Top KDrama Apps to Stream Your Favorite Korean Shows

best korean drama apps

Love watching Korean dramas? Try these Free & Paid Korean drama apps to stream K-dramas faster and better!

Media & Entertainment

Updated on November 06, 2024

best korean drama apps

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Fan of K-dramas but tired of those endless Google searches to find every episode? Check out the list of top Kdrama apps we have curated for you. These apps are designed to make Korean dramas more accessible to everyone.

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Top Kdrama Apps for Streaming Your Favorite Shows!

AsianCrush

1. AsianCrush

Product Rating

3.4

4.6

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : 15.0.3 15.0.2
Size : 17 MB 47.3 MB
Device Supported : Android 5.0 and up iOS 12.4 or later
Subscription : Paid Paid

Why we picked it!

We liked its massive range of streaming options. There are movies, shows, animes, and much more on the platform. AsianCrush also stands among the top free apps to watch kdrama supported by Ad. There is a subscription plan, too, to get rid of these ads.

Top Features

  • Unlimited viewing with no ads (premium version)
  • Access premium content; unavailable to free users
  • Free trial available - cancel anytime
  • Comes with more Asian content than Korean

More about product

AsianCrush is a good app for watching your favorite Asian movies and Korean shows, and is free of cost. But obviously, you need to watch the commercials. To stream your favorite shows ads-free, you will have to pay a little extra for a premium version for more ease and convenience. The link mentioned in this report will help you download this free Kdrama app from the official app store page. 

Besides, AsianCrush is not only about Korean dramas. The free k drama watching app offers an extensive range of Asian content from other parts of Asia. The goal is to ensure users of this one of the top alternatives of Netflix have endless options to enjoy. 

AsianCrush is one of the preferred kdrama apps for different genres as well. For instance, horror, romance, comedy, etc. Another feature that we love is offline downloads. You can save the content offline to access it even without the internet. 

Offline storage helps you access your favorite content from anywhere, anytime! This also saves you from annoying buffering that often occurs due to the fluctuation of network speed. AsianCrush is loved for its Japanese, Malay, and Chinese content, among others. Apart from the content streaming, there is live TV access as well. 

Disney+Hotstar

2. Disney+Hotstar

Product Rating

3.9

4.6

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : 24.01.29.6 24.01.15
Size : 25.83 MB 88.8 MB
Device Supported : Android 5.0 and up iOS 12.0 or later
Subscription : Paid Paid

Why we picked it!

We picked Disney+Hotstar because of the amazing catalog it has. However, its streaming quality and ability to support formats up to 4K also stand out.

Top Features

  • Extensive range of international content
  • Supports up to 4K streaming
  • The cheapest plan supports ads
  • Supports multiple screens

More about product

Disney+ Hotstar is an exciting streaming service that offers a mix of Disney magic and Hotstar's variety. This platform provides lots of choices. You can watch classic Disney movies, action-filled Marvel movies, versatile Korean dramas, and interesting documentaries. Hotstar is the top Korean drama app freeing you from a restricted catalog of content. It adds more value to your entertainment with local and global movies, TV shows, and live sports.

It's easy to use Disney+ Hotstar. The service sorts movies and shows into different types and languages. This makes it great for people everywhere. Such features make it one of the alternatives to the best movie streaming sites like Netflix.

One great thing about Disney+ Hotstar is that you can watch sports live. If you like cricket or football, you can watch the games as they happen. You can use Disney+ Hotstar on different devices and even watch shows when you're not online.

In short, Disney+ Hotstar is more than just watching shows. It brings together stories, sports, and adventures from around the world. It's a place where everyone can find something they like. The app also offers dubbed and subtitled versions of K-dramas. 

Additionally, it offers three subscription plans for its users. These plans vary in terms of ads and supported number of screens. The cheapest plan supports ads.

MX Player

3. MX Player

Product Rating

4.3

4.6

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : 1.78.5 1.43.0
Size : 130.46 MB 88.8 MB
Device Supported : Android 5.0 and up iOS 12.0 or later
Subscription : Paid Paid

Why we picked it!

Besides being a large library of content, MX Player also offers amazing user-friendliness. It is easier to dive into details while playing the video due to the gesture-controlled zoom feature accompanying this best kdrama app for free, which we greatly liked.

