August 2024 is bringing a wave of excitement for Korean entertainment fans. With 14 new dramas and movies set to premiere, there’s something for everyone. These releases promise to deliver compelling stories and unforgettable performances.
Korean dramas have a unique charm that attracts audiences worldwide. This month, viewers can look forward to a diverse lineup of genres, from heartwarming romances to intense thrillers. Each series offers a fresh perspective and engaging narratives.
The Korean film industry is also releasing several highly anticipated movies in August. These films showcase powerful performances and innovative storytelling. They provide a deeper look into various aspects of life, making them a must-watch.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Korean entertainment, these 14 upcoming dramas and movies are sure to impress. Mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in a month of exceptional storytelling and cinematic experiences.
1. Bad Memory Eraser
Lee Goon’s rise in tennis was abruptly halted by a severe injury that eroded his confidence and sense of purpose. Facing a bleak future, he opts for a radical procedure to erase his memories, emerging with a revitalized sense of self and a newfound assertiveness. This transformation sets the stage for his new life, marked by a quest for both personal and professional redemption.
At the heart of Lee Goon’s new journey is Kyeong Joo Yeon, a psychiatrist at the brain research center. As she helps him navigate his altered reality, their relationship evolves into a complex and supportive bond. Her role becomes crucial as she aids Lee Goon in adjusting to his fresh start and understanding his changed self.
Complicating matters is Lee Goon’s younger brother, Lee Shin, who stands as the world’s top tennis player. The contrast between Lee Shin’s acclaim and Lee Goon’s past struggles adds depth to their sibling rivalry and familial dynamics. This disparity intensifies the emotional layers of the narrative, exploring themes of competition and familial expectations.
Jeon Sae Yan, Lee Shin’s translator, also plays a significant part in the story. Her interactions with the two brothers deepen the plot, reflecting on ambition, recovery, and identity. As the drama unfolds, it skillfully intertwines themes of personal growth and love against the backdrop of competitive sports, offering a poignant look at redemption and relationships.
- Aired: Aug 2, 2024 – Sep 21, 2024
- No of Episodes: 16
- Cast: Kim Jae Joong, Jin Se Yeon
- Streaming Platform: Viki
2. Romance in the House
Byun Moo Jin and Geum Ae Yeon once had a seemingly happy family with their daughter, Byun Mi Rae, and son, Byun Hyun Jae. Moo Jin’s repeated business failures strained his marriage, leading his family to eventually cut ties with him. Left alone, Ae Yeon struggled to raise their children on her own.
Eleven years later, Ae Yeon works part-time at a big mart, while Mi Rae, now an adult, becomes the family’s breadwinner as the mart’s MD. Hyun Jae, with his unique charm, often stirs up trouble. Their lives take an unexpected turn when Moo Jin reappears as the owner of their villa building, hoping to win back Ae Yeon’s heart.
Mi Rae strongly opposes Moo Jin’s efforts to reunite with her mother, but Hyun Jae supports his father’s attempt at reconciliation. This family conflict adds tension to their already complicated relationships. Meanwhile, Mi Rae’s life gets even more complex when she crosses paths with Nam Tae Pyung.
Tae Pyung, a former national taekwondo team member, now works as a security guard at the mart, concealing his true identity and his father’s ownership of the mart. His connection with Mi Rae introduces new dynamics and challenges, intertwining their fates in unexpected ways.
- Aired: Aug 10, 2024
- No of Episodes: 12
- Cast: Ji Jin Hee, Kim Jee Soo, Son Na Eun, Choi Min Ho
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
3. Mission Cross (Movie)
Kang Moo, a devoted househusband and former special forces officer, conceals his past from his wife, Mi Sun, a detective in the violent crimes unit. Their tranquil life is upended when Hee Joo, a mysterious woman, enters Kang Moo’s life, leading Mi Sun to suspect an affair.
Mi Sun begins to chase Kang Moo, driven by jealousy and suspicion. Meanwhile, Kang Moo has his own secret mission, creating a complex web of intrigue and tension. Their pursuits lead them into unforeseen and dangerous situations, challenging their trust and relationship.
As the truth slowly unravels, Mi Sun’s investigation becomes more intense. Kang Moo, no longer able to maintain his peaceful facade, finds himself caught between his past and present. The unexpected twists force both to confront their secrets and face the reality of their relationship.
