A Beginners Guide To K-Dramas: The 10 Best To Binge This Weekend

best kdramas to watch

In recent years, Korean culture has made an undeniable mark on the West, with K-pop sensations like BTS and BlackPink dominating the music charts. Korean Dramas, or K-dramas, are no exception to this cultural wave either. While 2021 saw the nation-sweeping success of Squid Games, the world of K-dramas goes deeper than oversized talking dolls and life-or-death trials. From enchanting fantasy tales to butterfly inducing romantic comedies, Korean dramas offer a rich tapestry of storytelling that goes beyond the surface.

As you can imagine, K-drama fandom culture runs deep, especially considering that many main characters in these dramas are K-pop idols. Given that, another standout element is the music — while American TV series often feature chart-topping hits or stock music, K-drama producers craft original soundtracks tailored to each show. So, don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming the same catchy tune repeatedly after a dramatic sequence.

Setting aside any cliche tropes, K-dramas are celebrated for their often twisting plot lines that will keep you glued to the screen, instinctively hitting that “Play Next” button without a second thought. With that being said, be warned! K-dramas are highly addictive. It’s not uncommon to lose track of time and find yourself wide awake at 2 a.m., wondering how you’ve already reached episode 7. Here are the top 10 K-dramas to binge next!

Crash Landing On You! (2019)

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Crash Landing on You | Official Trailer | Netflix

Available on Netflix, Crash Landing On You! is a 16-episode saga that follows the misadventures of Se-Ri, a South Korean heiress who stumbles across the North Korean border after a paragliding accident. There, she meets Ri Jeong-Hyeok, a North Korean army officer who helps her hide. If forbidden love stories are your preferred brand of romance, then Crash Landing On You! is definitely worth a binge-watch.

Boys Over Flowers (2009)

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Boys Before Flowers Trailer 2

Taking its rightful place as the campiest entry on this list, Boys Over Flowers is the OG K-drama! Embracing classic tropes, this 2009 classic features a working-class girl who unexpectedly finds herself attending a prestigious private high school. There, she clashes with F4 – a clique of the school's four wealthiest boys. Amidst their ruthless hazing, a nail-biting love triangle unfolds involving Geum Jan-di, the leader, and his best friend.

Business Proposal (2022)

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Business Proposal | Official Trailer | Netflix [ENG SUB]

As a favor to her best friend, Shin Ha-ri goes on a blind date in her place. What's the worst that could happen? Well, the mystery man turns out to be Ha-ri's boss (not much of a spoiler!) and he has a surprising proposal. If you're in the mood for a light-hearted rom-com, then the popular Netflix original series "Business Proposal," based on the webtoon novel The Office Blind Date, is the perfect watch for you.

King The Land (2023)

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King the Land | Official Trailer | Netflix

Airing in the summer of 2023, King The Land follows the life of Cheon Sa-Rang, a hardworking employee who always gives her best effort as she starts working at the King Hotel. Tensions arise when she crosses paths with Gu-Won, the heir to King Enterprise. Amidst a series of misadventures, the two grow closer amidst a power struggle for leadership at the King Hotel.

The Heirs (2013)

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The Heirs (trailer)

What's a romance-filled drama without a love triangle (or two)? The Heirs, also known as The Inheritors, is a series akin to Gossip Girl that revolves around the life of a working-class student who unexpectedly finds herself attending an exclusive high school for the uber-rich. While the poor girl, rich boy trope may sound familiar, the compelling characters and social class commentary make this 16-episode drama well worth your time.

Reply 1988 (2015)

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Reply 1988 | Trailer with Eng Subs

Set in the late 80’s (hence the name), Reply 1988 centers around the transformational essence of impactful childhood friendships, growing pains, and community – all universal experiences that tie us together. Whether you’re familiar with Korean culture or a fresh-faced newbie, this nostalgic slice-of-life story is a must-watch for all rookie and veteran K-drama fans.

Twenty Five Twenty One (2022)

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Twenty Five Twenty One | Official Trailer | Netflix [ENG SUB]

This drama will absolutely wreck you – in a good way. Twenty-Five Twenty-One journeys us hand in hand through the relationship of a passionate fencer and the son of a bankrupt billionaire searching to forge their own path. While we can’t promise an ideal ending, there’s no question that Twenty-Five Twenty-One is worth the watch and inevitable re-watch.

Hospital Playlist (2020)

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Hospital Playlist | Official Trailer | Netflix [ENG SUB]

Grey's Anatomy fans, rise! Hospital Playlist follows the day-to-day of five doctors, remaining close friends since undergrad, who share a love of music. Unlike most of the shows on this list, this one boasts *two* full seasons instead of one.

Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God) (2016)

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GUARDIAN: THE LONELY AND GREAT GOD (GOBLIN) - OFFICIAL TRAILER | Gong Yoo, Lee Dong Wook, Kim Go Eun

Goblin takes the cake as one of the best fantasy dramas for new K-drama fans on the scene. With sudden twists and extensive lore, you’re bound to get hooked.

Vincenzo (2021)

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Vincenzo | Official Trailer | Netflix [ENG SUB]

Calling all BookTok girlies! This one is for you. After tensions rise between mafia families, a lawyer working for the Italian mafia as a consigliere flees the country, jetsetting to Korea. In pursuit of a place to hide the mob's assets, Vincenzo finds himself discovering new laundering opportunities.

Looking for something to watch? Stay up-to-date on new (and old) releases with Brit+Co!

Header image via lim hyo seon / Netflix

Justine Lupe knows the power of agood rom-com. TheNobody Wants This star finds herself returning to You’ve Got Mail,When Harry Met Sally, and Sleepless in Seattle — basically all of the iconic films many of us nostalgia seekers love. Now Lupe, who cites Kate Hudson as the “perfect rom-com queen,” has found herself in a beloved Netflix series that brings back 2000’s romantic chemistry. And it’s reminding fans of those iconic Y2K storylines that still keep us glued to our television screens.

Hopper Stone/Netflix

In the series, Lupe plays Kristen Bell’s on-screen sister, Morgan, and the pair presents a fun, yet deeply loyal and caring dynamic. “I knew about her work, and I knew about her presence in the industry,” the Succession actress, who recently partnered with food brand Nature’s Fynd, exclusively tells Brit + Co of Bell. “She did a really good job of helping me not feel intimidated by that in any way.” In fact, the Frozen star slid into Lupe’s DM’s “very immediately,” asking her to go on a hike right when she got the job.

Lupe further described Bell as “so sparkly,” “really personable,” and an “easy person to feel close to.” The duo even carpooled to the first table read in order to build a “sisterly rapport” — and the bond most certainly came through on-screen. Despite the two characters hosting a successful sex podcast together, Morgan’s viewed as the “loser sibling” compared to Bell’s character, Joanne. Morgan strives to keep situations lightweight while maintaining depth in her relationships — which isn’t an easy feat as an actress.

Adam Rose/Netflix

“The writing was the first place that I went,” Lupe says. “I just loved the core story of Morgan — there’s this love story at the center of it all. But Morgan’s story is that she’s losing her soulmate [Joanne] of a sort.” Lupe explains that she kept the idea of “fighting against being the forgotten one” as her “North Star” in terms of Morgan’s slightly outlandish behavior (like busting out tequila to bond with mean girls during a basketball game, which we think was both totally hilarious and particularly genius).

Of course, the most-talked-about storyline of the first season was Morgan and Sasha’s “will they won’t they” relationship (which the creator, Erin Foster, recently told The Hollywood Reporter they’re going to “pull back” on in season 2). Lupe weighs in, adding that she enjoys playing into the “wired attraction” and boundaries of it all, but is ready to see that storyline wrapped up.

“I'm glad [Foster] went with that choice because to me, there's so much more fun to be gained from an oddball friendship between the two of them than there would be from destroying his marriage,” she says. As far as where Lupe would like to see Morgan go in Season 2, she says she’s putting her faith in the writers. “I’m excited for the surprise of it. I don’t really have an agenda for what I would like. I just want to be around.” She jokes that she felt the same with Succession, in which she played Willa Ferreyra for 32 episodes.

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Since Nobody Wants This season 2 is sure to solidify Adam Brody’s internet boyfriend status even more, we asked Lupe if she had an outright crush on him or his The O.C. character, Seth Cohen. But alas, she told us she’s only seen “maybe five episodes,” adding, “I didn’t ever get on that train. I always knew of him because he, of course, was a hugely popular star, and I thought he was so cute.” Us too.

Lupe was early in her pregnancy while filming Nobody Wants This (and is now currently caring for her newborn). So, naturally, we asked what her go-to set snack was. Lupe usually reached for apples, peanut butter, and, more surprisingly, sardines and hard-boiled eggs. She laughs, “I remember sitting in my chair and being like, ‘I’m so sorry,’ everyone. I was like the worst smelling cast mate ever.”

