Asian drama fans are always looking to explore different genres. For those fans, we have made our best effort to make a list of 31 best music Korean drama series to watch. Music is something that people cannot live without. But musical dramas have achieved a different level of popularity. With their unique stories and talented actors, Korean music dramas have gained a footing all around the World. Also, dramas like “Liar and His Lover” and “I am Legend” have been making news ever since they were released. Every music drama has one thing in common that is a dream singing cast. Most of them are popular idols proving how talented they are.
In the 31 best music Korean drama series to watch, we have covered dramas from all ages. Also, some of the dramas have exceptional stories. Moreover, many K-pop idols who have already made their career in singing have done excellent work in acting as well. Most K-pop idols who have worked in musical dramas are Jisoo, the EXO boy band, Bae Suzy, and many more. Dramas we would suggest you not miss are “Beethoven Virus” and “Dream High.” In this article, we will focus on the all-time best musical Korean dramas and where you can watch them.
31 Best Music Korean Drama Series to Watch:
1. The Liar and His Lover
“The Liar and His Lover” is a South Korean drama series. And is also known as “Lovely Love Lie”. The famous drama stars Lee Hyun-woo and Joy as main leads. The drama was released in the year 2017. Talking about the story, it revolves around music and love. Kang Han-Gyul, the character played by Lee Hyun-woo, is a genius music composer. After his past experiences, he is heartbroken. One day he meets Yoon So-rim, the character who is played by Joy. Yoon So-rim is a talented singer. She is also a student of Kang Han-Gyul. Both fall in love and are faced with many challenges. But when Yoon So-rim starts a career in the music industry, she finds out about Kang Han-Gyul’s real identity. And uncovers all the lies he told her.
- Starring- Lee Hyun-woo, Joy, Lee Jung-jin, Lee Seo-won, Hong Seo-young
- Director- Kim-Jim- min
- Series duration- March 20, to May 9, 2017
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
2. Top Management
If you are someone who loves light-hearted comedy, “Top Management” will do the trick for you. Also, the story is very interesting and unpredictable. The actress Seo Eun-soo plays the character of Yoo Eun-sung, a former girl idol trainee. She was supposed to debut with a girl band but instead decided to work at the Starlight company as a talent manager. Also, she can see the future. And with this ability, she helps the boy band S.O.U.L who are struggling with a controversy. Thus, this show comes 2nd in the best drama on 31 best music Korean drama series to watchlist.
- Starring- Seo Eun-soo, Ahn Hyo-Seop, Cha Eun-woo, Jung Yoo-Ahn, Bang Jae-min
- Director- Yoon Sung-ho
- Series duration- October 31, to November 16, 2018
- Watch on- Youtube premium
- No. of Episodes- 16
3. The Musical
“The Musical” is directed by Kim Kyung-Yong, and has 15 episodes. The cover covers the lives of performers in the musical theater world. All the actors, songwriters, and producers in the series have their journey to embark on. Ku Hye-sun plays the character of Go Eun-bi. Also, she is a Musical theater lover. Moreover, she wants to be a musical theater actress working in theater productions. Another character in the story is Hong Jae-Yi, once known as the best music composer is heartbroken after his girlfriend breaks up with him. After this, he leaves Korea. Later, when the former composer returns to Korea, he meets Go Eun-bi. And he decides to help her achieve her dream of becoming a professional actress. The drama also has a love triangle between Go Eun-bi, Hong Jae-Yi, and Kang-hee.
- Starring- Ku Hye-sun, Choi Daniel, Park Ki-Woong, Ock Joo-Hyun, Kim Eun-Se
- Director- Kim Kyung-yong
- Series duration- 2 September, to 23 December 2011
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 15
4. Dream High
“Dream High” is one of the most successful dramas of all time. The “Dream High” was released in the year 2011. Also, the musical series has a sequel. K-pop idols have been the focus since the K-wave started. In this drama, six students study at Kirin High School. Also, all of them have a dream of becoming K-pop idols. Moreover, the character achieves their personal growth along with singing and dancing skills. Furthermore, “Dream High” is a story of friendship. It shows how they give a successful debut with the help of one another.
