10 Must-Watch Fantasy K-Dramas

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When K-dramas first gained popularity internationally around 2010, no one predicted how incredibly popular they would become. It began with a few successful shows like Secret Garden and Boys Over Flowers, but quickly grew into a worldwide trend. Streaming services made it even easier to watch, and fans around the globe started watching multiple episodes of dramas filled with romance, suspense, and more. Now, fans are constantly discovering new shows and revisiting old favorites, creating never-ending watchlists.

Although romantic comedies and thrillers are often the most talked-about K-dramas, fantasy consistently stands out as a strong genre. Korean fantasy dramas excel at blending magical stories with modern life, making mythical beings and time travel feel surprisingly real. The most memorable ones create immersive worlds, compelling characters, and storylines that keep you hooked throughout all 16 to 20 episodes.

From genre-bending hits to underrated gems, here are 10 must-watch fantasy K-dramas.

10
‘The Bride of the Water God’ (2017)

Okay, so I just finished watching “The Bride of the Water God,” and it’s a really interesting take on Korean folklore. Basically, it reimagines an ancient myth in modern-day Seoul. The story centers around Habaek, who’s this powerful water god, but when he comes to Earth, he’s lost most of his powers! He needs to find some special stones to reclaim his throne, and he ends up needing help from a psychiatrist named So-ah. Little does she know, she’s actually connected to his destiny. It’s a fun blend of mythology and modern life, and I was hooked!

Combines Mythology and Romance

This K-drama beautifully blends mythology and romance, resulting in a story that’s both gorgeous to look at and deeply moving. It features feuding gods, old conflicts, and a love that overcomes all boundaries, suggesting a divine element without being overly dramatic. Nam Joo-hyuk shines as Habaek, portraying him as both a powerful king and a sensitive character, and Shin Se-kyung’s So-ah provides a grounding presence with her gentle and captivating performance.

9
‘Lovers of the Red Sky’ (2021)

In a historical fantasy Korea filled with gods, demons, and humans, *Lovers of the Red Sky* follows Hong Chun-ki, a talented painter born blind who unexpectedly gains her sight, and Ha Ram, an astrologer burdened with a demon inside him. Their lives become intertwined when a crucial ceremony fails, and their blossoming love is threatened by powerful, supernatural events.

Fantasy That Paints Its Own Rules

Adapted from Jung Eun Gwol’s novel, *Lovers of the Red Sky* is a beautiful but heartbreaking love story. What really makes it special is its stunning visual style – the scenes look like classic paintings, and the fantasy elements are beautifully integrated into the artwork. Kim Yoo-jung and Ahn Hyo-seop, both experienced actors, have great chemistry, which makes the folklore and emotional story even more captivating.

8
‘Tale of the Nine Tailed’ (2020)

Tale of the Nine Tailed is a thrilling fantasy story about Lee Yeon, a powerful nine-tailed fox who now works as a supernatural problem-solver in the city, haunted by a past love. His life changes when he meets Nam Ji-ah, a brave TV producer who accidentally gets caught up in a centuries-old mystery.

Supernatural Intrigue and Captivating Romance

This K-drama skillfully weaves together past and present, reality and mythology, all set against the backdrop of modern Seoul. The story is a complex blend of romance, vengeance, and characters striving for forgiveness. Its visually stunning direction, featuring atmospheric lighting and a quick pace, makes the single season feel both concise and richly detailed. The show quickly became a hit thanks to its unique mix of genres and compelling acting. It proved so popular that a prequel series, set in the past, was later created.

7
‘Mr. Queen’ (2020 – 2021)

Mr. Queen playfully reimagines historical events. The story begins in modern-day Seoul with Jang Bong-hwan, a confident chef at the presidential Blue House, mysteriously switching bodies with Queen Cheorin during the Joseon dynasty. The result is a hilarious mix of palace intrigue, comical role reversals, and surprising emotional connections. Bong-hwan’s contemporary mindset creates chaos with traditional royal life, but as Queen Cheorin lives with Bong-hwan’s spirit within her, she develops a complex relationship with King Cheoljong.

It’s Both Smart and Silly

Mr. Queen is a funny and heartwarming K-drama that blends historical settings with fantasy and romance. It’s known for taking a unique and unusual idea – a soul swap across time – and making it genuinely touching and hilarious. Starring Shin Hye-sun and Kim Jung-hyun, the show balances grand storytelling with personal moments, and its originality has made it a hit with viewers.

6
‘Twinkling Watermelon’ (2023 – Present)

Twinkling Watermelon tells the story of Eun-gyeol, a young man who grew up with deaf parents and lives a double life – he’s a straight-A student during the day and a guitarist in a band at night. Everything changes when he’s mysteriously sent back to 1995, where he meets his teenage father and they form a band together. The series follows Eun-gyeol as he attempts to safeguard his family’s future by interacting with the past, ultimately becoming a heartwarming story about a father and son’s bond.

