Inspired by Curio’s amazing list and this topic on MyDramaList.com’s forum, this is for my own reference as well as a way to keep track of the historical dramas, which are getting more recognition and gaining popularity on big and small screens alike. Maybe I can challenge myself to watch as many sageuk dramas and movies too?
I’ve also added those featuring the period after Korean Empire, including creative works of Korea under colonial period, Korean War, and military rule, because my interest is growing on the history of that era. This page will be updated from time to time 🙂
The title is normal for Dramas and italicized for Movies.
(Last Update: 25/03/2026)
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Prehistoric
Fictional Prehistoric :
- 아스달 연대기 – Arthdal Chronicles (tvn, 2019)
- 아라문의 검 – Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramun (tvn, 2023)
Gojoseon
Proto-Three Kingdoms
Three Kingdoms (Goguryeo, Silla, Baekje, Gaya)
| Year | Ruler | Drama/Movie |
| 37 BC~ | Jumong (Goguryeo) | 주몽 – Jumong (MBC, 2006) |
| 4-18 AD | Yuri, Daemusin (Goguryeo) | 바람의 나라 – Kingdom of the Wind (KBS2, 2008) |
| 18-44 | Daemusin (Goguryeo) | 자명고 – Princess Ja Myung Go (SBS, 2009) ❤ |
| ~197 | Gogukcheon (Goguryeo) | 우씨왕후 – Queen Woo (TVING, 2024) |
| Early 1st c. | Kim Suro (Gaya) | 김수로 – Kim Su Ro (MBC, 2010) |
| 341-375 | Gogugwon (Goguryeo), Geunchogo (Baekje) | 근초고왕 – King Geunchogo (KBS1, 2010) |
| Late 4th c. | Gogugyang (Goguryeo) | 태왕사신기 – The Legend (MBC, 2007) |
| Late 4th c. | Gogugyang (Goguryeo) | 광개토대왕 – King Gwanggaeto the Great (KBS1, 2011) |
| 501-523 | Dongseong, Muryeong, Seong (Baekje) | 제왕의 딸, 수백향 – King Daughter, Soo Baek Hyang (MBC, 2013) ❤ |
| 551~ | Jinheung (Silla) | 화랑 – Hwarang: the Poet Warrior Youth (KBS2, 2016) |
| Late 6th c. | Wideok, Hye, Beop (Baekje) | 서동요 – Ballad of Suh Dong/ Seodongyo (SBS, 2005) |
| Late 6th c. | Jinpyeong (Silla) | 선덕여왕 – Queen Seondeok (MBC, 2009) |
| 561~ | Pyeongwon, Yeongyang (Goguryeo), Jinpyeong (Silla) | 달이 뜨는 강 – River Where the Moon Rises (KBS2, 2021) ❤ |
| Late 6th c. | Pyeongwon (Goguryeo) | 마이 온리 러브송 – My Only Love Song (Netflix, 2017) ❤ |
| 7th c. | Uija (Baekje),Yeongnyu (Goguryeo), Taejong Muyeol (Silla) | 삼국기 – Chronicles of the Three Kingdoms (1992, KBS1) |
| 598-666 | Yeongyang, Yeongnyu, Bojang (Goguryeo) | 연개소문 – Yeongaesomun (SBS, 2006) |
| Early 7th c. | Yeongnyu, Bojang (Goguryeo) | 칼과 꽃 – Sword and Flower (KBS2, 2013) |
| 7th c. | Mu, Uija (Baekje) | 계백 – Gyebaek (MBC, 2011) |
| 7th c. | Jinji – Taejong Muyeol (Silla) | 대왕의 꿈 – The Great King’s Dream (KBS, 2012) |
| 645 | Bojang (Goguryeo) | 안시성 – Ansi Fortress/The Great Battle (2018) |
| 660 | Bojang (Goguryeo), Uija (Baekje), Taejong Muyeol (Silla) | 황산벌 – Hwangsanbeol/ Once Upon a Time in a Battlefield (2003) |
| 668 | Bojang (Goguryeo), Uija (Baekje), Munmu (Silla) | 평양성 – Pyeongyang Fortress/ Battlefield Heroes (2011) |
Fictional Goguryeo:
- 드라마 화평공주 체중감량사* – Princess Hwapyung’s Weight Loss (KBS2, 2010)
North and South States (Balhae & Unified Silla)
| Year | Ruler | Drama/Movie |
| 645-719 | Dae Jo Young (Balhae) | 대조영 – Dae Jo Young (KBS1, 2006) |
| Late 8th c. | Heungdeok (Unified Silla) | 해신 – God of the Sea (KBS2, 2004) |
Later Three Kingdoms & Goryeo
| Year | Ruler | Drama/Movie |
| 870-936 | Gyeon Hwon (Later Baekje),Gung-ye (Taebong), Taejo (Goryeo) | 태조 왕건 – Emperor Wang Geon (KBS1, 2000) |
| 941-969 | Taejo, Hyejong, Jeongjong, Gwangjong (Goryeo) | 달의 연인 – 보보경심: 려 – Moon Lovers/ Scarlet Heart: Ryeo (SBS, 2016) ❤ |
| 943-949 | Taejo – Gwangjong (Goryeo) | 빛나거나 미치거나 – Shine or Go Crazy (MBC, 2015) |
