'Red Swan': 7 shows to watch if you liked Disney+ series
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Released on July 3, 2024, 'Red Swan' quickly became a sensation on Disney+. This popular Korean drama follows the intriguing life of Oh Wan-soo, a global golfing icon who marries Kim Yong-guk, heir to the powerful Hwain Group.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Wan-soo experiences a near-death incident in Manila, only to be rescued by her loyal bodyguard. As the series progresses, Wan-soo's burgeoning feelings for her savior add layers of emotional complexity and tension.
The thrilling plot and captivating performances have garnered 'Red Swan' a massive fanbase. If you find yourself hooked on the intense drama and romance of 'Red Swan,' you'll likely enjoy these other Korean dramas that blend gripping storylines with rich character development.
From tales of love and betrayal to stories of ambition and redemption, these recommendations promise to keep you entertained and emotionally invested.
1. Whisper (2017)
'Whisper' is a gripping Korean drama that delves into the dark and murky world of power and corruption. The series centers around a group of ruthless individuals who employ nefarious tactics to climb the social ladder, while a parallel narrative follows those committed to exposing their crimes.
At the heart of the story is Shin Young-joo, a dedicated detective, and Lee Dong-joon, a principled judge. Together, they form an uneasy alliance to uncover the truth behind a major legal firm, Taebaek, which is deeply mired in corrupt practices.
As they navigate a web of deceit, betrayal, and moral ambiguity, the series explores the complex interplay between good and evil. The tension between justice and corruption is palpable, making 'Whisper' a compelling watch for those who enjoy intense legal dramas with strong character development and intricate plots.
The series is available for streaming on Prime Video, offering a thrilling journey into the fight against systemic corruption.
2. The Penthouse: War in Life (2020-2021)
'The Penthouse: War in Life' is a sensational Korean drama that explores the lives of the wealthy residents of Hera Palace and the elite students of Cheong-ah Arts School. The story is driven by Shim Su-ryeon, a woman of elegance and grace, who discovers shocking secrets about her husband, Joo Dan-tae, a powerful businessman with a hidden past.
The drama intensifies as Su-ryeon unravels the mystery surrounding her husband's actions, leading to a series of dramatic confrontations and unexpected alliances. The series paints a vivid picture of ambition, betrayal, and revenge, set against the backdrop of opulence and privilege.
The intricate relationships and power struggles among the characters keep viewers on the edge of their seats. 'The Penthouse: War in Life' has captivated audiences with its thrilling plot twists and dramatic storytelling. The series is available for streaming on Netflix, making it a must-watch for fans of intense, character-driven dramas.
3. The King 2-Hearts (2012)
'The King 2-Hearts' is a unique romantic drama that intertwines love and political intrigue. Set in a fictional contemporary Korea where the monarchy still exists, the series follows the story of Crown Prince Lee Jae-Ha and North Korean Special Forces officer Kim Hang-Ah.
Initially, Jae-Ha, who is carefree and disinterested in politics, is manipulated into joining a joint North-South military training program where he meets the disciplined and skilled Hang-Ah. Despite their initial animosity, the two develop a deep, albeit complicated, romantic relationship.
The series masterfully blends romance with political drama, as Jae-Ha and Hang-Ah navigate their growing feelings for each other amid intense political pressure and schemes. Their love story is fraught with challenges, trust issues, and geopolitical tensions, making for an engaging narrative.
'The King 2-Hearts' stands out for its emotional depth and the chemistry between the lead characters. The series is available to stream on Prime Video.
4. Blood Free (2024)
'Blood Free' is a cutting-edge thriller drama that delves into the ethical and moral dilemmas of food technology. Set in a near future where BF, a leading company in genetically engineered cultured meat, revolutionizes the food industry, the series explores the dark underbelly of this innovation.
The story centers around BF's enigmatic CEO, whose meteoric rise to success is shadowed by a potentially sinister secret. As the company faces scrutiny, the narrative unfolds through the perspectives of various stakeholders, including journalists, scientists, and activists, each unraveling pieces of a larger, more ominous puzzle.
The series deftly combines elements of corporate intrigue, bioethics, and suspense, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the lengths to which humanity might go in pursuit of technological advancement.
'Blood Free' is noted for its tense atmosphere and complex characters, making it a compelling watch for fans of high-stakes drama. The series is available to stream on Disney+.
5. The Auditors (2024)
'The Auditors' available on Viki is a riveting workplace action drama that highlights the unlikely partnership between a shrewd audit team leader and his passionate, emotionally driven rookie employee. The story unfolds in JU Construction, a company riddled with corruption and unethical practices.
The experienced audit leader, played by Shin Ha-kyun, is known for his calculative and methodical approach to uncovering financial discrepancies. His new partner, portrayed by Lee Jung-ha, brings a fresh perspective and an emotional intensity that challenges the status quo.
Together, they embark on a perilous mission to expose the rampant corruption within their organization. As they delve deeper into the company's dark secrets, they face numerous obstacles and threats from those determined to keep the truth buried.
'The Auditors' combines elements of suspense, drama, and action, making it a captivating series. With a strong cast including Jin-goo and Jo A-ram, the show is available for streaming on Viki, offering a gripping narrative of justice and integrity.
6. No Way Out: The Roulette (2024)
'No Way Out: The Roulette' available on Disney+ is a gripping mystery thriller that centers around a notorious criminal who becomes the target of a nationwide manhunt after being released from prison. With a staggering 20 billion bounty on his head, the hunt for this elusive figure captures the nation's attention.
The story follows a diligent detective, portrayed by Cho Jin-woong, who is reluctantly tasked with protecting the former convict amidst the chaos. The narrative delves into the complex dynamics between law enforcement and the criminal underworld, exploring themes of loyalty, justice, and morality.
As the detective and the convict navigate their precarious alliance, they uncover deeper conspiracies that challenge their perceptions of right and wrong. The series boasts a star-studded cast including Yoo Jae-myung, Kim Mu-yeol, Yum Jung-ah, and Lee Kwang-soo.
7. The K2 (2016)
'The K2' is a South Korean drama starring Ji Chang-wook, Song Yoon-ah, and Im Yoon-ah. The series follows Kim Je-ha, a former mercenary soldier framed for the murder of his lover, who returns to South Korea to seek revenge.
He accepts a job as a bodyguard for Choi Yoo-jin, a powerful figure in the JSS Security Company and wife of presidential candidate Jang Se-joon. Je-ha is assigned to protect Go An-na, Jang's secret daughter, who has lived a secluded life.
As he guards An-na, Je-ha's growing feelings for her conflict with his mission to avenge his lover's death against another candidate, Park Kwan-soo. The series unfolds with intense political intrigue, betrayal, and romance, culminating in a dramatic resolution where Je-ha clears his name and finds love with An-na.
The story highlights themes of loyalty, justice, and redemption and is available on Prime Video.
How to stream 'Red Swan'?
‘Red Swan' is exclusively available on Disney+.
The streaming service offers a basic package starting at $7.99 per month, featuring advertisements.
For an ad-free experience, viewers can opt for the premium plan priced at $13.99 per month or $139.99 per year.
'Red Swan' trailer