Time travel and the Joseon era are two of the most captivating themes in K-dramas, and when they come together, the result feels nothing short of magical. These stories explore what happens when two very different worlds collide, whether it’s a character from modern-day Seoul suddenly waking up in the Joseon era or someone from Joseon finding themselves in the bustling streets of present-day Korea.
The ongoing time-travel series ‘Bon Appétit, Your Majesty’ is making waves on Netflix, and with just four episodes released, it has already become the highest-rated tvN drama of 2025. The drama tells the enchanting tale of Yeon Ji-yeong, a modern-day chef who time-travels to Joseon and becomes King Yi Heon’s chief royal cook.
Here are ten more Joseon-era time-travel K-dramas, whether the journey is from modern-day Seoul to the past or Joseon to the future.
Mr. Queen
In one of the most iconic historical comedies, ‘Mr. Queen,’ a modern-day chef from Seoul wakes up in the body of a Joseon queen. With hilarious culture clashes, unexpected palace politics, and modern dishes in the royal kitchen, this drama blends slapstick humour with emotional depth. Stellar performances from Shin Hye-sun and Kim Jung-hyun make it a standout time-travel K-drama.
Splash Splash Love
‘Splash Splash Love’ follows Danbi, a struggling high school student who accidentally time-travels to the Joseon era. Meeting King Sejong, she uses her modern knowledge to help him, sparking both comedic and romantic moments in this refreshing mini-drama. The drama beautifully balances comedy, romance, and a coming-of-age theme.
Joseon Survival
In this action-packed drama, a former national archer turned deliveryman travels back to Joseon, where he encounters historical figures while trying to survive. The blend of family struggles, historical context, and thrilling adventures makes ‘Joseon Survival Period’ offer a refreshing twist on the time travel genre.
Dr. Jin
Based on the popular Japanese manga, ‘Jin,’ this drama follows Jin Hyuk, a brilliant neurosurgeon who suddenly finds himself in the Joseon dynasty. Using his modern medical knowledge, he saves lives while grappling with the limitations of ancient tools and practices. In the journey, he also encounters destiny and political intrigue.
The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract
This K-drama mixes romance and fantasy as Park Yeon-woo, a Joseon-era woman, finds herself suddenly in modern Korea. While adjusting to her new reality, she enters a contractual marriage with Kang Tae-ha, a modern chaebol heir. It blends romance, comedy, and heartfelt emotional beats as Yeon-woo adapts to modern society and revisits her past connections.
Rooftop Prince
A classic in the time-travel genre, ‘Rooftop Prince’ tells the tale of the crown prince Lee Gak, who, along with his loyal followers, time-travels from Joseon to modern Seoul. Their goal is to solve the mystery behind the Crown Princess’s death, but along the way, they meet Park-ha, a spirited woman in the modern day. Its popularity cemented it as a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Durian’s Affair
With a unique spin, ‘Durian’s Affair’ follows two Joseon-era noble ladies who suddenly appear in the modern world. They integrate into a wealthy family, and the narrative unravels complex layers of love, reincarnation, and destiny. The drama combines melodrama, fantasy, and emotional storytelling.
Live Up to Your Name
This medical time-travel drama features Heo Im, a Joseon-era acupuncturist, who time-travels to modern Seoul. There, he meets Choi Yeon-kyung, a skilled modern doctor. Their contrasting medical philosophies initially clash but gradually evolve into mutual respect and an unlikely relationship across time and space.
Queen In Hyun's Man
‘Queen In Hyun's Man’ tells the story of Kim Bung-do, a Joseon scholar and warrior who finds himself transported to modern Seoul. There, he meets Choi Hee-jin, an actress portraying Queen In-hyun in a historical drama. Their relationship blossoms as they struggle against the forces of time, leading to a bittersweet romance that’s both touching and memorable.
Must You Go?
‘Must You Go?’ follows Park Yeon, a talented Joseon-era musician, who suddenly finds himself in present-day Seoul. There, he meets Min Yoo-jung, a struggling aspiring singer with big dreams but little confidence. As their worlds collide, he becomes both her mentor and love interest, guiding her with his timeless musical skills while navigating the unfamiliar modern world himself.
From the current trending drama ‘Bon Appétit, Your Majesty’ to the comedic brilliance of ‘Mr. Queen’ and the thrilling mysteries of ‘Rooftop Prince,’ Joseon time-travel K-dramas continue to capture hearts with their unique blend of storytelling.
SEE ALSO: IVE wins with "XOXZ" + Captivating performances on September 5th’s 'Music Bank'!
SHARE
