Binge or Skip | 2025 Edition
Another year, another Binge or Skip List. I am sharing the dramas/movies that I have seen in 2025 and which ones are:
- BINGE: Worthy of every second of your life. Must Watch.
- SKIP : Waste of time, avoid unless you like to suffer (even then avoid)
- MAYBE: Your choice - something in between the above two categories, totally up to you for a one time watch/try.
There might be other dramas/movies that I might have seen in the year, but these were noteworthy - for good, bad and in-between reasons. Maybe this would help you make an informed decision or simply feel inspired to add some of them in your own watchlist.
My Rating system is mentioned in my bio: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo
The process for it is (usually) technical - I begin from 10/10 and deduct -0.5 or 1 point depending on how flawed/unrelatable/illogical the various parameters (acting, story, pace, visuals, etc) of a drama/movie felt like. And of course, as am human, how a drama/movie makes me feel also becomes a major factor.
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1. The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call
Korean Drama - 2025, 8 episodes
BINGE | Medical drama & satire, comedy, action
PROs:
- Best of 2025 (and am claiming this in Jan itself - so you know how good it is)
- Short, Crisp storytelling with zero dull moments
- Highly entertaining - with comedy action, but also carrying a deep message
CONs:
- None
- Some can find it over-the-top, or not logical, but then the drama never claims to be that. So set that expectation right, and have a fun ride for 8 hours!
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/424104
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2. Pump Up the Healthy Love
Korean Drama - 2025, 12 episodes
BINGE | Comedy-Romance, Exaggerated but Fun, WHAT THE DRAMA!
PROs:
- One of the Best of 2025
- Short, Crisp storytelling with zero dull moments
- Great acting by all - especially my man: Lee Jun Young, is there any role this man cannot fit into?
- Highly entertaining - with comedy-romance but carrying a good message about aiming for a healthy body & mind
- You will get a new catchphrase "WHAT THE ..... " ❤️
- You will get the best catchy workout song "The Gym That You Live In"
#motivational #fun - LEE JUN YOUNG is ❤️❤️❤️
CONs:
- None
- Some can find it over-the-top, and exaggerated but I found it fun and worth seeing it to make your day better!
Verdict: Pump Up the Healthy Love is a riotous, feel-good drama that blends fitness, comedy, and heart with surprising finesse. If you enjoy unhinged humor and slow-burn romance, this one’s a total binge. Just don’t expect a serious tone—it’s all about the laughs and lovable chaos.
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/461110
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3. Bon Appetit, Your Majesty
Korean Drama - 2025, 12 episodes
BINGE | Romance, Historical, Fantasy, Culinary
PROs:
- Unique concept blending Joseon-era romance with culinary storytelling
- Visually stunning production and mouthwatering food scenes
- Strong performances, especially Lee Chae Min’s charismatic portrayal of the king
Sharp writing, sizzling chemistry, and entertaining ensemble cast
CONs:
Final 2 episodes feel slightly stretched; time-slip ending may not satisfy all viewers but in real I did not find any faults, it was highly entertaining and memorable
Verdict: A drama that exceeded expectations and became one of my top picks of 2025. Lee Chae Min absolutely owns this role, and the food-centric storytelling is both refreshing and addictive. If you love romance, fantasy, and food—this one’s a must-watch.
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/497388
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4. Study Group
Korean Drama - 2025, 10 episodes
BINGE | High-School, Action, Superheroic Vibe, Shonen/Webtoon Style
Pros:- Action, Comedy, Emotional Backstories, Good vs Evil
- Highly Entertaining, Short Drama, Larger than Life Storyline
- Profound Message - Bullying, Societal Pressures, Overcoming Hardships
Cons:
- None for me
- But many might not appreciate that you don't have to look for logic but just pure entertainment
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/426780
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5. Nine Puzzles
Korean Drama - 2025, 11 episodes
BINGE | Crime, Murder/Suspense, Whodunit
Pros:- Different murder mysteries that reveal a big single motive - like a puzzle
- Top notch acting, pace, cinematography, BGM, short and good pace
- Satisfying journeys and poetic justice/ends - Complete Series, no cliffhangers in the end
- Extremely hard to keep it down, needs to be binged as it is immersive and you will want to deduct who is the killer?
