The Best Crime Thriller Korean Dramas to Watch Right Now

Korean dramas have captivated global audiences with their unique storytelling, and among them, the crime thriller Korean drama genre stands out for its gripping plots, unexpected twists, and intense emotions. From police procedurals and psychological thrillers to mind-bending mysteries, these dramas keep viewers hooked until the final scene.

Each crime thriller Korean drama offers not just suspense, but also layered characters and deep social commentary, making them more than just a simple whodunit. In this article, we dive into some of the best titles in the genre that will leave you on the edge of your seat, questioning every motive and anticipating every move.

The Ultimate List of the best crime thriller Korean dramas

1. Blind:

This crime thriller Korean drama is a must-watch! The story follows a detective, a judge, and a social worker as they team up to solve a chilling serial murder case targeting jury members. Ryu Sung-Joon is a relentless detective, his brother Sung-Hoon is a perfectionist judge, and Jo Eun-Ki is a kind-hearted social worker.

With its gripping twists and emotional depth, this mystery thriller kdrama keeps you hooked from start to finish. If you love crime thriller kdramas packed with suspense and complex characters, this one won’t disappoint!

2. Military Prosecutor Doberman:

This crime thriller Korean drama offers suspense and character growth. Do Bae Man becomes a military prosecutor for success, while Cha Woo In seeks revenge. Despite their differences, they grow closer while working on the same case.

With exciting twists and emotional moments, this mystery thriller kdrama will keep you hooked. If you enjoy crime thriller kdramas with strong characters and evolving relationships, this one is definitely worth a watch!

3. Voice:

If you’re into edge-of-your-seat suspense, Voice is the crime thriller Korean drama you need to watch! The story follows a 112 emergency call center team as they solve crimes using only the sounds they hear. With four gripping seasons, each packed with tension and twists, it’s impossible to look away.

Whether it’s the intense chases or chilling mysteries, this mystery thriller kdrama delivers nonstop excitement. If you love crime thriller kdramas filled with action, emotion, and brilliant problem-solving, Voice is a must-watch!

4. Mouse:

This crime thriller Korean drama dives deep into the dark minds of psychopaths. Inspired by a real-life case, it follows Detective Ko Moo-chi, haunted by childhood trauma, as he partners with rookie Jeong Ba-reum to hunt a serial killer. Together, they explore whether psychopathic behavior is genetic and what happens if it can be predicted.

With intense twists and emotional depth, this mystery thriller kdrama keeps you hooked till the end. If you’re into crime thriller kdramas that challenge both the mind and heart, this one is a must-watch!

5. Vigilante:

If you love a good crime thriller Korean drama, Vigilante is a must-see! The series follows Kim Ji-yong, a police academy student who takes justice into his own hands at night. Frustrated by criminals getting away with light sentences, he becomes the “Vigilante,” punishing those who escape the law.

As Ji-yong’s actions draw the attention of Jo Heon, the head of an investigation team, the tension ramps up. This mystery thriller kdrama is packed with action, moral dilemmas, and thrilling cat-and-mouse games.

6. Flower of evil:

Crime thriller Korean drama lovers, you won’t want to miss Flower of Evil! The story revolves around Baek Hee-sung, who hides a dark past from his wife, Cha Ji-won, a sharp detective. They seem like the perfect family with their adorable daughter, but as Ji-won investigates a string of murders, she begins to suspect that her husband isn’t who he appears to be.

The tension builds as secrets unravel, making this mystery thriller kdrama both thrilling and emotional. With stunning performances and unexpected twists, this crime thriller kdrama will keep you guessing until the very end. Don’t miss out on this captivating show!

7. Save me:

If you’re looking for a gripping crime thriller Korean drama, Save Me is a must-watch! The story follows Im Sang-mi, who moves to a town dominated by the sinister cult Goseonwon. After the tragic suicide of her twin brother, Sang-mi’s family falls apart, and she becomes trapped in the cult’s grasp, desperately seeking a way out.

Three years later, her classmate Han Sang-hwan, along with his friends, hears her cry for help. Determined to expose the cult’s dark secrets, they embark on a dangerous mission that reveals shocking truths. This mystery thriller kdrama is filled with suspense, emotional depth, and unexpected twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

8. The Killing vote:

The Killing Vote is a crime thriller Korean drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat! This gripping series follows a mysterious figure known as Gaetal, who sends out text message surveys to the public, asking if certain vicious criminals deserve the death penalty. If more than fifty percent respond yes, he takes matters into his own hands and executes them.

Starring Park Hae-jin and Lim Ji-yeon, this mystery thriller kdrama explores the dark themes of justice and morality in a society eager for vengeance. With shocking twists and intense action, each episode will leave you questioning what you would do in the same situation.

9. Flex Cop:

Crime thriller Korean drama fans, you don’t want to miss The Killer’s Shopping List! This series follows Jin Yi Soo, a privileged third-generation conglomerate whose life takes a turn when he joins the violent investigative team at Kangha Police Station. Determined to leverage his wealth and connections to catch robbers, he partners with Detective Lee Kang Hyun, a dedicated investigator who is not impressed by Yi Soo’s background.

Their contrasting personalities create an engaging dynamic filled with tension and humor. As they tackle challenging cases together, Yi Soo learns the value of teamwork and humility. This mystery thriller kdrama is packed with action, unexpected twists, and character growth.

10. The Worst Of Evil:

The Worst of Evil is a must-watch crime thriller Korean drama set in the gritty underbelly of the 1990s. The story follows undercover cop Park Jun-mo, who takes on a dangerous mission to infiltrate a massive drug organization in Gangnam. Tired of being belittled by his in-laws for his lower rank, he hopes this risky job will finally earn him respect.

Meanwhile, Jung Gi-cheul, a nightclub DJ, gets tangled up in the criminal world and rises through the ranks, even becoming a drug lord. As tensions rise and lives are at stake, the series explores the complexities of loyalty, ambition, and the dark allure of power.With intense action, emotional depth, and unexpected twists, this mystery thriller kdrama keeps you on the edge of your seat.

11. The Killer Paradox:

Crime thriller Korean drama fans will find The Killer’s Shopping List fascinating! The story follows Lee Tang, a man struggling to find his way after being discharged from the army. After a violent confrontation with a customer turns deadly, he discovers his victim was a serial killer. Instead of turning himself in, Tang begins to tap into a dark talent for delivering justice himself.

As he continues to kill, the line between justice and evasion blurs, and the diligent Detective Jang Nan-gam starts investigating him. This mystery thriller kdrama is packed with tension, moral dilemmas, and unexpected twists that will keep you guessing.

12. Beyond Evil:

This gripping series follows two determined policemen, Lee Dong-sik and Han Joo-won, as they break the rules to catch a serial killer. As they dig deeper into the case, they begin to question not only the innocence of others but also their own moral compasses.

The haunting question, “Who is the monster?” keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the show. With its dark themes and complex characters, this mystery thriller kdrama brilliantly explores the blurred lines between good and evil.

Also read: Your Next Marathon: 5 Best Korean Action Movies to Binge