Short K-Dramas You Can Binge in a Weekend

Sometimes you just don’t have the time or energy to commit to a 16-episode K-drama, no matter how good the story is. That’s where short K-dramas come in. With tighter storylines, fewer episodes, and easy-to-follow plots, they’re perfect for a weekend binge—or even a single sitting. In fact, short K-dramas have been gaining popularity worldwide for their fresh storytelling and ability to deliver the emotional punch of a full-length drama in half the time.

If you’re ready to dive into something quick but satisfying, here’s a roundup of the best short K-dramas you can binge in a weekend.

1. Soundtrack #1 (2022)

Episodes: 4

Streaming: Disney+

For fans of slow-burn romance, Soundtrack #1 is a perfect pick. Han So-hee and Park Hyung-sik star as longtime friends who start to realize their feelings for each other while living together for two weeks. The series is short, sweet, and wrapped in an emotional soundtrack that elevates every scene. Its simplicity and beautiful cinematography make it a must-watch when you want something light yet heartfelt.

2. Move to Heaven (2021)

Episodes: 10

Streaming: Netflix

Though slightly longer than the others on this list, Move to Heaven is so gripping you’ll easily finish it in a weekend. The story follows Geu-ru, a young man with Asperger’s, and his uncle as they work as “trauma cleaners,” organizing the belongings of people who have passed away. Each episode tells a different story while weaving in their own emotional journey. Touching, healing, and unforgettable, this series will likely leave you in tears—but in the best way.

3. Page Turner (2016)

Episodes: 3

Streaming: Viki

If you want a drama you can binge in just a few hours, Page Turner is the one. Starring Kim So-hyun, Ji Soo, and Shin Jae-ha, this mini-drama explores themes of ambition, talent, and resilience through the lens of a piano prodigy who loses her sight. Despite its short runtime, the show delivers a powerful emotional arc that lingers long after the credits roll.

4. One More Time (2016)

Episodes: 8

Streaming: Netflix

This fantasy-romance mini-series stars Infinite’s Kim Myung-soo (L) as a struggling indie band singer who suddenly finds himself stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over. The twist? That day involves his girlfriend, played by Yoon So-hee. The drama combines music, love, and tragedy, making it a bittersweet story perfect for fans of heartfelt, unconventional romances.

5. Splash Splash Love (2015)

Episodes: 2

Streaming: Viki

A classic short K-drama, Splash Splash Love is a fun and whimsical story about a high school student who accidentally time-travels back to the Joseon era. There, she meets King Lee Do (played by Highlight’s Yoon Doo-joon) and helps him solve problems using her modern knowledge of math. With just two episodes, the series is a lighthearted yet meaningful watch that proves you don’t need 16 episodes to deliver a memorable love story.

6. The Sound of Magic (2022)

Episodes: 6

Streaming: Netflix

Adapted from the webtoon Annarasumanara, The Sound of Magic is a magical, music-filled drama about a struggling high school student who meets a mysterious magician (played by Ji Chang-wook). Combining fantasy, social commentary, and heartfelt performances, this series offers an enchanting experience in just six episodes. Its visually stunning production makes it a binge-worthy weekend treat.

7. Adult Trainee (2021)

Episodes: 7

Streaming: Viki

For those looking for a bold, youthful drama, Adult Trainee stands out. It follows a group of teenagers navigating love, identity, and self-discovery with honesty and humor. The drama’s fresh perspective on coming-of-age stories resonates with Gen Z audiences, and its shorter format makes it easy to breeze through in a day.

8. Romance Is a Bonus Book (2019) – Honorable Mention

Episodes: 16 (shorter than most, but still bingeable)

Streaming: Netflix

While technically not as short as others, Romance Is a Bonus Book deserves a mention for being light, heartwarming, and extremely bingeable. Starring Lee Na-young and Lee Jong-suk, the drama explores love, career, and second chances within the publishing industry. It’s one of those feel-good K-dramas you can marathon when you want something comforting.

Why Short K-Dramas Are So Popular

Short K-dramas are the perfect solution for today’s fast-paced lifestyle. They cut out unnecessary filler, focusing instead on delivering concise yet impactful stories. For international fans just dipping their toes into K-dramas, mini-series also serve as a great introduction without the time commitment of longer shows.

Streaming platforms like Netflix, Viki, and Disney+ have further boosted their popularity by making them accessible to global audiences. From fantasy to slice-of-life, there’s a short K-drama to suit every mood, whether you want a light romantic comedy or a deeply emotional tearjerker.

Final Thoughts

Short K-dramas may not span 16 to 20 episodes like traditional series, but that’s exactly what makes them so refreshing. With tighter storytelling and memorable performances, they’re ideal for a weekend binge. From the heartwarming Soundtrack #1 to the magical The Sound of Magic and the tear-jerking Move to Heaven, these series prove that less really can be more.

So next time you’re craving K-drama magic but only have a few hours to spare, queue up one of these gems—you’ll be surprised how much story and emotion they pack into such a short runtime.