Cons:
- None
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/460844
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6. Karma
Korean Drama - 2025, 6 episodes
BINGE | Dark, Suspense, Psychological Thriller
Pros:- 6 different stories interwoven with each other and one single plot
- Top notch acting, pace, cinematography, BGM and everything
- Satisfying journeys and poetic justice/ends delivered to characters as they deserved
Cons:
- None
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/444514
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7. Squid Game Season 3
Korean Drama - 2025, 6 episodes
BINGE | Survival Game, Thriller, Suspense, Action
Pros:- Season 3 answers major story questions.
- It explores deep, dark themes about humanity.
- The ending is haunting and thought-provoking.
Cons:
- Lacks the sharp thrill of Season 1.
- New characters and arcs feel unfinished.
- Feels more commercial than meaningful
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/468568
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8. Mercy for None
Korean Drama - 2025, 7 episodes
BINGE | Action, Revenge, Thriller, Violent, Gangster
Pros:
- Intense storytelling: The drama keeps the tension high with sharp execution and a gripping revenge plot that never drags.
- Commanding lead performance: Nam Gi-jun’s raw presence and unstoppable resilience make every scene compelling.
- Cinematic quality: Stylish direction, atmospheric noir aesthetics, and a pulsating soundtrack enhance the drama’s impact.
Cons:
- Predictable antagonist: Lacks the depth or menace to truly stand out, especially in comparison to iconic villain portrayals.
- Underutilized talent: Jo Han-chul’s role feels too minor, leaving viewers wanting more from such a strong actor.
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/463968
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9. Way Back Love
Korean Drama - 2025, 6 episodes
BINGE | Youth, Romance, Fantasy, Grim Reaper, Second Chance, Life/Death
Pros:- All Major Elements - Story, Acting, Narration, Message, Music etc
- Life/Death Themes potrayed beautifully making you smile, cry and resonate (maybe) on a personal level
- Short Format - 6 Eps but flows well, and leaves no open ended threads
- Tragically Beautiful Tale
Cons:
- Nothing Really, personally just found the initial eps pace is little slow, but it is minor and can be ignored when the story is so profound
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/447804
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10. The First Night with the Duke
Korean Drama - 2025, 12 episodes
BINGE | Fantasy, Romance, Comedy
Pros:
- Engaging portal fantasy setup with a lively blend of mystery, politics, action, and romance
- Strong chemistry between leads & good performances by all cast members
- Well-resolved antagonist arcs and satisfying character development
- High production quality: costumes, direction, and effects elevate the viewing experience
Cons:
- Uneven pacing, especially around episode 3 and 10
- Slightly convoluted plot in later episodes
- Not groundbreaking in terms of story originality
- Some dull stretches that slow down narrative momentum
Verdict: A charming and entertaining fantasy drama that delivers on romance and character chemistry. Despite a few bumps in pacing, The First Night with the Duke is a delightful ride for fans of portal fantasy and swoony leads. Definitely worth a watch for its heart and humor.
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/473932 -
11. Weak Hero Class 2
Korean Drama - 2025, 8 episodes
BINGE | High-School, Male Friendship, Action, Bullying
Pros:
- Compelling characters that draw you in.
- Stellar action sequences and performances.
- Engaging pacing—perfect for binge-watching in one sitting.
- Just as addictive as Season 1, making Season 2 equally thrilling.
Cons:
- Na Baek Jin’s backstory lacked depth; it was hinted at but never fully explored.
- This a great series, but am still wondering why are all school kids fighting? Is this the only resort left. It is not a con per-se but just a question I have in general
This is a pro and con: Wolf (Seong Je), played by Lee Jun Young, deserved a bigger role. He was simply too good and while I loved every scene, this character and actor needs more screen-time, once can never get enough of him. At least I cannot.
