6 Historical K-Dramas Even Better Than Mr. Queen
Definitely worth your time.
The South Korean TV industry is conquering the world, and we don't see this trend changing anytime soon. Viewers all over the world are becoming obsessed with K-dramas and start watching them non-stop.
We think there are many reasons for this, including strong writing, intriguing storylines, and great performances from the cast. But that's something you can say about any good TV show. However, what makes us really appreciate K-dramas is probably the unique style of their historical shows.
One of the most popular ones around the world is Mr. Queen, but the hardcore fans of period K-dramas also recommend you to watch these 6 shows.
1. Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)
At the heart of this K-drama is actually a reincarnation story. It happened during a total solar eclipse when Go Ha Jin, a modern girl, was sent back in time to the time when the Goryeo Dynasty of Korea was just beginning. The girl woke up in the body of a young Hae Soo, surrounded by many young princes.
She falls in love with one of them, but later chooses the most mysterious prince, Wang So. As the story unfolds, she finds herself in the middle of scandalous royal events and palace politics. But will she find a way home?
2. Under the Queen's Umbrella (2022)
We don't know about you, but we ourselves enjoy a good drama with a strong female lead, and Under the Queen's Umbrella has just the right one. At the center of the story is Queen Im Hwa Ryeong, and unlike other female royal figures, she has nothing to do with grace and elegance.
She is prickly and hot-tempered, but only to make her sons worthy crown princes, because now they are just a bunch of jerks. Every scene with her is brilliant because she shows the audience that even a queen can be a real human being and not a programmed robot.
3. Dong Yi (2010)
This K-drama will definitely be loved by those who worship all Cinderella-like stories and still hope to find their prince. At the center of this show is the story of a young, poor royal maid who made it to the top. Starting as a lowly water maid, she is chosen by the king to become his official concubine.
After giving birth to her son, she became known as Choi Suk Bin. And the son, Yeong Jo, will become the future king of Joseon. The K-drama is full of everything: adventure, love, drama, action, and it soon became a fan favorite.
“First time I watched it was 10 years ago and since then I've already rewatched it several times. It's long and sometimes draggy and Dong Yi makes me roll my eyes more than I can say but still it's a gorgeous addictive drama. Every time that I get a wind of its rerun in some shabby channel specializing in old foreign shows, I would watch it whenever I can,” Redditor AphroditeLady99 said.
4. The Red Sleeve (2021)
This is definitely one of the most beautiful historical dramas created in the industry, and no one will argue with you if you say so. The series is set in 18th century Korea and focuses on Prince Yi San and his desire to seek justice after the murder of his father. He wants to inherit the throne, but his cruel grandfather is an obstacle.
One day, he meets Sung Deok Im, a young and smart woman who values her independence and freedom above all else. After they get to know each other, Yi San proposes to her, but she is afraid to say yes and give up her life. But soon she realizes that he is the perfect man for her…
5. 100 Days My Prince (2018)
A historical drama that is also a romantic story at heart. This K-drama is about the very cold and arrogant crown prince Lee Yul, who is actually a very lonely man. For no reason at all, or for reasons that come from his lonely heart, he passes a law that orders all Korean citizens of marriageable age to marry before they are 28.
One day, he is injured and accidentally falls under the care of Hong Shim, a young and independent woman who supports her family. Prince of Joseon suffers from amnesia and doesn't remember who he is.
It is then that they realize that Hong Shim is now the oldest unmarried woman in her village and must marry or be punished by the officials. So Lee Yul decides to propose to her. Will there be a happily ever after though?
6. Jumong (2006)
At the center of this K-drama is the story of Goguryeo creation. It was Jumong who was the founder of it. The son of General Hae Mo Su and Lady Yoo Hwa, he was raised by King Geum Wa, who took him and his mother in when Hae Mo Su was believed to have been killed in an ambush by the Han dynasty.
“If you like action scenes, then watch "Jumong". You'll be amazed at how Jumong develops from a carefree, womanizing, young prince to the founder and Emperor of Goguryeo. And yes, there's romance between him and So Suh No, who helped establish Goguryeo,” Redditor plainenglish2 said.