Korean dramas have been bringing in a ton of entertainment for everyone who wants something to latch on to. With a variety of genres to choose from, these shows have made their way to people’s hearts in spite of their lengthy runtimes. However, if you’re someone who needs to find something that will touch your heart but won’t take up too much time, then there are several Korean drama miniseries that are both enjoyable, impactful and extremely short.
The reason why these shows work is because of their incredible storytelling ability in a short span of time, providing entertainment without overstaying their runtime. So, buckle up because these shows are short enough to watch in a day but impactful enough to stay with you for years!
The Kidnapping Day (2023)
This thriller drama is one that is both funny and very dark. With twists and turns in every corner, the series, with only 12 episodes, will touch your heart in unexpected ways. Showcasing the interactions between a small girl who is exploited throughout her life and a kind-hearted man in desperate need of some money for his sick daughter’s treatment, the storyline is so gripping and moving that you won’t be able to stop going to the next episode. With exceptional performances, especially by the child actors, this one will stay with you long after you are done with the last episode.
Stars: Yoon Kye-sang, Park Sung-hoon, Jeon Yu-na, Kim Shin-rok, Kim Sang-ho, Seo Jae-hee, and Kang Young-seok.
Lies Hidden in My Garden (2023)
This drama, starring Kim Tae-hee and Lim Ji-yeon, is a thrilling and well-paced ride that takes you down dark avenues as you uncover lies and secrets. Following two women from drastically different lives, the mystery-thrilling brings forth the notion that all that seems well sometimes isn’t and that sometimes, you can’t trust those closest to you. The eerie atmosphere and the buildup of the thrill will make you smash the next episode button to get to the answers, and its 8-episode runtime is perfect for a day’s binge.
Stars: Kim Tae-hee, Lim Ji-yeon, Kim Sung-oh, Choi Jae-rim
Based on: House with a Yard by Kim Jin-young
The Hymn of Death (2018)
Showcasing the tragic romance between Joseon’s first soprano, Yun Sim-deok, and the genius playwright, Kim Woo-jin, this drama is based on true events that are totally heartwrenching, and the after-effects of its 6-episode runtime will stay with you long after it’s over. With brilliant acting from the cast, the drama will leave you in thought after you finish it, making you treasure freedom and everything that it entails all the more. This one’s a must-watch for all romance lovers who like to watch something deep and profound.
Stars: Lee Jong-suk, Shin Hye-sun
Seven First Kisses (2016)
Produced for the Lotte Duty Free Shop, this 8-episode series is a short and sweet watch that is just so cute that you won’t be able to stop watching. With each episode being only 10 minutes long, the short and sweet burst of bubbly romance is not only watchable but will immediately get you into a good mood. On top of that, it stars some extremely talented actors who do a fantastic job of making this a warm and fuzzy watch and bringing out the star power like no other!
The storyline follows a 25-year-old woman who has never been in a relationship. One fateful meeting with the Goddess of Dating at her workplace, however, changes her life and brings her in front of seven potential matches who are ready to sweep her off her feet.
Stars: Lee Cho-hee, Choi Ji-woo, Lee Joon-gi, Park Hae-jin, Ji Chang-wook, Kim Jong-in, Ok Taec-yeon, Lee Jong-suk, Lee Min-ho
You Drive Me Crazy (2018)
Han Eun-sung and Kim Rae-wan’s relationship, fraught with unspoken words and unresolved feelings for one another, goes through a shift in dynamics after they sleep together one day. The short and sweet drama brings forth the sweet pain of love and relationships quickly, wherein you don’t have to wait for too long for true feelings to be spoken. The actors do a fantastic job of expressing every emotion that their changing dynamics go through in the story, leaving you reeling and dizzy with butterflies long after the story is over.
Stars: Lee Yoo-young, Kim Seon-ho, Kim Sung-joo, Kwon Do-woon
The series is streaming on Viki.
The Witch’s Diner (2021)
This dark mystery drama is the perfect companion for anyone who wants something alternative to watch. Fraught with revenge and selling souls in exchange for wishes to come true, the drama doesn’t linger on anything for longer than needed, wrapping it up in 8 episodes smoothly. Even with the short runtime, the drama does a fantastic job of developing its characters and solving the different mysteries that it introduces without any hiccups. After all is said and done, you can’t help but want more of the eerie ambience and the excellent acting.
Stars: Song Ji-hyo, Nam Ji-hyun, Chae Jong-hyeop
Based on: The Witch’s Diner by Goo Sang-hee
The series is streaming on Viki.
Queen Of The Ring (2017)
This drama has a very beautiful message and showcases it in a heartfelt and warm manner that is thoroughly entertaining and positively gooey! It’s a touching story that will stay with you long after it ends, and the characters’ arcs are just so relatable that you won’t be able to stop watching it after you start. The story follows Nan-hee, who has low self-esteem and doesn’t believe in herself. However, a magical ring changes her stance in life, especially when she comes across the cold-hearted but dashing Se-gun.
Stars: Kim Seul-gi, Ahn Hyo-seop
Which of these is your favourite Korean drama miniseries? Let us know in the comments below!
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