I will have a nice month-long winter break so anybody that has cdrama recs from the past year or any year hidden gems please do share. I havent updated my lists in a while but I've pretty much watched every mainstream from the last 3 years. Any genre is ok!

What is a cdrama you adore but feel was underappreciated/ not given its flowers?

Highly recommend Beloved https://kisskh.at/761581-beloved if you want a crime thriller that actually surprises you. The twists are sharp, the characters are layered, and nothing is predictable. Totally underrated and absolutely worth watching

I'd say Under the Moonlight! I feel like it was very overlooked because it was different and much more serious compared to most historical cdramas. But it was so good and so well acted.

I loooooove finding hidden gems :D

2025: 

  • The Embers - Dark mystery thriller with brothers as the leads. Criminally underrated.
  • A Dream like the True Love - A minidrama, but it holds very good. Historical life and romance with a unique premise. 
  • Fell upon Me - Youth mystery time-bendy drama. Super interesting.
  • Kill My Sins - Historical mystery thriller. Very good all around with a strong FL.

Other hidden gems from prev years that I didn't find on your watchlist ^^

Hope you find something nice to watch ^^ Enjoy your break and the drama you pick!

Not on your list:

Surprisingly Only for Love only got an 8, I gave it a 9. It's has domineering CEO troupe, pretty fun. It should be quite mainstream though since both lead actors have huge fanbase.

Best Choice Ever is a female empowerment drama, the lead actress' speciality these days. Should also be quite mainstream.

Unrequited Love has this slow-paced plot that I find comforting, suitable to watch in between fast-paced complex thrilling drama.

Justifiable Defense may not for everyone, but it delve deeper into humanity, the fine line between justifiable defense, excessive defense, and intentional murder, and how one's reaction under any circumstances is the most important thing that could change your situation. Interesting yet saddening, imo.

+1 Beloved

Nothing But You is a satisfying acting drama. The characters have a lot of refreshing moments and transitions, both large and small. People and relationships feel real and genuine. There's a solid ensemble. The older woman, younger man pairing is both romantic and domestic, going through the ups and downs of attraction and landing in everyday intimacy. Romance and sports are nicely balanced, and attention is paid to the business side of tennis. Wu Lei's done some intense work playing larger than life historical drama characters, so it's fun to watch him, seemingly effortlessly, relax into this laidback vibe.