12 Historical K-Dramas Streaming on Netflix in December 2023

Historical K-dramas are renowned for their attention to detail and immersive stories that really make you feel like you've been transported back in time. Here are 12 historical K-dramas you can stream on Netflix right now.

1. Gyeongseong Creature

IMDB rating pending | On Netflix December 22

Coming to Netflix on December 22, this highly anticipated historical drama and horror is sure to be a hit. Set during the Japanese occupation of Korea in 1945, two very different young adults face off against a terrifying creature born of greed. With elements of survival horror and action thriller, there is sure to be something for everyone..

2. Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung

IMDB rating 8.1/10

A young woman living in the Joseon era of late 19th century Korea is excited by the prospect of a possible new job. When she learns that women can work as scholars at the royal court, she decides to risk everything by making the change, tired of being looked down upon as a female historian. You will love the lead character in this story.

3. Mr. Queen

IMDB rating 8.6/10

If you enjoy a hearty laugh while watching someone get their just desserts, this is the show for you. A misogynistic chef gets the shock of his life when he wakes up in the body of a queen in the Joseon era. As he has to navigate not only living in a different time, but also being a different gender, we, the audience, are treated to non-stop laughs as he slowly but surely learns some valuable life lessons.

4. Mr. Sunshine

IMDB rating 8.7/10

This intense and gripping story takes us back to the time of the Japanese occupation of Korea, told from the perspective of a young man who escaped to the US as a child and now finds himself back on Korean soil as an adult Marine Corps officer. His loyalties are tested and he must make some impossible choices. This drama sheds light on the horrors of that time in Korea's history and how those who lived through it were so deeply affected.

5. The King’s Affection

IMDB rating 8/10

You may not know that during the Joseon era in Korea, twins were considered an ominous sign. This series tells the story of twins who were separated at birth to protect the female twin from being murdered as an infant. When she returns years later, disguised as a maid, events take a turn no one could have predicted. Tragic, heartwarming and beautifully acted.

6. The Empress Ki

IMDB rating 8.4/10

An older series, but still amazing to watch, the inspiring story of a remarkable young woman who rose above her past through sheer grit and determination. Born a slave and trained as a warrior, she gradually works her way into the hearts and, more importantly, the confidence of powerful leaders. Featuring a standout performance from Ha Ji-won in the title role, this is a show not to be missed.

7. Live Up to Your Name

IMDB rating 8/10

This show is unique in that it starts out as a historical K-drama and then, in a wonderful twist, transports our hero to the modern era. However, we get to see a Joseon doctor who almost leads a double life, as he mainly treats the poor, but is sneaked into the homes of the wealthy so that they can receive his unique treatments. The culture shock of him entering our modern world is entertaining and sweet.

8. Queen for Seven Days

IMDB rating 8.2/10

Based on the shocking and tragic true story of Queen Dangyeong, who was actually only queen for seven days in 1506. It is almost unbelievable that this actually happened, but when her husband, a prince, becomes king, she is drawn into a wild conspiracy that soon sees her stripped of her title and banished from the palace. Heartbreaking, but so amazingly written and acted, showing true respect for the reality of the source material.

9. Alchemy of Souls

IMDB rating 8.8/10

This series blends fantasy, action, and romance, and sets such a beautiful historical tone. Although it is set in a completely fictional country, it still has that charming period feel. Two magicians must navigate their difficult world where people can change their souls into the bodies of others. Adventure abounds as we are treated to a feast of effects, complex relationships, and spectacular magic.

10. Under the Queen’s Umbrella

IMDB rating 8.5/10

Another great series set in the Joseon era. A queen struggles with the unruly behavior of her sons. Society expects them to behave like perfect little princes, and when they do not, it reflects badly on her, not only as their mother, but also as queen. Not one to be defeated, she takes it upon herself to mentor her boys and guide them towards princehood. A sensational performance by Kim Hye-su in the lead role.

11. Song of the Bandits

IMDB rating 7.2/10

Set during one of the darkest periods in Korea's history, be prepared for some heavy emotions when you watch this historical action drama. Japan is in control, and Koreans are fleeing across the Tumen River into China, hoping to start over in the northern regions. They struggle, they fight, but most of all, they persevere. This is as hopeful and inspiring as it is tragic.

12. Moon Embracing the Sun

IMDB rating 8.1/10

This drama has it all. An evil queen, murder, cover-ups, secrets, lies, magic, romance and revenge. After the queen orders her stepson murdered to protect her biological son's throne, she sets in motion a chain of events that will last for years. A shaman witnesses the murder, and though she loses her life trying to expose the crime, an unborn child will grow up to follow in her footsteps.