Rich plots, lively characters, and cultural subtleties are what make Korean dramas, or K-dramas, so appealing to viewers throughout the world. Dramas set in South Korean schools and students provide an interesting window into the daily lives of students there, making them a unique genre among many others. Here is a selection of captivating Korean dramas that you should not miss if you want to immerse yourself in the world of South Korean student life.


K-dramas Based on School and Students 


Sky Castle


IMDb Rating: 8.5/10


‘Sky Castle’ delves deeply into the intense academic pressure that South Korean kids endure and the drastic measures parents will go to guarantee their children succeed. The rich family, who are called the exclusive neighbourhood of Sky Castle home, is at the centre of the series. It delves into the shadowy side of South Korea's educational system. The drama makes viewers reflect on the pressures and expectations that modern students face in an academic setting.



The Glory


IMDb Rating: 8.1/10


Despite not being a conventional school drama, ‘The Glory’ skilfully weaves its story around the challenging reality of South Korean high school life. The protagonist, played by Song Hye-kyo, is a woman who, after years of brutal abuse, decides to get revenge on those who wronged her. ‘The Glory’ is an engrossing series because of its dramatic plot and excellent acting.



Boys Over Flowers


IMDb Rating: 7.8/10


Set at the illustrious Shinhwa High School, the enduring classic 'Boys Over Flowers' tells a story of love and competition. An average girl named Geum Jan-di is drawn into the glitzy but vicious world of the wealthy in this dramatic tale. Amidst the complex web of high school politics, she becomes caught in a love triangle with two guys from the notorious F4, a clique of the wealthiest and most influential students. Topics like friendship, love, and bullying are what make this series so special.



Class of Lies


IMDb Rating: 7.7/10


A mystery thriller, Class of Lies explores the shadier corners of a posh private high school where violence, intimidation, and wrongdoing are commonplace. In order to find out who killed a student, a discredited lawyer in the drama poses as a substitute teacher. As he continues to investigate, disturbing truths emerge, revealing the shadowy side of the school. Highlighting the darker sides of student life in South Korea, ‘Class of Lies’ is an engrossing drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.



Extracurricular


IMDb Rating: 7.6/10


Contrary to the idealised depiction of high school life in most Korean dramas, ‘Extracurricular’ presents a realistic and bleak view of the experience. The protagonist, Ji-soo, is a college student who lives a double life in order to pay for his studies. His life takes a dark turn when a fellow student finds out about his illicit activities. Crime, ethics, and the extreme measures students use to thrive in a competitive academic setting are some of the topics explored in this entertaining and thought-provoking drama. 



School 2017


IMDb Rating: 7.5/10


School 2017, like the rest of the legendary "School" series, is a classic Korean drama about the joys and sorrows of high school life. The protagonist, Ra Eun-ho, is a positive and upbeat student who aspires to be a webtoon creator. But then she becomes entangled in a bizarre controversy at school. It touches on serious topics like academic pressure and bullying in a way that is both entertaining and approachable.



South Korean student life is realistically and variedly shown in these K-dramas. Everything from fierce rivalry and bullying to genuine friendships and self-improvement is shown in these portrayals of South Korean school life.