Korean TV Series with No/Little Romance

If you're looking for gripping Asian dramas that focus on thrilling mysteries, intense action, political intrigue, or deep character development without an overwhelming romantic subplot, this list is for you. From crime thrillers like Stranger to sci-fi survival stories like Alice in Borderland, discover some of the best Asian TV series that put love on the sidelines and deliver unforgettable storytelling.

LakmalSirimanna Mar 5, 2025
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  • A Bloody Lucky Day

    1. A Bloody Lucky Day

    Korean Drama - 2023, 10 episodes

  • A Killer Paradox

    2. A Killer Paradox

    Korean Drama - 2024, 8 episodes

    8.0

    The narrative centers on Lee Tang, portrayed by Choi Woo-shik, an ordinary university student who, in a moment of self-defense, accidentally kills a man. Overwhelmed with guilt, Tang discovers that his victim was a notorious serial killer, leading him to grapple with the notion of justified killing. This incident propels Tang into a dark journey where he targets individuals he deems evil, all while being pursued by the relentless Detective Jang Nan-gam, played by Son Suk-ku. The series explores themes of morality, justice, and the blurred lines between right and wrong, with minimal emphasis on romantic subplots.

  • A Model Family

    3. A Model Family

    Korean Drama - 2022, 10 episodes

  • A Shop for Killers

    4. A Shop for Killers

    Korean Drama - 2024, 8 episodes

  • A Superior Day

    5. A Superior Day

    Korean Drama - 2022, 8 episodes

  • Adamas

    6. Adamas

    Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes

  • Age of Youth

    7. Age of Youth

    Korean Drama - 2016, 12 episodes

  • All of Us Are Dead

    8. All of Us Are Dead

    Korean Drama - 2022, 12 episodes

    7.0

    The plot centers around a high school that becomes ground zero for a zombie virus outbreak. As the infection spreads rapidly, a group of students must band together to survive, navigating the challenges of escaping the infected and finding safety. The series emphasizes themes of survival, friendship, and resilience, with minimal focus on romantic subplots.

  • Awaken

    9. Awaken

    Korean Drama - 2020, 16 episodes

    7.0

    A detective investigates a series of mysterious events linked to a village tragedy from 28 years ago. The series combines elements of mystery and suspense, with minimal emphasis on romance.

  • Bad and Crazy

    10. Bad and Crazy

    Korean Drama - 2021, 12 episodes

    7.0

    The story follows Ryu Soo-yeol, a competent yet morally ambiguous detective in the Anti-Corruption Unit. Despite lacking a college degree, Soo-yeol's ambition leads him to take on cases that advance his career, often aligning with his superiors' desires. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters 'K,' a mysterious individual with a fervent sense of justice but unconventional methods. This meeting propels Soo-yeol into a chaotic journey of self-discovery and redemption. The series emphasizes themes of morality, justice, and personal transformation, with minimal focus on romantic subplots.

  • Bad Prosecutor

    11. Bad Prosecutor

    Korean Drama - 2022, 12 episodes

    6.0

    An unconventional prosecutor employs unorthodox methods to bring criminals to justice, often bending the rules to ensure fairness. The series centers on legal drama and action, with minimal romantic involvement.

  • Begins Youth

    12. Begins Youth

    Korean Drama - 2024, 12 episodes

    8.0
  • Beyond Evil

    13. Beyond Evil

    Korean Drama - 2021, 16 episodes

    9.0

    Two detectives in a small town reopen a cold serial murder case, uncovering shocking truths about their community and themselves. The plot focuses on psychological intrigue, with romance playing a negligible role. The evolving partnership between the two male leads offers a deep exploration of trust and betrayal, providing a compelling bromance dynamic.

  • Big Mouth

    14. Big Mouth

    Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes

  • Black Knight

    15. Black Knight

    Korean Drama - 2023, 6 episodes

    9.0

    In a dystopian future where air pollution has devastated the world, a legendary deliveryman known as "Black Knight" fights against a powerful corporation to bring hope to the oppressed. The narrative focuses on action and societal issues, with little to no emphasis on romance.

  • Blind

    16. Blind

    Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes

    7.0

    A suspenseful thriller where detectives and jurors become involved in a serial murder case, uncovering dark secrets. The narrative centers on mystery and tension, with little to no romantic elements.

  • Blood Free

    17. Blood Free

    Korean Drama - 2024, 10 episodes

  • Bloodhounds

    18. Bloodhounds

    Korean Drama - 2023, 8 episodes

    9.5

    Two young boxers become entangled in the dangerous world of loan sharks, fighting to protect their loved ones from predatory moneylenders. The series emphasizes action and camaraderie, with minimal focus on romance.