Kang Moo’s dual life comes crashing down, altering their lives forever. The suspenseful journey tests their love and loyalty, pushing them to their limits in a whirlwind of action and emotion.
- Aired: Aug 9, 2024
- Cast: Hwang Jung Min, Yeom Jung Ah, Jeon Hye Jin
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
4. Your Honor
In the fictional coastal city of Woowon, two powerful forces vie for control: the affluent Woowon Group and a nefarious voodoo cartel. The Woowon Group, an influential conglomerate, wields immense power, shaping both the economy and political landscape of the city from their towering headquarters. Their dominance over Woowon is nearly absolute, casting a long shadow over the city’s fate.
In contrast, the voodoo cartel thrives in the city’s lawless corners, spreading fear and chaos through dark rituals and criminal activities. Their sinister presence undermines the city’s stability, challenging its moral foundations and creating an atmosphere of dread.
Amidst this turmoil, Judge Song Pan Ho emerges as a stalwart defender of justice. His courtroom serves as a sanctuary for those seeking fairness, offering hope to the oppressed and standing as a beacon of integrity. Tirelessly fighting against corruption and crime, Judge Song’s efforts provide a glimmer of hope for Woowon’s downtrodden citizens.
As he battles the combined forces of the Woowon Group and the voodoo cartel, Judge Song Pan Ho becomes a symbol of resilience. His unwavering dedication to justice inspires the people of Woowon, driving them to reclaim their city’s soul and stand up against the pervasive corruption and fear.
- Aired: Aug 12, 2024 – Sep 10, 2024
- No of Episodes: 10
- Cast: Son Hyun Joo, Kim Myung Min, Kim Do Hoon, Jung Eun Chae, Yoon Chan Young
- Streaming Platform: Viki
5. The Tyrant
When the last sample of the Tyrant Program disappears during its delivery, chaos ensues as multiple factions scramble to recover it. This elusive program, shrouded in mystery, holds secrets that everyone desperately wants to uncover. Im Sang, a former agent with a reputation for handling high-stakes situations, is tasked with eliminating anyone linked to the program. His expertise is put to the test as he navigates a perilous world of deception and danger, with the mission’s stakes higher than ever.
Overseeing the Tyrant Program is Choi, the bureau director of a covert government agency. Operating from the shadows, he manages this secretive and influential project. The disappearance of the sample threatens to unravel his meticulously guarded secrecy, putting his covert operations at risk.
On the global stage, Paul, an agent from a foreign intelligence agency, is determined to destroy the last Tyrant Program sample. Driven by the potential for widespread chaos, Paul’s relentless pursuit brings him into direct conflict with both allies and adversaries. His mission becomes a tense and dangerous race against time.
As these characters converge, their intersecting paths create a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. Each player is motivated by personal agendas and hidden agendas, leading to a thrilling and unpredictable search for the missing sample. The tension builds as their intertwined quests for the sample unravel secrets and challenge their resolve.
- Aired: Aug 14, 2024
- No of Episodes: 4
- Cast: Jo Yoon Soo, Cha Seung Won, Kim Seon Ho, Kim Kang Woo
- Streaming Platform: Disney+
6. Perfect Family
“Perfect Family” centers on Choi Seon-hee’s family, who appear happy and flawless to the outside world. However, their perfect facade begins to crumble following the murder of Seon-hee’s friend, Park Kyung-ho.
As suspicions mount on the family, trust erodes, and hidden secrets come to light. Seon-hee, once confident in her family’s unity, now faces the daunting task of uncovering the truth behind Kyung-ho’s death.
Each family member’s actions and motives are scrutinized, revealing complexities and hidden tensions. The murder not only disrupts their lives but also forces them to confront their own flaws and insecurities.
“Perfect Family” digs deep into the unraveling of a seemingly ideal household, exploring themes of trust, betrayal, and the dark undercurrents that lie beneath the surface.
- Aired: Aug 14, 2024 – Sep 19, 2024
- No of Episodes: 12
- Cast: Park Ju Hyun, Yoon Se Ah, Kim Byung Chul
- Streaming Platform: Viki
7. Black Out
The story centers on two detectives investigating strange incidents in a village. The drama reinterprets these events and characters to reflect Korean sentiments, exposing the darker side of human nature.
