Nowadays, people love going back in time! Not to exes (maybe yes), but to sweet nostalgia. Old movies are rereleasing in theatres, and the internet is calling 2026 “2016” because today’s world feels less bright, deep or happy. So, if you’re enjoying this 2016 trend, here are some K-dramas that made that year truly special and the golden year of K-dramas. Read on!
1. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo
Starring Lee Sung-kyung and Nam Joo-hyuk in lead roles, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo follows a strong young woman named Kim Bok-joo who trains hard as a weightlifter at a sports university. She dreams of winning big medals but faces everyday struggles like family pressure and first love. But things change when she meets a swimmer who helps her open up. The series brought a fresh and feel-good vibe with relatable college stories and a strong female lead. Many people loved its warmth and honesty, and hence it is a good watch even today.
2. Guardian: The Lonely and Great God
Starring Gong Yoo, Kim Go-eun and Lee Dong-wook, Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, also called Goblin, tells the story of an immortal being who has lived for centuries after a tragic past. He waits for his bride to end his endless life. Then, a cheerful high school girl enters his world, along with a grim reaper and other friends. This drama touched hearts with its amazing OST (obviously), stunning views, and emotional story and became massively popular worldwide.
3. Descendants of the Sun
Starring Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo in lead roles, Descendants of the Sun revolves around an army captain and a doctor who reunite during peacekeeping work in a very dangerous place. They fall in love while facing wars, disasters and tough moments. This series broke many records and reached millions of people across Asia and beyond. People still talk about the actors’ chemistry and soundtracks.
4. Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
Starring Lee Joon-gi, Iu, Kang Ha-neul, Hong Jong-hyun, and others, Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo centres on a girl who goes back in time to the Goryeo dynasty. She lives as a court lady and gets caught up in fights for the throne among handsome princes. The drama gained huge love from fans outside Korea for its performance and ending scene.
5. The Legend of the Blue Sea
Starring Lee Min-ho and Jun Ji-hyun in lead roles, The Legend of the Blue Sea brings a mermaid from long ago to today’s Seoul, where she meets a smart con man who looks like her past love. Their funny and sweet story charmed viewers and people are still talking about it.
Other mentions include Signal, W, and The K2.
Which one of these have you watched already?
Also Read: From Snapchat’s Tiara Filter To Major Pop Culture Shifts: Here’s Why People Are Reminiscing 2016