Beyond the K-Dramas: 15 Netflix Shows About Korea

You may often hear about the vibrant world of K-dramas, with their compelling stories and emotional depth, but South Korea's allure extends far beyond its scripted series.

Netflix provides a rich catalog of shows that delve into the real South Korea—from its bustling street markets to the nocturnal life that pulses through its cities.

By exploring these shows, you can experience the country from various angles, whether through its delicious street food, unique traditions, or the innovation that drives its modern landscapes.

Why limit yourself to just one facet of Korean culture when you can immerse yourself in the entire spectrum? Netflix offers an excellent opportunity to see Korea in a different light, with documentaries and reality series that are just as engaging and insightful as dramas.

As a viewer, you'll tread the neon-lit alleyways of Seoul after dark, savor mouth-watering culinary delights, and gain an understanding of the dynamic culture that makes South Korea an intriguing place to explore, all from the comfort of your couch.

A Nation of Kimchi 

One of the most popular and beloved dishes in South Korea is kimchi. This traditional fermented vegetable dish has been a staple in Korean cuisine for centuries and holds a special place in the hearts of Koreans.

Netflix's documentary, A Nation of Kimchi, explores the history and cultural significance of this iconic dish. Through interviews with chefs, food historians, and locals, you'll gain a deeper understanding of kimchi's role in Korean society and how it has evolved over time.

From its humble beginnings as a way to preserve vegetables during harsh winters to becoming a symbol of national pride, this documentary will take you on an eye-opening journey through the world of kimchi.

A Nation of Broth 

Another staple in Korean cuisine is broth, a flavorful and nourishing soup with various ingredients. The Netflix series A Nation of Broth explores the tradition and culture behind broth in South Korea.

Through stunning visuals and interviews, this documentary explores the history and importance of broth in Korean cuisine. It explains the different types of broth, their health benefits, and how they have become an essential part of daily meals in South Korea.

From seafood-based soups to hearty bone broths, this documentary will make you appreciate the depth and complexity of Korean broths and their significance in everyday life.

A Nation of Banchan

Banchan refers to the small side dishes that accompany a traditional Korean meal. These dishes are an essential part of Korean cuisine, providing a balance of flavors and textures to complement the main course.

Netflix's A Nation of Banchan showcases the wide variety of banchan and their cultural significance in South Korea. From pickled vegetables to savory pancakes, you'll discover the unique ingredients and techniques used to create these delicious side dishes.

You'll also gain insight into how banchan reflects Korean values such as hospitality, community, and sustainability. This documentary will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the intricate role banchan plays in Korean cuisine and culture.

Hanwoo Rhapsody

In South Korea, beef is a highly prized and luxurious protein. Hanwoo Rhapsody on Netflix takes you on a journey through the world of Korean beef, known as hanwoo.

This documentary explores the history and techniques behind raising hanwoo cattle through stunning visuals and interviews with farmers, chefs, and experts. It also explains the various cuts of meat and how they are used in traditional Korean dishes.

This documentary will not only make your mouth water with its drool-worthy shots of grilled beef, but it will also give you a deeper appreciation for the artistry and passion that go into producing high-quality Korean beef.

Korean Pork Belly Rhapsody

Another beloved meat in Korean cuisine is pork, specifically pork belly. This fatty and flavorful cut of meat is a favorite among Koreans and has become popular globally as well.

Korean Pork Belly Rhapsody on Netflix celebrates the art of grilling and savoring this delicious cut of meat. Through interviews with chefs, farmers, and food experts, you'll learn about the history and techniques behind preparing samgyeopsal, or grilled pork belly.

From traditional barbecue to innovative fusion dishes, this documentary will leave you craving a taste of Korean-style pork belly.

Korean Cold Noodle Rhapsody

For most of us used to hot noodle dishes, the concept of cold noodles may seem strange. But in South Korea, cold noodles are a beloved summer dish that offers a refreshing and unique culinary experience.

Korean Cold Noodle Rhapsody on Netflix explores the history and culture behind this popular dish. It will introduce you to the various regional styles of cold noodles and their unique toppings and accompaniments.

From tangy buckwheat noodles to chewy arrowroot noodles, this documentary will introduce you to a whole new world of Korean noodles, perfect for beating the summer heat.

Jjajangmyeon Rhapsody

Ever seen black noodles and wondered what they are? Well, that's what you'll find out in Jjajangmyeon Rhapsody on Netflix. This documentary dives into the history and popularity of Korea's beloved black bean sauce noodles, or jjajangmyeon.

