The new year is off to an exciting start for K-drama fans, it unveils a lineup of captivating series this January. Whether you’re a fan of heart-fluttering romances, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, or gripping reality dramas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month.
1. When the Stars Gossip ( Netflix)
Release Date: January 4, 2025
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Sci-Fi
Cast: Lee Min-ho, Gong Hyo-jin
Teaser Link: Watch the teaser here
Plot: This unique romantic comedy follows Gong Ryong (Lee Min-ho), a space tourist with a zest for adventure, and Eve Kim (Gong Hyo-jin), a no-nonsense astronaut. The two meet on a space station under unexpected circumstances and are forced to navigate their clashing personalities and life’s challenges beyond Earth. With a blend of romance, humor, and futuristic settings, this drama promises a heartwarming yet out-of-this-world experience.
2. Unmasked ( Disney+)
Release Date: January 15, 2025
Genre: Thriller, Mystery
Cast: Kim Hye-soo, Jo Jin-woong
Teaser Link: Watch the teaser here
Plot: In this gripping thriller, Oh Long (Kim Hye-soo) is the headstrong and fearless leader of an investigative journalism team. She becomes embroiled in a 20-year-old cold case involving the disappearance of a famous actor. Teaming up with Detective Kang Ji-hoon (Jo Woong), Long dives into the murky depths of the entertainment industry, uncovering shocking secrets. “Unmasked” offers a suspenseful look at the cost of truth and justice.
3. Single’s Inferno: Season 4 ( Netflix)
Release Date: January 14, 2025
Genre: Reality, Romance
Cast: Various
Teaser Link: Watch the teaser here
Plot: The popular reality series returns with a fresh batch of singles looking for love on a secluded island. Stripped of modern comforts, contestants must form connections to escape the “inferno” and earn a place in paradise. With new twists and challenges, Season 4 promises even more drama, romance, and emotional revelations.
4. The Queen Who Crowns ( TVING, VIKI)
Genre: Historical Drama, Romance
Cast: Cha Joo-young, Lee Hyun-Wook
Plot: Set in the royal court, The Queen Who Crowns follows Queen Wongyeong (Cha Joo-young) and King Lee Bang Won (Lee Hyun-wook), who share a deep love and a political partnership. However, their relationship becomes strained after the king ascends to the throne. The king begins to restrain his wife, acquiring many concubines, which upsets the queen. Meanwhile, King Taejong, the king’s father, seeks to keep the queen and her family in check. As tensions rise, the queen must navigate the delicate balance between her love for the king and the increasing power struggles within the court. This drama promises a thrilling journey of love, power, and sacrifice.
5. Motel California ( MBC TV)
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Cast: Lee Se-young, Na In-woo
Plot: Motel California is the first love remodeling romance drama set in a rural area, based on the novel Home, Bitter Home by Shim Yoon-seo. The story follows Kang-hee, a woman who was born and raised in a motel. After running away from her hometown 12 years ago to seek success and happiness, she returns and reunites with her first love. As she confronts the past she had sealed away, Kang-hee must navigate the complex emotions tied to her hometown and her first love. This heartwarming and nostalgic drama promises to explore the themes of love, family, and second chances.
Why These Dramas Stand Out
Each of these K-dramas offers a unique storytelling experience:
- When the Stars Gossip blends romance and science fiction, exploring human connections in extraordinary circumstances.
- Unmasked takes viewers on a tense investigative journey, filled with unexpected turns.
- Single’s Inferno: Season 4 continues to captivate fans with its blend of romance and reality-show drama.
- The Queen Who Crowns provides a compelling look into the complexities of power and love in a royal setting.
- Motel California delivers a gripping mystery with supernatural elements and thrilling twists.
Are you ready to kick off the year with a binge-worthy marathon?