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/450612
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12. My Dearest Nemesis
Korean Drama - 2025, 12 episodes
MAYBE | Second-Chances, Noona Romance, Enemies-to-Lovers
Pros:- Cute, Lighthearted, Entertaining, Comfort Watch, Short Drama
- Good Story for Main & Second Leads/Couples: Mature & Authentic
- Male & Female Characters portrayed well - as individuals & in relationships
- Interesting subplot+issue: Main leads meet in video game, and there is a misunderstanding
Cons:
- Nothing new - usual cliches
- Hence marked MAYBE, so worth one time binge/watch
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/reviews/441536
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13. Dear Hongrang
Korean Drama - 2025, 11 episodes
MAYBE | Historical, Suspense, Action, Slow-Burn
PROs:
- Best Point of Drama was the Cinematography, one of the best in historical setup
- Great Acting, Action, Suspense, Family Conflict
- The hypnotic OST -Burning Petals is going to be stuck in your mind & playlist for long!
CONs:
- Slow-Burn: Quite slow for my liking, I had to 2x speed watch or fast forward especially from Ep 7 onwards
- Tragic Ending - am not a fan of Rose/Jack style Titanic love stories
- Too many antagonists fighting the protagonists in the end. It was well directed but it could be a little chaotic to follow through
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/457294
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14. S Line
Korean Drama - 2025, 6 episodes
MAYBE | Mystery, Supernatural, Thriller
Pros:
- Bold and original concept—the S-Line as a metaphor for power and privilege is fresh and thought-provoking
- Strong performances from Arin and Lee Soo Hyuk, especially in emotionally tense scenes
- Each episode introduces a new case, subtly tied together with social commentary
- Short format keeps it engaging, with tight pacing until the final episode
Cons:
- Episode 6 falters, leaving major plot threads unresolved
- Supernatural twist lacks clarity, making the ending feel incomplete
- No answers to key questions: origin of S-Line, creator of the glasses, true motives
- Feels like setup for Season 2, rather than a standalone story
Verdict: S Line is a compelling watch with a unique premise and solid execution—until the final episode. If Season 2 is confirmed, it could become a standout series. As it stands, it's a maybe—worth watching for the concept and performances, but expect frustration from the unresolved ending.
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/476740 -
15. Undercover High School
Korean Drama - 2025, 12 episodes
MAYBE | Action, Undercover Agent, High School, Childhood Sweethearts
Pros:- Cute, Lighthearted, Entertaining, Short Format
- Seo Kang Joon & Kim Shin Rok shine and own the drama
- Heartwarming moments of friendship, family beyond blood ties
- Interesting subplot: Treasure hunt, missing dad
Cons:
- Comedy Timing felt off and overdone
- Romance was devoid of sparks and underwhelming
- Not memorable
- In a weekly episode watching pace - it felt more like an obligation to complete
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/reviews/444130 -
16. Heavenly Ever After
Korean Drama - 2025, 12 episodes
MAYBE | Supernatural, Comedy, Emotional, Mystery, Life Lessons
Pros:
- Creative world-building of Heaven, Hell, and unique backstories
- Emotional depth – Poignant, relatable character arcs, life lessons, heartfelt moments
- Suspenseful mystery
- Strong performances and Impressive visuals + CGI
Cons:
- Repetitive storytelling – Predictable arcs
- Weak reveals/ending felt rushed, predictable and unsatisfactory due to overused formula
- Neglected love story – main leads' love that was the main point fizzles in the middle/seems forgotten due to other plot drivers
- The makers of the show could not control the high they gave us at the start and it dwindled quite a lot in the end - like they forgot what they had started out with
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/457822
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17. Our Unwritten Seoul
Korean Drama - 2025, 12 episodes
MAYBE | Family, Healing, Sister-Identity-Swap, Second Chances, Romance, Life
Pros:- Every character adds meaning and depth to the story
- Beautiful themes of self-discovery and second chances
- Best characters: Se-jin and Ho-su’s mom
Cons:
- Mi-ji during swap didn't seem like Mi-ji, like her personality. Not sure if was deliberate or PBY's usual characters which are more like Mi-Rae crept in
- Romantic chemistry felt flat and underwhelming for Ho-su/Mi-ji in spite of the longer screentime given
- Some favorite pairings didn’t get enough screen time - Mi Rae and Sejin (still wanted them to at least kiss)
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/469170
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18. Legend of Zang Hai
Chinese Drama - 2025, 40 episodes
MAYBE | Revenge, Historical, Fantasy, C-drama, Political
Pros:- Engaging mystery & strong early plot with the Gui Seal & Zang Hai’s revenge journey.
