Korean Dramas Turning 10 In 2026: The year 2026 marks the 10-year anniversary of several beloved Korean dramas that first aired in 2016. In 2016, K-dramas surged in global popularity with iconic series capturing hearts with their strong stories, unforgettable characters, and emotional depth, many of which remain fan favourites today. That year gave us shows that aren’t just popular but iconic, with huge fanbases that span generations and countries. From fantasy romances to military dramas, these K-dramas helped shape the global boom of Korean storytelling. In this article, we’ll tell you about some of the most memorable K-dramas turning a decade old in 2026 and still hold a special place in hearts of fans even today:
One of the biggest K-drama sensations of 2016 was ‘Descendants of the Sun’. Starring Song Joong-ki, Song Hye-kyo, Jin Goo, and Kim Ji-won, this military romance became a breakout hit not just in South Korea but across Asia and beyond. The story is about a captain in the South Korean Army's special forces and a surgeon as they navigate the challenges of love under the pressures of duty. Netflix synopsis states, “After a chance meeting in a hospital, an ardent soldier falls for a gifted surgeon. Opposing philosophies tear them apart, but fate has other plans.”
Its blend of action, heart-touching moments, and on-screen chemistry turned it into a must-watch series that helped introduce many international viewers to K-drama.
Ask any K-drama fan about the most iconic shows when it comes to K-dramas and ‘Goblin’ will almost always be in the top few (including mine). Blending fantasy, romance, and drama, this series follows an immortal goblin (Gong Yoo) searching for his “bride” (Kim Go-eun) to end his eternal life. About the plot IMDb states, “In his quest for a bride to break his immortal curse, Dokkaebi, a 939-year-old guardian of souls, meets a grim reaper and a sprightly student with a tragic past.”
With interesting plot, unforgettable characters, and one of the best OSTs in K-drama history, Goblin remains a top recommendation for newcomers.
Another standout from 2016 is ‘The Legend of the Blue Sea’, starring Jun Ji-hyun and Lee Min-ho. This fantasy romance is about, “A mermaid from the Joseon period ends up in present-day Seoul, where she crosses paths with a swindler who may have ties to someone from her past”, according to Netflix. packed with humour, emotion, and a touch of magic, it offered something different from the typical romance drama and left a lasting impression on K-drama fans.
ALSO READ- Idol I To Lovely Runner: 4 Romantic Korean Dramas Where Female Leads Save K-Pop Idols
No list of iconic Korean dramas from 2016 is complete without ‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’. Even ten years later, this historical fantasy romance continues to win hearts among the audience. Starring IU and Lee Joon-gi, the drama follows, “Ha-jin travels 1000 years back in time and lands in the era of Goryeo Dynasty as a young girl named Hae-soo. She, now trapped in another person's body, becomes involved in a power struggle against various vicious contenders to the throne”, according to IMDb.
What starts as a slow-burn romance quickly turns into an emotional rollercoaster filled with love, betrayal, sacrifice, and tragedy. Moon Lovers found massive success internationally and soon became a cult classic too.
Another standout drama turning 10 in 2026 is ‘W: Two Worlds’, a series praised for its originality and creative storytelling. Starring Lee Jong-suk and Han Hyo-joo, the drama blurs the line between fiction and reality in a way few shows had attempted before. As per IMDb, the story centres on “Yeon-joo discovers that W, a webtoon created by her father, is a living world and saves the protagonist, Kang Chul. A confused Kang Chul falls in love with her and follows her to the real world.”
With its mix of romance, suspense, and fantasy, W kept viewers hooked with lots of twists and engaging storytelling.
As these Korean dramas hit their 10th anniversary in 2026, they’re more than just old favourites and remain one of the memorable dramas from 2016 worth celebrating in 2026.
For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi.
Image credit: IMDb
Our aim is to provide accurate, safe and expert verified information through our articles and social media handles. The remedies, advice and tips mentioned here are for general information only. Please consult your expert before trying any kind of health, beauty, life hacks or astrology related tips. For any feedback or complaint, contact us at [email protected].