Netflix’s Top 10 Most-Watched Korean Dramas of All Time: The Glory Takes 3rd, All of Us Are Dead in 2nd, and No. 1 Is…
Korean dramas have captivated audiences worldwide, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. Netflix has been a key driver of this phenomenon, making Korean content accessible globally through dubbing and subtitles in various languages.
The recently revealed ranking of Netflix’s most-watched Korean dramas by total viewing hours highlights the global impact of these shows. Viewing hours are not just a measure of popularity; they also reflect the long-lasting appeal and cultural significance of a series. Here is a breakdown of the Top 10 most-watched Korean dramas on Netflix:
1. Squid Game – 2.328 Billion Hours
Squid Game reigns supreme as the most-watched Korean drama on Netflix, amassing an astonishing 2.328 billion viewing hours. With just nine episodes, this survival game drama captured global attention with its intense psychological tension and compelling social commentary. It earned a Guinness World Record as Netflix’s most-watched series ever, solidifying its status as a global cultural phenomenon.
2. All of Us Are Dead (Season 1) – 659.51 Million Hours
This high school zombie apocalypse drama ranks second with 659.51 million viewing hours over 12 episodes. Its fast-paced narrative and suspenseful plot captivated audiences worldwide, pushing the boundaries of the “K-zombie” genre and becoming a major hit, especially among younger viewers.
3. The Glory – 560.99 Million Hours
Taking third place is The Glory, starring Song Hye-kyo. With 16 episodes, it garnered 560.99 million viewing hours. This revenge drama, centered on a protagonist seeking justice against her childhood bullies, gained acclaim for its gripping story and complex emotional depth. Its intense characters and narrative made it a Netflix sensation.
4. My Name – 194.14 Million Hours
In fourth place is My Name, with 194.14 million hours viewed across eight episodes. This action-packed drama follows a protagonist infiltrating a crime syndicate to avenge her father’s death. Han So-hee’s standout performance and the show’s intense action sequences drew widespread praise.
5. Bloodhounds (Season 1) – 164.87 Million Hours
Bloodhounds comes in fifth, with 164.87 million viewing hours for its eight episodes. This crime action thriller explores corruption and human struggles within a broken society, delivering a gripping narrative that left viewers eagerly awaiting future seasons.
6. Hellbound (Season 1) – 142.85 Million Hours
Hellbound, ranking sixth with 142.85 million viewing hours over six episodes, delves into supernatural events where beings foretell individuals’ deaths. Combining religious themes with societal critique, it became a conversation starter for its unique premise and bold storytelling.
7. Gyeongseong Creature (Season 1) – 141.70 Million Hours
Set in 1940s Korea, Gyeongseong Creature takes seventh place with 141.70 million hours viewed across ten episodes. This period drama mixes historical elements with supernatural horror, offering a distinctive narrative that left a strong impression on viewers.
8. Juvenile Justice – 134.56 Million Hours
In eighth place is Juvenile Justice, with 134.56 million hours viewed for its ten episodes. This courtroom drama explores the complexities of juvenile crime, blending legal narratives with social commentary. Its thought-provoking themes and strong performances resonated with audiences.
9. Money Heist: Korea-Joint Economic Area – 133.51 Million Hours
A Korean adaptation of the Spanish hit series, Money Heist: Korea secured ninth place with 133.51 million viewing hours for its 12 episodes. It fused the original’s heist elements with uniquely Korean cultural and political themes, attracting fans of the original series and new viewers alike.
10. Narco-Saints – 103.50 Million Hours
Closing the top ten is Narco-Saints, with 103.50 million hours viewed over six episodes. Based on real events, this crime thriller follows a civilian entangled in a dangerous drug cartel. Its gripping story and high-stakes drama captivated global audiences.
Source: Wikitree
