If you haven't already been sucked into the Korean drama craze (cough, Squid Game*cough), first, what have you even been doing? And second, 2021 is as good a time as ever to get started. I don't know what sort of magic these shows possess, but there's nothing like a K-Drama to put my emotions and fangirling tendencies into overdrive. So if you're looking for a good laugh, a good cry, a good scare, or a good dose of butterflies in your stomach (thanks to all the drop-dead-gorgeous stars), a Korean-language show will probably give you your fix. And, yes, they are absolutely worth the minimal effort it takes to read subtitles.
This year's roster has brought some really good new options that belong to the canon. From silly romantic comedies to series that explore psychological trauma—you'll definitely find something to your liking. Here are some of the best Korean dramas to watch this year.