| 943-975 | Hyejong, Jeongjong, Gwangjong (Goryeo) | 제국의 아침 – Dawn of the Empire (KBS1, 2002) |
| 955-1031 | Gwangjong – Hyeonjong (Goryeo) | 춘추태후 – Empress Chunchu (KBS2, 2009) |
| 1009-1019 | Mokjong – Hyeonjong (Goryeo) | 고려거란전쟁 – Goryeo-Khitan War (KBS2, 2023) |
| 1170-1219 | Uijong – Huijong (Goryeo) | 무인시대 – Age of Warriors (KBS1, 2003) |
| 1215-1268 | Gojong (Goryeo) | 무신 – God of War (MBC, 2012) |
| 1290s | Chungryeol – Chungseon (Goryeo) | 왕은 사랑한다 – The King Loves (MBC, 2017) |
| 1320-1370 | Chungsuk – Gongmin (Goryeo) | 기황후 – Empress Ki (MBC, 2013) ❤ |
| 1348-1374 | Gongmin (Goryeo) | 신돈 – Shin Don (MBC, 2005) |
| 1375 | Gongmin (Goryeo) | 무사 – Musa/ The Warrior (2001) |
| 1351-1379 | Gongmin (Goryeo) | 신의 – Faith (SBS, 2012) ❤ |
| 1351~ | Gongmin (Goryeo) | 쌍화점 – A Frozen Flower (2008) |
| 1351-1392 | Gongmin (Goryeo) – Taejo (Joseon) | 개국 – Foundation of Joseon Dynasty (KBS, 1983) |
| 1351-1392 | Gongmin (Goryeo) – Taejo (Joseon) | 대풍수 – The Great Seer (SBS, 2012) |
| 1374-1398 | Gongmin (Goryeo) – Taejong (Joseon) | 정도전 – Jeong Do Jeon (KBS1, 2014) |
| 1375-1410 | U (Goryeo) – Taejong (Joseon) | 육룡이 나르샤 – Six Flying Dragons (SBS, 2015-2016) ❤ |
| 1388~ | U (Goryeo) – Taejong (Joseon) | 태종 이방원 – Taejong Yi Bang Won/ The King of Tears, Lee Bang Won (KBS1, 2021-2022) |
| 1388-1400 | Chang (Goryeo) – Jeongjong (Joseon) | 나의 나라 – My Country (JTBC, 2019) |
Fictional Goryeo:
- 협녀, 칼의 기억 – Memories of the Sword (2015)
- 쓸쓸하고 찬란하神 – 도깨비 – Goblin/Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (tvN, 2016-2017)
- 호텔 델루나 – Hotel Del Luna (tvN, 2019)
- 불가살 – Bulgasal: Immortal Souls (tvN, 2021-2022)
Joseon & Korean Empire
| Year | Ruler | Drama/Movie |
| 1388-1422 | Chang (Goryeo) – Sejong | 용의 눈물 – Tears of the Dragon (KBS1, 1996) |
| 1392-1393 | Taejo | 해적: 바다로 간 산적 – The Pirates (2014) |
| 1392-1910 | Taejo – Sunjong | 조선왕조 오백년 – 500 Years of Joseon Dynasty (MBC, 1983) |
| 1395 | Taejo | 해적: 도깨비의 깃발 – The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure (2022) |
| 1398 | Taejo | 순수의 시대 – Age of Innocence/ Empire of Lust (2015) |
| 1400~ | Jeongjong – Sejong | 원경 – The Queen Who Crowns (tvN, 2025) |
| 1400 | Taejong | 하녀들 – Maids (JTBC, 2015) |
| 1400~ | Taejong, Sejong | 장영실 – Jang Yeong Sil (KBS1, 2016) |
| 1409-1446 | Taejong, Sejong | 대왕세종 – The Great King Sejong (KBS1, 2008) |
| 1409-1446 | Taejong, Sejong | 뿌리깊은 나무 – Tree With Deep Roots (SBS, 2011) ❤ |
| 1418 | Taejong, Sejong | 나는 왕이로소이다 – I am the King (2012) |
| 1418-1446 | Sejong | 신기전 – The Divine Weapon (2008) |
| 1436 | Sejong | 그녀들* – The Palace (KBS2, 2021) ❤ |
| 1442 | Sejong | 천문: 하늘에 묻는다 – Forbidden Dream (2019) |
| 1443-1446 | Sejong | 나랏말싸미 – The King’s Letters (2019) |
| 1450-1506 | Munjong – Yeonsangun | 한명회 – Han Myung Hoe (KBS2, 1994) |
| 1452-1457 | Danjong, Sejo | 파천무 – Pacheonmu (KBS2, 1990) |
| 1452-1468 | Munjong, Danjong, Sejo | 공주의 남자 – The Princess’ Man (KBS2, 2011) ❤ |
| 1452-1468 | Munjong, Danjong, Sejo | 관상 – The Face Reader (2013) ❤ |
| 1452-1506 | Danjong – Yeonsangun | 왕과 비 – King and Queen (KBS1, 1998) |
| 1452-1506 | Danjong – Yeonsangun | 인수대비 – Queen Insu (jtbc, 2011) |
| 1452-1506 | Danjong – Yeonsangun | 왕과 나 – The King and I (SBS, 2007) |
| 1462 | Sejo | 광대들: 풍문조작단 – Jesters: The Game Changers (2019) |
| 1469 | Yejong | 임금님의 사건수첩 – The King’s Case Notes (2017) ❤ |
| 1469~ | Seongjong | 불온* – Unrest/Rebellious (MBC, 2013) |
| 1476-1506 | Seongjong, Yeonsangun | 장녹수 – Jang Nok Su (KBS2, 1995) |
| 1482-1545 | Seongjong, Yeonsangun, Jungjong | 대장금 – Dae Jang Geum/ Jewel in the Palace (MBC, 2003) |
| 1482- 1506 | Seongjong, Yeonsangun | 역적: 백성을 훔치 도적 – /Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People /Rebel Hong Gil Dong (MBC, 2017) |
