Joy News 24, a leading Korean entertainment magazine, celebrated its 20th anniversary with an industry survey. The magazine asked 200 entertainment professionals to choose their favorite K-dramas of 2024.
From September 30 to October 8, industry experts shared their views. The participants included entertainment agency staff, broadcasters, producers, and reporters. Here are their top picks:
4. “Snow White Must Die”, “Korea-Khitan War”
These two shows earned seven votes each.
Both dramas bring popular books to life on screen. MBC adapted the German bestseller “Snow White Must Die” by Nele Neuhaus. KBS2 turned Gil Seung Soo’s novel “Goryeo–Khitan War: Sweet Rain in the Winter” into a historical series.
3. “Connection”, “The Whirlwind”
These dramas received eight votes each, offering very different stories. SBS TV’s “Connection” thrills viewers with psychological crime elements. Netflix’s “The Whirlwind” draws audiences into political intrigue.
2. “Good Partner”
This legal drama stars Jang Na Ra and Nam Ji Hyun. It aired on SBS TV between July and September. The show impressed 19 industry experts with its compelling storyline.
1. “Queen of Tears”, “Lovely Runner”
These romance dramas share first place with 60 votes each. Both shows broke viewing records in Korea and worldwide. Their success stems from the amazing chemistry between their lead actors.
Several other shows also earned recognition in the survey. These include “Pachinko 2,” “The Judge from Hell,” “A Killer Paradox,” “The Pyramid Game,” “Love Next Door,” and “No Gain No Love.”
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