Revenge is a dish best served cold. This must have been the quote to best describe the genius storyline and plot twist of the Netflix Korean drama My Name. Written by Kim Ba-Da and brought to life through the direction of Kim Jin-Min, this gritty dark crime action series unfolds over eight episodes.
Led by Han So Hee, My Name is driven by a young woman’s strong pursuit of revenge and justice after witnessing her father’s brutal demise. This orphan journeys to quench her thirst for vengeance, infiltrating the source of corruption within the police force and the sickening world of syndicates.
Her sole mission was to find out the truth behind her father’s death and fulfill her goal of holding the man responsible for her tragic life. If you loved the exhilarating crime saga that is My Name, you should absolutely check out these ten dramas with the same action-packed story, with some lead characters also seeking revenge and justice.
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Vagabond
Vagabond is a thrilling Korean drama that premiered on SBS TV on September 20, 2019, and aired until November 23, 2019, with a total of 16 episodes. It was also internationally available for streaming hours after every episode on Netflix.
Vagabond tells the unfortunate life of Cha Dal-Gun, played by Lee Seung Gi. Cha Dal-Gun is a stuntman who is suddenly thrown into a world of corruption and conspiracy after his nephew, Cha Hoon, is killed in a plane crash. The plane accident was initially reported as a failure in the plane’s mechanism.
But further in the series, it was unveiled that it was a planned act of terrorism. This revelation prompted Cha Dal-Gun to pursue the truth behind his nephew’s death with no hesitation.
On the other hand, Go Hae-Ri, portrayed by Suzy Bae, is a National Intelligence Service (NIS) operative. Cha Dal-Gun joins forces with Go Hae-Ri, who works undercover as a liaison officer to the bereaved families of the plane crash. Go Hae-Ri becomes an unexpected ally in Cha Dal-Gun’s search for justice, with their tandem marked by a mix of tension and eventual love chemistry.
Both Cha Dal-Gun and Go Hae-Ri escape from assassination attempts and endure the effects of silly betrayals and political manipulations. With the same action-packed scenes as My Name, Vagabond also has its own share of exciting combat scenes, which truly describes it as a rollercoaster of action, suspense, and drama.
Specifically, the chemistry between Cha Dal-Gun and Go Hae-Ri is a sight worthy of praise. It is among the strengths of the series, to say the least. With their blossoming relationship providing a layer of emotional depth to the fast-paced storyline, it is to be noted that a shocking plot twist will arrive that will affect the two’s love lines.
Shin Sung Rok also joins the cast as Gi Tae-Woong, a NIS team leader. His appearance in the show adds excitement to each episode. Yoon Han-Ki, the Blue House’s National Security Advisor, is played by Kim Min Jong. These two actors’ contributions to the story add dimension, making Vagabond a definite must-see for fans of action-packed political thrillers.
- Released: September 20, 2019
- Episodes: 16
- IMDB Score: 8.1 / 10
- Genre: Action, Thriller, Crime, Suspense, Romance, Spy
- Cast: Lee Seung Gi, Bae Suzy, Shin Sung Rok, Kim Min Jong, Baek Yoon Sik, Moon Sung Keun, Kim Sun Young, Choi Kwang Il, Kim Jong Soo, Lee Ki Young, Jung Man Sik, Hwang Bora, Shin Seung Hwan, Lee Geung Young, Kim Jung Hyun, Ryu Won, Moon Jeong Hee
- Directed By: Yoo In-Sik
- Written By: Jang Young-Chul, Jung Kyung-Soon
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
Flower of Evil
Flower of Evil is another Korean drama that expertly combines suspense, romance, and psychological thriller. The series premiered on July 29, 2020, on tvN. The plot depicts the story of Baek Hee-Sung, played by Lee Joon Gi. At first look, Baek Hee-Sung is a perfect husband and loving father, but behind his sweet smile lies a dark past.
Cha Ji-Won, portrayed by Moon Chae Won, is Baek Hee-Sung’s wife and is a passionate detective who goes out of her way to solve cases.
When she is assigned to a case that involves a cold case of murder, it unknowingly leads her to discover who her husband really is. As Cha Ji-Won investigates further, she is left with no choice but to face the shocking revelations about the man she loves.
Flower of Evil is noted for its intense plot twists, intricate character backgrounds, and fascinating narrative about psychopaths. The series will have you continuously question the characters’ inner motives and will leave you wondering if psychopaths can really control their emotions and urge to be violent.
