K-dramas have a magical way of pulling us into their worlds, whether it’s through swoon-worthy romances, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, or stories that make you laugh and cry at the same time. In April 2025, platforms like Netflix, Viki, Disney+, and Prime Video are serving up a stellar lineup of shows that promise to keep you glued to your screen. From fresh premieres to ongoing hits, these 12 K-dramas are the ones you won’t want to miss. I’ve scoured trusted sources like Soompi, Naver, and Koreaboo to bring you the best of the bunch, packed with details to help you pick your next binge.
Way Back Love
Way Back Love is a fantasy romance that tugs at the heartstrings. Kim Min Ha stars as Hee Wan, a woman who’s lost her spark and shut herself off from the world. Just a week before her life is set to end, her childhood friend and first love, Ram Woo (Gong Myoung), shows up as a grim reaper.
The drama premiered on April 3, 2025, airing Thursdays at 12 p.m. KST on Viki. Early screenings at the 2024 Busan International Film Festival left critics raving about its emotional depth. The story blends fantasy with raw human connection, exploring themes of love, regret, and second chances.
Fans are already buzzing about the chemistry between Kim Min Ha and Gong Myoung. The show’s unique premise—combining a ticking clock with supernatural elements—sets it apart. It’s a must-watch if you love stories that make you feel deeply.
Karma
Karma is a six-episode thriller that hit Netflix on April 4, 2025. Starring Shin Min Ah and Park Hae Soo, it weaves a dark tale of lives tangled by fate. The plot follows a witness to a tragic accident, a doctor plagued by nightmares, and a man crushed by debt.
Each character’s story collides in unexpected ways, driven by a sense of inescapable destiny. Lee Hee Joon, Kim Sung Kyun, and Lee Kwang Soo round out the powerhouse cast. The series is gripping, with twists that keep you guessing.
Critics praise its tight storytelling and intense performances, especially Shin Min Ah’s nuanced role. If you’re a fan of crime thrillers with emotional weight, Karma is your pick. Its short run makes it perfect for a weekend binge.
Resident Playbook
Fans of Hospital Playlist are in for a treat with Resident Playbook, a spin-off that premiered on Netflix on April 12, 2025. This 12-episode series follows OB-GYN residents at Jongno Yulje Medical Center. Go Youn Jung, Shin Shi Ah, Han Ye Ji, Kang Yoo Seok, and Jung Joon Won lead the cast.
Directed by Lee Min Soo, the show mixes humor, heart, and medical drama. It captures the chaos and camaraderie of residency, with friendships that feel like family. The tone stays true to its predecessor, blending light moments with poignant ones.
Viewers love the fresh faces and relatable stories. Go Youn Jung shines as a determined resident, and the ensemble chemistry is a highlight. It’s a cozy yet emotional watch for anyone who loves slice-of-life dramas.
Heavenly Ever After
Heavenly Ever After is a fantasy romance that premiered on Netflix on April 19, 2025. Kim Hye Ja plays Hae Sook, an elderly woman who ascends to heaven after a long life. There, she reunites with her husband Nak Joon (Son Suk Ku), who appears as his younger self.
The 12-episode series also stars Han Ji Min, Lee Jung Eun, and Ryu Deok Hwan. It explores love across time, with a mix of humor and heartbreak. The concept of reconnecting in the afterlife feels fresh and moving.
Early reviews highlight Kim Hye Ja’s soulful performance and the show’s tender storytelling. It’s a beautiful pick for those who enjoy emotional dramas with a touch of fantasy. The cast’s chemistry makes every moment shine.
Crushology 101
Crushology 101 is a romantic comedy that brings all the warm fuzzies. Starring Lee Chae Min, it’s a lighthearted story about young love and finding yourself. The drama launched on Viki in April 2025.
The plot dives into the awkward, thrilling moments of having a crush. Lee Chae Min’s charm carries the show, making every scene feel relatable. It’s packed with laughter and those butterfly-in-the-stomach vibes.
Fans of rom-coms are already hooked, praising its breezy pace and heartfelt moments. If you’re looking for something fun and uplifting, this one’s a gem. It’s perfect for a cozy night in.
When Life Gives You Tangerines
When Life Gives You Tangerines is a romantic epic that’s been stealing hearts since its March 7, 2025, debut on Netflix. Starring IU as Ae Sun and Park Bo Gum as Gwan Sik, it’s set on Jeju Island, spanning from the 1960s to today. The 16-episode series, directed by Kim Won Seok, explores love amid societal shifts.
Moon So Ri and Park Hae Joon add depth to the stellar cast. The story captures the beauty and pain of a lifelong connection. Its rich visuals and emotional storytelling are a standout.
Netizens can’t stop talking about IU and Park Bo Gum’s chemistry. The drama’s nostalgic vibe and heartfelt performances make it a must-watch. It’s still airing in April, so catch up now.