- Starring- Bae Suzy, Kim Soo-Hyun, Ok Taecyeon, Ham Eun-Jung, Jang Wooyoung, IU
- Director- Lee Eung-bok and Kim Seong Yoon
- Series duration- January 3, to February 28, 2011
- Watch on- Netflix, Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16+1
5. Dream High 2
The sequel of “Dream High” received a lot of appreciation for its story and actors. The story follows the success of the six students of Kirin High School. But in this story, Kirin High School is bankrupt. Also, its reigns are taken over by Oz Entertainment. After the takeover, new rules are implemented. So, according to the new authority, all the underage students have to study for a required amount of time. Later, because of these new rules and authority, tension starts to build up between students and the trainees. In the end, after leading separate lives, Shin Hae-sung, Ri-an, Jang Woo-Jae, Jin Yoo-jin, Kim Jae-hee, and Lee Si-woo have a reunion performance for Kirin High School for their 17th anniversary.
- Starring- Kang So-ra, Park Ji-Yeon, Jay B, Jeong Jinwoon, Hyolyn, Park Seo-Joon
- Director- Lee Eung-bok and Kim Seong Yoon
- Series duration- January 30, to March 20, 2012
- Watch on- Netflix, Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
6. Trot Lovers
“Trot Lovers” is also known by the name “Lovers of Music” and “Lovers of Trot.” It is a Korean musical drama produced in the year 2014. The drama covers the story of a girl Choi Choon-hee who wants to become a successful singer in the musical genre Trot. To do so, she takes the help of music produces and a songwriter who detests Trot. “Trot Lovers” is a romantic-comedy drama directed by Lee Jae-sang. The series has 16 episodes and was first broadcasted by the Korean Broadcasting Network.
- Starring- Son Ho-jun, Shin Bo-ra, Lee Yi-kyung, Kang Nam-gil, Yoo Eun-mi , Yoon Joo-sang, Kim Hye-ri, Kim Yeo-jin, Jang Won-young , Yoon Bong-gil, Park Hyuk-kwon
- Director- Lee Jae-sang and Lee Eun-Ge
- Series duration- June 23, to August 12, 2014
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
7. I Am Legend
You must find the name of the drama a little familiar. There is another Hollywood movie by Will Smith named “I am Legend.” On 31 best music Korean drama series to watch, we recommend this drama to everyone. If the name intrigues you, watch the movie as well. “I am Legend” Korean drama is about a woman named Jeon Seol-hee. After she realizes that she should be treated better, she files for a divorce from her lawyer husband. Also, she is a former rock band star. Jeon Seol-hee decides to get her life back and searches for her rock band roots again. Later, she ends up becoming the leader of the Madonna Band. The band is trying to make a comeback. Moreover, together with her bandmates, Jeon Seol-hee searches for happiness and fulfillment.
- Starring- Kim Jung-Eun, Lee Joon-hyuk, Kim Seung-soo, Jang Shin-young, Hong Ji-min, Juni, Go Eun-mi, Jang Young-Nam
- Director- Kim Hyung-shik
- Series duration- 2 August, to 21 September 2010
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
8. Beethoven Virus
You must find the name of the drama a little familiar. There is another Hollywood movie by Will Smith named “I am Legend.” On 31 best music Korean drama series to watch, we recommend this drama to everyone. If the name intrigues you, watch the movie as well. “I am Legend” Korean drama is about a woman named Jeon Seol-hee. After she realizes that she should be treated better, she files for a divorce from her lawyer husband. Also, she is a former rock band star. Jeon Seol-hee decides to get her life back and searches for her rock band roots again. Later, she ends up becoming the leader of the Madonna Band. The band is trying to make a comeback. Moreover, together with her bandmates, Jeon Seol-hee searches for happiness and fulfillment.