| 1499-1506 | Yeonsangun, Jungjong | 7일의 왕비 – Seven Day Queen/ Queen of Seven Days (KBS2, 2017) |
| 1504-1506 | Yeonsangun | 왕의남자 – The King and the Clown (2005) ❤ |
| 1504-1506 | Yeonsangun | 간신 – The Treacherous (2015) |
| 1506 | Jungjong | 전우치 – Jeon Woo-chi: The Taoist Wizard (2009) ❤ |
| 1506-1544 | Jungjong | 황진이 – Hwang Jin Yi (KBS2, 2006) ❤ |
| 1506-1544 | Jungjong | 황진이 – Hwang Jini (2007) |
| 1506-1565 | Jungjong, Injong, Myungjong | 여인천하 – Women of the Palace (SBS, 2001) |
| 1522-1562 | Jungjong, Injong, Myungjong | 임 꺽정 – Im Kkeok Jeong (SBS, 1996) |
| 1522-1551 | Jungjong, Injong, Myungjong | 사임당, 빛의 일기 – Saimdang, Light’s Diary (SBS, 2017) |
| 1527 | Jungjong | 물괴 – Monstrum (2018) |
| 1540-1565 | Jungjong | 옥중화 – Okjunghwa/The Flower in Prison (MBC, 2016) |
| 1544 | Jungjong, Injong | 천명 – Mandate of Heaven (KBS2, 2013) ❤ |
| 1550~ | Myungjong | 마녀보감 – Mirror of the Witch/Witch Exemplar (jtbc, 2016) ❤ |
| 1554-1598 | Myungjong, Seonjo | 불멸의 이순신 – The Immortal Yi Sun-shin (KBS1, 2004) |
| 1559-1615 | Myungjong, Seonjo, Gwanghaegun | 허준 – Heo Joon (MBC, 1999) |
| 1559-1615 | Myungjong, Seonjo, Gwanghaegun | 구암허준 – Gu Am Heo Joon (MBC, 2013) |
| 1562~ | Myungjong | 조선생존기 – Joseon Survival (TV Chosun, 2019) |
| 1569-1618 | Seonjo, Gwanghaegun | 천둥소리 – Roll of Thunder (KBS2, 2000) |
| 1570-1598 | Seonjo | 구가의 서 – Gu Family Book (MBC, 2013) |
| 1572 | Seonjo | 천군 – Heaven’s Soldiers (2005) |
| 1575-1608 | Seonjo | 불의 여신, 정이 – Goddess of Fire, Jung-yi (MBC, 2013) |
| 1583-1623 | Seonjo, Gwanghaegun | 서궁 – Western Palace (KBS2, 1995) |
| 1589-1608 | Seonjo, Gwanghaegun | 왕의 얼굴 – King’s Face (KBS2, 2014) |
| 1590s | Seonjo | 구름을 벗어난 달처럼 – Like the Moon Escaping from the Clouds/Blades of Blood (2010) |
| 1591-1623 | Seonjo, Gwanghaegun | 왕의 여자 – King’s Woman (SBS, 2003) |
| 1592 | Seonjo | 임진왜란 1592 – Imjin War 1592 (KBS1, 2016) |
| 1592 | Seonjo | 대립군 – Warriors of the Dawn (2017) ❤ |
| 1592 | Seonjo | 명불허전 – Live Up to Your Name, Dr Heo (tvN,2017) ❤ |
| 1592 | Seonjo | 한산: 용릐 출현 – Hansan: Rising Dragon (2022) |
| 1592 | Seonjo | 탁류 – The Murky Stream (Disney+, 2025) |
| 1592-1607 | Seonjo | 징비록 – Jingbirok/Book of Corrections/Memoir of Imjin War (KBS1, 2015) |
| 1597 | Seonjo | 명랑 – Myeongnang/ The Admiral: Roaring Currents (2014) |
| 1598 | Seonjo | 푸른 바다의 전설 – The Legend of the Blue Sea (SBS, 2016) ❤ |
| 1598 | Seonjo | 노량: 죽음의 바다 – Noryang: Deadly Sea (2023) |
| 1600s | Seonjo | 청풍명월 – Sword in the Moon (2003) |
| 1608-1645 | Seonjo – Hyojong | 화정 – Hwajung/ Splendid Politics (MBC, 2015) ❤ |
| 1600s | Gwanghaegun | 조선 X 파일 기찰비록 – Joseon X-Files/ Secret Investigation Record (tvN, 2010) ❤ |
| 1613 | Gwanghaegun | 간서치 열전* – The Tale of the Bookworm (KBS2, 2014) ❤ |
| 1615-1623 | Gwanghaegun | 조선로코 – 녹두전 – The Tale of Nokdu (KBS2, 2019) ❤ |
| 1616 | Gwanghaegun | 광해, 왕이 된 남자 – Masquerade/ Gwanghae: the Man Who Became King (2012) ❤ |
| 1619 | Gwanghaegun | 혈투 – The Showdown (2011) |
| 1622-1623 | Gwanghaegun | 보쌈-운명을 훔치다 – Bossam: Steal the Fate (MBN, 2021) ❤ |
| 1623 | Gwanghaegun, Injo | 검객 – The Swordsman (2020) |
| 1623-1649 | Injo | 일지매 – Iljimae (MBC, 1993) |
| 1623-1649 | Injo | 일지매 – Iljimae (SBS, 2008) |
| 1623-1649 | Injo | 돌아온 일지매 – Return of Iljimae (MBC, 2009) |
| 1623-1649 | Injo | 탐나는도다 – Tamra the Island (MBC, 2009) |
| 1623-1649 | Injo | 명가 – The Reputable Family (KBS1, 2010) |
| 1636 | Injo | 삼총사 – Three Musketeers (tvn, 2014) ❤ |
| 1636 | Injo | 남한산성 – The Fortress/ Namhan Fortress (2017) |
| 1636~ | Injo | 연인 – My Dearest (MBC, 2023) |
| 1636-1637 | Injo | 최종병기 활 – War of the Arrows (2011) ❤ |
| 1637 | Injo | 마귀* – The Devil Rider (KBS2, 2013) |