The Potato Lab
The Potato Lab is a quirky rom-com that started on Netflix on March 1, 2025, and continues into April. Lee Sun Bin plays Kim Mi Gyeong, a potato researcher, while Kang Tae Oh is So Baek Ho, her uptight boss. Their opposites-attract dynamic sparks plenty of laughs.
The 12-episode series is full of charm, with a focus on personal growth and romance. Kang Tae Oh’s return post-military service has fans thrilled, and Lee Sun Bin brings warmth to her role. The potato research setting adds a fun, unique twist.
Viewers love the lighthearted humor and slow-burn chemistry. It’s a great pick if you enjoyed Extraordinary Attorney Woo or want something feel-good. The show’s cozy vibe is hard to resist.
Squid Game Season 3
Squid Game Season 3, the final chapter of the global hit, is expected to drop on Netflix in April 2025. Lee Jung Jae returns as Seong Gi Hun, facing more deadly survival games. Park Gyu Young and Jo Yu Ri join the eight-episode season.
The series keeps its intense action and sharp social commentary. After Season 2’s cliffhangers, fans are eager for answers. The stakes feel higher than ever, with new players and brutal challenges.
Netizens are buzzing, calling it a cultural event. Lee Jung Jae’s performance remains a highlight, and the show’s global impact is undeniable. If you love high-stakes thrillers, this one’s unmissable.
Business as Usual
Business as Usual is a romance drama that premiered on Viki on April 3, 2025, airing Thursdays at 6 p.m. KST. Starring Sung Seung Ha and Chae Jong Hyeok, it follows two men reflecting on their past relationship. The story dives into themes of love and growth.
The show’s introspective tone and nuanced performances set it apart. It’s a quieter drama, but its emotional honesty resonates. The chemistry between the leads feels authentic and moving.
Fans appreciate its fresh perspective and heartfelt storytelling. If you’re looking for a thoughtful romance, this one’s worth checking out. It’s a hidden gem in April’s lineup.
First Love
First Love is a music-driven drama that captures the magic of teenage romance. It premiered on Disney+ in April 2025, directed by Park Seon Jae and No Jung Hoon. The cast includes Eun Chan, Jeong Ji Soo, Cha Jun Ho, Jane, Hwang Ji A, Bong Jae Hyun, and Kim Seon Gyeong.
The series weaves six love stories, each bursting with raw emotion. Its nostalgic vibe and catchy soundtrack make it a hit with younger viewers. Every episode feels like a trip back to your first crush.
Netizens love its relatable characters and heartfelt moments. If you’re in the mood for something sweet and emotional, this one’s a winner. It’s perfect for fans of youth dramas.
New Recruit 3
New Recruit 3 brings back the laughs with its military comedy-drama, hitting Viki in April 2025. Kim Min Ho stars as Park Min Seok, navigating new challenges as he aims for corporal. Newcomers Kim Dong Jun and Kim Yo Han join Lee Sang Jin and Nam Tae Woo.
The series keeps its signature humor and heart, focusing on friendship and growth. Fans love the camaraderie and lighthearted antics. It’s a great pick for a stress-free watch.
Viewers are excited for the fresh cast additions and funny storylines. If you enjoyed the first two seasons, this one’s a no-brainer. It’s all about good vibes and great characters.
Pump Up the Healthy Love
Pump Up the Healthy Love is a romantic comedy that launched on Disney+ in April 2025. Lee Jun Young plays a gym manager, while Jung Eun Ji is a travel planner. Their clashing lifestyles lead to an unexpected romance.
The show’s fitness theme adds a fun twist, with plenty of humor and heart. Lee Jun Young and Jung Eun Ji’s chemistry is electric, making every scene a joy. It’s a feel-good story about finding balance.
Fans are loving the upbeat vibe and charming leads. If you want a drama that’s light and romantic, this one’s perfect. It’s a great way to unwind.
Netizens Reactions
Way Back Love has fans emotional: “Gong Myoung and Kim Min Ha are breaking my heart!” Karma is a thriller hit: “Shin Min Ah and Park Hae Soo are unreal together.” Resident Playbook is a fan favorite: “Go Youn Jung is stealing the show!” When Life Gives You Tangerines is pure magic: “IU and Park Bo Gum make me cry every episode.” Squid Game S3 is massive: “Lee Jung Jae is back, and I’m not ready!”
April 2025’s K-drama slate has something for everyone. Way Back Love and Heavenly Ever After deliver emotional punches, while Karma and Squid Game Season 3 keep you on edge. Crushology 101 and Pump Up the Healthy Love are perfect for lighthearted fun, and When Life Gives You Tangerines and The Potato Lab continue to shine. Dive into these stories and let them sweep you away.
