When Life Gives You Tangerines Takes the 2025 K-Drama Crown
In a year packed with blockbuster Korean dramas, Netflix’s When Life Gives You Tangerines has emerged as the Best K-drama of 2025, according to an industry-wide poll by Joy News 24. The survey, which gathered votes from 110 leading entertainment professionals, saw the heartfelt romance drama secure 48 votes, placing it firmly at the top of the list.
The series stars the powerhouse pairing of IU and Park Bo Gum, whose nuanced performances and undeniable chemistry captured audiences worldwide. Critics have praised its emotionally rich narrative, relatable themes, and exceptional ensemble cast — all of which contributed to its sweeping success both domestically and internationally.
A Year of Awards and Global Recognition
When Life Gives You Tangerines didn’t just win hearts; it dominated the 2025 award season. At the prestigious Baeksang Arts Awards, the drama won Best Drama, Best Supporting Actor (Choi Dae Hoon), and Best Screenplay (Lim Sang Choon). IU and Park Bo Gum’s on-screen partnership also earned them the title of Best K-drama Couple of 2025 in the same Joy News 24 poll.
The show’s gentle storytelling and emotional impact have resonated far beyond South Korea, with the series topping Netflix charts in multiple countries and inspiring global fan discussions.
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty Secures Second Place
While Bon Appétit, Your Majesty captivated K-drama fans with its unique blend of romantic comedy, fantasy, and historical intrigue, it had to settle for the No. 2 spot with 18 votes in the Best K-drama of 2025 rankings. Featuring Girls’ Generation’s YoonA and rising star Lee Chae Min, the series broke viewer slumps with a witty, well-crafted storyline and reached an impressive 17.107% peak rating in South Korea.
Internationally, it dominated Netflix charts across regions, including India, and also ranked second on the Best K-drama Couples of 2025 list.
The Rest of the Top 5 K-Dramas of 2025
Rounding out the list were:
- The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call (10 votes) — led by Ju Ji Hoon, Choo Young Woo, and Ha Young; Ju Ji Hoon also received the Baeksang Best Actor award for his performance.
- You and Everything Else (9 votes) — starring Kim Go Eun and Park Ji Hun.
- Our Unwritten Seoul (7 votes) — featuring Park Bo Young, GOT7’s Park Jinyoung, and Ryu Kyung Soo.
All five of these celebrated dramas are available to stream on Netflix.
Key Takeaway
2025 has proven to be a golden year for Korean television, with When Life Gives You Tangerines leading the charge as a masterclass in heartfelt storytelling. While Bon Appétit, Your Majesty and other titles brought their own magic to screens, it was IU and Park Bo Gum’s quiet yet powerful journey that resonated most with both critics and audiences around the globe.