Go Jung Woo, once a brilliant student poised for medical school, takes a dark turn after a fateful trip following his SATs. He becomes a murderer and, after serving his time, returns to his hometown.
Upon his return, Jung Woo confronts the mysteries of what happened 11 years ago. As he delves deeper, the past and present collide, revealing secrets long buried.
This gripping tale unfolds themes of guilt, redemption, and the complex layers of human behavior, offering a unique perspective on crime and justice.
- Aired: Aug 16, 2024
- No of Episodes: 14
- Cast: Byun Yo Han, Go Jun, Go Bo Gyeol, Kim Bo Ra
- Streaming Platform:
8. DNA Lover
So Jin, a genetic researcher passionate about DNA, ends her relationship with a playboy boyfriend. Determined to find a genetically compatible partner, she sets out on a quest for a fulfilling relationship.
She meets two intriguing men: Yeon Woo, an obstetrician-gynecologist, and Kang Hoon, a courageous firefighter. Each man offers unique qualities and potential compatibility with So Jin, sparking a complex love triangle.
The story delves into the intricacies of genetics and compatibility, blending scientific curiosity with heartfelt emotions. As So Jin pursues her romantic journey, she also uncovers the struggles, love, and daily lives of her close-knit group of friends.
This tale weaves together themes of love, science, and personal growth, creating a unique and engaging narrative that resonates with young adults seeking connection and understanding in their relationships.
- Aired: Aug 17, 2024
- No of Episodes: 16
- Cast: Choi Si Won, Jung In Sun, Lee Tae Hwan, Jung Eugene
- Streaming Platform: Viki
9. Love Next Door
Choi Seung Hyo, a renowned young architect in Korea, leads the prestigious atelier “In.” Not only is he highly skilled and attractive, but he also possesses a charming personality. However, his past includes moments he wishes to forget, often linked to Bae Seok Ryu. The two first crossed paths at a young age, thanks to their mothers’ friendship, and spent time together, including shared visits to a women’s bathhouse.
Bae Seok Ryu, on the other hand, enjoyed a smooth and successful life growing up. A top student throughout school and a passionate worker, she excelled in her role as a project manager at a major company. Despite her promising career, she unexpectedly left her job and has been unemployed ever since. Now, she encounters Choi Seung Hyo once again in her adult life.
Their reunion brings back memories and unresolved issues from their shared past. As adults, their paths intertwine once more, leading them to confront both their personal histories and their evolving feelings for each other.
- Aired: Aug 17, 2024 – Oct 6, 2024
- No of Episodes: 16
- Cast: Jung Hae In, Jung So Min, Kim Ji Eun, Yun Ji On
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
10. Pachinko 2
Set against the backdrop of World War II in 1945 Osaka, the story follows Sun Ja as she fights to protect her family amidst the chaos and destruction. Her struggles involve making perilous decisions to ensure her loved ones’ survival during these turbulent times.
Fast forward to 1989 Tokyo, where Solomon is starting over with nothing after facing his own set of challenges. His journey intersects with Sun Ja’s story, bringing the past and present into a compelling narrative.
The elderly Sun Ja, now living in Tokyo, is deeply concerned about her grandson. Her experiences and worries bridge the generational gap, linking her past struggles with the new realities faced by her family.
This tale intricately weaves together historical and personal narratives, highlighting the enduring impact of family, resilience, and the quest for a better future amidst the turmoil of changing times.
- Aired: Aug 23, 2024 – Oct 11, 2024
- No of Episodes: 8
- Cast: Lee Min Ho, Kim Min Ha
- Streaming Platform: Apple TV
11. Cinderella at 2 AM
Ha Yun Seo is a single, confident team leader at a major company. Known for her attractiveness and respected personality, Yun Seo overcame a troubled past, having left her family behind due to domestic violence. She has become a pragmatic and self-assured individual.
Her relationship with her younger boyfriend, Seo Ju Won, who also works at the company, takes a dramatic turn when she discovers his hidden identity. Ju Won is the son of the wealthy chaebol family that owns the company, a fact that shocks Yun Seo.
Things get complicated when Ju Won’s mother intervenes, offering Yun Seo a substantial sum to end the relationship. Distrusting fairy tale romances, Yun Seo accepts the money, believing it to be the practical choice.