Top Features

  • Supports hardware acceleration
  • Comes with subtitle gestures
  • A privacy folder is useful for securing content
  • Kids Lock keeps sensitive data filtered

More about product

MX Player is designed with some advanced features that enhance the entertainment experience. The Korean drama app frees you from performance issues using technologies such as Hardware Acceleration to play HQ videos smoothly, Multi-core Decoding to utilize multiple cores for better performance, Pinch to Zoom, Pan, and more.

In case you do not want to share your content with other users, this Korean movie app gives you a private folder. You can lock your private content in the privacy folder and save it from any unauthorized access. The versatile video streaming tool also offers a great deal of content even beyond Korean shows. 

You can explore web series, the library of films, music videos, and more. MX Player is the perfect name to use as a reference. Besides that, MX Player follows an ad-supported business model. This helps the platform keep its content available to large audiences for free. 

Another perk of using this app to watch kdrama for free is its user-centric approach. This helps the platform continuously innovate and expand its abilities. So, if you are looking for a perfect entertainment platform, download MX Player on your smartphone without thinking twice.

HiTv

4. HiTv

Product Rating

1.7

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : 2.2.1 NA
Size : 53 MB NA
Device Supported : Android 4.2 and up NA
Subscription : Paid NA

Why we picked it!

HiTv commits to quality as well as quantity. Besides, HiTv is more than an app; it's a commitment to free, accessible, and quality entertainment.

Top Features

  • Shows latest releases and classic hits
  • Supports dubs and subtitles
  • Delivers free entertainment
  • Stream content in HD quality

More about product

HiTv is rated among the best Asian drama apps that allow you to stream all Korean shows in high quality for free. The app is completely free to download and offers a variety of shows and dramas. 

Along with Korean-based dramas, you can stream a lot of other shows based on different genres. You can watch your favorite and most popular Korean shows like All of Us Are Dead, Hometown Cha Cha Cha, Business Proposal, and more.

This platform transcends geographical boundaries, offering a wide array of shows that cater to diverse tastes. It's a celebration of storytelling, bringing to your screen not just Korean dramas but a plethora of content spanning various genres and cultures. 

The app understands the pulse of its audience, curating a library that includes fan favorites and critically acclaimed shows alike. Titles like All of Us Are Dead, Hometown Cha Cha Cha and Business Proposal are just the beginning. The platform is a treasure trove for those seeking to explore the depth and diversity of Asian entertainment.

Amazon Prime Video

5. Amazon Prime Video

Product Rating

4.1

4.6

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : 3.0.363 10.13.1
Size : Varies With Device 82.4 MB
Device Supported : Android 5.0 and up iOS 15.0 or later
Subscription : Paid Paid

Why we picked it!

Amazon Prime Video offers a range of Amazon Originals along with content from other production houses, making it one of the largest kdrama watching apps. As for the Korean content, the app has an extensive range of shows and movies to stream.

Top Features

  • Supports multiple devices
  • Comes with a trial period
  • Catalog changes according to countries
  • Supports dubbed languages and subtitles

More about product

Amazon Prime Video is amongst the most used and popular kdrama watching apps across different countries. The platform hosts a variety of shows and dramas based on different genres, regions, and languages. 

With an increasing admiration for Korean shows, the platform also includes an assortment of Kdramas such as Doom at Your Service, Mr. Queen, Tale of the Nine-Tailed, Hotel Del Luna, and more. You can enjoy all your favorite shows by subscribing to a Prime Membership and can also avail of other services like Amazon Music and more.

Amazon Prime Video is available with a free trial, depending on your location. Post-trial, you can subscribe to its premium packages, which cover Amazon Music, Amazon Prime Delivery, and Amazon Prime Video.

The app also lets you download and store videos offline. This saves your entertainment experience from getting hampered even if you don’t have internet access. It's not just about providing content; it's about crafting an experience that's as flexible and dynamic as its audience. 

Whether you're at home or on the move, Amazon Prime Video makes sure your favorite shows are always within reach, making every moment an opportunity to indulge in your beloved stories.

KBS WORLD

6. KBS WORLD

Product Rating

3.8

4.5

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : 1.1.5 1.1.3
Size : 16 MB 14.8 MB
Device Supported : Android 5.0 and up iOS 10.0 or later
Subscription : Paid Paid

Why we picked it!

