If you are a fan of historical K-dramas aka sageuks, you must have noticed that most of them are set during the Joseon era, which lasted over 500 years from 1392 to 1897. But Korean history didn't start then.
If you are curious about what happened and how people lived in the pre-Joseon era, here are seven shows to take you on a detour. Of course, some of them are more fictional than others, but you are still guaranteed to get that wonderful ancient atmosphere.
Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)
Three Kingdoms Era
IMDb rating: 8.0/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Viki, Kocowa
Queen Jiso is a regent sitting on a throne waiting for her son to come of age and become king. When enemies try to cede power, the queen creates an elite group, the Hwarang, whose mission is to protect the royal family. As the young members of the group grow and bond, several hidden secrets are revealed.
Jumong (2006-2007)
Transition between the Buyeo and Goguryeo periods
IMDb rating: 8.1/10
Where to stream: Prime Video, Viki, Kocowa
The 81-episode K-drama follows the life of King Dongmyeong, founder of the Goguryeo kingdom, his journey to build a new country, and his romance with a merchant's daughter who was his loyal collaborator and later his second wife.
My Country: The New Age (2019)
Transition between the Goryeo and Joseon eras
IMDb rating: 8.1/10
Where to stream: Netflix
Technically, the drama covers the early days of the Joseon Dynasty, but that's what makes it so valuable for history buffs. We get a chance to dive into the tumultuous transitional period. The story focuses on two friends who become enemies due to a silly misunderstanding.
Faith (2012)
Goryeo Era
IMDb rating: 8.1/10
Where to stream: Prime Video, Viki, Kocowa
A modern-day doctor is kidnapped by a royal guard and taken to 1300s Korea, where she is persuaded to heal a badly wounded queen. She soon becomes legendary, and all those vying for the throne try to possess her. Luckily, the main character finds love and support in her kidnapper, who does everything he can to bring her back home.
Arthdal Chronicles (2019-2023)
Bronze Age
IMDb rating: 8.3/10
Where to stream: Netflix
If you really want to go back in time, visit the fictional land of Arthdal, where mythical heroes travel, dream, endure hardships, find friends and love, and, of course, perform feats. The K-drama consists of 2 seasons with 30 episodes.
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)
Goryeo Era
IMDb rating: 8.6/10
Where to stream: Prime Video, Viki, SBS VOD
A solar eclipse causes a 21st century woman to be transported back to the year 941 in the body of a girl who lives in the ruling family. She soon becomes embroiled in palace politics and falls for one of the princes fighting for the throne.
Queen Seon Deok (2009)
Silla Era
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Where to stream: Prime Video, Viki, Kocowa
The drama chronicles the life of Queen Seondeok of Silla, the first female ruler of the kingdom, who sat on the throne from 632 to 647. Born a princess, she grew up among commoners and had to give up her love for her people.