- Released: July 29, 2020
- Episodes: 16
- IMDB Score: 8.6 / 10
- Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller, Romance
- Cast: Lee Joon Gi, Moon Chae Won, Jang Hee Jin, Seo Hyun Woo, Lim Na Young, Kim Ji Hoon, Jung Seo Yeon, Nam Gi Ae, Son Jong Hak, Jo Kyung Sook, Choi Young Joon, Choi Dae Hoon, Kim Soo Oh, Lim Chul Hyung, Hong Seo Joon, Yang Hye Jin, Ju Ye Eun, Choi Byung Mo, Han Soo Yeon, Lee Kyu Bok
- Directed By: Kim Cheol-Kyu
- Written By: Yoo Jung-Hee
- Streaming Platform: Netflix, Viu, Viki, Amazon Prime Video, iQIYI
The K2
The K2 is a Korean drama that aired on tvN from September 23 to November 12, 2016. The action-packed political series tells the story of Kim Je-Ha, played by Ji Chang Wook. Kim Je-Ha, also known as “K2,” is a former mercenary soldier who works as a bodyguard for Choi Yoo-Jin, played by Song Yoon Ah. Choi Yoo-Jin is the wife of the presidential candidate, Jang Se-Joon.
Terribly bothered by his past, Kim Je-Ha was falsely accused of a crime he did not commit. To clear his name, he seeks vengeance on those who have brought this tragedy upon his life.
Choi Yoo-Jin, a woman who seems to be the ideal wife yet has a vicious and cunning character, happens to cross paths with him. Promising him the opportunity to exact his revenge, Choi Yoo-Jin recruits Kim Je-Ha after recognizing his skills. The series became popular in South Korea because of its intense action scenes. It also discussed sensitive political issues.
There is also a complex love triangle between Kim Je-Ha, Choi Yoo-Jin, and Go An-Na, the latter portrayed by Girls’ Generation member Im YoonA, who happens to be Jang Se-Joon’s secret daughter. Go An-Na lives a lonely and hidden life due to her traumatic past. As she gets emotionally involved with Kim Je-Ha, their relationship starts to form an interesting build.
Among the strengths of the Korean drama The K2 is the applaudable acting skills of the main leads. In particular, Ji Chang Wook’s portrayal of the stern yet vulnerable Kim Je-Ha and Song Yoon-Ah’s act of the manipulative Choi Yoo-Jin are factors to watch out for, as well.
- Released: September 23, 2016
- Episodes: 16
- IMDB Score: 7.8 / 10
- Genre: Action, Political Thriller, Melodrama
- Cast: Ji Chang Wook, Song Yoon Ah, Im YoonA, Jo Sung Ha, Kim Kap Soo, Lee Jung Jin, So Hee Jung, Jeon Bae Soo, Lee Ye Eun, Shin Dong Mi, Lee Jae Woo, Lee Chul Min, Song Kyung Chul, Kwon Soo Hyun, Sung Dong Il, Lee Soon Won
- Directed By: Kwak Jung-Hwan, Sung Yong-Il
- Written By: Jang Hyuk-Rin
- Streaming Platform: Netflix, Viki, Amazon Prime Video
Also Read: 10 K-dramas Like Playful Kiss You Need To Watch
Big Mouse
Girls’ Generation’s Im YoonA seems to be in a lot of action Korean dramas. Another one of them is Big Mouse, which also tackles the same issues seen in My Name. This time, YoonA is paired with Lee Jong Suk for the 2022 Korean drama which aired on SBS.
Big Mouse premiered on July 29, 2022, on MBC TV. It concluded on September 17, 2022, with a total of 16 episodes and a 13.7% nationwide viewership rating. The series also was available for online streaming through Disney Plus in selected countries.
Everything was normal in Park Chang-Ho’s life. Portrayed by Lee Jong Suk, Park Chang-Ho is a lawyer with a good share of years in the field but only has a 10% winning rate. Despite this embarrassing record, he still wholeheartedly does his job and is known for his talkative nature, earning the nickname “Big Mouth.”
While working on a new case, Park Chang-Ho’s life suddenly takes an unexpected turn. Chang-Ho becomes entangled in a murder investigation and is mistaken for the genius swindler known as the “Big Mouse.” Ironically, “Big Mouth” and “Big Mouse” are pronounced the same in Korean.
Nonetheless, Chang-Ho maintains a positive attitude and moves on with his everyday life in jail using his razor-sharp wit. So, instead of attempting to clear his name from behind bars, he uses his talkative attitude to navigate the dangerous world of fraud.
