Korean dramas have played a significant role in the global rise of the Hallyu wave, shaping perceptions of South Korea and sparking cultural trends. While traditional tropes like the “damsel in distress” still persist, K-dramas have also embraced strong, multi-dimensional female leads. This shift is largely driven by the rise of female screenwriters and changing audience expectations.
From fearless leaders to resilient fighters, these dramas showcase women who challenge norms and take control of their own narratives. If you’re looking for K-dramas that celebrate powerful female protagonists, here are 10 must-watch titles this International Women’s Day.
1. Under the Queen’s Umbrella (2022)
Director: Kim Hyung Shik
Writer: Park Ba Ra
Episodes: 16
Where to watch: Netflix
‘Under the Queen’s Umbrella’ is a 2022 South Korean television series set in the Joseon period. Queen Hwa-ryeong, played by actress Kim Hye-soo, is expected to embody grace and remain a silent spectator as royal court politics unfold. However, the series follows her journey as she takes on the perilous task of transforming her five sons into noble princes. As court politics threaten her children’s well-being, Queen Hwa-ryeong takes it upon herself to protect them and guide them through life as royal heirs.
The series features high-stakes drama and delves into the complexities of motherhood. The five brothers’ relationship and individual character development are beautifully portrayed, making this a must-watch!
2. Little Women (2022)
Director: Kim Hee Won
Writer: Jung Seo Kyung
Episodes: 12
Where to watch: Netflix
‘Little Women’ is a 2022 South Korean television series starring Kim Go-eun, Nam Ji-hyun, and Park Ji-hu. While inspired by Louisa May Alcott’s novel of the same name, the series is starkly different. It is a crime-thriller drama that follows the lives of three sisters—In-joo, In-hye, and In-kyung—who become entangled in a political scandal and corporate espionage, navigating hardships while relying on each other.
The sisters, who come from a humble background, inspire as they strive to build a better life for themselves. Each has a distinct personality, and the makers have paid special attention to refining their individual character arcs.
3. The Glory (2022)
Director: Ahn Gil Ho
Writer: Kim Eun Sook
Episodes: 8
Where to watch: Netflix
‘The Glory’ is a 2022 South Korean revenge psychological thriller television series starring Song Hye-kyo in the lead role. The series follows the life of Moon Dong-eun, a young woman who is bullied to the point of dropping out of school. As she embarks on her quest for vengeance, the series explores larger, complex realities such as class differences, corruption, and the institutionalization of school violence.
The series solidified Song Hye-kyo’s status as one of the industry’s top talents. Her portrayal of Moon Dong-eun is multi-faceted and awe-inspiring.
4. My Name (2021)
Director: Kim Jin Min
Writer: Kim Ba Da
Episodes: 8
Where to watch: Netflix
‘My Name’ is a 2021 South Korean action crime thriller television series starring Han So-hee in the lead role. Yoon Ji-woo’s father dies suddenly, setting her on a quest to uncover the reason behind his death. Seeking revenge, she joins a gang to further her motives.
The series features power-packed action sequences. The badass protagonist makes you root for her throughout the series, while strong performances and a gripping storyline keep you hooked.
5. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020)
Director: Park Shin Woo
Writer: Jo Yong
Episodes: 16
Where to watch: Netflix
‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’ is a 2020 South Korean romantic thriller drama television series starring Seo Yea-ji and Kim Soo-hyun in the lead roles. The series follows Ko Mun-yeong (played by Seo Yea-ji), a children’s book writer burdened by childhood trauma. She is strong-willed, impulsive, and has an antisocial personality. Upon meeting Moon Gang-tae (played by Kim Soo-hyun), an orphaned caregiver who works at a psychiatric hospital, the two seek comfort in each other and evolve as individuals.
The series is an emotional rollercoaster and doesn’t shy away from addressing complex topics like mental health. A classic K-drama staple, this drama is a must-watch if you haven’t already.
6. Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)
Director: Yoon In Shik
Writer: Moon Ji Won
Episodes: 16
Where to watch: Netflix
‘Extraordinary Attorney Woo’ is a 2022 South Korean romance drama television series starring Park Eun-bin in the titular role. The drama follows Woo Young-woo, an autistic rookie attorney who works at a premier law firm in Seoul.
The series breaks the stereotype of what a conventional ‘strong’ protagonist looks like. It explores the challenges Woo Young-woo faces in the workplace and the prejudice she overcomes.
7. Queenmaker (2023)
Director: Oh Jin Suk
Writer: Moon Ji Young
Episodes: 11
Where to watch: Netflix
‘Queenmaker’ is a 2023 South Korean political television series starring Kim Hee-ae, Moon So-ri, and Ryu Soo-young in lead roles. Hwang Do-hee (played by Kim Hee-ae), a strategic planner at a conglomerate, meets Oh Kyung-sook (played by Moon So-ri), a human rights lawyer running for mayor.
The drama deals with high-stakes power politics as the leading ladies fight for their idea of justice. It explores themes of corruption, class disparity, and power struggles.
8. Because This Is My First Life (2017)
Director: Park Joon-hwa
Writer: Yoon Nan-joong
Episodes: 16
Where to watch: Netflix
‘Because This Is My First Life’ is a 2017 South Korean television series starring Lee Min-ki and Jung So-min in lead roles.
Socially awkward IT employee Nam Se-hee (played by Lee Min-ki) and broke, homeless writer Yoon Ji-ho (played by Jung So-min) agree to a marriage of convenience. The series explores different perspectives on careers, relationships, marriage, and love.
Apart from the lead characters, the series also portrays the lives, struggles, and varied perspectives of the supporting characters. Staying true to its name, the drama delves into the struggles of adults burdened by the societal expectation of ‘having it all figured out.’
9. Mr. Sunshine (2018)
Director: Lee Eung-bok
Writer: Kim Eun-sook
Episodes: 24
Where to watch: Netflix
‘Mr. Sunshine’ is a 2018 South Korean television series starring Kim Tae-ri and Lee Byung-hun. Set in the early 1900s, the plot follows the journey of a young boy, Kim Kang-hoon (played by Lee Byung-hun), born into slavery in Joseon, who escapes to the United States and becomes an officer in the Marine Corps. When he returns to Korea as a captain serving the U.S., he falls for the daughter of an aristocrat, Go Ae-shin (played by Kim Tae-ri), who is also a sniper.
Inspired by real-life events, the drama explores sensitive topics surrounding colonization and the freedom movement. If you’re planning to watch this drama, be sure to have a box of tissues ready.
10. Agency (2023)
Director: Lee Chang-min
Writer: Song Soo-han
Episodes: 16
Where to watch: Rakuten Viki, Netflix
‘Agency’ is a 2023 South Korean television series starring Lee Bo-young, Son Na-eun, Jo Sung-ha, and Han Joon-woo. The story follows Go Ah-in (played by Lee Bo-young), who becomes the first female executive member of a large advertising agency.
The drama explores the competitive, fast-paced, and cutthroat world of advertising. The characters are relatable and well-rounded, making this underrated drama a must-watch if corporate dramas interest you!
These K-dramas highlight multifaceted female protagonists who break stereotypes, challenge norms, and inspire audiences. Whether you’re in the mood for romance, action, or political intrigue, this list has something for every viewer. Happy watching!
Written by – Riddhi Mishra
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