If you’re done with fluff and want something raw, unsettling, and emotional, these dark high school K‑Dramas from 2021 onward are packed with suspense, power struggles, and even survival games. These shows aren’t mainstream, but their stories stay with you long after the credits roll.
1. Extracurricular (2020)
(slightly before 2021, but a modern dark staple)
Episodes: 10
Where to watch: Netflix / viki / Kisskh / hitv or any other dramas website
Plot:
An academically top student secretly runs an illegal business to pay for college. As classmates and dangerous criminals get tangled in his dark secret, the consequences spiral out of control.
Why it’s powerful:
It explores themes like peer pressure, human trafficking, and moral compromise. The tension is raw and gritty, and it’s not your average school drama.
2. Night Has Come (2023)
Episodes: 12
Where to watch: TVING / Kisskh / hitv or any other dramas website
Plot:
On a school field trip, students receive a chilling message: a deadly real‑life mafia game begins at night. They must eliminate each other to survive.
Why it’s terrifying:
High stakes, psychological terror, and no place to hide.
3. High School Return of a Gangster (2024)
Episodes: 8
Where to watch: Lifetime (S. Korea), Viu, Wavve, TVING / Kisskh / hitv or any other dramas website
Plot:
A gangster’s soul reincarnates into a bullied high school student. Using his criminal skills, he protects others while seeking redemption and justice.
Why it’s wild & emotional:
Fantasy meets revenge meets healing unexpected, funny, yet deeply dark moments.
4. The Mysterious Class (2021)
Episodes: 8 (web series)
Where to watch: YouTube (YG Entertainment) / Kisskh / hitv or any other dramas website
Plot:
A group of high school boys suspect there’s a ghost in their class. They spend tense episodes trying to uncover the strange mystery before it’s too late.
Why it’s eerie:
Short, haunted, and creepy even fans of boy band TREASURE loved it for the suspense.
5. Bitch x Rich (2023)
Episodes: 20
Where to watch: Wavve, Netflix, Viu / Kisskh / hitv or any other dramas website
Plot:
At an elite high school, a rich heiress and a poor transfer student engage in psychological warfare over status, secrets, and survival.
Why it’s intense:
Think social class meets cunning mind games under high pressure.
6. Pyramid Game (2024)
Episodes: 10
Where to watch: TVING, Viu, Paramount+
Plot:
In a prestigious all-girls high school, students vote monthly on a social hierarchy. The one with the fewest votes becomes a public target. Transfer student Seong Soo‑ji lands at the bottom and decides to fight back.
Why it’s shocking:
A brutal reflection of popularity, cruelty, and survival. Terrifyingly realistic.
7. Revenge of Others (2022)
Episodes: 12
Where to watch: Disney+
Plot:
After her twin brother’s suspicious death, Ok Chan‑mi transfers to his former high school to uncover the truth. A vigilante “hero” targeting bullies draws her further into the dark school underbelly.
Why it’s intense:
Mixes mystery, teen violence, and justice. Keeps you guessing with each twist.
8. Weak Hero Class 1 (2022)
Episodes: 8
Where to watch: Wavve (international via Viki)
Plot:
Yeon Shi‑eun, small in stature but big on strategy, fights back against bullies using his wit rather than brawn. He allies with unexpected allies to challenge a violent system at school.
Why it’s gripping:
A fresh take on school violence brains over brawn and slow-burning loyalty. Fans say it gives serious “Weak Hero energy.”
Also check out: Top 5 Sad K-Dramas That Will Break Your Heart
Which One Would You Brave?
These stories dive into bullying, betrayal, survival, and crime all under the guise of high school life. They aren’t mainstream, but they linger in your mind. Which one would you dare to watch first?
Have you watched any of these underrated dramas? Comment your experience, or share to a friend who loves dark K‑Dramas!
oh i love them All ❤️❤️❤️