As Chang-Ho pretends to be the “Big Mouse,” he eventually uncovers the root of corruption. Discovering this ugly truth puts his legal skills and morality to the test. Chang-Ho must resist the temptation of joining the bad guys over his trust in himself.
Big Mouse also emphasizes Chang-Ho’s surprising character development thanks to the never-ending support of his wife, Go Mi-Ho, who is portrayed by Im YoonA. Chang-Ho changes from a struggling lawyer to someone eager to play a mind game with the criminal boss. He must carefully continue with his plans as the enemy might be someone he already knows.
- Released: July 29, 2022
- Episodes: 16
- IMDB Score: 7.9 / 10
- Genre: Crime, Noir, Legal, Hardboiled, Legal
- Cast: Lee Jong Suk, Im YoonA, Kim Joo Hun, Yang Kyung Won, Kim Jung Hyun, Lee Ki Young, Oh Eui Shik, Kwak Dong Yeon, Lee Yoo Joon, Oh Ryung, Yoon Seok Hyun, Park Hoon, Hong Ji Hee, Jang Hyuk Jin, Kim Kyu Seon, Ok Ja Yeon, Kim Seon Hwa, Park Se Hyeon
- Directed By: Oh Chung-Hwan, Bae Hyun-Jin
- Written By: Kim Ha-Ram
- Streaming Platform: Disney Plus
Extracurricular
Extracurricular is an enthralling Korean crime drama that premiered on Netflix on April 19, 2020. The series dives into the dark part of high school life, offering a stark contrast from the typical teen drama genre.
Leading the series is Kim Dong Hee, who portrays the character of Oh Ji-Soo. Despite being at the top of his class, Oh Ji-Soo has no other choice but to venture into illegal activities, as he sees this as an easy source of income.
Oh Ji-Soo provides security and protection to sex workers. This is his desperate attempt to save funds for his future. However, his carefully planned business begins to crumble because of his classmate, Bae Gyu-Ri, played by Park Ju Hyun. Bae Gyu-Ri discovers his secret and insists on joining his business, as she also struggles to make ends meet.
Gyu-Ri’s character adds a complicated spice as her connection with Ji-Soo progresses from classmates to partners in crime. It is also important to note that romantic tension will further evolve in the series.
Meanwhile, the straightforward way of telling the dark side of teenage life is among the highlights of Extracurricular. The series also confidently explores societal issues and the harsh reality, making it an intriguing watch.
- Released: April 19, 2020
- Episodes: 10
- IMDB Score: 7.6 / 10
- Genre: Crime, Thriller, Psychological Drama, Coming of Age
- Cast: Kim Dong Hee, Park Ju Hyun, Jung Da Bin, Nam Yoon Su, Choi Min Soo, Park Hyuk Kwon, Kim Yeo Jin
- Directed By: Kim Jin-Min
- Written By: Jin Han-Sae
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
Kill It
Kill It is an action, thriller, crime, and mystery Korean drama. The series stars Jang Ki Yong and Nana and was released on March 23, 2019, on OCN.
The series revolves around the life of Kim Soo-Hyun, played by Jang Ki Yong. Kim Soo-Hyun is an assassin who also works as a veterinarian. Despite his cold and ruthless profession, Kim Soo-Hyun has a longing to live a normal life.
On the other hand, Do Hyun-Jin, portrayed by Nana, is a diligent detective who strictly follows the rules and executes justice under proper procedures. Troubled by her tragic past, she strives hard to focus on her pursuit of the truth, no matter how painful it would be.
When Hyun-Jin is assigned to a case that leads her to Soo-Hyun, the two become entangled in an unusual connection. The series highlights a suspenseful cat-and-mouse game. As Hyun-Jin digs deeper into the case, it is now her time to balance out her morality and decide whether she will follow her heart or mind.
- Released: March 23, 2019
- Episodes: 12
- IMDB Score: 7.7 / 10
- Genre: Action, Thriller, Mystery, Drama
- Cast: Jang Ki Yong, Nana, Roh Jeong Eui, Lee Jae Won, David Lee McInnis, Kim Hyun Mok, Ji Il Joo, Kwak Ja Hyung, Ahn Se Ho, Park Geun Soo, Jung Hae Kyun, Jung Jae Eun, Kim Joo Hun, Jo Han Chul
- Directed By: Nam Sung-Woo, Ahn Ji-Sook
- Written By: Son Hyun-Soo, Choi Myung-Jin
- Streaming Platforms: Viu, Viki, WeTV
Sweet Home
Sweet Home is a thriller-suspense Korean drama that premiered on Netflix on December 18, 2020. The series is based on the popular webtoon of the same name, bringing forth a post-apocalyptic future in which humans transform into horrible creatures driven by their darkest desires.
