The year is almost over, and what a year it has been for Korean drama fans! SBS, one of Korea’s most beloved broadcasters, brought out its A-game in 2024. Whether you’re into mystery, action, or fantasy, this year’s lineup had something for everyone.
From jaw-dropping storylines to stellar performances, SBS dramas made waves and captured hearts. Let’s dive into the top 5 SBS dramas of 2024 that smashed ratings, sparked conversations, and kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
Flex X Cop: A Chaebol Detective Steals the Show
Released early this year, Flex X Cop kicked off 2024 with a bang. Combining action and comedy, this drama had fans hooked, earning an impressive 11% rating at its peak. With such overwhelming success, it’s no surprise that season two has already been confirmed!
The story follows Jin Yi Soo (played by Ahn Bo Hyun), a third-generation chaebol who takes on the role of a detective. Using his wealth and family connections, Yi Soo and his quirky team of detectives tackle challenging criminal cases. The mix of high-stakes crime-solving and lighthearted humor made this drama an instant hit.
If you’re a fan of detective stories with a fun twist, Flex X Cop is the perfect pick.
Connection: Ji Sung’s Powerful Comeback
Connection marked Ji Sung’s return to the small screen after two years, and wow, what a comeback it was. This crime thriller had viewers raving about Ji Sung’s phenomenal performance as Jang Jae Kyeong, a narcotics detective forced into addiction by a sinister drug cartel.
The story is intense. Jang Jae Kyeong teams up with reporter Oh Yoon Jin (played by Jeon Mi Do) to uncover the truth behind his best friend’s death, a mysterious drug network, and a web of corruption spanning 20 years.
With its fast-paced plot and emotional depth, Connection kept climbing the rating charts, peaking at 14.2%. Ji Sung’s portrayal of a broken yet determined man added layers of complexity to the show, making it one of the most gripping dramas of the year.
Good Partner: Law Meets Heart
Legal dramas often walk a fine line between intriguing and overwhelming, but Good Partner nailed the balance perfectly. Premiering in July, it quickly captured viewers’ hearts with its realistic storytelling and relatable characters. It even snagged the title of the best Korean drama of 2024, as voted by industry experts.
Written by real-life lawyer Choi Yoo Na, Good Partner follows the journey of two lawyers at Daejung Law Firm. Cha Eun Kyeong (Jang Na Ra) and Han Yoo Ri (Nam Ji Hyun) specialize in handling tough divorce cases. Their chemistry and teamwork were the heart of the show, bringing humor, heartache, and hope to each episode.
This drama’s charm lies in its authenticity. It’s not just about winning cases; it’s about the lives impacted by those cases.
The Judge from Hell: A Fiery Fantasy Ride
After Good Partner wrapped up, SBS brought us The Judge from Hell, a fantasy romance that took viewers on a wild ride. With a final rating of 11.9%, it became the most-watched drama of the week.
The story revolves around Justitia, a demon from hell who possesses the body of a judge named Kang Bit Na (played by Park Shin Hye). Tasked with punishing 20 unrepentant criminals, Justitia faces challenges she never expected, especially when she crosses paths with detective Han Da On (Kim Jae Yeong).
As their lives intertwine, Justitia’s purpose begins to shift, leading to a rollercoaster of emotions, twists, and a dash of romance. The unique blend of fantasy, crime, and heartfelt moments made this drama unforgettable.
The Fiery Priest 2: A Long-Awaited Sequel
Five years after the original The Fiery Priest aired, fans finally got the sequel they had been waiting for. Premiering in November, The Fiery Priest 2 brought back the beloved trio of Kim Hae Il (Kim Nam Gil), detective Goo Dae Young (Kim Sung Kyun), and prosecutor Park Kyung Sun (Honey Lee).
This season dives into their mission to dismantle the largest drug cartel in Busan. As always, Kim Hae Il’s hilarious antics and fiery determination kept the energy high, while the action-packed plot delivered plenty of edge-of-your-seat moments.
With its signature mix of comedy and action, The Fiery Priest 2 maintained impressive ratings throughout, peaking at over 12%. It’s safe to say this sequel lived up to its hype.
Why SBS Ruled 2024
SBS dramas aren’t just about entertainment. They dive deep into complex emotions, social issues, and human relationships. From the comedic highs of Flex X Cop to the emotional depth of Connection, this year’s lineup proved that SBS knows how to deliver stories that resonate with viewers.
Whether you’re into heart-stopping thrillers or heartfelt legal dramas, SBS had something for everyone in 2024. And with the promise of sequels and fresh stories on the horizon, the future looks just as bright.
So, which of these dramas stole your heart? Whether it’s the fiery determination of Kim Hae Il or the gripping twists in Connection, there’s no denying that SBS gave us some unforgettable moments this year. Here’s to hoping for even more amazing dramas in 2025!