- Starring- Kim Myung-min, Lee Ji-ah, Jang Keun-suk
- Director- Lee Jae-Kyo
- Series duration- September 11, to November 12, 2008
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 18
9. Shut Up Flower Boy Band
Teenage musicians making their dream come true has always been a big hit. “Shut up Flower Biy Band” is a teen romance written by Seo Yoon-hee. The story is about an underground rock band named Eye Candy. Its leader Joo Byung-hee is a free-spirited vocalist of the band. Also, the other team members are Kwon Ji-hyuk, Lee Hyun-soo, Kim Ha-jin, Jang Do-il, and Seo Kyung-jong. After the closing down of their high school, they struggle with the idea if it is even worth attending school again. But they end up going to Jungsang High. Moreover, the drama shows how Eye Candy overcomes their economic struggles and realizes their dreams. The drama is a must-watch for anyone who is in love with musical dramas.
- Starring- Sung Joon, Jo Bo-ah, Lee Hyun-Jae, L, Yoo Min-kyu, Kim Min-suk
- Director- Lee Kwon
- Series duration- January 30, to March 20, 2012
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
10. Mary Stayed Out All Night
“Mary Stayed Out All Night” is a romantic comedy that covers the essence of a slice of life. The drama was released in 2010 and had 10 episodes. The official broadcaster was the KBS2 network, and they broadcasted the drama from November 8 to December 28, 2010. “Mary Stayed Out All Night” is a story about Wi Mae-Ri. A girl with her mother’s looks and father’s temper. Also, she is known to be very stubborn. Her life is not easy. Moreover, her family struggles with financial problems, and because of this, Wi Mae-Ri is not able to pay her college fees. So she decides to quit college and starts taking odd jobs.
But as the events turn out Wi Mae-Ri while doing a job hits Kang Mu-Gyul a musician. This leads to them becoming friends. Also, there is an absurd amount of pressure Wi Mae-Ri’s father put on her to marry the rich boy Byun Jung-in. But she refuses. When the matters seem to get out of hand. Wi Mae-Ri’s father suggests she spend 100 days with both Byun Jung-in and Kang Mu-Gyul and then decide who she wants to marry.
- Starring- Moon Geun-young, Jang Keun-suk, Kim Jae-Wook, Kim Hyo-jin
- Director- Hong Suk-goo and Kim Young-kyun
- Series duration- 8 November, to December 28, 2010
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
Also Read: 31 Best Romantic Korean Dramas Of All The Time
11. KPop The Ultimate Audition
“The Kpop The Ultimate Audition” is a story about Ji Seung Yeon, who aspires to become a hip-hop legend. She is set on a path to achieve her dreams. The actress who plays the character of Ji Seung Yeon is Go Eun Ah. But the twist in the story is that she has to dress like a boy to be part of a male idol group. After she joins the group, she meets Kang Woo Hyun, who is a leader of the idol group M2. He is very handsome, and his rude and mean personality is covered by his captivating smile.
- Starring- Go Eun Ah, Park Yoo Hwan, Lee Shi Kang, Kim Young Ok, Park Hyo Joo, Hong Kyung Min
- Director- N/A
- Series duration- Mar 19, 2012, to May 1, 2012
- Watch on- Netflix, Viki
- No. of Episodes- 14
12. Monstar
On 12th position in 31 best music Korean drama series to watch is “Monstar.” Like many, “Monstar” is a teen romantic comedy. The South Korean television series was produced in 2013. If you are looking for a comedy itch to scratch in less time, watch this 12 episode long series. The main lead Yong Jun-Hyung plays the character of Yoon Seol-chan. Seol-chan is a member of the ‘Men in Black’ boy band. In the show, he was forced to push a fan in a concert. The video of Seol-chan pushing a fan goes viral, and this affects his reputation negatively.
Seol-chan is asked to attend the school quietly to not draw attention to himself. While this is happening Se-yi is a transfer student who draws attention to herself for her talent and oddness. As they encounter each other, misunderstanding brews between Seol-chan and Seyi. But all the students find common ground through music. Make sure to watch this story of Love, laughter, and drama.