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel actress put her love for interesting food pairings to good use due to her latest partnership with Nature’s Fynd, a fungi-based food brand focused on sustainable protein. “I got really excited by the environmental aspect of [the brand], first and foremost,” she says. “And then it just tastes great, and it has a lot of protein in it, which was also really something that I was interested in as a new mom who needs protein.” You can actually win an LA brunch in February 2025 with Lupe and highly-acclaimed chef, Stephanie Izard, by entering the sweepstakes online before December 31st.

What Our Full Interview With Justine Lupe Here!

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While you’re waiting for that sweepstakes win though, we’ll be patiently watching every 2000’s rom-com, rooting for underdog characters like Morgan. That is, at least, until the next season of Nobody Wants This comes out

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Christmas has come early for two reasons: Carpool Karaoke is back — and so is Lady Gaga! Wondering what they have in common? Everything!

The 2010's sensation gave us amazing celebrity appearances with James Corden as driver extraordinaire, and stars like Harry Styles, Katy Perry, and Selena Gomez. Lady Gaga joined the carpool in 2016 — with over 88 million views on Youtube — singing songs like "Million Reasons" and "Bad Romance" to her heart's content.

Finally, the pop star — and the show itself, TBH — made a return this week! And more than that? Lady Gaga even debuted her new Christmas song. I've already played it multiple times, so I know it's about to top my most-played Christmas songs. Excited? Here's everything you need to know about the surprise song drop, the return of Carpool Karaoke, and more!

See how Carpool Karaoke gave us the biggest surprise of 2024 — a new Lady Gaga Christmas song!

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In an unexpected trailer for A Carpool Karaoke Christmas, Zane Lowe can be seen accepting a phone call from the one and only James Corden who has a huge favor to ask. The first passenger Lowe picks up is the "Bad Romance" songstress herself — followed by Chappelle Roan and Dua Lipa's own individual appearances.

The car's decked out in green wreaths and festive red bows which adds to the Christmas spirit as everyone sings along to famous holiday songs. Lady Gaga can also be heard singing "Christmas Tree" which has fans in the trailer's comment section besides themselves with glee!

According to Deadline, the special premiered on Apple TV+ December 15, so it's not too late to watch it if you're just as excited as we are. But that's not all!

The outlet also reported Lady Gaga and Lowe released a new version of "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town" on all streaming music platforms! This means you get to hear the pop star give the nostalgic song a punk rock vibe that's now stuck in our heads.

If Lady Gaga tells us not to pout or cry, we're going to listen! (And sing along while we're at it 😉)

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After all this time, the ever-iconic Gilmore Girls is still front and center in pop culture and is THE show to binge every fall. There's still a lot of debate surrounding who is the *best* of Rory Gilmore’s BFs (it’s Logan, BTW), but few people are discussing how truly insufferable the main character is.

The pride and joy of Stars Hollow fades as Rory transitions into college and becomes selfish, dull, and someone who I think isn’t a great writer…like at all. And I'm not the only one who thinks so — The Tabreported that Rory's unequivocally the worst character. So without further ado, let me present Gilmore Girls 101, with lesson plans in all things Rory Gilmore and her many, many faults based on overwhelming evidence from The Taband my own revelations.

She misses her mother’s graduation to hang out with Jess.

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Alexis Bledel as Rory Gilmore, Lauren Graham as Lorelai Gilmore in Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life

All Rory had to do was attend this one event for Lorelai — the single mom who raised her and aside her pride to get her the best education — and she failed to show up when it mattered most. Did she really need to see Jess in New York that day? I don’t think so.

She's not a very good friend to Lane.

Rory treats Lane as dispensable, like a side character in her life who's sole job is to support her through each up and down of life. Even when Lane mentions that she doesn't like feeling second to Rory's latest BF, not much changes — even well into the reboot.

​She doesn't seem to respect other people's relationships, including those who are literal married.

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Obviously, it takes two to tango — but that doesn’t excuse Rory's role in sleeping with Dean, a married man. Said affair is certainly the start to her downward spiral, one that unfortunately takes many others down the hole with her. It's bad enough that she's complicit in the affair with her high school ex, Dean, but it's her attitude after that that really solidifies her skewed moral compass.

Post-sex, Rory claims Dean was “hers," despite the fact that he is quite literally...not.

Thought that was enough adultery? Not for Rory — she sleeps with the soon-to-be-married Logan!

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Alexis Bledel as Rory Gilmore, Matt Czuchry as Logan Huntzberger in Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life

Rory clearly has a thing for taken men — especially ones she used to be in a relationship with. Forgetting your current BF is bad enough, but cheating on him with the man whose proposal you turned down is a new low. We'll never forget you, Paul!

She literally stole a yacht just because someone said something she didn't like.

