‘The Escape of the Seven,’ ‘King the Land,’ More Voted as Worst K-Dramas of 2023

Media outlet Joynews24 released their list of the worst K-dramas of 2023.

Based on the survey, 200 industry personalities, consisting of journalists, media professionals, and entertainment professionals, voted on specific K-dramas that they thought delivered a poor or unsatisfying plot throughout the year.

While a ton of series and TV shows captivate viewers with their compelling plots, these K-dramas were deemed the worst by industry people.

'Durian's Affair'

Coming in at first place is TV Chosun's romance fantasy K-drama "Durian's Affair."

It focuses on two mysterious women from the Joseon Dynasty who become intertwined with men as they travel to the future.

Starring Park Joo Mi, Choi Myung Gil, Kim Min Joon, and more, Joynews24 garnered a total of 37 as participants chose this as the worst K-drama of 2023.

In addition, it was also dubbed as the "shame of the broadcasting station" by the outlet for being exaggerated and offensive.

'The Escape of the Seven'

While some K-drama viewers are hooked on the intensity of Makjang series like "The Penthouse," the SBS K-drama "The Escape of the Seven" didn't impress most of the industry personnel.

Starring Uhm Ki Joon, Lee Joon, Lee Yoo Bi, Hwang Jung Eum, and more, it garnered 26 votes, landing it as the second worst K-drama of 2023.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: 'The Escape of the Seven' Controversy: Viewers Want SBS to Cancel the Show for 'Outrageous and Delusional' Plot 

It can be recalled that after airing the pilot episode, "The Escape of the Seven" received backlash from viewers, citing the drama's exaggerated plot that highlights abuse and teen pregnancy.

Amid the criticisms, Korean viewers even demanded to ban the SBS series from airing.

'The Real Has Come'

KBS' rom-com series "The Real Has Come" entered in third place with 23 votes.

As mentioned by Joynews24, the series shattered the stronghold of the network's streak for weekend dramas.

One of the things that disappointed fans is Ahn Jae Hyun's portrayal, sparking controversy over his acting skills, which also resulted in "disastrous viewership ratings."

'My Lovely Boxer'

The webtoon-based KBS2 series "My Lovely Boxer" received 13 votes from the survey.

Headlined by Lee Sang Yeob and Kim So Hye, the series received low ratings during its broadcast. Some believe that this is due to Kim So Ye's past controversy involving her in school bullying.

As we all know, "My Lovely Boxer" is her first K-dramas in two years since the news broke.

'The Uncanny Counter 2: Counter Punch'

Who would believe that one of the highly anticipated series made it to the worst K-dramas of 2023 list?

Garnering 10 votes, viewers noticed several plot holes, which made them a bit disappointed in the drama.

In addition, the series also made a huge change in terms of broadcast since it was initially with OCN to tvN for broadcast.

'King the Land' and 'Pandora: Beneath the Paradise'

Scoring the same number of votes, "King the Land" and "Pandora: Beneath the Paradise" got eight votes each for the worst K-dramas of 2023.

Despite the amazing team-up between YoonA and Lee Junho, it was the quality of the series that made viewers decide that it deserved a spot on the list.

As for "Pandora: Beneath the Paradise," headlined by Lee Ji Ah and more, it showcased poor scripts despite having two amazing stars.

READ MORE: Lee Ji Ah's Talent Fee in 'Pandora: Beneath the Paradise' Reportedly Triple Than 'The Penthouse'

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Written by Geca Wills