- Starring- Yong Jun-hyung, Ha Yeon-soo, Kang Ha-neul, Ahn Nae-sang
- Director- Kim Won-Seok
- Series duration- 17 May, to 2 August 2013
- Watch on- Netflix, Viki
- No. of Episodes- 14
13. Cantabile Tomorrow
Talking about adaptation, “Cantabile Tomorrow” is an adaptation of the manga Nodame Cantabile. The drama stars actors like Joo Won and Shim Eun-Kyung. Also, we can see Park Bo-gum, Go Kyung-pyo and Baek Yoon-sik in the 2014 produced drama. The drama has 16 episodes with each episode being 60 minutes.
The “Cantabile Tomorrow” is a story about a third-year student who attends a music school. Cha Yoo Jin is majoring in piano and dreams of becoming a successful musical conductor. He was born with good looks and musical talent. And his father is a world-renowned pianist. Also, he has a fear of flying because of childhood trauma. The drama also covers Seol Nae Il, who is a genius pianist.
- Starring- Joo Won, Shim Eun Kyung, Park Bo Gum, Bae Min Jung, Go Kyung Pyo
- Director- Han Sang Woo, and Lee Jung Mi
- Series duration- Oct 13, 2014, to Dec 2, 2014
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
14. You’re Beautiful
“You’re beautiful” also known as What A Handsome Man You Are is a 2009 South Korean television drama. The drama is about two twins who have lived together since childhood. Ko Mi-Nyeo wishes to become a nun whereas, Ko Mi-Nam wants to become a Korean idol. This leads them into different paths, but when Ko Mi-Nam has to go to the United States for his plastic surgery things change. His manager asks Ko Mi-nyeo to pose as her brother. This leads to her living a luxurious and famous life. This show certainly gets into the list of 31 best music Korean drama series to watch in this article.
- Starring- Jang Keun-suk, Park Shin-Hye, Jung Yong-Hwa, Lee Hong-gi
- Director- Hong Sung-Chang
- Series duration- October 7, to November 26, 2009
- Watch on- Netflix, Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
15. Entertainer
The story is about a successful manager Shin Suk-ho. He works at KTOP Entertainment. Later he decides to become independent and start his own company Mango Entertainment. But he faces many struggles and ends up going to prison. After getting out of prison, he tries to get his life back on track. In the process, he meets Jo Ha-neul a high school talent. This changes his life.
- Starring- Ji Sung, Lee Hye-Ri, Kang Min-hyuk, Chae Jung-an
- Director- Hong Sung-chang
- Series duration- April 20, to June 16, 2016
- Watch on- Netflix, Viki
- No. of Episodes- 18
16. Rock, Rock, Rock
Kim Tae-won is constantly laughed at by his peers. Also, he is an outcast and uses rock music as an escape. Moreover, he stole his brother’s guitar and learned how to play songs on it. The first song he learns is of Led Zepplin. Later, he is famously known as a hooligan by his neighbors because of his hot-blooded nature and music talent. Kim Tae-won decides to become a rock star and, to do so, joins a band named The End.
- Starring- No Min-woo, Hong Ah-reum, Jang Kyung-ah, Lee Jong-hwan, Bang Joong-hyun, Devin, Kang Doo, No Min-hyuk, Kim Jong-seo, Ahn Jae-min, Kang Shin-ha, Jo Sun-hyung, Kim Yoon-tae, Song Joong-geun, Joo Ho, Lee Deok-hee, Lee Dal-hyung, Lee Won-hee, Noh Young-hak
- Director- Lee Won-Ik
- Series duration- December 11, to December 18, 2010
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 4
17. My Lovely Girl
“My Lovely Girl” is a typical Korean musical drama. The South Korean drama stars Jung Ji-hoon (Rain), Krystal Jung, Kim Myung-soo, and Cha Ye-ryun. So the story of “My Lovely Girl” is about a CEO of a talent agency Lee Hyun-Wook, who manages and trains idols. Lee Hyun-Wook meets Se-na, his ex-girlfriend’s sister who wants to make a career in music. Furthermore, in the whole drama, Lee Hyun-Wook dealt with the grief of his ex-girlfriend’s death three years ago. And in the journey, he falls in love with Se-na.
