Rediscover Classics: 7 Pre-2015 K-Dramas That Have Stood The Test of Time

Many new fans of South Korean television are hesitant to tune in to shows that premiered a decade or more ago. All because it is widely believed that such older K-dramas have outdated hairstyles and costumes, as well as over-the-top plot lines and acting. However, this is not always true.

In fact, there are many pre-2015 K-dramas that can still captivate modern audiences as much as they did their original viewers.

If you've already devoured the latest hits and are looking for something different, it might be time to dive into some beloved older series that have successfully stood the test of time. Here are our top picks.

Marriage Not Dating (2014)

IMDb rating: 7.5/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, Tubi, K-DRAMA, iQIYI, WeTV

Gong Gi-tae, a successful plastic surgeon, is fed up with his family's relentless matchmaking efforts. To get them off his back, he brings home a fake girlfriend that his parents are sure to disapprove of. But what begins as a clever ruse quickly takes an unexpected turn.

My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho (2010)

IMDb rating: 7.7/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Viki, Kocowa

Cha Dae-woong, a college student with dreams of becoming an action star, meets a legendary nine-tailed fox. They strike a deal: he'll help her become human, and she'll boost his speed and strength for performing daring stunts. Neither realizes that their pact has dangerous consequences.

Full House (2004)

IMDb rating: 7.8/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Viki, Kocowa, KBS World, iQIYI, WeTV

Han Ji-eun, an aspiring screenwriter, loses her family home to a scam and is determined to reclaim it. The house is bought by a self-centered, popular actor, so Ji-eun takes a job working for him and eventually agrees to a contract marriage - all to get her home back.

Reply 1997 (2012)

IMDb rating: 7.9/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, Viki, Tubi, K-DRAMA, iQIYI

A high school reunion transports the memories of six old friends back to their carefree days in 1997. The narrative weaves between past and present, focusing on Sung Shi-won, a bold and sassy girl with a fierce obsession for a boy band idol.

My Lovely Sam Soon (2005)

IMDb rating: 8.0/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, Viki, Kocowa, WeTV

Kim Sam-soon is a fiery, outspoken, and slightly awkward baker whose world is turned upside down when she loses both her job and her boyfriend in a single day. Life gives Sam-soon a second chance when she lands a job at a swanky French restaurant, but her new boss is a major headache.

Coffee Prince (2007)

IMDb rating: 8.1/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Viki, Kocowa

Go Eun-chan, a 24-year-old tomboy, is in desperate need of money. Often mistaken for a guy, she jumps at the chance when a wealthy heir hires her to work at an all-male coffee shop. Deciding to keep her true gender a secret, she throws herself into the job. However, things get complicated when Eun-chan and her new boss start to develop feelings for each other.

My Love from Another Star (2013)

IMDb rating: 8.2/10

Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Viki, Kocowa, iQIYI

Do Min-joon, an alien stranded on Earth for 400 years, is eager to return to his home planet. However, his plans are disrupted when he becomes neighbors with a chaotic top actress whose knack for trouble threatens to derail Min-joon's mission.