Netflix Reveals the Most-Watched Korean Series: ‘Squid Game’ Takes Unstoppable First Place—But Who Follows?

Korean dramas on Netflix have taken the world by storm, showcasing the growing global influence of K-content. With their unique storylines, high production values, and relatable themes, these dramas have captivated audiences and reshaped the global entertainment landscape.

The massive success of Korean dramas on Netflix is attributed to various factors: innovative storytelling, diverse genres, universal themes, and excellent production quality, combined with the platform’s global network and reach. Whether it’s the survival games of Squid Game, the zombie apocalypse of All of Us Are Dead, or the revenge-driven narrative of The Glory, these shows appeal to international viewers by blending thrilling plots with thought-provoking topics such as inequality, justice, and human relationships.

Beyond providing entertainment, Korean dramas on Netflix have also elevated Korea’s cultural status globally, positively influencing K-POP, K-food, and other cultural exports. They’ve demonstrated the potential of non-English content and expanded the diversity of the global entertainment market.

Topping the list of the most-watched Korean dramas is Squid Game, a series that has become a global phenomenon. Directed and written by Hwang Dong-hyuk, it skillfully explores the dark side of human nature and socioeconomic disparities. With powerful performances by Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, and Jung Ho-yeon, the show’s iconic visuals, color palettes, and gripping narrative made it an unforgettable experience. The survival games, including Red Light, Green Light and Dalgona Candy, struck a chord worldwide, blending childhood nostalgia with modern societal critique. The show’s 2.3 billion cumulative viewing hours have made it the most-watched drama on Netflix, a landmark achievement in global entertainment history.

Ranking second is Squid Game Season 2, which recorded 1.09 billion hours of viewership just one month after its release. The second season dives deeper into the psychological and moral dilemmas of its characters while introducing new games and societal themes. Netflix has already announced that Squid Game Season 3 will premiere on June 27. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk shared, “Since this will be the final season, we’re doing our best to deliver another thrilling story for viewers.”

Following closely in third place is The Queen of Tears with 682.6 million viewing hours. Starring Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won, the drama tells the story of a couple overcoming personal and external challenges to find redemption and love. Known for its emotional depth and sweeping soundtrack, the series resonated deeply with viewers.

In fourth place is Extraordinary Attorney Woo, which earned 662.09 million viewing hours. Park Eun-bin’s nuanced portrayal of Woo Young-woo, a brilliant lawyer with autism, was widely praised for breaking barriers and providing a fresh perspective on legal dramas. The show’s mix of heartwarming moments and clever legal cases created a global sensation.

At No. 5 is All of Us Are Dead Season 1, with 659.51 million hours. The zombie apocalypse thriller, set in a high school, kept viewers on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced narrative and intense character development.

Other major titles include The Glory (No. 6, 560.99 million hours), King the Land (No. 7, 446.9 million hours), and My Demon (No. 8, 331.1 million hours). These dramas showcase the wide variety of genres and stories that Korean productions have to offer, from revenge thrillers to supernatural romances.

Squid Game – 2.3 billion hours

Squid Game Season 2 – 1.09 billion hours

The Queen of Tears – 682.6 million hours

Extraordinary Attorney Woo – 662.09 million hours

All of Us Are Dead Season 1 – 659.51 million hours

The Glory – 560.99 million hours

King the Land – 446.9 million hours

My Demon – 331.1 million hours

Alchemy of Souls – 303.21 million hours

Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha – 300.58 million hours

Business Proposal – 279.11 million hours

My Name – 194.14 million hours

Crash Course in Romance – 183.45 million hours

Strong Girl Nam-soon – 174.4 million hours

Twenty-Five, Twenty-One – 171.61 million hours

As Netflix continues to invest heavily in Korean content, the future looks promising for K-dramas. With new projects, including Squid Game Season 3, on the horizon, audiences worldwide can look forward to more captivating stories that blend emotion, suspense, and cultural resonance.