OK — it makes sense to be angry if someone (especially your boyfriend's dad) tells you that you're not cut out for your life's goal in a professional setting. But dang! You don't have to steal a yacht! Come on, Rory.

She straight up fat-shamed a dancer in a newspaper article.

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Do we even need to say more? Do better, dude.

​Her white privilege reaaaaaally jumped out in the later seasons.

Yale got a little hard, and boom! She moved into the pool house at her grandparents' house and joins the DAR. And when Paris shows up after finding out all her parents' money is gone, Rory just sheds a tear for her own misfortune. First Lane, now Paris? This girl really needs to learn how to be a friend.

Her professionalism and overall perspective on work is..............questionable.

WARNER BROS TELEVISION

Remember that white privilege we mentioned? Instead of accepting a job that would pay for her needs and support her, Rory decides she'd rather take a chance on a fellowship at the New York Times. Rory does not receive the fellowship, and returns to the original offer to see if the old job is available. It's not.

​Her career-based self-entitlement in the reboot.

It’s shocking that this woman has had a decade-long career in journalism, and still doesn’t know how it works. Not only does Rory compromise her integrity by sleeping with a source, but she (somehow) believes she’s entitled to a job after writing one article, arrives at a job interview completely unprepared, freaks out when she doesn’t get the job she wants, and for some reason thinks Condé Nast should seek her out for a job? It's delusion at it's finest.

OK — time for the key takeaways. 1) Rory’s questionable internal ethical code of conduct needs some editing and 2) We'll still be watching Gilmore Girls this fall. No matter how insufferable she may be, Rory's life in Stars Hollow still makes for pleasant, wholesome TV — and we need some of that in our lives.

At the end of the day, despite her flaws, Rory does care deeply for her Stars Hollow community. She’s always willing to lend a helping hand when needed, or listen to the many fantastical ideas of Kirk and tirades of Luke. And for that, she’s still loved by many.

Do you have any hot takes on Rory Gilmore? Let us know in the comments and stay updated on all things pop culture with Brit + Co.

Lead image courtesy of Saeed Adyani/Netflix.

This post has been updated.

I knew beauty trends were officially headed in a different direction when latte makeup dominated social media last year. Everything about it gave the appearance of soft features, making this millennial appreciate the ‘no makeup’ look more and more. And while I'm working on staying up-to-date on all the latest makeup trends, it also reminded me there are outdated trends that unintentionally age people...and definitelyneedto go.

Wanna look younger and more on-trend, too? From super metallic eyeshadow to contour that dominates your face, here are the 8 outdate makeup trends to leave in the early ‘90s to mid-2000s.

The 8 outdated makeup trends you need to stop ASAP!

1. Full Coverage Foundation

KoolShooters

There was a time where wearing full-coverage foundation was all the rage. From drugstore to high-end brands, it seems like they were consistently shoved in consumers’ faces to help us achieve a ‘full beat’ without sitting in a makeup artist’s chair. Also, those of us with dark spots or hyperpigmentation may have relied on them when we were in the thick of our skincare woes.

But these days, wearing too much foundation isn’t as popular as natural and skincare makeup are prioritized. If anything, more people are interested in wearing light-to-medium coverage foundation, skin tints, or tinted moisturizers.

2. Too Much Concealer

George Milton

It wasn’t until I watched this video by makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes that I realized some of us have been too heavy-handed with our concealers. There’s no reason we should be slapping products under the thinnest parts of our face, but we didn’t know any better!

Now that you know you can still get the desired effect with a minimal amount of concealer, don’t revert back to painting your under eyes!

3. 'Baking' Your Setting Powder

Chidi Young

Before you throw away your setting powders, step away from your makeup drawer and have a sit-down chat with me. There isn’t anything wrong with applying them to your face to help ‘set’ your foundation and concealer. However, spending over 10 minutes ‘baking’ your powder (AKA letting it sit untouched) doesn’t work for everyone.

It can lead to creased makeup which can derail your look, plus it’s a pain to correct when you’re halfway through your routine!

4. Overlining Lips

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I love a good lip liner, especially if it mirrors my favorite ‘90s makeup look. But, there’s such a thing as overdoing it. The key to lining your lips is following the natural flow of them. Going out of your way to draw above and under your lips’ lines comes off as comical and exaggerated. If anything, use a lip plumping gloss to help your lips look fuller.

5. Overtweezing Your Eyebrows

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I don’t even have the words for this outdated makeup look besides wanting to say “no” 20 times in a row. But, I’ll bite and say why this shouldn’t be on your 2025 beauty moodboard.