- Starring- Jung Ji-hoon, Krystal Jung, Kim Myung-soo, and Cha Ye-Ryun.
- Director-Park Hyung-ki
- Series duration- September 17, to November 6, 2014
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
18. Page Turner
“Page-turner” is a short musical drama with only 3 episodes. Yoon Yoo-Seul is a pianist who goes blind after a car accident. Also, she is helped by Jung Cha-sik, an aspiring pianist and a friend. Moreover, her former rival Seo Jin-Mok also helps her in getting her life back on track.
- Starring- Kim So-Hyun, Ji Soo, Shin Jae-ha
- Director- Lee Jae-hoon
- Series duration- March 26, to April 9, 2016
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 3
19. Five Fingers
“Five Fingers” is a story of love and music. The drama in the early episodes focuses on Yoo Ji-Ho and Yoo In-Ha’s childhood. After a heated argument with her husband, Yoo In-Ha’s mother strikes him. After this, her husband fell to the ground, and his head starts bleeding. His wife is scared, thinking she killed him, she flees the house. But she finds out that her mother-in-law unintentionally lighted the house. The story is tragic but very interesting.
- Starring- Ju Ji-hoon, Chae Shi-ra, Ji Chang-Wook, Jin Se-Yeon
- Director- Choi Hyeong-hun
- Series duration- August 18, to November 25, 2012
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 30
20. What’s Up
The “What’s Up” drama is about Jae-Hun, who is a high school dropout. He roams the streets and gets under the wrong influence. One day his friends try to commit a crime and are arrested by the police. To save them, Jae-hun hits a stranger in an accident. After this, he decides to attend a university to study acting. The other character Park Tae Yi is a talented musician. Also, she comes to Seoul to audition to get admitted to the university.
- Starring- Lim Ju-hwan, Daesung, Lim Ju-eun, Oh Man-seok, Jang Hee-jin, Lee Soo-hyuk, Kim Ji-won, Jo Jung-suk, Yang Ji-won
- Director- Jang Mi-ja
- Series duration- December 3, 2011, to February 5, 2012
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 20
Also Read: 31 Best Adventure Korean Dramas To Watch
21. Do you like Brahms?
“Do you like Brahms” is a simple story of students who love classical music. Also, they have dreams to fulfill and find happiness in learning music. The drama was produced in the year 2020. Moreover, it got an appreciation for many people.
- Starring- Kim Min-Jae, Park Eun-bin, Kim Sung-Cheol
- Director- Jo Young-min
- Series duration- August 31, to October 20, 2020
- Watch on- Netflix, Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
22. Preserve Goo Hae Ra
“Preserve Goo Hae Ra” is a story about a 21 years old girl whose dream is to debut as a singer. She wants to make her father’s compositions known to the World. Hae-Ra to fulfill her dream, participates in a Tv show competition with her childhood friends Se-Jong and Se-Chan.
- Starring- Min Hyo-Rin, Kwak Si-Yang, Jin Young, Henry, Park Kwang-Sun, Yoo Sung-Eun
- Director- Kim Yong-Bum, Ahn Joon-Young
- Series duration- January 9, to March 27, 2015
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 12
23. Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol
The story is about romance and a love for music. Also, it gives an insight into life change. “Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol” is a story about Goo Ra-Ra. She is a cheerful person. But in a sudden moment, she loses everything and becomes dirt poor. While building back her life, she meets Sunwoo Joon, a multi-part-timer. He helps her in getting her life on track. Also, he makes a place for her to give piano lessons.
