Netflix is packed with popular K-dramas everyone talks about — but some truly amazing shows quietly slip under the radar. These underrated gems may not trend daily on social media, yet they deliver powerful storytelling, unforgettable performances, and serious binge value.
If you’re tired of seeing the same recommendations over and over, this list is for you. Here are the Top 10 Underrated K-Dramas on Netflix that deserve way more attention.
1. My Liberation Notes (2022)
A slow, introspective slice-of-life drama about three siblings stuck in unfulfilling routines and the quiet stranger who changes their lives.
Why it’s underrated: Minimalist, poetic storytelling that hits deeply — but not flashy enough for mainstream hype.
2. Live (2018)
This realistic police drama focuses less on action and more on the emotional toll of being a frontline officer.
Why it’s underrated: Raw, grounded, and incredibly human — it feels more like real life than a TV show.
3. Run On (2020)
A soft, dialogue-driven romance between a track athlete and a film translator.
Why it’s underrated: Quiet, thoughtful, and refreshingly mature — perfect for fans of slow-burn romance.
4. Because This Is My First Life (2017)
A contract marriage story that evolves into a deeply meaningful exploration of love, marriage, and modern adulthood.
Why it’s underrated: Overshadowed by louder rom-coms, but one of the smartest romance dramas ever written.
5. The Smile Has Left Your Eyes (2018)
A dark melodrama with mystery elements and morally complex characters.
Why it’s underrated: Heavy themes scared casual viewers away, but the acting and emotional depth are unforgettable.
6. Misaeng: Incomplete Life (2014)
An office drama about a former baduk prodigy struggling to survive corporate life.
Why it’s underrated: No romance gimmicks — just painfully relatable realism and masterful writing.
7. Stranger (Secret Forest) (2017)
A prosecutor who lacks emotions teams up with a passionate detective to uncover corruption.
Why it’s underrated: Critically acclaimed but still under-watched compared to flashier thrillers.
8. One Spring Night (2019)
A realistic romance about timing, responsibility, and emotional honesty.
Why it’s underrated: Calm pacing and natural dialogue make it feel incredibly authentic.
9. Move to Heaven (2021)
A trauma cleaner and his guardian uncover the stories left behind by the deceased.
Why it’s underrated: Short, emotional, and deeply meaningful — it deserves even more recognition.
10. Black (2017)
A supernatural thriller involving grim reapers, fate, and murder mysteries.
Why it’s underrated: A bold genre blend that didn’t get enough appreciation during its release.
Why Underrated K-Dramas Are Worth Watching
Underrated K-dramas often:
- Take creative risks
- Focus on character depth over spectacle
- Deliver more realistic and emotionally rich stories
They may not trend instantly, but they stay with you long after the final episode.
🎯 Final Thoughts
If you’re browsing Netflix and feel like you’ve “seen it all,” these underrated K-dramas might surprise you. From healing slice-of-life stories to gripping thrillers, this list proves that some of the best K-dramas aren’t the loudest ones.
✨ Sometimes, the hidden gems shine the brightest.
