Fists and flying kicks: 10 K-drama martial arts shows to stream now
A former mercenary turned bodyguard, Kim Je-ha (Ji Chang-wook) becomes embroiled in the dark underbelly of Korean politics when he's hired to protect the illegitimate daughter of a presidential candidate. Ji Chang-wook delivers heart-stopping action sequences, blending Krav Maga-style close combat with cinematic flair. You'll want to replay the staircase fight scene. It's a masterclass in choreographed chaos. 3. 'Fight for My Way' (2017)
Go Dong-man (Park Seo-joon) was once a promising taekwondo champ, but now he sells pest control. It's not the usual premise for a martial arts K-drama, but wait for it. Dong-man's desire to prove himself simmers beneath his laid-back exterior. When he returns to the MMA ring, he's forced to confront his past and fight for a future that's entirely his. Park Seo-joon plays Dong-man with a perfect mix of charm and bruised pride, making this coming-of-age martial arts K-drama both grounded and empowering.
See more: From Bit to Big Time: The K-drama roles that launched Korea's biggest stars 4. 'Arthdal Chronicles' (2019)
Set in a fictional prehistoric land, Arthdal Chronicles follows Eun-seom (Song Joong-ki), a half-human warrior destined to challenge a corrupt empire. While not strictly a martial arts drama, the hand-to-hand combat scenes and military training sequences are intense, with Song Joong-ki showcasing agility and sword skills in elaborate battle choreography that leans into the epic. Who knew tribal warfare could be so fascinating? 5. 'My Name' (2021)
After witnessing her father's murder, Ji-woo (Han So-hee) infiltrates a crime syndicate—and later, the police force—to seek vengeance. Han So-hee undergoes a complete physical transformation here, channelling rage and training into relentless fight sequences. From basement brawls to bathroom beatdowns, the choreography here, unlike other martial arts K-drama shows on this list, is savage, realistic and fuelled by grief. 6. 'Six Flying Dragons' (2015)
This martial arts K-drama is where political intrigue meets blade-heavy combat brilliance. It's a riveting prequel to Tree with Deep Roots , which features Lee Bang-won (Yoo Ah-in), a real-life historical figure and future king, whose rise is marked by rebellion and, yes, lethal swordsmanship. From philosophical duels to full-scale battle choreography, this series redefines what martial arts looks like in a period drama. It's equal parts poetic, precise and unflinchingly brutal. 7. 'The King's Face' (2014)
Prince Gwanghae (Seo In-guk) is a royal born with an unlucky face and remarkable instincts. The drama blends face-reading mysticism with palace scheming and, interestingly enough, intense martial training. Here, sword fighting isn't just for defence; it's an art form. Expect showdowns in moonlit courtyards and emotionally charged duels between crown contenders. 8. 'Kingdom' (2019–2020)
Not your typical historical drama, Kingdom has Crown Prince Lee Chang (Ju Ji-hoon) slicing his way through an undead outbreak with the elegance of a seasoned swordsman. Between dodging political enemies and flesh-eating ghouls, Lee Chang proves that sword fighting is a survival tool as well as a royal birthright. The series is visually lush and choreographically sharp, with every swing having high stakes.
Don't miss: 'Kingdom: Ashin of the North': 9 details you shouldn't miss 9. 'The Slave Hunters' / 'Chuno' (2010)
Looking for gritty manhunts with acrobatic sword-and-fist showdowns? Lee Dae-gil (Jang Hyuk) is a slave hunter with a tragic past and lightning-fast reflexes. Chuno is famous for its dynamic fight scenes: hand-to-hand combat, knife fights and high-stakes sword duels that use real martial arts techniques, enhanced by dusty chase sequences and muscular performances. Think martial arts, but with emotional baggage and wild ponytails. 10. 'Iljimae' (2008)
Lee Joon-gi dazzles as Iljimae , a masked vigilante who leaps across rooftops and slices through injustice with balletic grace. Inspired by classic martial arts tales, the drama, which feels like Robin Hood learns wuxia, leans heavily on sword techniques, stealth training and hand-to-hand combat that would make any martial arts hero proud. Bonus: Lee Joon-gi performed many of his stunts.
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