  • Boss-dol Mart

    19. Boss-dol Mart

    Korean Drama - 2023, 10 episodes

  • Brain Works

    20. Brain Works

    Korean Drama - 2023, 16 episodes

    7.0
  • Bulgasal: Immortal Souls

    21. Bulgasal: Immortal Souls

    Korean Drama - 2021, 16 episodes

    7.0
  • Celebrity

    22. Celebrity

    Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes

  • Chief Detective 1958

    23. Chief Detective 1958

    Korean Drama - 2024, 10 episodes

  • Circle

    24. Circle

    Korean Drama - 2017, 12 episodes

  • City Hunter

    25. City Hunter

    Korean Drama - 2011, 20 episodes

  • Connect

    26. Connect

    Korean Drama - 2022, 6 episodes

  • Connection

    27. Connection

    Korean Drama - 2024, 14 episodes

    8.0

    A man with the ability to regenerate is kidnapped by organ hunters, leading to a series of events connecting him to a serial killer. The series focuses on supernatural elements and suspense, with little emphasis on romance.

  • Crash

    28. Crash

    Korean Drama - 2024, 12 episodes

  • D.P.

    29. D.P.

    Korean Drama - 2021, 6 episodes

    9.0

    D.P. follows a young South Korean soldier, Jun-ho, who is assigned to a special military unit tasked with capturing deserters. As he hunts down those who have fled the army, he uncovers harsh realities of military life, including bullying, abuse, and systemic failures. The series delivers a powerful social commentary on South Korea’s mandatory military service, focusing on human struggles and morality rather than romance.

  • D.P. Season 2

    30. D.P. Season 2

    Korean Drama - 2023, 6 episodes

    9.0

    Continuing the story of military police tasked with capturing deserters, this season delves deeper into the challenges and moral dilemmas they face. The narrative maintains its focus on military life and personal struggles, with little emphasis on romance. The camaraderie among soldiers, especially between the main characters, highlights strong bromantic elements.

  • Daily Dose of Sunshine

    31. Daily Dose of Sunshine

    Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes

  • Death's Game

    32. Death's Game

    Korean Drama - 2023, 4 episodes

    7.0
  • Decoy: Part 1

    33. Decoy: Part 1

    Korean Drama - 2023, 6 episodes

  • Decoy: Part 2

    34. Decoy: Part 2

    Korean Drama - 2023, 6 episodes

  • Defendant

    35. Defendant

    Korean Drama - 2017, 18 episodes

  • Designated Survivor: 60 Days

    36. Designated Survivor: 60 Days

    Korean Drama - 2019, 16 episodes

  • Doctor Lawyer

    37. Doctor Lawyer

    Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes

  • Doctor Prisoner

    38. Doctor Prisoner

    Korean Drama - 2019, 32 episodes

    9.0

    A skilled doctor, wrongfully accused and imprisoned, seeks revenge by becoming the medical director of a prison, manipulating inmates and officials alike. The series emphasizes strategic battles and power plays, with minimal focus on romance.

  • Dong Jae, the Good or the Bastard

    39. Dong Jae, the Good or the Bastard

    Korean Drama - 2024, 10 episodes

  • Duel

    40. Duel

    Korean Drama - 2017, 16 episodes

    7.0
  • Evilive

    41. Evilive

    Korean Drama - 2023, 10 episodes

    7.0

    A lawyer becomes involved with a crime organization, leading him down a dark path. The series focuses on crime and moral ambiguity, with limited emphasis on romantic subplots.

  • Extracurricular

    42. Extracurricular

    Korean Drama - 2020, 10 episodes

  • Flex X Cop

    43. Flex X Cop

    Korean Drama - 2024, 16 episodes

  • Ghost Doctor

    44. Ghost Doctor

    Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes

    8.5

    Two doctors—one a genius but arrogant, the other kind but inexperienced—find their souls inexplicably linked, leading to unexpected collaborations. While the series explores medical cases and supernatural events, it also incorporates romantic subplots involving the doctors and their colleagues. Additionally, the evolving partnership between the two male leads showcases a strong bromance.

  • Goodbye Earth

    45. Goodbye Earth

    Korean Drama - 2024, 12 episodes

    7.0
  • Grid

    46. Grid

    Korean Drama - 2022, 10 episodes

  • Gyeongseong Creature

    47. Gyeongseong Creature

    Korean Drama - 2023, 10 episodes

  • Happiness

    48. Happiness

    Korean Drama - 2021, 12 episodes

  • Hellbound

    49. Hellbound

    Korean Drama - 2021, 6 episodes

    The narrative begins with mysterious apparitions delivering decrees to individuals, foretelling their imminent deaths and condemnation to hell. These prophecies are followed by the sudden appearance of monstrous beings who execute the condemned, leading to widespread fear and chaos. Amidst this turmoil, a religious organization called the New Truth Society, led by Jung Jinsu, rises to prominence, interpreting these events as divine judgments for sinners. The season explores themes of sin, morality, and societal hysteria, focusing on how individuals and institutions respond to inexplicable phenomena.