| 1637-1649 | Injo | 궁중잔혹사 – 꽃들의 전 – Cruel Palace: War of the Flowers (jtbc, 2013) ❤ |
| 1637~ | Injo | 최강칠우 – Strongest Chil Woo (KBS2, 2008) |
| 1641 | Injo | 환향-쥐불놀이* – Return Home (KBS2, 2012) |
| 1645~ | Injo | 추노 – Chuno/ The Slave Hunter (KBS2, 2010) |
| 1645 | Injo | 올빼미 – The Night Owl (2022) ❤ |
| 1649 | Hyojong | 봉이 김선달 – Seondal: The Man Who Sells the River (2016) |
| 1649~ | Hyojong | 대명 – Great Vocation (KBS1, 1981) |
| 1659~ | Hyeonjong | 마의 – Horse Doctor (MBC, 2012) |
| 1670-1701 | Hyeonjong, Sukjong | 장희빈 – Jang Hee Bin (SBS, 1995) |
| 1680~ | Sukjong | 궁녀 – Shadows in the Palace (2007) |
| 1674-1701 | Sukjong | 장옥정, 사랑에 살다 -Jang Ok Jung, Live In Love (SBS, 2013) ❤ |
| 1681-1701 | Sukjong | 장희빈 – Jang Hee Bin (KBS2, 2002) |
| 1681-1724 | Sukjong | 동이 – Dong Yi (MBC, 2010) |
| 1693-1728 | Sukjong, Gyeongjong, Yeongjo | 대박 – Daebak/Jackpot (SBS, 2016) |
| 1674~ | Sukjong | 다모 – Damo (MBC, 2003) |
| 1674~ | Sukjong | 장길산 – Jang Gil San (SBS, 2004) |
| 1719-1728 | Sukjong, Gyeongjong, Yeongjo | 해치 – Haechi (SBS, 2019) ❤ |
| 1724 | Yeongjo | 1724 기방난동사건 – The Accidental Gangster and the Mistaken Courtesan (2008) |
| 1724~ | Yeongjo | 대왕의 길 – Path to Great Dynasty (MBC, 1998) |
| 1724~ | Yeongjo | 어사 박문수 – Inspector Park Moon Soo (MBC, 2002) |
| 1728 | Yeongjo | 역모-발란의 시대 – The Age of Blood (2017) |
| 1734 | Yeongjo | 소리꾼 – The Singer (2020) |
| 1735-1762 | Yeongjo | 사도 – Sado/The Throne (2015) ❤ |
| 1742-1778 | Yeongjo, Jeongjo | 무사 백동수 – Warrior Baek Dong Soo (SBS, 2011) |
| 1750~ | Yeongjo | 붉은 달* – Red Moon/Crimson Moon (KBS2, 2015) |
| 1754-1762 | Yeongjo | 비밀의 문 – Secret Door (SBS, 2014) ❤ |
| 1762-1800 | Yeongjo, Jeongjo | 이산 – Yi San/ Lee San, Wind of the Palace (MBC, 2007) |
| 1764-1800 | Yeongjo, Jeongjo | 옷소매 붉은 끝동 – The Red Sleeve (MBC) ❤ |
| 1776 | Yeongjo, Jeongjo | 바람과 함께 사라지다 – The Grand Heist/Gone with the Wind (2012) |
| 1776 | Yeongjo | 사관은 논한다* – The Story of Us (KBS2, 2024) |
| 1776 | Jeongjo | 역린 – The Fatal Encounter/King’s Wrath (2014) |
| 1776~ | Jeongjo | 왕도 – The Royal Way (MBC, 1991) |
| 1776~ | Jeongjo | 홍국영 – Hong Guk Young (MBC, 2001) |
| 1776~ | Jeongjo | 바람의 화원 – Painter of the Wind (SBS, 2008) ❤ |
| 1776~ | Jeongjo | 미인도 – Portrait of a Beauty (2008) |
| 1776~ | Jeongjo | 거상 김만덕 – Merchant Kim Man Deok (KBS1, 2010) |
| 1776~ | Jeongjo | 소설 목민심서 – Novel Admonitions on Governing Officials (KBS2, 2000) |
| 1776~ | Jeongjo | 성균관 스캔들 – Sungkyunkwan Scandal (KBS2, 2010) ❤ |
| 1793 | Jeongjo | 조선명탐정: 각시투구꽃의 비밀 – Detective K: Secret of the Virtuous Widow (2011) |
| 1795 | Jeongjo | 조선명탐정: 사라진 놉의 딸 – Detective K: Secret of the Lost Island (2015) |
| 1795 | Jeongjo | 조선명탐정: 흡혈괴마의 비밀 – Detective K: Secret of the Living Dead (2018) |
| 1776~ | Jeongjo | 암행어사: 조선비밀수사단 – Royal Secret Agent (KBS2, 2020) |
| 1800 | Jeongjo | 한성별곡-정 – Conspiracy in the Court/Seoul’s Sad Song (KBS2, 2007) ❤ |
| 1801-1816 | Sunjo | 자산어보 – The Book of Fish (2021) |
| 1803-1840 | Sunjo, Heonjong | 상도 – Sangdo (MBC, 2001) |
| 1808 | Sunjo | 혈의 누 – Blood Rain (2005) |
| 1827~ | Sunjo | 구르미 그린 달빛 – Moonlight Drawn by Clouds/ Love in the Moonlight (KBS2, 2016) |
| 1830-1843 | Sunjo, Heonjong | 명당 – Fengshui (2018) |
| 1837-1900 | Heonjong, Cheoljong, Gojong | 태양인 이제마 – Man of the Sun, Lee Je Ma (KBS2, 2002) |
| 1843-1897 | Heonjong, Cheoljong, Gojong | 취화선 – Chwihwaseon/ Painted Fire (2002) |
| 1845~ | Heonjong | 탄생 – A Birth (2022) |
| 1847 | Heonjong | 흥부: 글로 세상을 바꾼 자 – Heung-boo: The Revolutionist (2018) |
| 1849-1866 | Cheoljong, Gojong | 바람과 구름과 비 – King Maker: The Change of Destiny (TV Chosun, 2020) |
| 1850s | Cheoljong | 짝패 – The Duo (MBC, 2011) |