The plot revolves around Cha Hyun-Soo, portrayed by Song Kang. Cha Hyun-Soo is a gloomy high school student who moves into the Green Home apartment complex after the tragic death of his family in a car accident. The once quiet life is shattered when a mysterious disease starts turning people into monsters, forcing him to fight for survival.
Although initially suicidal and disconnected, Hyun-Soo grows into a determined survivor, even obtaining the powers of the infected while preserving his humanity. Hyun-Soo uses this to his advantage, but the other residents see him as a danger. The unbelievable transformation from a dejected teenager to a reluctant hero forms a compelling aspect of the story.
The main conflict of Sweet Home stems from the struggle to survive in a world taken over by monsters. The residents of Green Home must fight not just the invasion from outside but also their inner demons as the virus awakens their deepest and darkest desires.
Its astounding visual effects are one of the highlights of the series. Sweet Home also brings an interesting take on the evolution of human nature and how we value the difference between right and wrong in the midst of a life-and-death crisis.
The unusual combination of horror, drama, and psychological thriller elements in Sweet Home makes it an absolute must-watch. Aside from its jam-packed actors, the emphasis on character development and psychological depth provides a novel perspective on the apocalypse genre.
- Released: December 18, 2020
- Episodes: 10
- IMDB Score: 7.3 / 10
- Genre: Apocalyptic, Action, Horror, Drama
- Cast: Song Kang, Lee Jin Wook, Lee Si Young, Go Min Si, Park Gyu Young, Lee Do Hyun, Kim Nam Hee, Go Young Jung, Kim Kap Soo, Kim Sang Ho, Woo Hyun, Kim Hyun, Kim Hee Jung, Heo Yool, Choi Go, Kim Gook Hee, Lee Bong Ryun, Go Geon Han, Yu Oh Seong, Oh Jung Se, Kim Mu Yeol, Jung Jin Young
- Directed By: Lee Eung-Bok, Jang Young-Woo, Park So-Hyun
- Written By: Hong So-Ri, Kim Hyung-Min, Park So-Jung
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
The Uncanny Counter
The Uncanny Counter is a Korean drama that combines fantasy, action, and mystery. Season 1 was released on November 28, 2020, and aired on OCN, while season 2 premiered on July 29, 2023, and has aired on tvN. Both seasons are available for online streaming on Netflix.
The series introduces unique individuals who wake up from a coma. They earned supernatural powers after signing a contract with the people of Yung. Now known as “Counters,” they are tasked with hunting down evil spirits who have escaped the afterlife, fearlessly wreaking havoc on humanity.
So Mun, played by Jo Byeong Kyu, is a disabled high school boy who becomes a Counter. Ga Mo-Tak, portrayed by Yoo Jun Sang, is a police officer with superhuman strength. Do Ha-Na, played by Kim Se Jeong, can detect evil spirits from a long distance.
The eldest of the counters, Chu Mae-Ok, portrayed by Yeom Hye Ran, has healing talents. While the newest recruit, Na Jeok-Bong, played by Yoo In Soo, has the ability to smell undetectable evil spirits.
The Uncanny Counter Season 2 is most similar to My Name in terms of the new antagonist’s plot for revenge. Ma Ju-Seok, played by Jin Seon-Kyu, is one of the victims of a real estate fraud.
When his wife came in front of a building where the perpetrators were supposed to be arrested by the authorities, she was killed, along with their unborn baby. This prompted Ma Ju-Seok to seek vengeance and justice for the unruly death of his loved ones.
However, an evil spirit invades him when his rage attracts it. So Mun now must stop his hero and savior from wreaking havoc, all while chasing two powerful evil spirits, Hwang Pil-Kwang, played by Kang Ki Young, and Gelli Choi, portrayed by Kim Hieora.
