2023 was another year filled with amazing K-drama releases. Out of the countless Korean dramas that came our way this year, here are the favorites that the allkpop staff loved the most!

MaiaD's pick: Moving

Perfect is an understatement for the drama, "Moving", released this August 2023, which will spark and reignite your love for all things K-Drama again. Honestly, it was the drama that brought me out of my watching slump, with its catchy plot, amazing storyline, and character design, not to mention the applauded acting of the cast members. Every detail of the drama was also great, leaving almost no room for plot holes but still managed to keep us on the edge of our seats and make us anticipate a possible next season with brewing fan theories. Han Hyo Joo, who we all know is an amazing actress, proved once again that she can do any role out there, now as a mother with supernatural senses. Ryu Seung Ryong is also undeniably a huge factor in the success and excellence of the drama, with his heart-wrenching portrayal as Jang Ju Won will make you shed tears without you even knowing. The "children", Lee Jung Ha, Go Youn Jung, and Kim Do Hoon are also wonderful revelations in the drama, with their compelling portrayal that make us root for them and watch them grow. As this has been easily my favorite drama of the year, I am hoping for another season with more exposure from some of the cast such as Zo In Sung, and give answers to the questions left unanswered.

A-Nish's Pick: Bloodhounds

It is a violent action drama starring Woo Do Hwan. He is sweet, trusting and perfect in his role. Yes, there are many bloody scenes but well-directed and choreographed fights. With only 8 episodes, I found it to be a short yet engaging series. It started slow but what came ahead was amazing.

ean1994's Pick: See You In My Ninteenth Life

I think this was one of the best dramas because unlike other dramas where the male lead is always the one to help the female it was the complete opposite in this series. The male lead was the one who was more the damsel in distress whereas the female lead provided more the supportive role. This was definitely refreshing to see, plus Ahn Bo Hyun and Shin Hye Sun's chemistry was definitely great to see. Really want them in another drama together, hopefully sometime in the future!

Jia-Lin's Pick: A Breeze Of Love

While I have not watched many Korean dramas this year, I happened to stumble upon a gem titled "A Breeze of Love." This BL drama unexpectedly captured my heart with the innocent love between the two leads–one grappling with chronic insomnia, and the other affectionately dubbed "human sleeping pills" for their miraculous ability to induce sleep merely by being present. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that it's not a mysterious aura that induces drowsiness, but rather the profound sense of ease emanating from their presence. If you are into BL dramas, this is definitely a must-watch!

optimusnins Pick: See You In My Ninteenth Life

This drama is on this list for one reason: Shin Hye Sun. Her being my favorite actress easily climbed this drama to the top of the list, but it was also her top-tier acting that made this drama so successful too. It’s just the way she acts with much sincerity, you can feel all of the emotions she portrays so perfectly every time. You’ll laugh, cry, get angry, and feel all sorts of emotions with her. Story-wise too was just too beautiful and pure; imagine being lonely for multiple lifetimes, but was short-lived when you finally found the one and so your goal is to find the love of your life again in your next reincarnation.

Sophie-Ha's Pick: Moving

Adapted from the webtoon of the same title by Kang Full, 'Moving' narrates the story of children with concealed superpowers and parents hiding somber secrets about their past. Hailed as one of the best Korean action dramas this year, 'Moving' is not just a simple superhero story but it brings a fresh and compelling story about parenthood, sacrifice, growth, and love.

Hannah's Pick: Twinkling Watermelon

It was funny and had so much heart. All the characters were interesting and well-fleshed out. I found myself missing the characters after it was all over.

Sohnji's Pick: Tell Me That You Love Me

"Tell Me That You Love Me" easily became my favorite drama of 2023, captivating me with its heartwarming and profound exploration of character growth and relationships, particularly focusing on someone with a hearing disability. This unique storyline was refreshing, beautifully navigating the nuances of communication and empathy in ways seldom seen in K-dramas.

