K-dramas often transport us to fantastical worlds, but some of the most gripping stories are inspired by real-life events and people. From crime thrillers to historical dramas, these shows blend fact and fiction to create unforgettable narratives. If you’re looking for dramas with an added layer of realism, here are the Top 10 K-dramas based on true stories you shouldn’t miss.
1. Signal (2016)
⭐ Genre: Crime, Thriller, Fantasy
Inspired by real unsolved cases in Korea, including the Hwaseong serial murders, Signal follows detectives across time as they solve crimes using a mysterious walkie-talkie.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Viki
2. Prison Playbook (2017–2018)
⭐ Genre: Comedy, Drama, Slice of Life
While fictional, many of the prison incidents in this drama are based on real cases. It’s a heartfelt look at life behind bars, blending humor and human emotion.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix
3. Move to Heaven (2021)
⭐ Genre: Drama, Slice of Life
Loosely inspired by the essay “Things Left Behind” by former trauma cleaner Kim Sae-byul, this drama follows a trauma cleaning team that tells the stories of the deceased.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix
4. Fight for My Way (2017)
⭐ Genre: Romance, Slice of Life
Based on the real-life story of MMA fighter Choo Sung-hoon, it tells the journey of underdogs chasing their dreams despite societal expectations.
📺 Where to Watch: Viki, Netflix
5. Taxi Driver (2021–2023)
⭐ Genre: Action, Thriller
This drama is inspired by true crime cases, with episodes based on real events such as school violence, fraud, and workplace abuse. A vigilante taxi service delivers justice where the law fails.
📺 Where to Watch: Viki, Netflix (select regions)
6. Juvenile Justice (2022)
⭐ Genre: Legal, Drama
This legal drama takes inspiration from real juvenile crime cases in Korea, highlighting the justice system and moral dilemmas faced by judges.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix
7. The Hymn of Death (2018)
⭐ Genre: Historical, Romance, Tragedy
Based on the tragic true story of Korea’s first soprano, Yun Sim-deok, and her doomed love affair with playwright Kim Woo-jin. Heartbreaking and beautifully acted.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix
8. Nokdu Flower (2019)
⭐ Genre: Historical, War, Drama
Inspired by the 1894 Donghak Peasant Revolution, this drama mixes fictional characters with real historical events, depicting the struggles of common people against corrupt powers.
📺 Where to Watch: Viki
9. Six Flying Dragons (2015–2016)
⭐ Genre: Historical, Political, Drama
Although dramatized, this series is rooted in real historical figures, particularly the rise of King Taejo and the founding of the Joseon Dynasty.
📺 Where to Watch: Viki
10. Reply 1988 (2015–2016)
⭐ Genre: Slice of Life, Family, Friendship
While not about a specific true story, Reply 1988 is deeply inspired by real Korean culture, events, and the lives of ordinary families in the late 1980s, making it feel nostalgic and authentic.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Viki
⭐ Final Thoughts
K-dramas based on true stories and real events carry extra emotional weight because they remind us that these struggles, victories, and tragedies really happened. Whether it’s crime-inspired dramas like Signal and Taxi Driver or historical epics like Nokdu Flower, these shows prove that real life can be just as dramatic as fiction.
👉 Which of these true-story K-dramas is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
