The Best of Both Worlds: 7 Top K-Dramas Adapted From Hit Novels
Did you know you could read them?
When you fall in love with a fictional universe and its inhabitants, it can be hard to say goodbye after a finale. But if a show or movie is based on a book, you can dive right back into the beloved world and spend much more time with it.
While most K-dramas are original creations from the brilliant minds of South Korean TV makers, some are actually based on novels. Here are seven amazing stories you can both watch and read.
When the Weather Is Fine (2020)
IMDb rating: 7.7/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Disney+, Viki, WeTV, iQIYI, iflix
Adapted from Lee Do-woo's 2018 novel and set against a picturesque winter backdrop, this drama follows a big-city girl who, after facing various life challenges, returns to the village where she lived as a teenager. There, she reconnects with a former classmate and discovers that they are soul mates.
Sungkyunkwan Scandal (2010)
IMDb rating: 7.8/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Viki, WeTV
Based on Jung Eun-gwol's 2007 novel The Lives of Sungkyunkwan Confucian Scholars, this drama is set in a time when Korean women were forbidden from receiving education or employment. The series centers on Kim Yoon-hee, a young girl who disguises herself as her younger brother and enrolls in a university to help support her family.
Little Women (2022)
IMDb rating: 7.8/10
Where to stream: Netflix
Though not a direct adaptation, this drama inspired by Louisa May Alcott's beloved novel explores the lives and struggles of three modern-day Korean sisters. The series builds on the book's themes of strong family ties and self-discovery, adding a murder mystery and political power games to the plot.
The Kidnapping Day (2023)
IMDb rating: 8.1/10
Where to stream: Prime Video, TVING
Based on Jung Hae-Yeon's 2019 novel of the same name, this K-drama centers on a desperate father who kidnaps a wealthy child to pay for his own daughter's medical bills. However, his plan spirals out of control when he inadvertently becomes entangled in a murder case, leading to an array of unforeseen troubles.
Pachinko (2022-present)
IMDb rating: 8.3/10
Where to stream: Apple TV+, Prime Video
Soo Hugh's acclaimed drama, based on Min Jin Lee's 2017 historical novel, follows multiple generations of a Korean family who immigrate to Japan during the period of Japanese rule over Korea, and delves into themes of discrimination and the search for identity. The show has been renewed for a second season, which will be released on August 23 this year.
Move to Heaven (2021)
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IMDb rating: 8.5/10
Where to stream: Netflix
The fan-favorite story of a nephew and uncle running a family business while dealing with their own personal issues and relationships is based on Kim Sae Byul's nonfiction essay, Things Left Behind. Both the book and the series depict the lives of cleaners who step in after someone dies to organize and clean up their belongings.
The Red Sleeve (2021)
IMDb rating: 8.5/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Viki, Hayu
Set in the Joseon era, Kang Migang's novel The Red Sleeve, which became the basis for a fan-adored K-drama, weaves a romantic tale between a free-spirited court lady and the crown prince, who is torn between his responsibilities to the kingdom and his personal desires.