April 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible month for K-drama fans, with five highly anticipated series set to premiere across major streaming platforms like Netflix, SBS, JTBC, and Disney+. From crime thrillers to fantasy romances, this lineup offers something for every viewer. However, one drama, Knock-Off, may face delays due to controversy.
Let’s dive into the details of these upcoming releases!
1. Karma – A Gripping Crime Thriller
Release Date: April 4, 2025
Platform: Netflix
Genre: Crime, Thriller
Karma is a dark and intense drama based on the popular webtoon Akyeon by Choi Hee-seon. Directed by Lee Il Hyung, the series follows six individuals whose lives collide due to fate and misfortune. With a stellar cast including Park Hae-soo (Squid Game), Shin Min-a (Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha), and Lee Kwang-soo (The Sound of Magic), this Netflix original promises suspense and high-stakes drama.
Why Watch?
✔ A gripping adaptation of a hit webtoon
✔ Stellar performances from top-tier actors
✔ A deep exploration of fate and consequences
2. Resident Playbook – A Medical Comedy-Drama
Release Date: April 12, 2025
Platform: Netflix
Genre: Comedy, Medical, Drama
A spin-off of the beloved series Hospital Playlist, Resident Playbook brings a fresh take on medical dramas with humor and heart. Starring Go Young Jung and Shin Shi Ah, this 12-episode series follows young medical professionals navigating hospital life.
Why Watch?
✔ Perfect for fans of Hospital Playlist
✔ Lighthearted yet engaging storytelling
✔ A mix of comedy and medical drama
3. The Haunted Palace – A Fantasy Romance in Joseon Era
Release Date: April 18, 2025
Platform: SBS
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Historical
Set in the Joseon dynasty, The Haunted Palace follows Yoon Gap (Yook Sung-jae), a government officer possessed by an Imoogi (mythical serpent), and Yeo-ri (Kim Ji-yeon), a shaman resisting her destiny. With ghosts, palace intrigue, and forbidden love, this 16-episode drama is a must-watch for historical fantasy fans.
Why Watch?
✔ Stunning historical setting
✔ Supernatural elements and romance
✔ Strong performances from the cast
4. Heavenly Ever After – A Romantic Fantasy About the Afterlife
Release Date: April 19, 2025
Platform: Netflix & JTBC
Genre: Romance, Fantasy
Directed by Kim Seok Yoon, Heavenly Ever After tells the story of Lee Hae-sook (Kim Hye-ja), who dies at 80 and reunites with her rejuvenated husband in heaven. With Han Ji-min and Son Suk-ku in key roles, this 12-episode drama explores love that transcends life and death.
Why Watch?
✔ A unique take on afterlife romance
✔ Emotional and heartwarming storytelling
✔ Stellar cast with great chemistry
5. Way Back Love – A Heartbreaking Fantasy Romance
Release Date: April 3, 2025
Platform: TVING (South Korea)
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Melodrama
Way Back Love is a poignant fantasy drama based on the novel Naega Jookki Iljooil Jeon by Seo Eun-Chae. Directed by Choi Ha-Na, the series follows Jung Hee-Wan (Kim Min-Ha), a disillusioned woman who reunites with her childhood love Kim Ram-Woo (Gong Myung) – now a grim reaper – when he reveals she has just one week left to live. This emotionally charged Netflix original features stunning performances and a haunting exploration of love, loss, and second chances.
Why Watch?
✔ A unique blend of fantasy and deep emotional storytelling
✔ Outstanding chemistry between rising stars Kim Min-Ha and Gong Myung
✔ Beautiful cinematography and direction praised at Busan Film Festival
✔ Perfect for fans of Goblin and Hotel del Luna
✔ Bingeable 6-episode format with powerful storytelling
6. Crushology 101 – A Charming Campus Romance
Release Date: April 4, 2025
Platform: MBC TV (South Korea)
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Youth
Crushology 101 is a delightful campus rom-com based on the popular webtoon Bunnywa Obbadeul by Ni Eun. Directed by Kim Ji-hoon, the series follows Ban Hui-jin (Roh Jeong-eui), a sculpture student navigating love and self-discovery while surrounded by five charming suitors. With a fresh-faced cast including Lee Chae-min and Jo Joon-young, this vibrant drama promises heart-fluttering moments and youthful energy.
Why Watch?
✔ A fun reverse harem romance with multiple love interests
✔ Faithful adaptation of a hit webtoon with 170 million views
✔ Bright, youthful aesthetic perfect for spring viewing
✔ Strong chemistry among the rising star cast
✔ Lighthearted escape into campus life and first loves
7. Knock-Off – A Black Comedy About Counterfeit Crime
Release Date: April 2025 (Tentative)
Platform: Disney+
Genre: Black Comedy, Crime
Knock-Off follows Kim Seong-jun (Kim Soo-hyun), an office worker turned counterfeit kingpin after the 1997 financial crisis. However, his ex-girlfriend, now a police officer (Jo Bo-ah), complicates his illegal empire.
Potential Delay:
Due to controversy surrounding lead actor Kim Soo-hyun, Disney+ has temporarily postponed the release. Fans should stay tuned for updates.
Why Watch?
✔ A fresh take on crime with dark humor
✔ Kim Soo-hyun’s compelling performance
✔ High-stakes storytelling
Final Thoughts: Which K-Drama Will You Watch?
April 2025’s K-drama lineup is packed with variety:
- Karma for thriller lovers
- Resident Playbook for medical drama fans
- The Haunted Palace for historical fantasy enthusiasts
- Heavenly Ever After for romance seekers
- Knock-Off for dark comedy (if released)
With global availability on Netflix, Disney+, SBS, and JTBC, these dramas are easily accessible. Keep an eye out for updates, especially regarding Knock-Off’s release status.
Which drama are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!
Stay tuned for more K-drama updates! 🎬✨