  • Hello Monster

    50. Hello Monster

    Korean Drama - 2015, 16 episodes

  • High School Return of a Gangster

    51. High School Return of a Gangster

    Korean Drama - 2024, 8 episodes

    7.5
  • Hospital Playlist

    52. Hospital Playlist

    Korean Drama - 2020, 12 episodes

  • Hot Stove League

    53. Hot Stove League

    Korean Drama - 2019, 16 episodes

    8.0

    Focusing on the behind-the-scenes management of a struggling baseball team, this series showcases the efforts to turn the team's fortunes around. The narrative centers on sports and teamwork, with little to no romantic subplots. The strong bonds formed between team members and management provide a rich bromantic storyline.

  • Insider

    54. Insider

    Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes

  • Juvenile Justice

    55. Juvenile Justice

    Korean Drama - 2022, 10 episodes

    8.0

    A stern judge with a strong aversion to juvenile offenders is assigned to a juvenile court, where she confronts complex cases that challenge her beliefs. The series focuses on legal and ethical dilemmas, with minimal to no romantic subplots.  

  • Kill It

    56. Kill It

    Korean Drama - 2019, 12 episodes

  • Law School

    57. Law School

    Korean Drama - 2021, 16 episodes

    7.0

    Law students and professors at a prestigious university become entangled in a murder case, challenging their notions of justice and morality. The series focuses on legal intricacies and personal growth, with minimal emphasis on romance.

  • Life

    58. Life

    Korean Drama - 2018, 16 episodes

  • Little Women

    59. Little Women

    Korean Drama - 2022, 12 episodes

  • Longing for You

    60. Longing for You

    Korean Drama - 2023, 14 episodes

    8.0

    A detective returns to his hometown to solve a murder case, uncovering hidden truths and confronting personal demons. The series emphasizes mystery and personal growth, with minimal romantic subplots.

  • Maestra: Strings of Truth

    61. Maestra: Strings of Truth

    Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes

  • Memorist

    62. Memorist

    Korean Drama - 2020, 16 episodes

    7.0
  • Miraculous Brothers

    63. Miraculous Brothers

    Korean Drama - 2023, 16 episodes

    9.5

    Two individuals with contrasting personalities form an unlikely bond, navigating life's challenges and discovering the true meaning of brotherhood. The series emphasizes their deepening relationship, offering a heartfelt bromance with minimal romantic distractions.

  • Missing: The Other Side

    64. Missing: The Other Side

    Korean Drama - 2020, 12 episodes

    8.0

    Set in a mysterious village inhabited by the souls of missing people, a group works together to uncover the truth behind their disappearances. The fantasy-mystery series emphasizes intrigue and teamwork, with minimal focus on romance.

  • Monstrous

    65. Monstrous

    Korean Drama - 2022, 6 episodes

  • Mouse

    66. Mouse

    Korean Drama - 2021, 20 episodes

    8.0

    A rookie detective and his partner investigate a series of gruesome murders linked to psychopathic behaviors. The thriller emphasizes suspense and psychological elements, with little to no romantic subplots.

  • Move to Heaven

    67. Move to Heaven

    Korean Drama - 2021, 10 episodes

    8.0

    A young man with Asperger's syndrome and his ex-convict uncle run a trauma cleaning service, uncovering untold stories of the deceased. The narrative centers on family bonds and personal healing, with little to no romantic elements. The evolving relationship between the uncle and nephew serves as the emotional core, highlighting a touching bromance.