For someone who loves Korean content, KBS is the method to stay in the loop. What makes KBS the best app for Korean drama is its ability to serve a multilingual audience. The app works as a bridge between them and Korean media.

Top Features

  • Free to use
  • Available in 11 languages
  • Provides podcasts and articles
  • Explore the full schedule of KBS World channels

More about product

It is not exactly a streaming app, but with KBS World, you can keep up with everything that is happening in the Korean entertainment industry. You can read reviews, listen to podcasts, read articles about various K-pop and Kdrama events, and do much more. Its UI, which supports over 11 languages, also makes it one of the top Korean TV apps with the most user-friendly UI for a diverse audience. 

KBS World is a treasure trove of information and news for the Korean media industry. You get to find amazing show recommendations, movies, and much more content to explore. Additionally, if you like any particular stars, you can use the app to keep up with their latest releases.

The best app to watch Korean dramas with Eng sub also serves as a personal tracker for your favorite Korean stars. Stay updated with their latest projects, releases, and career milestones. With KBS World, you're not just watching or reading about the Korean entertainment industry; you're becoming a part of it.

Moreover, KBS World comes with on-air content, VOD, podcasts, and news covering current affairs, culture & entertainment, and more. These details are available in multiple languages, including French, German, Russian, Indonesian, Spanish, Vietnamese, and more.

iQIYI

7. iQIYI

Product Rating

4.1

4.8

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : 6.1.0 6.1.0
Size : 59 MB 176.7 MB
Device Supported : Android 5.0 and up iOS 12.0 or later
Subscription : Paid Paid

Why we picked it!

iQIYI is what you call a real entertainer. It doesn’t limit you to Korean dramas; instead, it takes you to other genres as well, like anime, C-dramas, etc.

Top Features

  • Supports multiple resolutions
  • Supports Dolby Audio
  • Comes with early episode access for premium users
  • Explore anime and other Asian shows

More about product

iQIYI is another addition to this list of Korean drama apps with English subtitles. The app, however, has a premium subscription as well, which offers a better streaming experience. You can use this Korean streaming app to stream in 1080p and 4K as well as Dolby Audio. 

Additionally, the premium package also enables you to watch episodes that have not yet been released on several platforms. The Kdrama app download link mentioned further can help you access installation files for your smartphones.

Apart from Korean dramas, iQIYI is also among the best apps for watching anime. It has a great range of anime and other Asian shows to stream, making it an endless box of entertainment. Besides, your entertainment doesn’t remain limited to smartphones only.

You can use this best app to watch kdrama for free on tablets as well. As for the titles, at the time of writing this report, the app has titles to stream like Forever and Ever, My Heroic Husband, Ultimate Note, My Best Friend's Story, Love is Sweet, Moonlight, My Dear Guardian, My Roommate is a Gumiho, The Wind Blows From Longxi, My Sassy Princess, Be My Princess, Miss Buyer and more.

iFlix

8. iFlix

Product Rating

4.4

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : 5.12.7 5.12.1
Size : 44 MB 151 MB
Device Supported : Varies With Device iOS 12.0 or later
Subscription : Paid Paid

Why we picked it!

iFlix is counted among the most updated kdrama apps. It updates its catalogs regularly, making Korean drama fans love the platform. So, we gave it a shot and liked it too.

Top Features

  • Supports picture-in-picture
  • Comes with subtitles
  • Plenty of genres to explore
  • Offers personalized recommendations

More about product

If you are still looking for another answer to add to the question- which app is free for Korean dramas, iFlix might be able to help you. iFlix stands among the best Korean drama apps with a huge collection of K-dramas from many genres. 

Whether romantic, comedy, horror or any other genre, you can simply stream your favorite K-dramas without having to worry about paying anything. 

However, there are some premium features that you can unlock on this one of the top free Korean drama apps to stream with a better experience. These premium features of the Korean movie app enhance your viewing by offering higher video quality, ad-free streaming, and access to exclusive content. 

iFlix prides itself on being user-friendly and convenient, making it easy for viewers to find and enjoy their favorite shows. With personalized recommendations, you can discover new K-dramas that match your taste. Moreover, iFlix provides subtitles in various languages. 