- Released: November 8, 2020
- Episodes: 16 (Season 1), 12 (Season 2)
- IMDB Score: 8.1 / 10
- Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Action, Thriller
- Cast: Jo Byeong Kyu, Yoo Jun Sang, Kim Se Jeong, Yeom Hye Ran, Yoo In Soo, Ahn Suk Hwan, Kang Ki Young, Jin Seon Kyu, Kim Hieora, Ok Ja Yeon, Lee Hong Nae, Kim Hyun Wook, Moon Sook, Kim So Ra, Eun Ye Jun, Kwon Duk In, Lee Chan Hyung, Choi Kwang Je, Woo Mi Hwa
- Directed By: Yoo Seon-Dong, Park Bong-Seop
- Written By: Yeo Ji-Na, Yoo Seon-Dong, Kim Sae-Bom
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
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Save Me
Prepare for a disturbing yet engaging Korean drama, Save Me. Released on August 5, 2017, this Korean series tackles the dark and troubling world of cults.
Save Me revolves around Im Sang-Mi, portrayed by Seo Yea Ji. It was just a normal life for Sang-Mi as her family moved to a small village. However, she becomes caught in the cult, unable to escape from their tight grasp. There is no way out as Sang-Mi’s family members were also deceived by the cult’s head, becoming actively involved in their recruitment activities.
Ok Taecyeon breathes life into the character of Han Sang-Hwan, who becomes Sang-Mi’s only hope for rescue. At first, Sang-Hwan is skeptical about Sang-Mi’s call for help, but thanks to his friend’s investigation, they altogether embark on a mission to save her.
However, this was not just an easy ‘save her and go’ operation. Even though Sang-Hwan and his friends ask for help from the authorities, Sang-Mi’s cry for help is disregarded. It turned out that the police force was also influenced by the cult, leaving them with no choice but to act by themselves.
As Sang-Hwan and his friends try every method they can think of, they also uncover the cult’s sinister activities. The disturbing issues of religion and manipulation make Save Me an absolute must-watch.
Particularly, the applaudable portrayal of Seo Yea Ji and Ok Taecyeon brings depth and authenticity to their roles. The series also does an excellent work of building tension and suspense.
- Released: August 5, 2017
- Episodes: 16
- IMDB Score: 7.9 / 10
- Genre: Thriller, Mystery
- Cast: Seo Yea Ji, Ok Taecyeon, Jo Sung Ha, Woo Do Hwan, Lee David, Ha Hwa Jung, Jung Hae Gyoon, Yoon Yoo Sun, Jang Yoo sang, Park Ji Young, Jo Jae Yoon, Son Byung Ho, Choi Moon Soo, Jang Hyuk Jin, Kim Kwang Kyu, Go Jun, Kang Kyung Hun, Park Soo Yeon, Jeon Yeo Been, Lee Jae Joon, Yoon Jong Suk, Park Soo Yeon
- Directed By: Kim Sung-Soo
- Written By: Jung Shin-Kyu
- Streaming Platform: iQIYI, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount Plus
Night in Paradise
Night in Paradise is another Korean drama similar to My Name. Although it is only a movie, you can rest assured of being satisfied with its gripping storyline that also combines crime, action, and drama.
This 2020 Korean film revolves around Tae-Gu, who is portrayed by Uhm Tae Goo. Tae-Gu is a gangster who becomes the target of a rival gang after refusing to switch sides and join them.
Because of his refusal, Tae-Gu’s sister and niece get brutally killed as punishment. This drives him to seek revenge, killing the head of the Bukseong Gang, Chairman Doh, and his men.
Tae-Gu then fled to Jeju Island, leading him to meet Jae-Yeon, played by Jeon Yeo Been. Jae-Yeon is strong-willed despite being terminally ill. When Tae-Gu’s past catches up with him on Jeju Island, it leads to a violent fight with the Bukseong Gang. The movie delves into strong topics such as vengeance and death.
In particular, how Tae-Gu and Jae-Yeon’s relationship evolved in the end is a major factor in why viewers who love the complicated view of revenge need to watch the film. Spoiler alert: Jae-Yeon makes the most difficult decision after losing Tae-Gu.
- Released: September 3, 2020 (Global Premiere), April 9, 2021 (Netflix)
- Running Time: 131 minutes
- IMDB Score: 6.8 / 10
- Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller, Neo-Noir, Drama
- Cast: Uhm Tae Goo, Jeon Yeo Been, Cha Seung Won, Son Byung Ho, Lee Ki Young, Cha Soon Bae, Kim Young Sung, Byun Jung Hyun, Park Ho San, Cho Dong In, Lee Joo Won, Ahn Se Bin, Jang Young Nam, Hyun Bong Sik, Lee Moon Sik
- Directed By: Park Hoon-Jung
- Written By: Park Hoon-Jung
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
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