How 2017 Took K-Dramas From Big Hits to Cultural Phenomena

If 2016 was the golden year of K-dramas, 2017 was the year that refined everything — stronger female leads, bolder storytelling, and romances that became instant pop-culture moments.

From fantasy romances that dominated social media to thrillers that kept viewers glued to their screens, 2017 delivered some of the most memorable Korean dramas of all time.

Here’s a curated list of the best K-dramas of 2017 that are still highly recommended today.

🌟 Top Korean Dramas of 2017 You Should Watch

1. Strong Woman Do Bong Soon

Romantic Comedy | Fantasy | Action

A petite woman born with superhuman strength becomes the bodyguard of an eccentric CEO — and chaos (and romance) follows.

Why it stands out:

• One of the most beloved rom-coms ever
• Strong female lead with charm and power
• Iconic couple chemistry

This drama remains a fan favorite and a gateway K-drama for many viewers.

2. While You Were Sleeping

Romance | Fantasy | Legal Thriller

Romance | Fantasy | Legal Thriller

Three people who can foresee future events work together to prevent tragic outcomes.

Why it stands out:

• One of the strongest first episodes in K-drama history
• Unique fantasy concept blended with legal drama
• Excellent pacing and emotional payoff

A perfect mix of romance, suspense, and heart.

3. Because This Is My First Life

Romance | Slice of Life

A pragmatic man and a struggling writer enter a contract marriage that slowly turns into real love.

Why it stands out:

• Honest look at modern relationships and marriage
• Relatable struggles of young adults
• Thoughtful dialogue and mature storytelling

Often praised for being quietly realistic and deeply comforting.

4. Fight for My Way

Romance | Youth | Slice of Life

Four friends chase their dreams while dealing with career setbacks, love, and adulthood.

Why it stands out:

• Relatable underdog story
• Natural chemistry between the leads
• Inspirational without being unrealistic

This drama resonated strongly with young professionals and dreamers.

5. Chicago Typewriter

Fantasy | Historical | Romance

Three people connected by their past lives during the Japanese occupation era reunite in the present.

Why it stands out:

• Unique dual-timeline storytelling
• Emotional historical themes
• Slow start with a powerful payoff

A hidden gem that grows more rewarding with each episode.

6. Prison Playbook

Slice of Life | Dark Comedy | Drama

A baseball star lands in prison just before his professional debut and navigates life behind bars.

Why it stands out:

• Exceptional character development
• Dark humor balanced with heartfelt moments
• Realistic portrayal of prison life

Critically acclaimed and considered one of the best-written K-dramas.

7. My Secret Romance

Romantic Comedy

A one-night encounter leads to an unexpected reunion years later.

Why it stands out:

• Classic rom-com tropes
• Light, binge-friendly episodes
• Popular among international viewers

Perfect for viewers craving something simple and sweet.

8. Black

Fantasy | Thriller | Mystery

A grim reaper possesses a human body to solve mysterious deaths while uncovering hidden truths.

Why it stands out:

• Dark, intriguing concept
• Strong mystery elements
• Emotional themes surrounding life and death

A bold and unconventional 2017 release.

9. The Package

Romance | Travel | Slice of Life

A group tour in France becomes the backdrop for personal growth and unexpected romance.

Why it stands out:

• Beautiful European scenery
• Mature romance
• Refreshingly different setting

A relaxing watch with heartfelt storytelling.

10. Tomorrow, With You

Romance | Time Travel

A time-traveling CEO marries a woman to change his future — but love complicates everything.

Why it stands out:

• Unique approach to time travel
• Strong emotional depth
• Realistic portrayal of marriage

An underrated gem from 2017.

🎬 Why 2017 Was a Standout Year for K-Dramas

The best Korean dramas of 2017 offered:

• Stronger female leads (Strong Woman Do Bong Soon)
• Realistic relationship storytelling (Because This Is My First Life)
• Genre-blending creativity (While You Were Sleeping, Chicago Typewriter)
• Top-tier ensemble writing (Prison Playbook)

It was a year that proved K-dramas could be both commercially successful and artistically strong.

📌 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re discovering classics or revisiting old favorites, 2017 is a must-explore year in K-drama history. These shows helped shape the modern era of Korean television and continue to attract new fans worldwide.