“KPop Demon Hunters” has undeniably been one of the most buzzed-about animated films of the year. The hype was so real that the term “Honmoon” has now entered the K-pop lexicon, with fans cheekily declaring “Honmoon has been sealed” under performance clips of their favorite idols. As talks of a potential animated sequel (yes, please!) and even a live-action adaptation (hard pass?) continue to swirl, the withdrawal is hitting hard.
So, if you’re missing the demon-slaying, idol-stanning chaos, here are five K-dramas that channel the same energy and will keep your post-“KPop Demon Hunters” cravings satisfied.
“Lovers of the Red Sky”
Set in the lush, myth-filled Joseon Dynasty, “Lovers of the Red Sky” paints a mesmerizing tale of fate and forbidden love. Kim You Jung stars as Hong Chun Gi, a gifted painter who miraculously regains her sight and becomes the first female artist accepted into the royal Dohwaseo. Opposite her is Ha Ram, played by Ahn Hyo Seop, the voice behind Jinu. Ha Ram is a blind astrologer whose quiet strength hides a powerful, cursed past.
As Chun Gi’s and Ha Ram’s fates collide, they are swept into a dangerous palace power struggle, entangled with the soft-hearted Crown Prince Yang Myung (Gong Myung) and the ruthless Prince Joo Hyang (Kwak Si Yang). Love, destiny, and divine forces intertwine in this beautifully imagined historical fantasy.
With jaw-dropping visuals, mythical lore, and a romantic arc full of longing and sacrifice, this drama stands out for its emotional storytelling and standout performances.
Start watching “Lovers of the Red Sky”:
“The Haunted Palace”
For fans of spooky sageuks with a side of heart, “The Haunted Palace” offers a gripping blend of palace intrigue and supernatural terror. Idol-turned-actor Yook Sungjae plays palace officer Yoon Gab, who becomes possessed by an Imugi, a mythical serpent spirit. Once respected, Yoon Gab’s transformation sparks fear and whispers, all seemingly tied to Yeo Ri (Kim Ji Yeon), his first love and granddaughter of a powerful shaman.
Rejecting her shamanic destiny, Yeo Ri leads a quiet life as a glass artisan until she’s pulled back into a world of spirits and sorrow. When the Imugi seeks to use her as a vessel, she steps into a haunted palace teeming with vengeful female ghosts and long-buried royal secrets.
Kim Ji Hun and Yook Sung Jae’s hilarious banter and unexpected chemistry add levity to this otherwise eerie and emotional tale. With layered storytelling, subtle romance, and strong performances, this under-the-radar drama is an immersive and rewarding watch.
Start watching “The Haunted Palace”:
“My Demon”
Still not over Jinu and Rumi’s short-lived arc in “Kpop Demon Hunters”? “My Demon” will more than fill the void.
Kim You Jung plays Do Do Hee, the fierce, no-nonsense heiress of Future Group who doesn’t believe in love. Her world is turned upside down when she enters into a contract marriage with Jung Gu Won (Song Kang), a seductive demon who suddenly loses all his powers. Now bound together by a twist of fate, Gu Won must protect Do Hee, who holds the key to his survival.
What starts as a cold, distrustful arrangement evolves into an electrifying romance packed with supernatural charm, swoon-worthy chemistry, and just enough angst to keep you hooked.
From its stylish visuals and powerful OST to symbolic storytelling and emotional beats, “My Demon” is a fantasy romance that lingers long after the final episode. Kim You Jung and Song Kang’s chemistry is off the charts, making this one a must-watch for fans of magical love stories.
“Hwayugi”
In a modern world haunted by ancient evil, “Hwayugi,” also known as “A Korean Odyssey,” is a rollercoaster of love, horror, and destiny. Jin Seon Mi (Oh Yeon Seo) can see spirits and has spent her life trying to survive that curse. Her protector is none other than the mischievous deity Son Oh Gong (Lee Seung Gi), who once tricked her into freeing him from his prison. Years later, they’re drawn together again, this time to face an even darker threat.
Also caught in this tangled web is Woo Ma Wang (Cha Seung Won), a charming demon with a hidden agenda. Together, the trio battles spirits, gods, and emotions too powerful to ignore.
With razor-sharp dialogue, eerie visuals, and a deeply emotional romance, “Hwayugi” is an unforgettable fantasy drama that balances humor with heartbreak.
Start watching “Hwayugi”:
“The Heavenly Idol”
One of 2023’s most overlooked gems, “The Heavenly Idol” delivers a fresh mix of fantasy, idol life, and heartfelt romance. Kim Min Kyu stars as Pontifex Rembrary, a divine priest suddenly thrust into the chaotic world of K-pop. After a mystical battle transports him to modern-day Korea, he wakes up in the body of Woo Yeon Woo, a struggling idol in the floundering group Wild Animal.
Rembrary’s divine confidence and cluelessness about idol life create hilarious and heartwarming moments, especially as he unexpectedly leads his group to fame. Alongside him is Kim Dal (Go Bo Gyeol), a loyal manager with a traumatic past and a quiet strength. Together, they face dark forces from Rembrary’s world while navigating the treacherous world of entertainment.
The drama balances light comedy and spiritual stakes, with a lovable ensemble cast and a touching romance. Though uneven in pacing, its 12-episode length keeps things tight and bingeable. With Kim Min Kyu’s dual role and Go Bo Gyeol’s grounded performance, “The Heavenly Idol” is a quirky, emotional ride that deserves more attention.
Start watching “The Heavenly Idol”:
Hello Soompiers! Are there any other K-dramas that remind you of “KPop Demon Hunters”? Let us know in the comments section below!
Javeria is a binge-watching specialist who loves devouring entire K-dramas in one sitting. Good screenwriting, beautiful cinematography, and a lack of clichés are the way to her heart. As a music fanatic, she listens to multiple artists across different genres and stans the self-producing idol group SEVENTEEN. You can talk to her on Instagram @javeriayousufs.
Currently watching: “My Girlfriend Is the Man!” and “My Lovely Journey“
