The new year looks promising with a fresh lineup of k-dramas in January. Aside from three different types of romances, this month has something for fans of historical dramas, thrilling investigative series, fun school-themed shows and exciting medical procedurals.
January 3: Love Scout
Kang Ji-yun, a successful CEO of a headhunting company, excels in her professional life but struggles with everyday tasks. Her dependable secretary, Yoo Eun-ho, a single father, assists her both at work and in personal matters, leading to a unique and heartwarming relationship. This 12-episode romantic comedy stars Han Ji-min (Behind Your Touch) and Lee Joon-hyuk (Dongjae, the Good or the Bastard).
Where to watch: Netflix
January 4: When the Stars Gossip
Set aboard a space station, this sci-fi romance follows an astronaut and an obstetrician-gynecologist space tourist with a secret, exploring love beyond Earth's atmosphere. The series features Lee Min-ho (The King: Eternal Monarch) and Gong Hyo-jin (When the Camellia Blooms) in leading roles, bringing their chemistry to an otherworldly setting.
Where to watch: Netflix, every Saturday and Sunday
January 6: The Queen Who Crowns
Based on the true historical reign of Queen Won Gyeong and King Tae Jong of Joseon, this historical drama delves into the tumultuous journey of Queen Won Gyeong and her rise to power amid political intrigue and personal sacrifice. The series stars Cha Joo-young (The Glory) as the titular queen and Lee Hyun-wook (Mine) as King Tae Jong, portraying the complexities of their relationship and governance.
Where to watch: tvN, Vidio
January 10: Motel California
A romance about an interior designer who returns to her rural hometown after 12 years and reunites with her first love, now a popular veterinarian fending off marriage proposals.
The drama stars Lee Se-young (The Red Sleeve) as the interior designer and Na In-woo (River Where the Moon Rises) as the veterinarian, rekindling old flames amidst small-town charm. If you’re a fan of Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha and Welcome to Samdal-ri, this one is probably right up your alley.
Where to watch: Disney+
January 15: Unmasked
This mystery comedy follows the team leader of Korea’s first Investigative Journalism Bureau as she works to save a program, blending investigative intrigue with humor. The series features the incomparable Kim Hye-soo (Hyena) in the lead role, portraying a determined journalist uncovering truths while navigating the challenges of the newsroom.
Where to watch: Disney+
January 23: Study Group
If you didn’t get enough of Hwang Min-hyun from Alchemy of Souls, then this is your chance. Set at one of the worst high schools, he plays a student who excels at fighting but struggles academically. To prepare for college entrance exams, he forms a study group that sees him use his fighting skills to keep together.
Where to watch: TVING
January 24: The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call
This 8-episode medical drama follows Baek Kang-hyeok, a genius trauma surgeon with experience in conflict zones worldwide, as he joins a university hospital's struggling trauma team. His unorthodox methods and overconfidence initially clash with the existing team, but he gradually earns their respect, leading them toward becoming a top-tier trauma unit.
The series will bring Ju Ji-hoon (The Light Shop), to our screens as Baek Kang-hyeok, Choo Young-woo (Police University) as Yang Jae-won, a fellow who becomes Kang-hyeok's first disciple, and Ha Young as Cheon Jang-mi, a dedicated nurse in the trauma center.
Where to watch: Netflix
