Seven K-dramas you didn’t know were based on British shows

British television, known for its dry wit, dark humour, and social commentary, has inspired several South Korean adaptations over the years. From noir-inspired crime series to emotionally charged marital dramas, Korean television has borrowed British ideas and adapted them with distinct cultural flair, local twists, and emotional depth that resonate with K-drama fans.

Here are seven notable K-dramas based on British series, each offering a fascinating look at how stories evolve when they cross borders.

The World of the Married

‘The World of the Married,’ the highest-rated hit K-drama, is a gripping adaptation of the BBC One’s psychological thriller ‘Doctor Foster.’ Starring Kim Hee-ae, Park Hae-joon, and Han So-hee as the leads, the drama follows the picture-perfect married life of a family doctor and associate director, which shatters after she discovers her husband’s affair with a younger woman and the disturbing fact that their mutual friends are complicit in the cover-up. Devastated by the betrayal, she sets on a path of seeking revenge.

Life On Mars

Based on the British series of the same name, which ran from January 2006 to April 2007, 'Life On Mars' revolves around Han Tae-joo, a detective leading a team working on a serial murder case. During his investigation, he gets into an accident, and when he wakes up, he finds himself in the winter of 1988, where he is now a detective assigned to a police station in a small city. To get back to the present day, he tries to solve a serial murder case.

Less Than Evil

The 2018 South Korean television series ‘Less Than Evil’ is based on the British psychological crime thriller ‘Luther.’ Starring Shin Ha-kyun, Lee Seol, Park Ho-san, and Kim Gun-woo, the drama centres on the ongoing psychological games between a hot-headed, justice-driven Detective Chief Inspector who is tormented by the crimes he solves and a genius woman who is insensitive to her own death.

One Ordinary Day

The British television series ‘Criminal Justice’ was reimagined in South Korea as ‘One Ordinary Day,’ starring Kim Soo-hyun and Cha Seung-won. It delves into the criminal justice system through the story of an ordinary college student and a low-life attorney. Kim Hyun-soo’s life turns upside down as he unexpectedly becomes the key suspect in a murder case overnight. Shin Joong-han, a lawyer who barely passed the bar exam, is the only person to reach out to help Hyun-soo.

Uncle

This heartwarming slice-of-life drama is a remake of the British sitcom of the same name. ‘Uncle’ follows a struggling musician who unexpectedly becomes the guardian of his young nephew. Played by Oh Jung-se, the uncle forms an unlikely bond with the child, who struggles with anxiety and OCD due to his parents’ divorce. The series blends humour, healing, and heartfelt moments, making it a refreshing take on family and mental health themes.

Mistress

The 2018 mystery, thriller, and romance drama 'Mistress’ is based on the 2008-2010 British series ‘Mistresses.’ Starring Han Ga-in, Shin Hyun-been, Choi Hee-seo, and Goo Jae-yee, the drama revolves around the scandalous lives of four women in their 30s and their complex relationships—each on her own path to self-discovery as they navigate life’s challenges together.

Cleaning Up

‘Cleaning Up,’ the Korean remake of the British series of the same name, revolves around three cleaners at a financial company, Eo Yong-mi, Ahn In-kyung, and Meng Soo-ja, portrayed by Yum Jung-ah, Jeon So-min, and Kim Jae-hwa. They resort to insider trading in order to feed their family and fulfil their dreams after accidentally overhearing a piece of financial information at their workplace.

Adaptations are a powerful reminder of how stories can transcend borders. Which one is your top pick? Let us know in the comments!