Rika-Go's Pick: Song Of The Bandits

"SONG OF THE BANDITS," available on Netflix, has secured its place as my favorite K-drama of 2023. It is an action melodrama series set in the 1920s during the Japanese colonial period. This captivating series effortlessly blends elements of romance, action, and intrigue, creating a mesmerizing narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Germaine-Jay's Pick: The Glory

It was thrilling, intense, and so well done. Watching Moon Dong Eun's revenge unfold definitely made this the best drama of 2023 for me.

Dani-Dee's Pick: Mask Girl

When it comes to dramas, I have a preference for ones that are adapted from popular webtoons because there is always a unique vibrancy there – especially when it comes to how the visual elements were reinterpreted for a different medium. In the case of 'Mask Girl,' I was obsessed not only with the format of each episode being centered around one of the leading characters, but the casting was phenomenal, and I especially loved Yeom Hyeran's vengeful ahjumma character and how Son Dambi's "Saturday Night" became something of the show's unofficial anthem. 'Mask Girl' was such a fun watch.

Sofia-Sayson's Pick: Celebrity

I haven't watched a lot of dramas this year, but I think 'Celebrity' is one of my favorites. The storyline delves into the dark side of being a social media influencer, revealing how relationships with these individuals work and all the unseen happenings behind the scenes — the gritty reality of fame. This drama was able to depict a lot of aspects that go beyond what it takes to become a "star." It's a thought-provoking series, and I think that's the reason it's one of my top 2023 dramas along with 'Mask Girl.'

David's Pick: My Dearest

This wasn't simply my favorite K-drama of the year; it stands out as my top choice among all the K-dramas released in the past five years. 'My Dearest' unfolds a poignant and beautifully crafted story of two lovers, whose blossoming relationship is abruptly disrupted by the tumultuous Qing invasion of Joseon. The narrative weaves through their heartfelt struggles, unwavering devotion, and the relentless pursuit of love amidst chaos. The drama was not only a visual spectacle with its authentic period costumes and stunning cinematography but also an emotional journey that captivated me from start to finish. 'My Dearest' is truly a masterpiece of storytelling, blending intense emotion with rich historical details to create an unforgettable viewing experience.

Paul's Pick: Doctor Cha

Doctor Cha, being the sole K-drama I watched in 2023, clinches the title of my favorite by default. The series narrates the compelling tale of a woman, a medical graduate who transitions into a housewife role, only to make a determined return to the medical field. Simultaneously, it chronicles her husband, a seemingly perfect doctor who excels in his professional life while leading a deceitful personal life through infidelity. The first half of the series was particularly gripping, offering a blend of emotional depth and narrative intrigue as it explored the complexities of reconciling personal aspirations with familial duties, and the deceits that lurk beneath a facade of perfection. However, the momentum took a slower pace in the latter episodes. Ultimately, the finale brought a satisfactory conclusion. Despite the pacing in the second half, 'Doctor Cha' was a journey that was entertaining.

KG's Pick: Castaway Diva

I've seen my fair share of gripping storylines and stellar performances in K-drama's, but "Castaway Diva" topped my list for 2023. Following the remarkable success of "Extraordinary Attorney Woo," Park Eun Bin returns to the screen, delivering yet another masterful performance. This time, she breathes life into Seo Mok-ha, a teenage pop singer aspirant with dreams larger than life itself. Her portrayal is nothing short of superb, capturing the essence of a battered soul with dreams and determination. The narrative of "Castaway Diva" is as enthralling. It takes us on a journey with Seo Mok-ha, who, in a desperate bid to flee from her abusive father, finds herself shipwrecked and stranded on one of South Korea's many remote islands. What starts as a nightmarish ordeal turns into a 15-year saga of isolation and survival against the backdrop of untamed nature. The drama does an incredible job depicting the transformation of a naive teenager into a resilient survivor. The story resumes with a twist of fate when Seo Mok-ha is rescued 15 years later, returning to a world that has moved on without her. If you haven't watched "Castaway Diva" yet, I highly recommend watching it!