This ensures that fans from all over the world can enjoy the rich storytelling of Korean dramas. With its vast library and commitment to quality, this Korean movie app is a treasure trove for K-drama enthusiasts looking for a comprehensive and enjoyable streaming experience. 

SBS

9. SBS

Product Rating

3.5

1.8

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : 2.125.1 2.130.0
Size : 25 MB 47.3 MB
Device Supported : Android 4.1 and up iOS 13.0 or later
Subscription : Paid Paid

Why we picked it!

We liked the diversity of the content SBS offers. The app is a perfect platform for anyone interested in content that comes from beyond South Korea, making it an all-in-one entertainment destination.

Top Features

  • Watch the video in original or with 200+ subtitles
  • Comes with the “watch later” function
  • Available for both Android and iOS platforms

More about product

SBS is a free Korean drama app offering unlimited streaming of TV shows, films, and events. It provides several streaming channels via its official website (play.sbs.co.kr): SBS TV (flagship channel), SBS funE (entertainment channel), SBS CNBC (market/ business channel), and other channels. 

It also offers a broad range of popular music programs, a variety of TV shows, and videos about life in Korea. If you are looking for the best app to watch Korean drama with Eng sub, SBS will surely be the best option to go for.

In addition to that, SBS commits to offering quality streaming services. You get to stream the content with high-quality visuals and audio. The content that you get on SBS is not only from Korea but also from countries like South Africa, Japan, China, Myanmar, Indonesia, Thailand, Turkey, Egypt, and more.

SBS allows free downloads as well. This helps you access high-quality, affordable content. Additionally, this content is divided into several genres. For instance, drama, action, horror, comedy, romance, soap opera, thriller, anime, sports, etc. 
Besides, if you choose to subscribe to the premium plan, you get to access an ad-free experience, early access to streaming content, etc.

Netflix

10. Netflix

Product Rating

4.3

Tech Specifications

Metrics Android iOS
Latest Version : Varies with device NA
Size : 69.7 MB NA
Device Supported : Requires Android Varies with device NA
Subscription : In-App Purchases NA

Why we picked it!

Netflix is selected due to its large library of K-dramas, Netflix originals, and more. The Korean TV app offers a wide range of tastes for everyone’s entertainment.

Top Features

  • Watch unlimited K-dramas and movies
  • One of the best Korean drama apps with English subtitles
  • Available on Android and iOS
  • Offers several Netflix originals

More about product

Looking for the most talked-about K-Dramas? Most of them are on Netflix. When it comes to Korean dramas, Netflix is a one-stop destination with a huge collection to access on any smartphone. On typing “Korean Drama,” you’ll get a complete list of high-voltage dramas with the help of AI algorithms. 

From a charming romantic comedy-slash-thriller to a stunning period, you can get everything on Netflix. With such a huge range of Kdramas, this Asian drama app frees you from a monotonous entertainment experience.

Netflix, however, isn’t a free streaming service. You need to subscribe to one of its plans to access Korean dramas. Additionally, personalized recommendations make it easier to find good dramas on Netflix. 

The platform tracks your streaming preferences and curates the recommendation list accordingly. This helps you find the K-drama that suits your taste. Netflix is also a place where most K-dramas are released early. In addition, Netflix originals are rising in numbers, giving you more options to stream daily.

Lastly, The Netflix user interface is slick and intuitive, making your browsing experience seamless.

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Comparing the best apps to watch Korean dramas

App Subscription Content Offline Viewing Subtitles Originals
Netflix Subscription Wide Variety Yes Multiple Yes
Hulu Subscription Limited Yes (ad-free) English Yes
Viki Freemium Extensive Yes (select) Multiple No
WeTV Freemium Chinese/Korean Yes (select) Multiple No
KORTV Subscription Korean No English No
Kocowa Subscription Korean No English Yes
OnDemandKorea Freemium Korean Yes (select) English No

How to choose the best Kdrama App among the above list?

The above list features a diverse range of kdrama apps. If you are a fan of the entertainment industry, you can take advantage of these apps to dive into a deeper world of entertainment.

