Your K-Drama Weekend Watchlist : New Episodes on Viki, Netflix & Must-See Gems!

 

Your K-Drama Weekend Watchlist : New Episodes on Viki, Netflix & Must-See Gems!

Happy Friday, K-drama lovers! The weekend is finally here, and what better way to unwind than by diving into some fantastic Korean dramas? Whether you're keeping up with the latest episodes of ongoing hits or looking for a new series to binge, we've got you covered.

Here’s your guide to new episodes dropping on international platforms like Viki and Netflix, plus some must-see gems perfect for your weekend marathon (May 9-11, 2025)!

Catch These Fresh Episodes This Weekend!

1. The Haunted Palace (귀궁)

   • Platform: Viki (check your region)
   • New Episodes: Likely Episodes 7 & 8 (airs Fri-Sat in Korea)
   • Why you should watch: The supernatural thrills and romantic intrigue in this fantasy sageuk are only getting more intense! As our shaman heroine and the Imoogi-possessed official delve deeper into the palace's ghostly mysteries, expect more shocking revelations, close calls, and hopefully, some heart-fluttering moments. The stakes are higher than ever!
   • Journalist's Take: "A compelling blend of fantasy, horror, and historical romance, 'The Haunted Palace' keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its intricate plot and strong performances. Each episode expertly weaves Korean folklore into a suspenseful royal drama."

2. [Actual Ongoing Drama 1 - Example: "Chief Detective 1958 (수사반장 1958)"] (Assuming it's still airing or recently concluded with episodes available globally)

   • Platform: Disney+ (check your region)
   • New Episodes/Catch-up: If new episodes are airing, great! If it recently finished, it's perfect for a weekend binge. (Aired Fri-Sat in Korea on MBC, concluded May 4th based on some schedules, making it a prime binge candidate if all episodes are up). Let's adjust this to a catch-up/binge.
   • Why you should watch: This prequel to the legendary Korean drama "Chief Inspector" has been a massive hit, starring Lee Je-hoon. It’s a fantastic crime procedural set in a nostalgic era, packed with action, grit, and heart. If you missed its weekly run, now is the time to dive in!
   • Journalist's Take: "'Chief Detective 1958' masterfully revived a classic, delivering compelling cases, a charismatic lead performance, and a rich historical setting. It’s a top-tier crime drama with both thrilling action and poignant character moments."
     
     
     
     
     
     

3. [Actual Ongoing Drama 2 - Example: "Lovely Runner (선재 업고 튀어)"] (Assuming it's still airing new episodes globally)

   • Platform: Viki (check your region)
   • New Episodes: Likely Episodes 11 & 12 (airs Mon-Tue in Korea on tvN; by the weekend, these episodes would be subbed and available).
   • Why you should watch: This time-slip romance about a devoted fan who goes back in time to save her favorite idol has stolen hearts worldwide! With its charming leads (Byeon Woo-seok and Kim Hye-yoon), witty dialogue, and genuinely moving storyline, it's the definition of a feel-good, addictive watch. Catch the latest developments this weekend!
   • Journalist's Take: "'Lovely Runner' is a delightful surprise, perfectly blending fantasy, romance, and comedy with a surprisingly deep emotional core. The chemistry between the leads is electric, making it an irresistible watch that has K-drama fans buzzing."

Perfect Weekend to Catch Up On…

Spring of Youth (사계의 봄)

• Platform: Viki, Netflix (selected territories)
• What to watch: Episodes 1 & 2
• Why it's perfect for this weekend: This highly anticipated youth music romance just premiered this week (May 6th & 7th) with its first two episodes! If you haven't started yet, this weekend is the ideal time to dive in and see why it's already generating buzz. Follow fallen K-pop star Sa-gye (Ha Yoo-joon) as he navigates university life and forms a band with the talented Kim Bom (Park Ji-hu) and music-loving medical student Seo Tae-yang (Lee Seung-hyub).
• Journalist's Take: "'Spring of Youth' has made a charming debut, promising a healing story filled with music, dreams, and the relatable anxieties of youth. Its focus on second chances and finding passion makes it an uplifting watch."

Weekend Binge Recommendations: Gems You Might Have Missed!

1. Queen of Tears (눈물의 여왕)

   • Platform: Netflix
   • Why binge it now?: This blockbuster romance recently concluded its incredibly popular run, leaving a void in many fans' hearts. If you missed the phenomenon or simply want to re-experience the rollercoaster of emotions, now is the perfect time to binge all 16 episodes. Follow the complex love story of a chaebol heiress and her husband from a rural background.
   • Journalist's Take: "A ratings juggernaut, 'Queen of Tears' captivated audiences with its stellar performances from Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won, a unique reversal of typical chaebol romance tropes, and its masterful blend of laugh-out-loud comedy and heart-wrenching drama."
     
     
     
     
     
     

2. My Mister (나의 아저씨)

   • Platform: Netflix
   • Why binge it now?: If you're in the mood for something profound, deeply moving, and character-driven, "My Mister" is an absolute masterpiece. It explores an unlikely bond between a stoic engineer and a young woman facing immense hardships, offering a poignant look at human connection, empathy, and quiet resilience.
   • Journalist's Take: "'My Mister' is a critically acclaimed drama that stays with you long after the credits roll. It’s a slow-burn, slice-of-life story that finds beauty and hope in the most unexpected places, anchored by incredible performances, especially from IU (Lee Ji-eun)."
     
     
     
     
     
     

3. Weak Hero Class 1 (약한영웅 Class 1)

   • Platform: Viki, Kocowa
   • Why binge it now?: Looking for a shorter, impactful series? This gritty and intense school action drama (8 episodes) tackles bullying, friendship, and the consequences of violence with raw honesty. It’s a gripping watch from start to finish.
   • Journalist's Take: "'Weak Hero Class 1' is a powerful and unflinching look at the darker side of youth, elevated by outstanding performances (especially from Park Ji-hoon) and well-choreographed action. It’s a thought-provoking series that sparks important conversations."

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What K-dramas are on your watchlist this weekend? Any hidden gems you'd recommend to fellow fans? Share your picks in the comments below! Happy K-drama watching!