Military K-dramas are known for their fast-paced and intriguing storylines. Viewers remain hooked on the characters as well as the plot. Over the years, numerous series in the genre have achieved significant critical acclaim. Their documentation of life in the army mixed with the element of mystery, thriller, or romance makes for a perfect watch. Meanwhile, it also serves as a slice of life, given how able-bodied men aged 18-30 have to serve in the South Korean military.
Many military K-dramas have gone on to become cult classics. Some of the more popular shows include Crash Landing On You, Descendants of the Sun, and more. These series showcase not just the military life but also the friendships and meaningful relationships formed out of them. Check out more details about these dramas.
Crash Landing On You
Crash Landing On You is a classic K-drama that premiered on December 14, 2019. It follows the story of a chaebol heiress Yoon Se-Ri (Son Ye-Jin) who suffers a paragliding accident and lands in North Korea. However, North Korean soldier Ri Jeong-Hyeok (Hyun Bin) rescues her and hides her in his home. Although they don’t get together initially, as time passes, the duo falls in love. However, he promises to send her back safely to South Korea. Will their relationship sustain despite the national conflicts? Viewers can watch the show on Netflix.
Descendants of the Sun
Descendants of the Sun follows the story of special forces officer Yoo Si-Jin (Song Joong-Ki), who falls in love with surgeon Kang Mo-Yeon (Song Hye-Kyo). However, the opposites have different ideologies, causing them to split up. However, after war breaks out, the two reunite when Mo-Yeon joins Si-Jin’s unit deployed on the battleground. The two reignite their romance in the middle of the war, navigating multiple challenges. The drama premiered on February 24, 2016, and is available to stream on Viki, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other platforms.
D.P
D.P premiered its first season on August 27, 2021, and spanned for a total of two seasons. The story follows soldier Jun-Ho (Jung Hae-In) who serves in the military. However, one day he becomes part of a team that is tasked with capturing deserters. The drama sheds light on the advantages and painful disadvantages that the soldiers go through during their time in the military. The cast also includes Koo Kyo-Hwan, Kim Sung-Kyun, Son Suk-Ku, Hong Kyung, and others. Meanwhile, viewers can stream the series on Netflix and Viki.
Military Prosecutor Doberman
Military Prosecutor Doberman follows the journey of two completely opposite military prosecutors. Do Bae-Man (Ahn Bo-Hyun) enters the profession with the sole reason of making money to become more successful. Meanwhile, Cha Woo-In (Jo Bo-Ah), who joins his team only works to seek revenge. The two initially don’t click together because of personality differences. However, as they continue to work together, they learn more and help each other in situations. Together, they achieve personal and professional growth. Meanwhile, the drama premiered on February 28, 2022, and is available to stream on Viki and Netflix.
My Military Valentine
My Military Valentine premiered on June 7, 2024. It centers around a fictional world, documenting the end of war and peace restored to the Korean Peninsula. To celebrate a new beginning, popular South Korean star Lloyd (Kim Min-Seok) reaches DMZ to perform. However, a misunderstanding causes North Korean special forces soldier Baek Young-Ok (Nam Gyu-Ri) to intervene. Later, people misinterpret the situation as a romantic moment, which becomes a scandal, forcing Lloyd to join the military. Chaos ensues when Young-Ok becomes his leader. Meanwhile, viewers can stream the drama on Viki.
These military K-dramas promise engaging storylines and characters that viewers will remember for a long time.