Some people naturally have thinner eyebrows which is A-okay! However, purposely tweezing your eyebrows to smithereens is cringey. If you truly want to wear this look, here’s what you can do instead of tweezing:

  • Create a faux bleached look by applying a skin tone colored setting powder all over your brows.
  • Once they’ve ‘disappeared,’ take an eyebrow pencil or eyeliner to draw a thin line over them.

I’m…wondering what the ramifications of telling you how to do this will be, but only use go for this look if it’s a part of a themed party…like Halloween.

6. Exaggerated Highlighter On Cheeks

Milad Farhani

The shimmery look is in since it’s winter, but please don’t make it look like you dipped your cheeks into a vat of glitter. You can lightly dust highlighter onto your cheeks for a more natural glow that flows with the rest of your look. Otherwise you’ll look like a walking disco ball which could be the opposite of what you were going for.

7. Heavy Contour Or Bronzer

Laura Garcia

I know the ‘sculpted’ look is popular, but too much contour or bronzer can overpower the rest of your makeup and face. While it’s not impossible to fix if you do it by mistake, using the wrong shade of contour or bronzer may still peep through no matter how much you try to buff it out.

When in doubt, be gentle with your contour or bronzer application!

8. Incredibly Matte Makeup

Nataliia Yatsiuk

Matte makeup that didn’t budge was the ‘It Girl’ look for oily and combination skin girls! We thought it was the answer to our skin’s incessant need to hydrate our faces instead of actually using skincare products that focused on combatting that issue (psst…Vitamin C serums help!).

But now’s the time to break up with this look for good for one reason: dewy skin looks healthier.

While we have you here, learn about the outdated shoe trends you shouldn't be wearing in 2025 either.

As much as I love the wholesome parts of the holidays (like decorating Christmas cookies and opening gifts in the morning), one of my absolute favorite parts about the end of the year is ringing in a new one. 2025 is on its way, baby, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already scheming up a New Year's party plan. The key to a good time is definitely having a great outfit – and these 12 Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses are actually perfect for the occasion. I’m talkin’ sequins, mesh, and even leopard print.

Get ready to stand out this season in these drop-dead gorgeous Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Drop-Waist Maxi Dress

Drop waists will always get me. Plus, they're so flattering! This flowy maxi can be conveniently worn with or without straps to suit your personal style.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Sheer Hem Mini Dress

The scooped neckline on this stunning mini dress is mirrored along the back, which dips a bit lower for a sultry vibe. Pair with some basic heels, and your 'fit is complete.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Collared Zip-Up Midi Dress

The ruching along the front of this zip-up dress is super flattering, drawing eyes to your waistline. The high leg slit feels flirtatious as ever, which could be just the vibe you're needing for your New Year's plans.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Slip Maxi Dress

Slip dresses are simply timeless and so easy to style. Lean more '90s with this foxy leopard print. I'd def wear it with some black boots and a black faux fur jacket for the drama (and more importantly, the warmth).

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Mesh Maxi Dress

This meshy maxi comes with a mini-length slip along the inside so you won't have to constantly worry about coverage. The material still shows your skin in all the right places!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Pleated Skort Dress

This preppy piece can easily be played up for a party – if anything, I think the tailored look gives the impression that you're super polished. Slip into this strapless skort dress (yep, there's built-ini shorts!), step into some cute kitten heels, throw on a shaggy coat, and you're set!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Satin Mini Dress

I could see this one working just as well for a Christmas dinner as it would for a rather lit New Year's get-together. The off-the-shoulder look is simply so sweet!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Straight Neck Sequin Midi Dress

Sequins. Need I say more?! You'll immediately stand out among the crazy New Year's crowds in this fancy, disco ball-esque frock.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Off-The-Shoulder Rhinestone Maxi Dress

If full-on sequins aren't quite your thing, you can still put on a bit of shimmer with this dress that's dotted in tiny rhinestones. It comes in this amazing nude color or black to best suit your style!

Abercrombie & Fitch

High-Neck Satin Sculpt Midi Dress

While the front of this sleek midi is more modest, the back features an open design that lets you show some more skin. It's definitely on the elegant side, so I'd advise wearing it to a fancy cocktail hour or more low-key NYE party this year.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Emerson Off-The-Shoulder Skort Dress

Polka dots always feel super energetic to me, so if you want to be the one to get the party started, this is the dress for you! Plus, it'll make for some super cute Instagram pics. The design includes some built-in shorts, so coverage won't be an issue throughout the night.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Embellished Strapless Mini Dress

Oh, this one is perfect. The tiny rhinestone embellishments will certainly have heads tuning your way.

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