Ranking of Historical Korean Drama Viewership Ratings: “Jewel in the Palace” at No.3, “Taejo Wang Geon” at No.2, What’s the All-Time No.1?
Among these, the dramas that achieved the highest ratings captivated viewers with compelling stories and exceptional direction, delivering timeless emotions. Let’s take a brief look at the stories and appeal of these top-ranking historical dramas.
10. Moon Embracing the Sun (MBC, 2012)
This drama depicts the love story between a king and a shaman during the Joseon era. Starring Kim Soo-hyun and Han Ga-in, it achieved a peak viewership rating of 42.2%. The visually stunning production gained immense popularity, especially among younger viewers.
9. Royal Story: Jang Hui-bin (SBS, 1995)
Centered around Jang Hui-bin, a notable figure of the Joseon era under King Sukjong’s reign, this drama featured Jung Sun-kyung in the titular role. The dramatic conflict with Queen Inhyeon (played by Kim Won-hee) captivated viewers, reaching a peak rating of 42.9%.
8. The King and the Queen (KBS, 1998~2000)
Spanning from the death of King Munjong to the downfall of King Yeonsan, this drama authentically depicted power struggles within the Joseon dynasty. With a stellar cast including Im Dong-jin and Chae Shi-ra, it achieved a top rating of 44.3%.
7. Queen Seondeok (MBC, 2009)
Focusing on Silla’s first female monarch, Queen Seondeok, this drama showcased her struggles with power. Featuring Lee Yo-won, Go Hyun-jung and Uhm Tae-woong, the series was a rare success for a female-led story, garnering 44% at its peak.
6. Tears of the Dragon (KBS, 1996~1998)
This series depicted the establishment of Joseon and the life of King Taejong Yi Bang-won. With Kim Mu-saeng as Yi Seong-gye and Yoo Dong-geun as Yi Bang-won, the drama’s gripping portrayal of political intrigue reached 49.6%.
5. Ladies of the Palace (SBS, 2001~2002)
A political drama centering on Queen Munjeong during the reign of King Jungjong. Featuring Jeon In-hwa as Queen Munjeong and Kang Soo-yeon as Jung Nan-jung, their strong performances drove the drama to a peak of 49.9%.
4. Jumong (MBC, 2006~2007)
Chronicling the life of Jumong, the founder of Goguryeo, this drama starred Song Il-kook. The series delved into Jumong’s journey as a hero and his complex family dynamics, achieving a top rating of 51.9%.
3. Jewel in the Palace (MBC, 2003~2004)
A global hit, this drama starring Lee Young-ae followed the journey of Jang Geum, Joseon’s first female physician. It recorded an incredible peak rating of 57.8%, captivating viewers with its culinary and medical themes.
2. Taejo Wang Geon (KBS, 2000~2002)
This drama chronicled the life of Wang Geon, the founder of Goryeo, focusing on his unification of the Later Three Kingdoms. With Choi Soo-jong delivering a powerful performance, it reached a stunning 60.2% viewership.
1. Hur Jun (MBC, 1999~2000)
The top-ranking historical drama of all time, “Hur Jun” portrayed the life of legendary Joseon physician Hur Jun. Starring Jun Kwang-ryul, the series highlighted Hur Jun’s rise from an impoverished background to medical greatness. With a peak rating of 63.7%, it remains unparalleled in Korean historical drama history.
Source: Wikitree
