As we move further into 2023, it's time to look back at some of the best shows that have kept us entertained over the past year. From thrilling dramas to heartwarming comedies, the past year has brought us a diverse range of shows that have captivated audiences across the globe.

Korean dramas, commonly known as K-dramas, have been gaining worldwide popularity in recent years. With their unique storytelling, beautiful cinematography, and talented cast, K-dramas have captivated audiences across the globe. Here are my top 10 picks for the best shows that I watched in 2023:

1. Hospital Playlist (Netflix)

Hospital Playlist, created by writer Lee Woo-Jung, is a heartwarming medical drama that follows the lives of five doctors who have been friends since medical school. The first two seasons of the show were a huge success, and fans are eagerly anticipating the third season. The show features an excellent cast, including Jo Jung-suk, Yoo Yeon-Seok, Jung Kyung-ho, Kim Dae-Myung, and Jeon Mi-do, who play the five doctors. The show's success is attributed to its well-written characters, unique storytelling, and excellent performances.

2. The Crown (Netflix)

Netflix's critically acclaimed series "The Crown" continued to enthral audiences in 2023 with its fourth season. The show follows the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the inner workings of the royal family. With a cast that includes Olivia Colman, Helena Bonham Carter, and Emma Corrin, "The Crown" is a sumptuous period drama that provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the British royal family.

3. Snowdrop (Disney+ Hotstar)

Snowdrop, directed by Jo Hyun-Tak and written by Yoo Hyun-mi, is a highly appreciated K-drama because of its acting and storyline. The show stars Jung Hae-in and Kim Ji-soo in the lead roles and follows the story of a male student who meets a female student during the Gwangju Uprising in 1987. The show is a romantic drama with a political backdrop and will be a must-watch for fans of the genre. It adds more curiosity because of the North Korean spy addition to the story. The male lead is a North Korean spy and the Female lead is a South Korean girl, it is a drama where you can enjoy action, emotion, and love in one go.

4. The Silent Sea (Netflix)

The Silent Sea is a sci-fi mystery drama that follows the story of a team of scientists who embark on a dangerous mission to investigate a mysterious signal from an abandoned spaceship. The show stars Gong Yoo, Bae Doo-na, and Lee Joon, among others, and is a thrilling and captivating series. The fans who have watched the Goblin Series of Gong Yoo will be happy to see him in a great and amazing drama. It is an 8-episode series that will keep you awake and take you through the unfolding mysteries in the middle of space.

5. Bridgeton (Netflix)

Bridgeton is a British drama based on the Jane Austin Novel series Bridgerton. It is set in the Elizabethan time but with a different storyline. It is starring Rege-Jean Page, Phoebe Dynevor, Jonathan Bailey, Simone Asley, Charithra Chandran, Claudia Jessie, Nicola Coughlan, and many others. The story revolves around every Bridgeton kid and what is happening in their individual lives. Adding more to the story it is also a story about a girl who is writing a gossip column, but no one knows who this person is because in those times women were not allowed to go to work. Every season there is a romantic love story about each Bridgerton kid. Two seasons have already been a hit and a third is on its way. This series is a must-watch, you will be amazed by the storyline.

6. Jirisan (Viki Rakuten)

Jirisan, directed by Lee Eung-bok, is a mystery thriller that follows the story of a group of hikers who go missing on Mount Jiri. The show stars Jun Ji-Hyun and Ju Ji-hoon in the lead roles and is a suspenseful and thrilling ride for viewers. The people who have watched The Legend of Blue Sea and Love from the Stars and then see the actress again in this totally different drama will be astounded. It is based on the tallest mountain in South Korea and its few mysteries and stories of the mountain.

7. D.P.(Netflix)

D.P., which stands for Deserter Pursuit, is a military drama that follows the story of a soldier who is tasked with tracking down and returning military deserters to their units. The show stars Jung Hae-in, Koo Kyo-hwan, and Son Seok-Koo, among others, and is a well-written and well-acted series. The hardships which a soldier has to endure during the Korean mandatory military service are shown with a mixture of lightweight comedy, emotion, and serious scenes. Seeing the handsome boys struggling and making some memories this drama comes with a message as well.

8. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (Netflix)

Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is a romantic comedy that follows the story of a dentist who moves from the city to a small coastal town and meets a village chief. The show stars Shin Min-a and Kim Seon-ho in the lead roles and is a charming and heartwarming series. Life in the countryside and the clashes between the city people and the village people will get you laughs and tears at the same time. The hidden back story of the male lead and the lives of the countryside people will make you fall in love with them.

9. Vincenzo (Netflix)

Vincenzo is a mafia-crime drama with 16 episodes starring Song Joonki, Jeon Yeo-been, Ok Taec-yeon, Na Chul, Kwak Do-yeon, Kim Sung Cheol, Kim Yeo-jin, Jo Han-Chul, Yang Kyung-won, Yoon Byung-hee, Im Chul-soo, Yoo Jae-Myung, and many more notable actors. Just like their cast list, the show gives the best of action, thriller, crime, corruption, and comedy. The amazing comedy timing that every actor has contributed is commendable. This show keeps you entertained in every episode. You will be intrigued to know what will happen next.

10. Squid Game (Netflix)

Netflix's Korean-language series "Squid Game" became a global phenomenon in 2023, and it's not hard to see why. The show follows a group of financially struggling people who participate in a deadly game for the chance to win a massive cash prize. With its unique premise and stunning visuals, "Squid Game" is a thrilling and intense series that kept audiences hooked from the start to finish.

Conclusion

Though the list is limitless I tried to simplify it for you all to get the best watch of these years. There are more amazing dramas and movies waiting for you to explore. Start your journey because there are more to capture your eyes and interest. Do tell me in the comments section which one you liked the most!

Written By- Shriya Tiwari