| 1850s | Cheoljong, Gojong | 고산자, 대동여지도 – The Map Against the World (2016) |
| 1850s | Cheoljong | 장사의 신-객주 2015 – The God of Trade-Gaekju (KBS2, 2015-2016) |
| 1851 | Cheoljong | 철인왕후 – Mr. Queen/ Queen Cheorin (tvn, 2020) ❤ |
| 1857-1898 | Cheoljong, Gojong | 풍운 – Poongwoon (KBS1, 1982) |
| 1861-1898 | Cheoljong, Gojong | 명성황후 – Empress Myeongseong (KBS2, 2001) |
| 1862 | Cheoljong | 군도: 민란의 시대 – Kundo: Age of the Rampant (2014) |
| 1863-1895 | Gojong | 찬란한 여명 – Dazzling Dawn (KBS1, 1995) |
| 1863~ | Gojong | 조선총잡이 – Joseon Gunman (KBS2, 2014) |
| 1863~ | Gojong | 조선 과학수사대 별순검 – Chosun Police (MBC, 2005) |
| 1863~ | Gojong | 별순검 시즌1 – Chosun Police Season 1 (MBC, 2007) |
| 1863~ | Gojong | 별순검 시즌2 – Chosun Police Season 2 (MBC, 2008) |
| 1863-1910 | Gojong, Sunjong | 독립문 – Dokripmun/ Independence Gate (KBS1, 1984) |
| 1866~ | Gojong | 불꽃처럼 나비처럼 – The Sword with No Name (2009) |
| 1867 | Gojong | 도리화가 – The Sound of A Flower (2015) |
| 1871-1909 | Gojong, Sunjong | 미스터 션샤인 – Mr Sunshine (tvN, 2018) ❤ |
| 1876~ | Gojong | 제중원 – Jejoongwon (SBS, 2010) |
| 1893-1896 | Gojong | 녹두꽃 – Nokdu Flower/ Mung Bean Flower (SBS, 2019) |
| 1896 | Gojong | 가비 – Gabi (2012) |
| 1896 | Gojong | 대장 김창수 – Man of Will (2017) |
| 1910 | Sunjong | 그림자 살인 – Private Eye/ Shadow Murder (2009) |
Fictional Joseon:
- 홍길동 – Hong Gil Dong (SBS, 1998)
- 대망 – Daemang/ Great Ambition (SBS, 2002)
- 형사 – Duelist (2005) ❤
- 음란서생 – Forbidden Quest (2005)
- 홍길동 – Hong Gil Dong (KBS2, 2008)
- 방자전 – The Servant (2010)
- 미련* – Lingering Affection (KBS2, 2011)
- 강철본색* – The True Colours of Kang and Cheol (KBS2, 2012)
- 해를 품은 달 – The Moon Embracing the Sun (MBC, 2012) ❤
- 후궁: 왕의 첩 – The Concubine (2012)
- 아랑사또전 – Arang and the Magistrate (MBC, 2012) ❤
- 전우치 – Jeon Woo Chi (KBS2, 2012)
- 상놈탈출기* – Swine Escape/ Escaping Slavery (MBC, 2013)
- 곡비* – The Dirge Singer (KBS2, 2014) ❤
- 조선미녀 삼총사 – The Huntresses (2014)
- 야경꾼 일지 – The Night Watchman’s Journal (MBC, 2014)
- 상의원 – The Royal Tailor (2014)
- 형영당 일기* – Hyeongyeongdang’s Diary (MBC, 2014)
- 원녀일기* – Diary of a Resentful Woman (MBC, 2014)
- 밤을 걷는 선비 – Scholar Who Walks the Night (MBC, 2015)
- 조선마술사 – The Magician (2015)
- 엽기적인 그녀 – My Sassy Girl (SBS, 2017)
- 군주: 가면의 주인 – Ruler: Master of the Mask (MBC, 2017)
- 궁합 – The Princess and the Matchmaker (2018)
- 대군: 사랑을 그리다 – The Grand Prince (TV Chosun, 2018)
- 백일의 낭군님 – 100 Days My Prince (tvN, 2018)
- 창궐 – Rampant (2018)
- 여곡성 – The Wrath (2018)
- 왕이 된 남자 – The Man Who Became King/The Crowned Clown (tvn, 2019) ❤
- 킹덤 – Kingdom (NETFLIX, 2019~) ❤
- 신입사관 구해령 – Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung (MBC, 2019)
- 기방도령 – Homme Fatale (2019)
- 꽃파당: 조선혼담공작소 – Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency (JTBC, 2019)
- 간택 – 여인들의 전쟁 – Queen: Love and War/ Selection (TV Chosun, 2019)
- 홍천기 – Lovers of the Red Sky (SBS, 2021) ❤
- 연모 – The King’s Affection (KBS2, 2021) ❤
- 어사와 조이 – Secret Royal Inspector & Joy (tvN, 2021)
- 꽃 피면 달 생각하고 – Moonshine (KBS2, 2021)
- 붉은 단심 – Bloody Heart (KBS2, 2022) ❤
- 조선 정신과 의사 유세풍 – Poong the Joseon Psychiatrist (tvN, 2022-2023)
- 슈룹 – Under the Queen’s Umbrella (tvN, 2022)
- 금혼령 – The Forbidden Marriage (MBC, 2022-2023)
- 청춘월담 – Our Blooming Youth (tvN, 2023)
- 꽃선비 열애사 – The Secret Romantic Guesthouse (SBS, 2023)
- 조선 변호사 – Joseon Attorney (MBC, 2023)
- 혼례대첩 – The Matchmakers (KBS2, 2023)
- 밤에 피는 꽃 – Knight Flower (MBC, 2024)
- 세작, 매혹된 자들 – Captivating the King (tvN, 2024)
- 세자가 사라졌다 – Missing Crown Prince (MBN, 2024)
- 옥씨부인전 – The Tale of Lady Ok (JTBC, 2024-2025)
- 체크인 한양 – Check-in Hanyang (Channel A, 2024-2025)
- 귀궁 – The Haunted Palace (SBS, 2025)
- 이강에는 달이 흐른다 – Moon River (MBC, 2025)