  • Mr. Queen

    68. Mr. Queen

    Korean Drama - 2020, 20 episodes

  • My Mister

    69. My Mister

    Korean Drama - 2018, 16 episodes

  • My Name

    70. My Name

    Korean Drama - 2021, 8 episodes

  • Mystic Pop-Up Bar

    71. Mystic Pop-Up Bar

    Korean Drama - 2020, 12 episodes

  • Navillera

    72. Navillera

    Korean Drama - 2021, 12 episodes

  • Night Has Come

    73. Night Has Come

    Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes

  • No Way Out: The Roulette

    74. No Way Out: The Roulette

    Korean Drama - 2024, 8 episodes

  • Nobody Knows

    75. Nobody Knows

    Korean Drama - 2020, 16 episodes

  • Numbers

    76. Numbers

    Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes

  • One Dollar Lawyer

    77. One Dollar Lawyer

    Korean Drama - 2022, 12 episodes

  • One Ordinary Day

    78. One Ordinary Day

    Korean Drama - 2021, 8 episodes

  • Parasyte: The Grey

    79. Parasyte: The Grey

    Korean Drama - 2024, 6 episodes

  • Payback: Money and Power

    80. Payback: Money and Power

    Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes

  • Priest

    81. Priest

    Korean Drama - 2018, 16 episodes

  • Prison Playbook

    82. Prison Playbook

    Korean Drama - 2017, 16 episodes

    7.0

    A star baseball player is sentenced to prison, where he navigates life behind bars alongside fellow inmates and guards. The drama highlights camaraderie and personal growth, with minimal romantic subplots.

  • Psychopath Diary

    83. Psychopath Diary

    Korean Drama - 2019, 16 episodes

    8.0

    The story follows Yook Dong-sik, a timid and unassuming employee at a brokerage firm, who inadvertently witnesses a murder and comes into possession of the killer's detailed diary. After a subsequent accident causes him to lose his memory, Dong-sik reads the diary and mistakenly believes he is the serial killer. This misconception leads to significant changes in his behavior as he grapples with his supposed identity. The series primarily focuses on themes of identity, morality, and personal transformation, with minimal emphasis on romantic subplots.

  • Reborn Rich

    84. Reborn Rich

    Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes

  • Revenant

    85. Revenant

    Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes

  • Revenge of Others

    86. Revenge of Others

    Korean Drama - 2022, 12 episodes

    8.0

    A student seeks to uncover the truth behind her twin brother's death, leading her into a world of mystery and vengeance. The series emphasizes thriller and revenge themes, with minimal romantic subplots.

  • Save Me

    87. Save Me

    Korean Drama - 2017, 16 episodes

  • School 2013

    88. School 2013

    Korean Drama - 2012, 16 episodes

  • Signal

    89. Signal

    Korean Drama - 2016, 16 episodes

    7.0

    A detective in the present communicates with a detective from the past through a mysterious walkie-talkie, solving cold cases and altering destinies. The series primarily focuses on crime-solving and the supernatural connection between the detectives, with minimal emphasis on romantic relationships.

  • Sisyphus: The Myth

    90. Sisyphus: The Myth

    Korean Drama - 2021, 16 episodes

    8.0

    A genius engineer discovers dangerous secrets about the world, leading him on a journey through time with a mysterious woman. The science fiction series focuses on action and adventure, with romantic elements present but not central to the plot.

  • Strangers from Hell

    91. Strangers from Hell

    Korean Drama - 2019, 10 episodes

  • Study Group

    92. Study Group

    Korean Drama - 2025, 10 episodes

    8.0
  • Sweet Home

    93. Sweet Home

    Korean Drama - 2020, 10 episodes

    8.0

    Residents of an apartment complex fight for survival as humans transform into monstrous creatures, exploring themes of humanity and desperation. The plot emphasizes horror and survival, with limited focus on romance.

  • Taxi Driver

    94. Taxi Driver

    Korean Drama - 2021, 16 episodes

    9.0

    A mysterious taxi service offers vengeance on behalf of victims whom the law has failed, delivering justice through unconventional means. The series centers on action and moral dilemmas, with minimal romantic subplots.

  • Taxi Driver Season 2

    95. Taxi Driver Season 2

    Korean Drama - 2023, 16 episodes

    9.0

    The Rainbow Taxi team returns, continuing their mission to avenge victims and confront new adversaries in their quest for justice. The focus remains on action and team dynamics, with little emphasis on romance.

  • The Auditors

    96. The Auditors

    Korean Drama - 2024, 12 episodes

    9.0

    A team of auditors investigates corporate corruption, uncovering financial crimes and ethical dilemmas within powerful organizations. The series focuses on corporate intrigue and ethics, with little to no romance.

  • The Bequeathed

    97. The Bequeathed

    Korean Drama - 2024, 6 episodes

  • The Deal

    98. The Deal

    Korean Drama - 2023, 8 episodes

  • The Devil Judge

    99. The Devil Judge

    Korean Drama - 2021, 16 episodes

    9.0

    In a dystopian society, a chief judge turns court proceedings into a reality show, aiming to punish the corrupt and bring justice to the masses. The series focuses on legal battles and societal issues, with minimal romantic involvement. The complex relationship between the male leads adds depth to the narrative, offering a nuanced bromance.

  • The Fiery Priest

    100. The Fiery Priest

    Korean Drama - 2019, 40 episodes

    8.5

    A hot-tempered Catholic priest teams up with a detective to solve a murder case involving a senior priest. The series blends action and comedy, focusing on their partnership with minimal romantic elements.