K-dramas That Originated from Famous International TV Series [Updated 2022]

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Mr.Queen
The World of The Married
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
Boys over Flowers

Watching different genres of Korean dramas almost every week has become part of others' routine. But with all these K-dramas you've watched and are still on your watchlist, have you noticed that some of them are remakes from other countries?

Here's a list of K-dramas that were actually adapted from international TV shows.

Mr. Queen

Starring: Shin Hye Sun, Kim Jung Hyun, Na In Woo

The record-breaking romantic-comedy drama in 2020 set the internet on fire for its excellent cast and outstanding execution.

READ ALSO: Shin Hye Sun & Kim Jung Hyun's 'Mr. Queen' is Trending in Japan - Here's Why

tvN's weekend drama "Mr. Queen" originated from the 2015 Chinese web drama, "Go Princess Go." Both the Korean and Chinese versions received recognition from their respective countries.

However, they also get caught in controversies. The Chinese version was considered controversial due to the involvement of bisexuality and gender identity, while the Korean version had an issue over historical distortion.

Suits

Starring: Park Hyung Sik, Jang Dong Gun

4 American-European Series That You Might Have Loved As K-Dramas: 'Criminal Minds,' 'The World of Married,' 'Suits'
"Suits" Poster KBS Drama Official

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The 2018 K-drama "Suits" is actually a remake of the famous American series of the same name. Most of the K-drama enthusiasts who have been fascinated with challenging storylines got to enjoy watching the Korean adaptation.

Even though it only has 16 episodes, it offers new flavors to the story to make it more appealing to the audience.

Meanwhile, the original version has nine seasons in total, and another season is already confirmed for production.

The World of The Married

Starring: Kim Hee Ae, Park Hae Joon, Han So Hee, Kim Young Min

The World of The Married
JTBC
(Photo : JTBC Instagram)
Kim Hee Ae, Park Hae Joon | The World of the Married still

READ ALSO: Confirmed! Kim Hee Ae and Moon So Ri to Star in Netflix's 'Queen Maker'

Korean drama "The World of the Married" left the viewers both in rage and tears during its run.

The JTBC drama is based on the famous British series "Doctor Foster," which aired in 2017. Although it was an adaptation, the remake gained lots of viewers from different parts of the world. In fact, it still holds the record of the highest-rated drama in the history of Korean cable television.

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo

Starring: Lee Joon Gi, IU, Kang Ha Neul, EXO's Baekhyun, Nam Joo Hyuk, Ji Soo, and Kang Han Na

"Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo"
SBS
(Photo : SBS)
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo cast

READ ALSO: Is It True? Lee Joon Gi's 'Again My Life' Speculated To Have Season 2

The star-studded 2016 drama was an adaptation of the Chinese novel Bu Bu Jing Xin, and China broadcasted their own version in 2011 with the title "Scarlet Heart."

The Korean version left the viewers in tears and heartbroken. This is why fans still hope for a new season.

Boys Over Flowers

Starring: Lee Min Ho, Go Hye Sun, Kim Hyun Joong, Kim Bum, Kim Jun

Boys Over Flowers
KBS

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One of the OG rom-com K-dramas, "Boys Over Flowers," is a remake from the mega-popular Japanese manga "Hana Yori Dango."

Taiwan was the first country to adapt the manga version into a series, where the iconic "Meteor Garden" was born. Due to its massive success and by popular demand, Japan made their own drama version.

Then, in 2009, as the love for Korean dramas started to arise, KBS acquired the rights to produce the legendary series and released "Boys Over Flowers."

One Ordinary Day

Starring: Kim Soo Hyun, Cha Seung Won

'One Ordinary Day'
Coupang Play

READ ALSO: Is It True? Kim Soo Hyun To Reunite with 'My Love From the Star' Writer in New Drama

The eight-episode series "One Ordinary Day," which aired in November 2021, was an adaptation of the BBC drama "Criminal Justice." Kim Soo Hyun and Cha Seung Won portrayed their characters excellently, and exceeded expectations as the cast and storyline were gripping and top-notch.

Little Women

Starring: Kim Go Eun, Nam Ji Hyun, Park Ji Hoo and Wi Ha Joon

READ ALSO: 'Yumi's Cells 2' Trailer: Kim Go Eun's Love Journey Continues With GOT7's Jinyoung

Yup, you read that right. The worldwide-known classic novel of the same name by Louisa May Alcott is getting a Korean drama adaptation!

The remake is slated to hit the screens in the second half of 2022. It is expected to feature three sisters as they explore life and love.

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Written by Shai Collins.

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