amidst the political uprisings, Chief Royal Secretary Yi Kyu (Kim Sang-kyung) has Ha-seon pose as the ruler. Obvious complications aside, Ha-seon grows enamored with the queen (Lee Se-young), who finds herself liking this sudden change in the “king’s” temperament.
Photo Credit: tvN
The Crowned Clown (2019)
Much praise was heaped on Yeo Jin-goo’s performance, with critics highlighting his ability to showcase a clear between king and clown, utilizing a different set of gestures, expressions, and habits for each of the two characters.
Photo Credit: tvN
Sungkyunkwan Scandal (2010)
Born in an era where females had no access to education or employment, Kim Yoon-hee (Park Min-young) disguises herself as her brother to make ends meet for her family through numerous odd jobs. To increase her earnings, she commits an illegal act by becoming a substitute test taker, and is caught by Lee Sun-joon (Park Yoo-chun).
Photo Credit: KBS
Sungkyunkwan Scandal (2010)
He notices her potential and even encourages her to enroll in classes, keeping her true identity a secret alongside their friends Gu Yong-ha (Song Joong-ki) and Moon Jae-shin (Yoo Ah-in). Unlike most sageuk programmes, this is a light and fun watch that gives a bit of a modern rom com feel.
Photo Credit: KBS
The Great Queen Seondeok (2009)
Chronicling the life of Queen Seondeok of Silla, the first female ruler of Korean, this 62-episode drama enjoyed high ratings throughout its run. Lee Wo-yu stars as the titular character, who was sent away from the palace as a baby to prevent Lady Mishil (Seondeok’s archenemy, played by Go Hyun-jung) from ousting her mother from the throne.
Photo Credit: MBC
The Great Queen Seondeok (2009)
Upon finding out her real identity, Seondeok sets out to seek revenge against Mishil and take back what is hers, igniting a war between two queens. The series received multiple awards for acting, with Go Hyun-jung taking home multiple Daesangs/Grand Prizes.
Photo Credit: MBC
Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)
“Hwarang” or “Flower Knights” is a term used to refer to the elite group of male warriors in Silla, an ancient Korean kingdom in the 10th century. This K-drama tells a simpler, light-hearted story, focusing more on friendship, love, and dreams over war and political intrigue.
Photo Credit: KBS
Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)
Leading the cast are Park Seo-joon as Kim Seon-u, a young man who assumes the identity of his deceased friend in hopes of becoming a Hwarang warrior; Park Hyung-sik as Sammaekjong, a royal in hiding who joins the Hwarang in secret; and Go Ara as Kim Ah-ro, the daughter of an aristocrat and a servant who aids the Hwarang as their physician. Also in this drama is Kim Tae-hyung (also known as V from BTS) as Suk Han-sung, the youngest hwarang of the lot who has a cheery personality and gets along with everyone.
Photo Credit: KBS
There's a lot to take home from watching saeguks—lessons of love and life, interesting notes on Korean history and culture, and so much more.
Ji Chang-wook in 'Empress Ki' | MBC
Whether you're already a fan or just getting started, this list of Korean period dramas will point you to the right direction of your next saeguk binge-watch!
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