Korean thriller shows have gained immense popularity in recent years, and Netflix has played a significant role in showcasing these gripping narratives to global audiences. These series are renowned for their intricate plotlines, stunning visuals, and captivating performances, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. Whether you enjoy suspense, mystery, or psychological drama, the following selection highlights some of the best Korean thrillers on Netflix.
1. Signal (2016)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 80% | IMDb: 8.5/10
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Fantasy
- Debut Date: February 22, 2016
Signal merges crime and sci-fi, telling the story of a detective from 1989 and a cold case profiler from 2015 who communicate through a magical walkie-talkie to solve crimes spanning decades. The series excels in character development and features strong performances from Lee Je-hoon and Kim Hye-soo, creating a thrilling narrative that keeps viewers engaged.
2. Song of the Bandits (2023 – Present)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 86% | IMDb: 7.2/10
- Genre: Action, Drama, History
- Release Date: September 22, 2023
Set during the 1920s Japanese occupation, this drama follows a group of exiles fighting to reclaim their homeland. Directed by Hwang Jun-hyeok, Song of the Bandits delivers a compelling blend of historical drama and Western elements, with impressive action sequences and a strong emotional core.
3. Mask Girl (2023 – Present)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 7.3/10
- Genre: Thriller, Comedy, K-Drama
- Release Date: August 18, 2023
Based on a popular webtoon, Mask Girl follows Kim Mo-mi, an office worker who becomes a masked internet personality at night. As her life spirals out of control due to her newfound fame, the series skillfully intertwines themes of identity and obsession, showcasing powerful performances from its lead cast.
4. The Lies Within (2019)
- IMDb: 7.1/10
- Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
- Release Date: October 12, 2019
This crime thriller explores political sabotage through the eyes of detective Jo Tae-Sik, who investigates the mysterious death of a lawmaker. Teaming up with the lawmaker’s daughter, the duo unravels a web of conspiracy and intrigue that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish.
5. Sweet Home (2020 – Present)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 83% | IMDb: 7.3/10
- Genre: Drama, Horror, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Based on a popular webtoon, Sweet Home follows Cha Hyun-soo, a reclusive high school student forced to confront monstrous threats in his apartment complex. As the residents battle for survival, the show delves into themes of trauma and resilience, making it a unique blend of horror and human drama.
6. A Model Family (2020)
- IMDb: 6.6/10
- Genre: K-Drama, Crime, Thriller
- Release Date: December 18, 2020
In this gripping crime drama, a desperate family man named Dong-ha becomes entangled with a brutal cartel after stealing money from a car accident. The show mirrors Dong-ha’s struggles with those of the cartel’s leader, exploring the destructive power of money and its impact on family life.
7. Unlock My Boss (2022 – 2023)
- IMDb: 7.3/10
- Genre: K-Drama, Comedy, Fantasy, Thriller
- Release Date: December 7, 2022
This light-hearted series follows a young man who discovers a smartphone containing the trapped spirit of an IT company president. Together, they navigate a world of comedy and mystery while seeking the truth behind the president’s murder, creating a unique viewing experience.
8. All Of Us Are Dead (2022)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 89% | IMDb: 7.5/10
- Genre: Fantasy, Action, Horror, K-Drama
- Release Date: January 28, 2022
This survival horror series is set in a high school during a zombie outbreak. Students must fight for survival against both the infected and their own fears. With intense action and character development, All Of Us Are Dead presents a fresh take on the zombie genre.
9. Squid Game (2021 – Present)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 95% | IMDb: 8.0/10
- Genre: Adventure, Drama, Action
- Release Date: September 17, 2021
This cultural phenomenon follows financially desperate individuals participating in deadly children’s games for a massive cash prize. As they confront moral dilemmas and personal demons, Squid Game explores themes of inequality and the human condition, making it a must-watch.
10. Voice (2017 – 2021)
- IMDb: 7.6/10
- Genre: K-Drama, Action, Crime, Mystery
- Release Date: March 1, 2020
This series centers around a 112 emergency call center, following Kang Kwon-joo, a voice profiler, and Detective Do Kang-woo as they solve high-profile cases. With its intricate storytelling and suspenseful plots, Voice remains a classic in Korean television thrillers.
Conclusion
Korean thrillers present a rich tapestry of narratives that delve into various genres and themes, making them captivating for many audiences. Whether you’re drawn to psychological suspense, crime investigations, or supernatural elements, these thrillers deliver intricate plots and compelling character arcs.