Here are the top five must-watch horror K-drama
Horror K-dramas have been captivating audiences worldwide with their unique blend of spine-chilling plots, impressive production values, and compelling characters. Here are the top five must-watch horror K-dramas, complete with details on their budgets and earnings where available.
1. Kingdom (2019)
“Kingdom” is a historical horror series set in the Joseon period, blending political intrigue with a zombie apocalypse. The story follows Crown Prince Lee Chang as he investigates a mysterious plague that turns people into zombies. The show is renowned for its high production values and gripping storyline.
Budget and Earnings: The budget for “Kingdom” was approximately $1.78 million per episode, reflecting its high production quality. The series was a massive success internationally, contributing significantly to Netflix’s subscriber growth in Asia.
2. Sweet Home (2020)
Based on a popular webtoon, “Sweet Home” tells the story of residents in an apartment complex who are trying to survive as people around them turn into monsters. The series is praised for its special effects and intense atmosphere.
Budget and Earnings: The budget for “Sweet Home” was around $2.4 million per episode, making it one of the more expensive Korean dramas produced by Netflix. The show was well-received globally, further establishing Netflix’s foothold in the Asian market.
3. Hellbound (2021)
“Hellbound” is a dark fantasy horror series where people are condemned to hell by mysterious beings. The story explores the chaos and societal impact of these supernatural events.
Budget and Earnings: While specific budget figures are not publicly disclosed, “Hellbound” was a high-budget production, indicative of Netflix’s investment in Korean content. The series quickly became a hit, ranking high on global streaming charts.
4. The Master’s Sun (2013)
This romantic horror comedy revolves around a woman who can see ghosts and a man who can help them move on. Their interactions lead to various ghost-related adventures, mixing humor with supernatural elements.
Budget and Earnings: “The Master’s Sun” was produced on a moderate budget typical of prime-time Korean dramas. It was a commercial success, achieving high ratings and earning significant advertising revenue during its run on SBS.
5. Strangers from Hell (2019)
Adapted from a webtoon, “Strangers from Hell” follows a young man who moves to Seoul and ends up in a creepy apartment complex. The psychological horror elements are enhanced by the unsettling behavior of his neighbors.
Budget and Earnings: This OCN series was produced on a relatively lower budget compared to Netflix originals but achieved critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, boosting its earnings through domestic and international distribution.
These horror K-dramas not only showcase the versatility and creativity of Korean filmmakers but also highlight the growing investment in high-quality content that appeals to global audiences. Whether you’re a fan of historical horror, psychological thrillers, or supernatural tales, these dramas offer a diverse range of chilling experiences.