- Visually captivating—beautiful cinematography, costumes, music, and direction.
- Intelligent character growth and strategic battles, especially between Episodes 20–30.
Cons:
- Slow pacing—felt dragging for those used to fast-paced storytelling.
- Weak romance subplot—felt forced and diluted the core revenge arc.
- Predictable antagonist and inconsistent character actions, especially the ML veering from his established persona.
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/464968
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19. The Scandal of Chun Hwa
Korean Drama - 2025, 10 episodes
MAYBE | Historical, Scandalous Novel, Multiple Stories, Hot Scenes
PROS:
- The Crown Prince and Crown Princess's storyline is emotionally impactful and historically intriguing.
- Strong themes of women empowerment
- Some secondary characters had compelling arcs, though they had minimal screen time.
CONS:
- The main leads’ storyline wasn’t very engaging and took up most of the screentime.
- Slow pacing—can get boring quickly.
- The more interesting subplots were severely underdeveloped.
Why Maybe?
- SKIP — if you are keen on the main plot and leads. If you’re looking for historical dramas with richer storytelling, you’d be better off exploring other titles.
- WATCH - if you want to know the secondary characters story, hot scenes and are ok with fast-forwarding through dull moments
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/457744
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20. Buried Hearts
Korean Drama - 2025, 16 episodes
SKIP | Revenge, Secret Family Relationships, Thriller, Crime, Political
Pros:- Park Hyung Sik's look & acting as Seo Dongju
- Yeom & Huh Ildo acting as antagonists
Cons:
- Everything Else
- FL and Romance: One of the worst writing in K-drama history
- Overdone Shock-Value from Secret Sons/Fathers/Lovers etc
- Every other character had a weak journey and forgettable
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/446510
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21. Head over Heels
Korean Drama - 2025, 12 episodes
SKIP | Romance, High School, Supernatural
Pros:- The concept: High School Rom-Com with Shaman twist
- The visuals of the drama and the characters
- Acting by all but especially main trio: Cho Yi Hun, Choo Young Woo, Cha Kang Yoon
Cons:
- Plot drags on from Ep 8, and finale 2 episodes are unnecessary. They could have easily wrapped this drama in 10 episodes.
- The con overpowers the pros and therefore this drama really went from 8/10 in rating to 5.5/10 for me. Really a shame!
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/482046
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22. Omniscient Reader: The Prophecy
Korean Movie - 2025
SKIP | Fantasy, Action, Supernatural
Pros:
- Impressive visual effects and production scale
- Strong performances from the cast, purely cause they are talented on their own
- Some emotional moments around teamwork and unity
Cons:
- Rushed storytelling and weak plot execution
- Poor pacing, filler characters, and an abrupt, unsatisfying ending
- Adaptation lacks emotional depth and clarity, leaving a bitter aftertaste
Verdict: Despite its epic setup and star-studded cast, Omniscient Reader fails to deliver a compelling narrative. A one-time watch at best—only for the actors & VFX artists' hardwork. Otherwise, skip.
FULL REVIEW: https://kisskh.at/profile/omo-omo-omo/review/498594
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23. The Winning Try
Korean Drama - 2025, 12 episodes
BINGE | Sports, Motivation, Teamwork
Pros:
- Impressive motivating story with sports
Cons:






