Ju Won, however, is unwavering in his belief in true love. He passionately works to convince Yun Seo to reconsider, trying to prove that their relationship can defy the odds and that their love is worth fighting for.
- Aired: Aug 24, 2024 – Sep 22, 2024
- No of Episodes: 10
- Cast: Shin Hyun Been, Moon Sang Min
- Streaming Platform: Coupang TV
12. No Gain No Love
Son Hae Yeong is a meticulous individual who avoids any form of financial loss. Her past involved competing for her mother’s affection and settling for partners who didn’t meet her standards. Now, facing the potential of missing out on a promotion, Hae Yeong devises a plan to stage a fake wedding to maintain her financial advantage.
To carry out her scheme, she enlists Kim Ji Uk, a part-time cashier at a local convenience store. Ji Uk is known for his kindness and integrity, always willing to help those in need. However, he struggles with Hae Yeong, who is a demanding customer at his store.
Despite their rocky interactions, Ji Uk reluctantly agrees to Hae Yeong’s unusual proposal. As the fake fiancé, he becomes entangled in a situation that’s far from ordinary, with both his principles and patience being tested.
The arrangement begins as a mere transaction but soon turns more complicated. As they untangle the complexities of their fake engagement, unexpected challenges and personal revelations arise, testing both their characters in unforeseen ways.
- Aired: Aug 26, 2024
- No of Episodes: 12
- Cast: Shin Min Ah, Kim Young Dae, Lee Sang Yi, Han Ji Hyun
- Streaming Platform:
13. The Frog
In the riveting South Korean series The Frog, the lives of two owners are dramatically altered by a mysterious guest. The first plot unfolds in the summer of 2000, centering on Gu Sang-jun, who runs a charming countryside motel. His tranquil life is disrupted by an unforeseen and disturbing event that upends his summer routine.
Moving to 2021, the narrative shifts to Jeon Young-ha, who operates a secluded forest pension. His peaceful existence is similarly disturbed by a suspicious visitor, echoing the turmoil that Sang-jun experienced two decades earlier. Both men find themselves caught in a web of eerie and perplexing events that challenge their understanding.
As the narrative progresses, Yoo Seong-a, a mysterious woman, plays a poignant role, suggesting a link between the two seemingly separate incidents. Her involvement deepens the intrigue and connects the fates of the two protagonists in surprising ways.
Lee Jung-eun portrays Yoon Bo-min, a tenacious chief detective determined to unravel the disturbances at both sites. Her relentless quest for answers uncovers startling revelations, intricately linking the two distinct cases. Set against the summer backdrop, the series delves into themes of upheaval and mystery, transforming ordinary lives with the arrival of one enigmatic visitor.
- Aired: Aug 23, 2024
- No of Episodes: 8
- Cast: Kim Yoon Seok, Yoon Kye Sang, Go Min Si
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
14. The Queen Woo
With the sudden death of King Gogukcheon, Goguryeo faces a tumultuous power struggle among its tribes. As Queen Woo becomes the focal point of this fierce contention, she must act swiftly to ensure the stability of the kingdom. Her challenge is to establish a new ruler in a tight deadline of 24 hours to prevent chaos.
The story follows Woo Hee, portrayed by Jeon Jong-seo, who rises to the challenge of becoming the first woman in history to be queen twice. She is renowned for her beauty and intellect, and her determination to protect her family and tribe drives her to marry one of her deceased husband’s younger brothers.
Ji Chang-wook plays Go Nam-mu, the late King Gogukcheon, whose death ignites the tribal conflict. His legacy looms large over the power struggle as various factions vie for control. Kim Mu-yeol appears as Eulpaso, the prime minister and a loyal soldier of the late king, who remains a significant figure in the ensuing chaos.
As the struggle intensifies, key figures emerge Jeong Yu-mi as Woo Sun, Woo Hee’s supportive older sister; Lee Soo-hyuk as Go Bal-gi, a prince and one of the contenders for the throne; and Park Ji-hwan as Mugol, the commander dedicated to protecting the late king’s legacy. Their intertwined fates shape the unfolding drama of Goguryeo’s royal succession.
- Aired: Aug 29, 2024
- No of Episodes: 8
- Cast: Jeon Jong Seo, Kim Mu Yeol, Ji Chang Wook, Jung Yoo Mi, Lee Soo Hyuk
- Streaming Platform: TVING