Japanese Annexation & Provisional Government [1910–1945; 1919–1948]
| Year | President | Drama/Movie |
| Early 20th c. | 백범일지 – Journal of Baekbeom (MBC, 1989) | |
| Early 20th c. | 김구 – Kim Gu (KBS1, 1995) | |
| 1909-1910 | 영웅 – Hero (2022) | |
| 1910s~ | 자전차왕 엄복동 – The Cyclist King/ Race to Freedom: Uhm Bok Dong (2019) | |
| 1911-1969 | 최승희 – Choi Seung Hee (MBC, 1995) | |
| 1912~ | 덕혜옹주 – Princess Deokhye/ The Last Princess (2016) | |
| 1918-1972 | 야인시대 – Rustic Period (SBS, 2002) | |
| 1919~ | 항거:유관순 이야기 – A Resistance/ Yu Gwan Sun’s Story (2019) | |
| 1920s | 밀정 – Secret Agent/ The Age of Shadows (2016) | |
| 1920s | 모단걸* – Modern Girl (KBS2, 2020) ❤ | |
| 1920s-1930s | 각시탈 – Bridal Mask (KBS2, 2012) ❤ | |
| 1920s-1930s | 좋은 놈, 나쁜 놈, 이상한 놈 – The Good, the Bad, the Weird (2008) | |
| 1920 | 봉오동 전투 – The Battle: Roar to Victory (2019) | |
| 1921-1926 | 사의 찬미 – Hymn of Death (SBS, 2018) | |
| 1923-1926 | 박열 – Park Yeol/ Anarchist from Colony (2017) ❤ | |
| 1925 | 대호 – The Tiger (2015) | |
| 1926 | 강덕순 애정 변천사* – Kang Deok-sun’s Love History (KBS2, 2017) | |
| 1928-1948 | 마이 웨이 – My Way (2011) | |
| 1930 | 원혼* – Vengeful Spirit (KBS2, 2014) | |
| 1930s | 절정* – The Peak (MBC, 2011) | |
| 1931-1932 | 자유인 이회영 – Freedom Fighter, Lee Hoe Young (KBS1, 2010) | |
| 1931-1933 | 이몽 – Different Dreams (MBC, 2019) | |
| 1930s | 경성스캔들 – Capital Scandal (KBS2, 2007) ❤ | |
| 1930s | 이상 그 이상* – Lee Sang That Lee Sang (MBC, 2013) | |
| 1930s | 감격시대: 투신의 탄생 – Inspiring Generation (KBS2, 2014) | |
| 1930s | 아가씨 – Agasshi/ The Handmaiden (2016) | |
| 1930s | 시카고타자기 – Chicago Typewriter (tvn, 2017) ❤ | |
| 1930s-1940s | 눈길 – Snowy Road (2015) | |
| 1930s-1940s | 동주 – Dongju: The Portrait of a Poet (2016) | |
| 1930s-1940s | 귀향 – The Spirits’ Homecoming (2016) | |
| 1930s-1950s | 동양극장 – Orient Theater (KBS1, 2001) | |
| 1933 | 암살 – Assassination (2015) ❤ | |
| 1937 | 모던 보이 – Modern Boy (2008) | |
| 1937 | 만나게 해, 주오* – Let Us Meet (KBS2, 2017) | |
| 1938 | 경성학교: 사라진 소녀들 – The Silenced/ Gyeongseong School: The Lost Girls (2015) | |
| 1940s | 전쟁과 사랑 – War and Love (KBS2, 1995) | |
Independence, 1st & 2nd Republic [1948–1961] (Korean War 1950-1953)
| Year | President | Drama/Movie |
| 1930-1950 | Syngman Rhee | 서울 1945 – Seoul 1945 (KBS1, 2006) |
| 1930s-1950s | Syngman Rhee | 국희 – Kukhee (MBC, 1999) |
| 1930-2004 | Syngman Rhee – Roh Moo-hyun | 영웅시대 – The Age of Heroes (MBC, 2004) |
| 1933 | Syngman Rhee | 유령 – Phantom (2023) |
| 1936-1947 | Syngman Rhee | 1947 보스톤 – Road to Boston (2023) |
| 1938 | Syngman Rhee | 구미호뎐 1983 – Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938 (tvN) |
| 1940s-1970s | Syngman Rhee – Park Chung-hee | 불꽃 속으로 – Into the Flames (TV Chosun, 2014) |
| 1940s | Syngman Rhee | 말모이 – MAL·MO·E: The Secret Mission (2019) |
| 1943 | Syngman Rhee | 해어화 – Haeeohwa/ Love, Lies (2016) |
| 1943-1953 | Syngman Rhee | 여명의 눈동자 – Eyes of Dawn (MBC, 1991) |
| 1945 | Syngman Rhee | 석조저택 살인사건 – The Tooth and the Nail (2017) |
| 1945 | Syngman Rhee | 군함도 – The Battleship Island (2017) |
| 1945 | Syngman Rhee | 경성크리처 – Gyeongseong Creature (NETFLIX, 2023) |
| 1945-1960 | Syngman Rhee | 제1공화국 – The First Republic (MBC, 1981) |
| 1945-1987 | Syngman Rhee – Chun Doo-hwan | 삼김사대 – Samgimshidae (SBS, 1998) |
| 1950s | Syngman Rhee | 경숙이 경숙 아버지 – Kyung-sook’s Father (KBS2, 2009) |
| 1950s | Syngman Rhee | 하늘재 살인사건* – Haneuljae’s Murder (MBC, 2013) |
| 1950s | Syngman Rhee | 손님 – Guest/ The Piper (2015) |
| 1950s | Syngman Rhee | 서부전선 – Western Front/ The Long Way Home (2015) |
| 1950s | Syngman Rhee | 오빠생각 – A Melody to Remember (2016) |
| 1950s | Syngman Rhee | 정년이 – Jeongnyeon: The Star is Born (tvN, 2024) |
