Top Korean Dramas Of 2016: Must-Watch Series

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore some of the best Korean dramas of 2016. This year was a goldmine for K-drama fans, offering a diverse range of genres, from heartwarming romance to thrilling suspense. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s dive into the dramas that captured our hearts and kept us glued to our screens!

1. Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)

Why Goblin is a Timeless Masterpiece

Goblin, also known as Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, is arguably the most iconic drama of 2016, and for good reason. This series blends fantasy, romance, and a touch of comedy into a mesmerizing narrative that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. The drama revolves around Kim Shin, a 900-year-old goblin (played by the charismatic Gong Yoo), who is searching for his bride to end his immortal existence. His path intertwines with Ji Eun-tak (played by the lovely Kim Go-eun), a high school student who can see ghosts and is destined to be the goblin's bride. The chemistry between the lead actors is simply magical, making every scene a delight to watch.

But Goblin isn’t just about romance. The bromance between Kim Shin and the Grim Reaper (played by Lee Dong-wook) adds a delightful comedic element to the series. Their witty banter and unlikely friendship provide some of the drama's most memorable moments. The storyline is intricate, weaving together past and present timelines to reveal the characters' intertwined destinies. The drama also explores deeper themes of love, loss, and the meaning of existence, making it more than just a lighthearted romance. The stunning cinematography, coupled with an amazing OST (original soundtrack), elevates the viewing experience to another level. Each episode feels like a cinematic masterpiece, with visually striking scenes and emotionally resonant music that perfectly complements the narrative. From the picturesque landscapes of Quebec to the bustling streets of Seoul, Goblin offers a visual feast for the eyes.

Memorable Moments and Lasting Impact

One of the most memorable aspects of Goblin is its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. From laughter to tears, the drama takes you on an emotional rollercoaster that leaves a lasting impact. The iconic scenes, such as the buckwheat flower field and the seaside encounters, are etched in the minds of K-drama fans forever. The drama's success is also attributed to its talented supporting cast, including Yoo In-na as Sunny, whose character adds depth and intrigue to the storyline. Her romance with the Grim Reaper is just as captivating as the main couple's, adding another layer of emotional complexity to the series. Goblin not only achieved high viewership ratings but also garnered critical acclaim, winning numerous awards and solidifying its place as one of the best Korean dramas of all time. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable, with references and parodies appearing in various media outlets. If you haven’t watched Goblin yet, now is the perfect time to experience this timeless masterpiece. It’s a drama that will stay with you long after the credits roll, reminding you of the power of love, destiny, and the importance of cherishing every moment.

2. Descendants of the Sun

The Phenomenon That Swept the Globe

Descendants of the Sun is another standout drama from 2016 that achieved phenomenal success both domestically and internationally. This series tells the story of a romance between Captain Yoo Si-jin (played by the ever-charming Song Joong-ki), a special forces officer, and Dr. Kang Mo-yeon (played by the beautiful Song Hye-kyo), a determined and skilled surgeon. Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of a war-torn country, Urk, where they are both stationed to provide aid and support. What made Descendants of the Sun so captivating was its unique blend of romance, action, and drama. The series featured intense battle scenes, heartwarming moments of camaraderie, and a love story that defied all odds. The chemistry between Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo was undeniable, making their on-screen romance all the more believable and engaging.

Descendants of the Sun was a cultural phenomenon, sparking trends in fashion, beauty, and even tourism. The drama's popularity led to increased interest in Korean culture and language, further solidifying the Korean Wave's global reach. The drama's success can also be attributed to its high production value, with stunning visuals and a compelling storyline that kept viewers hooked from beginning to end. The series explored themes of sacrifice, duty, and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. The supporting characters, including Sergeant Major Seo Dae-young (played by Jin Goo) and First Lieutenant Yoon Myung-ju (played by Kim Ji-won), added depth and complexity to the narrative. Their own love story was just as captivating as the main couple's, adding another layer of emotional resonance to the series.

Action, Romance, and Unforgettable Moments

One of the most memorable aspects of Descendants of the Sun was its ability to balance intense action sequences with tender romantic moments. The drama featured epic battle scenes, daring rescue missions, and heart-stopping moments of suspense that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. At the same time, it also showcased the tender and vulnerable sides of its characters, allowing viewers to connect with them on a deeper level. The drama's success was also due to its amazing OST, which featured a collection of catchy and emotionally resonant songs that perfectly complemented the narrative. The music added depth and emotion to the scenes, making them all the more impactful. Descendants of the Sun not only achieved high viewership ratings but also garnered critical acclaim, winning numerous awards and solidifying its place as one of the most popular Korean dramas of all time. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable, with references and parodies appearing in various media outlets. If you’re looking for a drama that combines action, romance, and a compelling storyline, Descendants of the Sun is a must-watch. It's a series that will leave you feeling inspired, entertained, and deeply moved.

3. W – Two Worlds

Blurring the Lines Between Reality and Fiction

W – Two Worlds is a unique and innovative drama that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. This series tells the story of Oh Yeon-joo (played by Han Hyo-joo), a surgical resident who gets pulled into the world of a webtoon created by her father. In this webtoon, she meets Kang Chul (played by Lee Jong-suk), the main character and a wealthy entrepreneur with a mysterious past. What made W – Two Worlds so captivating was its creative concept and unpredictable storyline. The drama seamlessly blended elements of fantasy, romance, and suspense, creating a viewing experience that was both thrilling and engaging. The chemistry between Han Hyo-joo and Lee Jong-suk was electrifying, making their on-screen romance all the more believable and captivating.

W – Two Worlds was praised for its originality and its ability to keep viewers guessing until the very end. The drama explored themes of identity, free will, and the power of imagination. The storyline was full of twists and turns, with unexpected revelations that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The drama's success can also be attributed to its high production value, with stunning visuals and a compelling narrative that kept viewers hooked from beginning to end. The supporting characters, including Seo Do-yoon (played by Lee Tae-hwan) and Yoon So-hee (played by Jung Yoo-jin), added depth and complexity to the narrative. Their own stories were just as intriguing as the main couple's, adding another layer of emotional resonance to the series.

A Creative Concept and Unpredictable Storyline

One of the most memorable aspects of W – Two Worlds was its ability to challenge viewers' perceptions of reality. The drama explored the idea of what it means to be real and what it means to be fictional, raising thought-provoking questions about the nature of existence. The drama featured innovative visual effects and creative storytelling techniques that enhanced the viewing experience. The use of animation and CGI seamlessly blended the real world with the webtoon world, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience. The drama's success was also due to its amazing OST, which featured a collection of catchy and emotionally resonant songs that perfectly complemented the narrative. The music added depth and emotion to the scenes, making them all the more impactful. W – Two Worlds not only achieved high viewership ratings but also garnered critical acclaim, winning numerous awards and solidifying its place as one of the most innovative Korean dramas of all time. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable, with references and parodies appearing in various media outlets. If you’re looking for a drama that challenges your mind and captivates your heart, W – Two Worlds is a must-watch. It's a series that will leave you questioning the nature of reality and the power of imagination.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! These are just a few of the top Korean dramas from 2016 that are definitely worth checking out. Each drama offers a unique and unforgettable viewing experience, with compelling storylines, memorable characters, and stunning visuals. Whether you’re a seasoned K-drama fan or new to the genre, these dramas are sure to entertain and captivate you. Happy watching!