- Starring- Go Ara, Lee Jae-Wook, Kim Joo-hun
- Director- Kim Min-kyeong
- Series duration- October 7, to November 26, 2020
- Watch on- Netflix, Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
24. Heartstrings
The series is rated 7.1 and is a must-watch. Lee Shin and Lee Gyu-won start on the wrong foot because of misunderstanding. Later, Lee Gyu-won’s friend forced her to go to “The Stupids” concert. And Lee Shin is the leader of the group. Before this, she couldn’t understand why he was so famous. But when she sees him perform instantly, she is captivated by his talent.
- Starring- Park Shin-hye, Jung Yong-hwa, Song Chang-eu, So Yi-hyun
- Director- Pyo Min-soo
- Series duration- June 29, to August 19, 2011
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
25. The Best Hit
In contrast to other musical dramas, “The Best Hit” has a different story. Yoo Hyun-Jae, who is a pop idol in 1993, travels to the year 2017. After this, he is left to solve the mystery of how he disappeared in 1994. Also, while doing this, he has to adjust to his new life in the future.
- Starring- Yoon Shi-Yoon, Lee Se-young, Kim Min-Jae, Cha Tae-Hyun
- Director- Seo Soo-Min
- Series duration- June 2, to July 22, 2017
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 32
26. EXO Next Door
Ji Yeon-hee is a shy person and has a very normal life. But her life changes when the members of her favorite boy band EXO move next door to her.
- Starring- Chanyeol, D.O, Baekhyun, and Sehun
- Director- Lee Kwon
- Series duration- April 9, to May 28, 2015
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
27. You Are Too Much
The story of “You Are Too Much” is about an impersonator who calls herself Yoo Gina. Yoo Gina is a famous pop idol. But to her luck, her life gets intertwined with her impersonator.
- Starring- Uhm Jung-hwa, Ku Hye-sun
- Director- Baek Ho-Min
- Series duration- March 4, to August 27, 2017
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 50
28. When The Devil Calls Your Name
A fantasy melodrama that is worth every minute of your time. The story revolves around Seo Dong-Cheon, who sold his soul to the devil to get famous. He makes some bad decisions while dealing with his life. A unique and mysterious story. This is certainly one of the best music Korean drama series to watch list.
- Starring- Jung Kyung-ho, Jung Kyung-ho, Lee Seol, Lee El
- Director- Min Jin-Ki
- Series duration- July 31, to September 19, 2019
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 16
29. Gloria
Na Jin-jin lives with her handicapped older sister. Both of them loses their parents in a car accident. So to support herself and her sister, Na Jin-jin takes many odd part-time jobs. One day when she is working at a nightclub, she is asked to fill in for the singer. She performed a song named “Gloria,” and everyone was captivated by her voice. After this, she considers becoming a nightclub singer. As this could be the only way, she escapes her struggling life.
- Starring- Bae Doona, Oh Hyun-kyung
- Director- Kim Min-shik and Kim Kyung-hee
- Series duration- July 31, 2010, to January 30, 2011
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 50
30. Lights And Shadows
“Light and Shadows” is a story about Kang Ki-Tae, who becomes a famous entertainer during the Vietnam War. He came from a rich family and achieved his dream between the 1970s and 1980s.
- Starring- Ahn Jae-Wook, Nam Sang-mi, Lee Pil-mo, Son Dam-bi
- Director- Lee Joo-Hwan
- Series duration- November 28, 2011, to July 3, 2012
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 64
31. Imitation
Lee Ma-ha’s dreams to become a K-pop idol are crushed because of an unfortunate incident. After this, to support herself, she impersonates being La Ri-ma and performs as a solo singer. “Imitation” concludes the 31 best music Korean drama series to watch article.
- Starring- Jung Ji-so, Lee Jun-young, Park Ji-Yeon, Jeong Yun-ho
- Director- Han Hyun-Hee
- Series duration- May 7, to July 23, 2021
- Watch on- Viki
- No. of Episodes- 12
Also Read: 31 Best Political Korean Dramas To Watch