Through interviews with chefs, food historians, and locals, you'll learn about the origins of this dish and how it has become a household favorite in South Korea. You'll also get to see different variations of jjajangmyeon, from traditional to fusion dishes.

This documentary is a must-watch for any noodle lover as it celebrates the unique flavors and cultural significance of jjajangmyeon in Korean cuisine.

Street Food: Asia (Episode 6)

For a more comprehensive look at the street food scene in South Korea, check out episode 6 of Street Food: Asia on Netflix. This series explores popular street foods from different Asian countries and offers an inside look into the lives of the vendors who create these delectable dishes.

In the Seoul episode, you'll be taken on a mouth-watering journey through the bustling streets and markets of South Korea's capital city. From savory tteokbokki to sweet hotteok, this episode showcases a wide array of street foods that are loved by locals and tourists alike.

You'll also get to hear personal stories from the vendors themselves about their passion for cooking and how they continue to preserve traditional recipes while adding their unique twists.

Midnight Asia (Episode 2)

Ever wonder what late-night eats are like in South Korea? Midnight Asia on Netflix takes viewers through the bustling and vibrant streets of Seoul after dark, discovering the diverse and delicious foods popular amongst night owls.

In episode 2, you'll taste the exciting nightlife and tasty snacks in Jongno, one of Seoul's oldest neighborhoods. From spicy chicken feet to crispy fried squid, this episode showcases the bold flavors and unique dishes found in this lively district.

You'll also learn about the history and culture behind these late-night treats, as well as their popularity among locals who enjoy them with friends over drinks.

Chef’s Table (Volume 3): Jeong Kwan

The acclaimed series Chef's Table offers viewers an in-depth look at some of the world's most renowned chefs and their culinary journeys. In Volume 3, episode 1, we meet Jeong Kwan, a Buddhist nun and chef who has gained international recognition for her unique approach to temple food.

This episode explores Jeong Kwan's philosophy on food and deep connection to nature through stunning visuals and heartfelt interviews. You'll also witness the intricate preparation of simple yet flavorful dishes she creates using only seasonal ingredients from the temple garden.

Chef's Table: Jeong Kwan is a must-watch for any food lover looking to gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual aspect of Korean cuisine, its emphasis on mindfulness, and using food as a way to connect with the world around us.

Korea No. 1

For a closer look at South Korea's culture and lifestyle, check out the Korean documentary series, Korea No. 1, on Netflix. The hosts take viewers on a journey through different aspects of the country's culture and lifestyle.

In each episode, the hosts are challenged to do different jobs and tasks that are deeply ingrained in Korean culture. Through their fun and often hilarious experiences, viewers get to learn about the values and customs that shape Korean society.

From learning the traditional method of making giwa, or clay roof tile, to hunting octopuses, this series offers a unique and entertaining perspective on South Korea's culture.

Super Rich in Korea

For a closer look at the luxurious and extravagant lifestyle of South Korea's elite, check out Super Rich in Korea on Netflix. This documentary series delves into the lives of wealthy Koreans and their lavish spending habits.

You'll get a peek into high-end fashion, luxury cars, and exclusive clubs frequented by the rich and famous. But you'll also get to see the pressure and expectations that come with being a part of this elite group.

This series offers a glimpse into a different side of South Korea's culture and lifestyle, one that is often overshadowed by its traditional values and customs.

Blackpink: Light Up the Sky

For all the K-pop fans out there, Blackpink: Light Up the Sky on Netflix is a must-watch. This documentary follows the journey of one of South Korea's most popular and successful girl groups, Blackpink.

Through interviews with the members and behind-the-scenes footage, viewers get an inside look at their rise to fame, as well as their personal struggles and triumphs.

This documentary sheds light on the rigorous training and hard work that goes into being a K-pop star, as well as the pressures and expectations that come with it. It also showcases how Blackpink has become not only a cultural phenomenon in South Korea but also on a global scale.

Raincoat Killer: Chasing a Predator in Korea

This true-crime documentary on Netflix follows the shocking story of a man who terrorized South Korea for years with his violent attacks on women.

Through interviews with law enforcement officials and survivors, as well as reenactments of the crimes, viewers get a chilling look at one of the country's most notorious serial killers.

Cyber Hell: Exposing an Internet Horror

In this eye-opening documentary, viewers get a glimpse into the dark world of cybercrime in South Korea. This follows the investigation of cybersex trafficking that haunted the country's online community for years.