| 1950 | Syngman Rhee | 작은 연못 – A Little Pond (2009) |
| 1950 | Syngman Rhee | 인천상륙작전 – Operation Chromite (2016) |
| 1950 | Syngman Rhee | 장사리: 잊혀진 영웅들 – The Battle of Jangsari (2019) |
| 1950-1951 | Syngman Rhee | 로드 넘버원 – Road Number One (MBC, 2010) |
| 1950-1953 | Syngman Rhee | 태국기 – Taegukgi (2004) |
| 1950-1953 | Syngman Rhee | 웰컴 투 동막골 – Welcome to Dongmakgol (2005) ❤ |
| 1950-1953 | Syngman Rhee | 포화 속으로 – 71: Into the Fire (2010) |
| 1950-1953 | Syngman Rhee | 전우 – Comrades (KBS1, 2010) |
| 1951~ | Syngman Rhee | 국제시장 – Ode to My Father (2015) |
| 1951 | Syngman Rhee | 스윙키즈 – Swing Kids (2018) |
| 1953 | Syngman Rhee | 고지전 – The Front Line (2011) |
| 1952-1970 | Syngman Rhee – Park Chung-hee | 순금의 땅 – Gold Land (KBS2, 2014) |
| 1957-1963 | Syngman Rhee – Park Chung-hee | 제2공화국 – The Second Republic (MBC, 1989) |
| 1958~ | Syngman Rhee | 수사반장 1958 – Chief Detective 1958 (MBC, 2024) |
| 1950s-1970s | Syngman Rhee – Park Chung-hee | 삼생이 – TV Novel Samsaengi (KBS2, 2013) |
| 1950s-1970s | Syngman Rhee – Park Chung-hee | 은희 – TV Novel Eunhee (KBS2, 2013) |
3rd Republic – 6th Republic [1961–Today]
| Year | President | Drama/Movie |
| 1958-1972 | Syngman Rhee – Park Chung-hee | 제3공화국 – The Third Republic (MBC, 1993) |
| 1960s | Yun Bo-seon – Park Chung-hee | 패션 70’s – Fashion 70s (SBS, 2005) |
| 1960s-1970s | Yun Bo-seon – Park Chung-hee | 복희 누나 – TV Novel Dear My Sister (KBS2, 2011) |
| 1960-2002 | Yun Bo-seon – Kim Dae-jung | 에덴의 동쪽 – East of Eden (KBS2, 2011) |
| 1961-1982 | Yun Bo-seon – Chun Doo-hwan | 제4공화국 – The Fourth Republic (MBC, 1995) |
| 1961 – 1988 | Yun Bo-seon – Chun Doo-hwan | 킹메이커 – Kingmaker (2022) |
| 1968-1971 | Park Chung-hee | 실미도 – Silmido (2003) |
| 1969 | Park Chung-hee | 그해, 여름 – Once in a Summer (2006) |
| 1970s-1980s | Park Chung-hee – Chun Doo-hwan | 사랑아 사랑아 – Love, My Love (KBS2, 2012) |
| 1970s-1980s | Park Chung-hee – Chun Doo-hwan | 빛과 그림자 – Lights and Shadows (MBC, 2011) |
| 1970s-1990s | Park Chung-hee – Kim Young-sam | 모래시계 – Sandglass (SBS, 1995) |
| 1970s-1990s | Park Chung-hee – Kim Young-sam | 쎄시봉 – C’est si bon (2015) |
| 1970-2010 | Park Chung-hee – Lee Myung-bak | 자이언트 – Giant (SBS, 2010) |
| 1970s-1990s | Park Chung-hee – Kim Young-sam | 끝없는 사랑 – Endless Love (SBS, 2014) |
| 1970s | Park Chung-hee | 마약왕 – The Drug King (2018) |
| 1971 | Park Chung-hee | 님은 먼곳에 – Sunny/My Dear is Far Away (2008) |
| 1971 | Park Chung-hee | 하이재킹 – Hijack 1971 (2024) |
| 1972 | Park Chung-hee | 알 포인트 – R-Point (2004) |
| 1972-1994 | Park Chung-hee – Roh Tae-woo | 나의 독재자 – My Dictator (2014) |
| 1977-1979 | Park Chung-hee | 코리아게이트 – Korea Gate (SBS, 1995) |
| 1978 | Park Chung-hee | 국비수사 – The Classified File (2015) ❤ |
| 1979 | Park Chung-hee | 그때 그사람들 – The President’s Last Bang (2005) |
| 1979 | Park Chung-hee | 란제리 소녀시대 – Girls’ Generation 1979/Lingerie Girls’ Generation (KBS2, 2017) |
| 1979 | Park Chung-hee | 남산의 부장들 – The Man Standing Next (2020) |
| 1979 | Park Chung-hee | 서울의 봄 – 12.12: The Day (2023) |
| 1979-1997 | Choi Kyu-hah – Kim Young-sam | 제5공화국 – The Fifth Republic (MBC, 2005) |
| 1979~2017 | Choi Kyu-hah | 빙구* – Ice Mound (MBC, 2017) ❤ |
| 1980 | Choi Kyu-hah | 행복의 나라 – Land of Happiness (2024) |
| 1980s | Chun Doo-hwan | 인간시장 – Human Market (MBC, 1988) |
| 1980s | Chun Doo-hwan | 헌트 – Hunt (2022) |
| 1980s-1990s | Chun Doo-hwan | 오아시스 – Oasis (KBS2, 2023) |
| 1980s-2011 | Chun Doo-hwan | 써니 – Sunny (2011) ❤ |
| 1980~ | Chun Doo-hwan | 꽃잎 – A Petal (1996) |
| 1980-1999 | Chun Doo-hwan | 박하사탕 – Peppermint Candy (1999) |
| 1980-2006 | Chun Doo-hwan | 오래된 정원 – The Old Garden (2016) |
| 1980 | Chun Doo-hwan | 화려한 휴가 – A Splendid Holiday/May 18 (2007) |