Here are some steps to help you choose the best kdrama app from the list above:

1. App specifications

The very first step you need to take in your hunt for the right K-drama app is going through app specifications. App specifications like required OS version-supported devices and more can help you determine your options.

2. Content versatility

Exploring the content catalog helps you figure out what apps are offering shows and movies you like. As the Korean entertainment industry is massive, it is critical to have the right streaming platforms at your fingertips. Finding the best app to watch kdrama can give you access to a content catalog that is regularly updated and versatile.

3. Language supported

If you are not a Korean, you might want to look for a Korean movie app that supports interfaces in languages you are familiar with. Apart from the interface, you need apps that offer dubbed Korean shows or subtitled content. This makes it easier for you to access an expanded range of entertainment content.

4. Subscription model

Depending on your budget, the subscription model should be the next filter in your search for the best app to watch kdrama. Plenty of apps out there offer ad-supported models as well to deliver Kdramas for free.

5. Social Features

Platforms with community features allow you to interact with other fans, discuss episodes, and share recommendations. Such apps help you find good quality content that has already impressed your fellow K-drama lovers.

6. Customer support

Good customer service is crucial. Ensure that the platform you choose offers reliable support in case you encounter any issues. If you face any technical issues, these people can save your experience from getting ruined.

7. Reviews and Ratings

Check for user reviews and ratings of the paid or free kdrama apps you are planning to download. Our report can be a great help in finding ratings. Ratings and app reviews can provide valuable insights into the pros and cons of each service. Ratings are often provided on top app stores where most of the apps mentioned above are available.

8. Regular Updates and Content Refresh

It also helps to know how often your picked K-drama app refreshes its content. This keeps you entertained with the latest content. Besides, regular updates help the app remain user-friendly with evolving smartphone specifications. Even free Korean show apps regularly update their content catalogs to keep themselves competitive.

9. Explore the quality delivered

Whether you want to stream Kdramas in 1080p or 4K, you must explore whether the app provides your preferred quality before installing it.

What are the paid and free apps to watch Korean movies & shows?

These apps can be useful if you are planning to install them on your smartphone. These apps are divided into two categories - free & paid. You can explore options depending on your budget. Some resources that you can explore from both categories are:

1. Paid K-drama apps

  • Netflix.com - One of the most popular streaming sites out there, Netflix.com is known for a diverse range of content to watch. It has a huge range of Korean dramas from genres like Horror,  Romance, Sci-fi, and more. Netflix is also a perfect choice for content from other countries like Thailand, China, etc.
  • Amazon.com - Amazon is a leading name in the world of video streaming. The platform often updates its catalog with new Korean shows and movies to stream. You can even find reality shows from Korea on Amazon. However, the range of your options can vary depending on where you are from and what content rights Amazon has in the country.

2. Free K-drama apps

  • YouTube - One of the largest video streaming platforms in the world, YouTube has a huge network of community-uploaded videos among the apps to watch kdrama for free. A massive chunk of these videos fall under the category of Korean dramas and shows. There are several Korean documentaries, and reality shows as well. So, if you are looking for a 360-degree entertainment option, you have YouTube to pick anytime. YouTube is also perfect for keeping up with the new trailers, fan videos, Korean short movies, and other such categories of content.

Which K-drama streaming sites are legal?

While best free kdrama apps like Kocowa, OnDemandKorea, and Viu offer specialized services targeting niche audiences, from those seeking authentic local content to viewers desiring regularly updated libraries. Meanwhile, platforms like AsianCrush, SBS, and iFlix provide a broader spectrum of Asian entertainment, enriching the content diversity available to users through multiple platforms like sites as well. All platforms deliver Korean dramas while following legal compliances.

Final Remarks

The surge in the popularity of K-dramas globally has been met with the emergence of numerous streaming apps, each presenting unique features and content offerings. From premium platforms like Netflix and Hulu to specialized free Korean show apps like Viki and Kocowa, viewers are spoilt for choice. 

The rising popularity of Korean dramas is triggering vast competition among streaming apps. However, as this report concludes, it's clear that the success of these streaming apps lies in their ability to offer not just a wide array of content but also a personalized, convenient, and immersive viewing experience. As the digital landscape evolves, these top kdrama apps are set to redefine entertainment, making K-dramas a global phenomenon accessible at the fingertips of eager audiences worldwide.

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