9 refreshing K-dramas without the quintessential romance: Squid Game to Sky Castle

Not only do these romantic K-dramas inspire you, but they also provide an engaging experience that will have you gripped from start to finish.

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In the world of K-dramas, where audiences are taken to tales reminiscent of fairytales, romance reigns supreme. These storylines touch our hearts with their poignant tales and exquisite imagery. On the other hand, K-dramas cover a wide spectrum of genres, including humor, drama, thriller, and more.

Let’s look at some of the non-romantic K-dramas you should watch right now without further ado!

1. Itaewon Class

Watch Itaewon Class | Netflix Official Site

In this compelling story of tenacity and revenge, Park Sae Ro Yi, a former prisoner with a strong moral compass, takes on a formidable corporation while attempting to establish a bar-restaurant in Itaewon, Seoul. He and his diverse group of pals encounter several obstacles along the way that put their willpower and unity to the test as they strive toward their goals.

2. The Glory

The Glory Ending Explained Season 1 Part 1 - Netflix Tudum

The plot centers on Moon Dong Eun, a victim of bullying during her high school years who, after becoming a teacher, painstakingly plans her retaliation on her abusers. The K-drama delves on the darker aspects of human nature and the extent people will go to in order to find justice and atonement.

3. Sweet Home

Sweet Home' K-drama review: Humanity hunts for answers in this gory  horror-thriller - The Hindu

After moving into an ancient apartment building, Cha Hyun Soo soon discovers that terrifying changes are taking place all around him. Hyun Soo must battle to survive alongside the other residents while figuring out the mystery surrounding the terrifying plague.

4. Memorist

Memorist (TV Series 2020) - Episode list - IMDb

In this K-drama, expert profiler Han Sun Mi and detective Dong Baek (who has the power to read people’s minds) work together to solve a string of terrible murders. They encounter strong opponents and unearth startling facts as they investigate the case further. The plot is kept interesting for the duration of its run by the thrilling twists and turns.

5. Squid Game

South Korean drama 'Squid Game' is Netflix's biggest-ever launch hit |  Entertainment News - Business Standard

The plot centers on 456 economically disadvantaged participants who accept an offer to play kid-friendly games in hopes of winning a sweet prize—but there are fatal risks involved. In a high-stakes survival scenario, the K-drama explores human nature, desperation, and moral quandaries in a terrifying way.

6. The Devil Judge

The Devil Judge (TV Series 2021) - IMDb

A dystopian future in which the public weighs in on the decision has transformed the courts into a reality show. The Devil Judge, Judge Kang Yo Han, blurs the boundaries between good and wrong in his pursuit of the truth and administers justice with an iron grip.

7. The First Responders

The First Responders (TV Series 2022– ) - IMDb

This gripping drama chronicles the lives of emergency personnel in the city, including firefighters, paramedics, and police officers. The complexities of professional relationships and how they develop a tighter bond over time are also explored.

8. Taxi Driver

Taxi Driver to return for Season 3 with cast and crew in discussions;  season 2 ends on highest ratings - Bollywood Hungama

Former special forces officer Kim Do Gi now drives a luxurious taxi for a covert business that offers a distinctive vengeance service. Do Gi and his group assist clients who feel powerless in the face of the law to administer justice in their own unique manner.

9. Sky Castle

Watch SKY Castle | Netflix

The show explores the lives of privileged families that relentlessly push their kids to succeed academically, set in an opulent residential neighborhood. The play questions the competitive nature of education and the lengths parents would go to in order to secure their children’s future.

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