Music, Memory, and Time Travel

Premiering in 2023, *Twinkling Watermelon* is a heartwarming and unique K-drama that blends the familiar feeling of nostalgia with fresh discoveries. Each episode feels like a carefully curated playlist, and like all great K-dramas, the music is fantastic. Led by the charismatic Ryeoun and supported by a wonderful cast, this story explores themes of art, family, and the opportunity to start over.

5
‘W: Two Worlds’ (2016)

Imagine if the world of your favorite webtoon suddenly became real. That’s the premise of *W: Two Worlds*, a thrilling and romantic story where the lines between fiction and reality blur – and things can get dangerous. The story follows Oh Yeon-joo, a heart surgeon, who finds herself drawn into the world of her father’s webtoon, simply titled “W.” There, she meets Kang Chul, the main character, who has no idea he’s actually a creation within a comic book.

Genre-Bending and Existential Dread

This K-drama combines a murder mystery, an unusual storyline, and an illogical romance. It became a major talking point in 2016 not just because of its unique concept, but because it fully embraces that concept. The show cleverly references its original comic book through its visuals and transitions, and the surprising plot twists and fantastical elements feel natural and well-developed.

4
‘A Korean Odyssey’ (2017 – 2018)

Inspired by the classic Chinese tale *Journey to the West*, *A Korean Odyssey* follows Jin Seon-mi, a woman who can see spirits. When she unintentionally frees the powerful and mischievous immortal Son Oh-gong from his imprisonment, he vows to protect her. However, a magical prophecy compels him to fall in love with her, leading to a complicated relationship where destiny and personal choice collide.

As Messy and Magical as Love Itself

Okay, so this K-drama is different from most others I’ve seen. It really dives into what love means when things are…complicated, when you feel like you’re not fully in control of your own feelings. The setting is totally wild – gods arguing over coffee, zombies working at convenience stores! It sounds crazy, and it *is* a little eerie, but honestly, it’s also surprisingly sweet. Lee Seung-gi and Oh Yeon-seo are incredible in their roles. They make this bizarre, almost ‘monster-of-the-week’ storyline feel epic and strangely sad all at once. It’s a really unique blend of humor and heartache.

3
‘My Love from the Star’ (2013 – 2014)

Do Min-joon, the central character in *My Love from the Star*, is an alien who has been stuck on Earth for over 400 years and is eager to return home. However, his carefully laid plans are disrupted when he encounters Cheon Song-yi, a famous actress with a very different personality. Initially, they don’t get along, but their connection gradually grows into a meaningful and touching relationship.

Star-Crossed Lovers

“My Love from the Star” is a hugely popular Korean drama, and it’s easy to see why. This 2013 series blends fantasy elements – like teleportation and time control – with a sweeping, centuries-long love story that still feels incredibly relatable. It’s a show that manages to be both funny and heartbreaking, and even makes you think a little. If you’re looking for a fantasy romance that will really pull at your heartstrings, this is one you shouldn’t miss.

2
‘Goblin’ (2016 – 2017)

The drama *Goblin*, also known as *Guardian: The Lonely and Great God*, tells the story of Kim Shin, an immortal who has lived for centuries. He’s cursed to remain alive until he finds his true bride – the one person who can finally bring him peace. Just when he’s tired of living, he meets Ji Eun-tak, a high school student who can see ghosts and believes she’s his destined partner. Their connection is instant, but their journey is filled with complications, fate, and the supernatural.

Immortality Wrapped in Pathos

The drama seamlessly shifts between historical settings, like the battlefields of Goryeo, and present-day Seoul. *Goblin* stands out due to its subtle beauty and cinematic style, which explain why it became popular worldwide. Critics loved its evocative music, beautifully written lines, and grand visuals, along with its use of fantasy elements that felt substantial without being overdone. Despite only having one season, it’s an epic story that continues to be celebrated by K-drama fans nearly ten years after its release.

1
‘Alchemy of Souls’ (2022 – 2024)

In the kingdom of Daeho, magic governs everything, and the dangerous art of soul-shifting is used as both a secret weapon and a source of political control. The story follows Jang Uk, a nobleman burdened by a curse, and Mu-deok, a woman with a hidden past – she’s actually the spirit of a famous assassin reborn into a frail body. Together, they must survive in a world filled with power plays, hidden truths, and powerful, ancient magic.

Sorcery, Intrigue, and Forbidden Romance

Over its two seasons, *Alchemy of Souls* creates a captivating fantasy world that truly connects with audiences. The show is visually stunning, featuring beautiful scenery, exciting magical fights, and a compelling story that consistently improves. It’s been very well-received, with viewers praising its immersive world and the fantastic acting from Lee Jae-wook, Jung So-min, and Go Youn-jung. *Alchemy of Souls* is a standout fantasy series because it allows its characters to grow and change, making it a show you shouldn’t miss.

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2025-10-19 20:07