April 2024 is set to be an exhilarating month for Korean drama enthusiasts as a diverse lineup of eagerly anticipated series is ready to grace the screen. From the thrilling adaptation of a beloved manga in “Parasyte: The Grey” to the heartwarming romance of “Lovely Runner,” and the gripping narratives of “Blood Free” and “Chief Detective 1958,” there’s a rich palette of genres for every viewer. Not to forget “Goodbye Earth,” which explores a dramatic end-of-the-world scenario, adding to the variety of storytelling that K-dramas are celebrated for. Each drama, boasting an impressive cast and unique plots, promises to captivate audiences worldwide. Stay tuned for a month packed with unforgettable stories, emotional depth, and top-tier entertainment.

Parasyte: The Grey

Streaming on Netflix on Apr. 5

“Parasyte: The Maxim” stands as a pinnacle of manga writing. In 2014, this manga was adapted into a Japanese live-action film, emerging as a solid science fiction movie. Now, a decade later, “Parasyte: The Grey,” a new Korean drama, is taking on the challenge of creating a second live-action adaptation of Iwaaki Hitoshi’s acclaimed manga.

Brought to you by the minds behind “Train to Busan,” this drama unfolds the tale of extraterrestrial parasites descending from the cosmos, commandeering human hosts to ensure their survival. In an unexpected twist, when one such parasite unsuccessfully attempts to claim Jung Soo In’s brain, it instead takes over her hand, irrevocably altering her life. She finds herself compelled to battle other parasites and devise innovative strategies to continue living. “Parasyte: The Grey” is available for streaming on Netflix starting April 5.

Lovely Runner

Streaming on Viki on Apr. 8

“Lovely Runner,” a forthcoming Korean romance drama featuring Byeon Woo Seok and Kim Hye Yoon, weaves the story of Ryu Seon Jae, a famed figure in the entertainment world whose success leads him down a path of depression, culminating in his premature end. Im Sol, harboring unspoken love for Seon Jae, is devastated by his loss. However, a serendipitous event sends her fifteen years into the past, giving her a chance to alter Seon Jae’s destiny and avert his heartbreaking end. While the show hints at the familiar tropes of time-travel, romance, and the tribulations of stardom, it promises the potential for a fresh take on these themes. “Lovely Runner” will be available for streaming on Viki starting April 8.

Blood Free

Streaming on Disney+ and Hulu on Apr. 10

In a future where natural animal meat is scarce, BF, founded by Yoon Ja Yoo (portrayed by Han Hyo Joo), leads the industry in lab-grown meat production. Driven to reestablish human dominance in the food hierarchy, she aims to conquer the worldwide market. Despite her formidable skills, she encounters numerous obstacles. Her journey takes a pivotal turn when she employs Woo Chae-Woon (played by Ju Ji Hoon), a former soldier now bodyguard, bringing her closer to her goals as they navigate challenges together. “Blood Free,” a series of 10 episodes, is set to debut on Disney+ and Hulu on April 10.

Chief Detective 1958

Streaming on Disney+ on Apr. 19

“Chief Detective 1958” promises a unique viewing experience, drawing its roots from the long-running Korean soap opera “Chief Inspector,” which spanned 880 episodes between 1971 and 1989. There’s no need to watch the original series to dive into this drama, as it acts as a prequel, exploring Chief Inspector Park’s backstory before his tenure in the original show. This series stands on its own, with little need for viewers to draw connections to its predecessor for full enjoyment. Featuring a stellar cast including Lee Je Hoon, Lee Dong Hwi, Choi Woo Sung, Yoon Hyun Soo, and Seo Eun Soo, “Chief Detective 1958” is set to captivate audiences. Mark your calendars for its premiere on April 19 on MBC, with subsequent episodes streaming on Disney+ Hotstar weekly until May 18

Goodbye Earth

Streaming on Netflix on Apr. 26

Goodbye Earth,” a forthcoming Korean drama, is set to explore a dramatic “end of the world” scenario. In this fictional universe, Earth faces imminent destruction from an asteroid with the power to annihilate the planet, with a collision course set for just 200 days away. As the world becomes aware of its doomed fate, the story centers on Jin Se Kyung (played by Ahn Eun Jin) and Ha Yoon Sang (Yoo Ah In), a couple enduring the strains of a long-distance relationship—she, a middle-school teacher in South Korea, and he, a researcher in the U.S. As they reunite to spend their remaining days immersed in what they cherish, the narrative also unfolds the lives of others, like Woo Sung Jae (Jeon Sung Woo), a Catholic priest who abandons his church, and Kang In Ah, a military commander determined to assist those in peril even as the apocalypse looms. “Goodbye Earth” is slated for release on Netflix on April 26, 2024.