The Best K-Dramas that Take Place in Historical Settings

The rise in popularity of K-Dramas is an indisputable phenomenon. Though many shows follow enjoyably cliché storylines, they somehow present themselves with intricate twists. Whether it's the recent hit Broker, Pachinko or Squid Game, they always have the most star-studded cast who are exceptional at delivering heart-tugging emotions and comedic skits. Some of the best elements included in K-Dramas are the historical aspects often used in the storylines. Ranging from extremely serious to typical romantic comedies set in periodic times, these K-Dramas also intrigue the viewer to learn more about Korean history. Seeing new K-Dramas with historical aspects taking over the world, let's look at the best K-Dramas that take place in historical settings.

5 Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung (2019)

Written by Kim Ho-Soo and starring the beautiful Shin Se-Kyung and the dashing Cha Eun-Woo, Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung is a show which completely encapsulates the way of life in traditional eras. The story follows Goo Hae-Ryung as a female historian who is looked down upon because of her gender and her involvement with the prince. The drama has a funny and playful aspect, which is highly emphasized by the frequently played sound effects, while the characters are moving. It shows a more modern mindset compared to actual life in that time. Though having a comedic aspect, it does not shy away from talking about serious topics which are considered taboo. Additionally, the chemistry between the two leads makes this show the most enjoyable and keeps improving as it progresses.

4 Kingdom (2019)

Directed by Kim Seong-hun, Kingdom is a cinematic masterpiece, with many aesthetically filmed scenes in the dark, with fire as the only light source, further adding to the horror. It shows the story of a kingdom worried about their ill King and the Crown Prince Yi Chang (Ju Ji-Hoon) as their only hope to protect them from a disastrous plague. The storyline is exceptionally unique, showing the concept of a zombie apocalypse in a medieval era.

Currently, with two seasons, Kingdom includes political intrigues, such as the historic rivalry between the Korean Peninsula and Japan, which make the storyline even more dense and enjoyable. This, coupled with the threat of zombies who run faster than Usain Bolt, is the perfect recipe for gory horror lovers. Fans who regard Kingdom as the best zombie show can also watch the spin-off movie called Kingdom: Ashin of the North, while they wait for new seasons.

3 Empress Ki (2013)

Starring the heartthrobs Han Ji-Won and Ji Chang-Wook, Empress Ki is loosely based on a true story and is written by Jang Young-Chul. It follows the story of a woman who navigates life through facing possible slavery, living as a boy, becoming the King's bodyguard, and finally becoming an empress. The show explores themes of politics, wars, and love. The 51-episode drama keeps viewers questioning who she loves between the King of Korea and the Emperor of China. However, the show displays the resilience and power of a strong woman, which viewers barely see, especially in dramas set in old times. Set in the Chinese Yuan Dynasty, Empress Ki is bound to wow viewers, many of whom choose to re-watch it, regardless of its length. It pays homage to the last Mongolian empress Ki, who after the death of her husband, took charge of the throne and became one of the most powerful women in the Yuan Dynasty.

2 Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)

Written by Cho Yoon-Young and starring Lee Joon-Gi and Lee Ji-Eun (IU), Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is the most beautifully tragic rollercoaster one could get on. It shows the story of Hae-Soo, who is transported from the future into the Goryeo Dynasty. She witnesses love, politics, and rivalries between princes in a fight for the throne and love.

The minute the main character of the 4th prince, Wang So (Lee Joon-Gi), appears on the screen, viewers are instantly hooked to the facial expressions, despite his mask. Additionally, Ji-Eun Lee makes viewers feel the same emotions that her character Hae-Soo, feels. When Hae-Soo is desperately writing letters to now King Wang So and does not get any replies, viewers can definitely feel the same gut-wrenching emotion. On the plus side, it also includes comedic scenes like the iconic fight between the 10th Prince, Wang Eun (Byun Baek-Hyun), and our leading lady, Hae-Soo (Ji-Eun Lee). The show leaves us on a cliffhanger, with Wang So telling Hae-Soo that he will meet her in the future and Hae-Soo waking up in her present body. Fans can anticipate the storyline being carried on by a new season, though nothing is certain.

1 Mr. Queen (2020)

A hilarious romantic fantasy drama written by Park Gye-ok, Mr. Queen stars Hye Sun-Shin as Kim So-Young and Kim Jung-Hyun as King Cheoljong. It tells the story of a modern-day chef getting trapped in the body of a queen in the Joseon Era, and what follows is pure chaos in the best possible way.

This drama is said to be on another level, with the witty dialogue and top-notch chemistry between the two leads. The beautiful cinematography is most noticeable in the scene of So-Young cooking, with camera angles panning to different ingredients. Hye Sun-Shin especially makes the character of So-Young, playing a man in a woman's body, becoming so real to the viewers through her acting skills. The plot is unique and original, changing the perception of periodic dramas. The charm of this show makes 20 episodes feel like too few for this comedy gold drama.