The 50+ Best Korean Hospital Dramas, Ranked
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    • SBS

The 50+ Best Korean Hospital Dramas, Ranked

Molly Gander
Updated February 8, 2025 190.6K views 57 items

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27.8K votes
6.5K voters
3 reranks
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Vote on the best Korean medical dramas of all time.

If you're looking for shows like Descendants of the Sun, here are the best Korean medical dramas ever, ranked by fans everywhere. Featuring Korean dramas about hospitals, doctors, nurses, and disease outbreaks, this list of medical Kdramas has something for everyone regardless if you're into romantic melodramas, comedies, or mystery thrillers. Some good Korean medical dramas include the popular series Brain, starring Shin Ha-kyun as a hyper-ambitious neurosurgeon; Behind the White Tower, which centers on malpractice and hospital politics; and Hur Jun, an old show set during the Joseon era. 

Vote up the top Korean medical drama series, and keep checking back as we update the list with new shows as they premiere. 

Most divisive: The Third Hospital
Over 6.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 50+ Best Korean Hospital Dramas, Ranked
Ranked by
  • Dr. Romantic
    1
    Han Suk-kyu, Yoo Yeon-seok, Seo Hyun-jin
    2,505 votes

    A riveting tale of a genius surgeon and his unconventional methods, this drama boasts an impressive cast with Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin. Set in a remote countryside hospital, the series captures the essence of camaraderie and growth among medical professionals. With its heartwarming storyline and impactful performances, it's no wonder it captivated audiences nationwide.

    • Premiered: 2016
    • Network: SBS
  • Doctor John
    2
    Ji Sung, Lee Se-young, Lee Kyu-hyung
    1,652 votes

    A thrilling rollercoaster ride, this series revolves around a brilliant doctor with the ability to diagnose patients just by observing them. Ji Sung's portrayal of the lead character is nothing short of outstanding, while Lee Se-young delivers an equally convincing performance. The show delves into themes like chronic pain management and ethics in medicine, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.

    • Premiered: 2019
    • Network: SBS
  • Hospital Playlist
    3
    Jo Jung-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok, Jung Kyung-ho
    1,679 votes

    This slice-of-life drama follows five doctors who have been friends since medical school. A perfect mix of humor, friendship, and romance, the show has gained immense popularity for its relatable characters and heartwarming stories. Its stellar ensemble cast includes Jo Jung-suk and Yoo Yeon-seok, whose chemistry brings their characters to life.

    • Premiered: 2020
    • Network: tvN
  • Descendants of the Sun
    4
    Song Joong-ki, Song Hye-kyo, Jin Goo
    1,414 votes

    An epic love story between a soldier and doctor set amidst war-torn territories has captured hearts worldwide. Song Joong-ki's role as Captain Yoo Shi-jin garnered him immense popularity alongside Song Hye-kyo as Dr. Kang Mo-yeon. With stunning visuals and gripping plotlines involving natural disasters and humanitarian crises, it truly stands out in the genre.

    • Premiered: 2016
    • Network: KBS2
  • Doctor Stranger
    5
    Lee Jong-Suk, Jin Se-yeon, Park Hae-jin
    1,389 votes

    With an intriguing premise of a North Korean defector-turned-genius surgeon in South Korea, this drama delivers both fast-paced action sequences as well as emotional depth. Lee Jong-suk's intense portrayal of the protagonist is noteworthy, while Jin Se-yeon's character adds a touch of romance to the story. The political undertones make it even more engaging to watch.

    • Premiered: 2014
    • Network: SBS
  • The Doctors
    6

    The Doctors

    Kim Rae-won, Park Shin-hye, Yoon Kyun-sang
    1,193 votes

    With Park Shin-hye taking center stage as a fierce neurosurgeon, this drama explores themes like power dynamics, corruption, and ambition in the medical world. The ensemble cast, including Kim Rae-won and Lee Sung-kyung, portrays their characters' personal and professional growth beautifully. A perfect blend of romance, action, and medical challenges make it a must-watch.

    • Premiered: 2016
    • Network: SBS