The Empress follows the gripping story of Seo In-hwa (played by Jang Shin-young), a college student studying painting at a prestigious university. She is determined to live a life different from her mother, who worked as a hostess.
However, after being trampled by power and money, In-hwa is forced into the same profession. She rises through the ranks to become the best in her field, all while seeking revenge on the powerful men who destroyed her life and caused her mother's death.
For those who love revenge dramas like The Empress, here are eight other similar shows to watch.
Vincenzo, Flower of Revenge, and 6 other shows like The Empress
1) Vincenzo
If you liked The Empress, Vincenzo is the first show on this list of shows to watch. Vincenzo follows the story of Vincenzo Cassano, a mafia consigliere and lawyer, who returns to Korea for revenge on a corrupt conglomerate. Teaming up with a group of misfits, he dismantles the corporation's power in an intense mix of crime, dark humor, and action. Song Joong-ki's stellar performance makes this a must-watch.
Vincenzo is available on Netflix.
2) Flower of Revenge
Flower of Revenge stars Jang Shin-young, who also led the 2011 K-drama The Empress. This series tells the story of Jeon Se-mi, who lived a peaceful life until a series of cruelties unraveled her world. Abandoned by the man she loved, stripped of her family, and scarred by a horrific assault, her once-bright future crumbled. Driven by pain and anger, she transforms her suffering into determination, vowing to bring down those who destroyed her life.
3) Bad and Crazy
Bad and Crazy brings together a righteous cop and a crazy, unpredictable man who team up to fight corruption. Their personal struggles add layers to this thrilling action drama, blending crime-fighting with dynamic character development. Lee Dong-wook and Wi Ha-joon lead in this fast-paced, engaging drama.
Bad and Crazy is available for online streaming on Viki.
4) Flower of Evil
Flower of Evil explores the life of Baek Hee-sung, a man with a dark past who lives a seemingly perfect life with his wife, a detective. When she starts investigating a series of murders, she suspects him, leading to a tense, suspense-filled journey. The captivating performances of Lee Joon-gi and Moon Chae-won make this a must-watch.
Flower of Evil is available on Viu, Viki, and Netflix.
5) My Name
My Name follows Yoon Ji-woo, portrayed by Han So-hee, a woman who joins a crime syndicate and the police force to avenge her father's murder. As she uncovers shocking secrets, she's drawn deeper into a dangerous web of lies and betrayal. This fast-paced, action-packed series with a strong female lead is perfect for revenge drama lovers.
My Name is available for online streaming on Netflix.
6) Ruler: Master of the Mask
Another K-drama similar to the The Empress is Ruler: Master of the Mask. It is a historical drama set in the Joseon era, where a young prince battles against a corrupt group controlling the nation's water supply. Facing conspiracies and difficult choices, he fights for justice. This drama is a gripping historical tale packed with action and political intrigue.
Yoo Seung-ho, Kim Myungsoo, and Kim So-hyun star in the lead roles. It is available to watch on Viki.
7) Reborn Rich
Reborn Rich is about a man who, after being betrayed by his family, is reborn into the same family and seeks revenge. Armed with knowledge of the future, he aims to take control of the family business. The story's twists and turns and Song Joong-ki's powerful performance make this show a standout, becoming the second highest-rated series in Korean cable television history, with a 26.9% rating on its final episode.
Reborn Rich is available for online streaming on Viu and Viki.
8) Itaewon Class
The final show in this list of K-dramas similar to The Empress is Itaewon Class. Itaewon Class follows Park Sae-ro-yi, who opens a bar in Itaewon to take revenge on a corrupt conglomerate responsible for his father's wrongful death. Overcoming numerous obstacles, Sae-ro-yi builds a team to challenge the powerful. The story of resilience and personal growth, paired with Park Seo-joon's compelling performance, makes this drama unforgettable.
Also starring 2020 Baeksang Arts Award Best New Actress in TV awardee Kim Da-mi, Itaewon Class is available on Netflix.
Like the 2011 K-drama The Empress, these eight dramas offer thrilling revenge plots, interesting character arcs, and intricate storytelling to keep viewers hooked.