| 1980-2006 | Chun Doo-hwan | 26년 – 26 Years (2012) |
| 1980 | Chun Doo-hwan | 택시운전사 – A Taxi Driver (2017) |
| 1980 | Chun Doo-hwan | 오월의 청춘 – Youth of May (KBS2, 2021) |
| 1982 | Chun Doo-hwan | 피끓는 청춘 – Hot Young Bloods/ Blood Boiling Youth (2014) |
| 1983~2015 | Chun Doo-hwan | 시간이탈자 – Time Renegades (2016) |
| 1985- 1986 | Chun Doo-hwan | 이웃사촌 – Best Friends (2020) |
| 1985~1987 | Chun Doo-hwan | 빨간 선생님* – The Red Teacher (KBS2, 2016) |
| 1985~2015 | Chun Doo-hwan | 당신, 거기 있어줄래요 – Will You Be There (2016) ❤ |
| 1986~2016 | Chun Doo-hwan | 시그널 – Signal (tvn, 2016) ❤ |
| 1986~2017 | Chun Doo-hwan | 터널 – Tunnel (OCN, 2017) |
| 1987 | Chun Doo-hwan | 1987 – 1987: When the Day Comes (2018) |
| 1988-1995 | Chun Doo-hwan | 응답하라 1988 – Reply 1988/ Answer Me 1988 (tvn, 2015) ❤ |
| 1988 | Chun Doo-hwan | 서울대작전 – Seoul Vibe (NETFLIX, 2022) |
| 1989 | Roh Tae-woo | 수사부반장-왕조현을 지켜라!*- Save Wang Jo Hyun! (MBC, 2013) |
| 1990s | Roh Tae-woo – Kim Dae-jung | 2014 인간시장 – New Human Market (SBS, 2004) |
| 1990s-2000s | Roh Tae-woo – Roh Moo-hyun | 황금의 제국 – Empire of Gold (SBS, 2013) |
Other Sources: here here here here
My personal favourites are marked with ❤
Titles marked with asterisks(*) are parts of Drama Special (KBS) or Drama Festival (MBC)
the talking cupboard 
Please add BOSSAM: STEALING FATE (2021) to #15 King. What an amazing fantastic drama, combining romance and politics.
Hi Irene, I have already added the title under Bossam: Steal the Fate during Gwanghaegun’s reign. Definitely a favourite offering this year!
King Maker: The Change of Destiny (2020) – Gojong
The King’s Affection (2021) – Fictional Joseon
Thanks for the comment! I should fix the English title for 바람과 구름과 비 ^^;
Where is Jewel In The Palace?
Oh, I only listed it as Dae Jang Geum instead of including the English title! I’m so sorry ^^; Fixed it! Thank you for the heads up 😀
As far as I saw, you didn’t include 천문 – Forbidden Dream (2019). I happen to watch the movie and I’m surprised to see Han Suk Kyu taking the role as King Sejong again after 뿌리깊은 나무 – Tree With Deep Roots (SBS, 2011). Choi Min Sik also casted on this movie as Jang Yeong Shil.
I think another Fictional Joseon one is Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People (2017), this is another take on the Hong Gil Dong story.
Hi August,
The title is listed under the reigns of Seongjong and Yeonsangun. Hope this helps!
Joseon X-Files or 기찰비록 (2010) – Fictional Joseon
I don’t see 백일의 낭군님 here. I think it might be fictional but that’s a guess.
As far as I saw, you didn’t include 천문 – Forbidden Dream (2019). I happen to watch the movie and I’m surprised to see Han Suk Kyu taking the role as King Sejong again after 뿌리깊은 나무 – Tree With Deep Roots (SBS, 2011). Choi Min Sik also casted on this movie as Jang Yeong Shil.
No offense, I just wondering why you didn’t include Goblin on fictional Goryeo and Hotel de Luna on fictional Three Kingdom (might be wrong timeline tho)? Since both have past storyline.
Por favor ¿si vas agregar el KDrama Sageuk Ficticio The forbidden Marriage? Se que aún está en emisión jeje 🥲🥺💗
Done! 😀
환혼 Alchemy of Souls – Goryeo-esque fantasy fiction
Thanks for keeping this updated. It’s an invaluable resource!
I found this page by accident and it made my day!
I never dared to hope something like this existed.
THANK YOU for your hard work and for keeping it updated 🙂
This has been added to my and (I bet) many people’s bookmarks!
Hi Francesca!
Glad to know that you find this page helpful ♥️
Where would TIME SLIP DR. JIN go?fictional time travel: Joseon mixed with modern day?
Please add “Murky Stream” (1592 Seonjo)