On September 17th, 2021 the world was changed forever. Okay, maybe not the world, but it definitely seemed like the whole world had finally woken up to the greatness of Korean TV Dramas (aka K-Dramas). Squid Game was released in September and has since been the No. 1 show on Netflix in several countries, including the US. In fact, Squid Game has smashed expectations and records as well with an estimated 132-142 million views in just under a month. Now, don’t be fooled; Squid Game isn’t the first popular foreign-language TV show in the US. Other examples include Money Heist and Elite.  However, Squid Game is the first one to rise to popularity at such an exponential rate. 

The premise of Squid Game is that 456 players who are in severe debt enter a contest to win $45.6 million, which is won by playing a series of children's games. Unfortunately, once you are out from the game, you’re also out of life, as losers are killed immediately. These childrens games include Red Light, Green Light, and even tug-of-war. Despite the violent nature of the show, it’s been a massive hit, as evidenced by the memes on Twitter and the never-ending sprawl of videos on TikTok. The global phenomenon has been accredited to word of mouth and the diverse selection of subtitles and audios available, which caters to a much wider audience than just a Korean one. 

However, I find it hilarious that out of all the K-Dramas to have risen to global fame, it’s Squid Game that has crossed over to the Western audience. I keep hearing people from work, school, and other places talking about the show and the unexpected twists. Frankly, it’s about time that Western audiences started giving K-Dramas the attention they are due, but out of all the ones out there… Really, this one? Overall, Squid Game is a decent show with amazing acting and the entire set was phenomenal. Yet, the show did not leave a great impression on me when compared  to the variety of dramas out there. I’ve been watching K-Dramas for a couple of years now, so I’m not an expert, but I do have some knowledge. Therefore, I have prepared my Top Ten K-dramas on Netflix for your viewing pleasure. 

1. Guardian: The Lonely and Great God: I have never sobbed so hard watching a TV show before. As in, my heart was broken and put together and finally smashed to pieces with a sledgehammer. 

2. Hopital Playlist: I was finally able to live vicariously through the characters on this show as a doctor, and it catered to my interests in music too. 

3. Itaewon Class: Hands down, one of the most hilarious K-Dramas out there, and the chemistry between the two main characters had me going insane. 

4. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: I adored the way the show handled delicate issues like mental health. The storyline was immaculate as well. 

5. Nevertheless: The slow burn romance in this one was so worth it, but it also made me realize just how impatient I am. I may also need to reevaluate my morals as a result. 

6. Her Private Life: My fangirl life is basically embodied throughout the show, except I don’t have a terribly attractive, artistic, and wealthy boyfriend now. 

7. Vincenzo: Never say K-Dramas aren’t interesting because this one focused on my two favorite things in the world: Italians and the mafia. It's a nice change of pace from normal life. 

8. Crash Landing On You: If you love the trope of grumpy man with a ball of sunshine, this one's for you. The show also sheds light on important issues, like North and South Korean tensions. 

9. The King: Eternal Monarch: I genuinely believe this is the best quality show I’ve seen in my life because every scene was cinematic and out of this world. It’s a work of art. 

10. Boys Over Flowers: An iconic show that is a little bit older, but is still a fun one. The love triangle in this one made me rip my hair out though.