The Korean wave, or Hallyu, has already reshaped global entertainment, with K-Pop idols dominating music charts and K-Dramas taking over streaming platforms. But beyond individual hits like Squid Game or The Glory, a new question is emerging: which K-Dramas have the potential to evolve into billion-dollar franchises? Just as Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead became cultural empires, certain Korean dramas are showing signs that they could build similar universes of spin-offs, merchandise, and global dominance.
Why K-Dramas Are Poised for Billion-Dollar Growth
Unlike traditional TV dramas, modern K-Dramas are distributed through platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video, giving them immediate global exposure. These platforms fuel binge-worthy viewing, fan theories, and online discussions that keep shows relevant for years. Combine this with Korea’s reputation for high-quality storytelling, world-class actors, and trend-setting fashion, and you get fertile ground for franchises that rival Hollywood blockbusters.
Another key factor? K-Dramas are no longer just entertainment—they are global brands. OSTs (original soundtracks), webtoons, spin-offs, merchandise, and even themed cafes expand their influence far beyond the screen.
K-Dramas That Could Become Billion-Dollar Franchises
1. Squid Game
With Netflix confirming multiple seasons and a reality spin-off, Squid Game is already halfway to franchise status. The dystopian series’ imagery—the pink jumpsuits, geometric masks, and giant doll—has become instantly recognisable worldwide. Merchandising, theme park attractions, and spin-offs could easily push this into billion-dollar territory.
2. The Glory
Starring Song Hye-kyo, The Glory taps into the universal theme of revenge. Its success on Netflix has sparked discussions of sequels, spin-offs, and even remakes in other languages. With its gripping storytelling and wide audience appeal, The Glory could extend into books, adaptations, and more seasons, cementing its long-term franchise potential.
3. All of Us Are Dead
Zombie thrillers rarely go out of style, and All of Us Are Dead has already proven its international popularity. With its massive Netflix viewership, there’s room for spin-offs exploring new schools, survivor stories, or even prequel series. Add in gaming adaptations and merchandise, and the revenue possibilities are enormous.
4. Kingdom
Netflix’s historical zombie epic Kingdom already blends period drama with horror in a way no other series has. With multiple seasons and a spin-off film (Ashin of the North), the foundation for a long-term franchise is already set. From novels to webtoons to games, Kingdom could become Korea’s equivalent of The Walking Dead.
5. Itaewon Class
This drama captured not just Korean viewers but global fans with its underdog business success story. Its strong characters, inspiring themes, and potential for expansion into sequels, spin-offs, or even business-related reality shows give it significant franchise potential. The fashion and food elements also open doors for merchandise and brand collaborations.
6. Extraordinary Attorney Woo
With its heartwarming storyline and beloved lead character, Extraordinary Attorney Woo became a worldwide sensation. Talks of international remakes are already underway, and the show could easily branch into novels, legal dramas inspired by its themes, or even spin-offs focused on other characters in the law firm.
What Makes a Billion-Dollar K-Drama Franchise?
Not every hit drama can turn into a franchise, but those that do usually share these traits:
- Global Appeal – Themes that resonate across cultures, like love, revenge, justice, or survival.
- Strong Characters – Memorable leads who can anchor spin-offs and adaptations.
- Merchandising Potential – Iconic outfits, quotes, or props that can translate into consumer products.
- Multi-Platform Reach – From webtoons and novels to mobile games and reality spin-offs, successful dramas expand beyond TV screens.
- Longevity – The ability to generate sequels or new storylines without losing their original spark.
The Future of K-Drama Franchises
As global audiences demand more K-Drama content, production budgets are rising, and international collaborations are becoming common. This creates fertile ground for billion-dollar franchises that rival Hollywood. Just like Harry Potter or Stranger Things, the right K-Drama could spawn theme parks, fashion lines, and long-term cultural relevance.
The question isn’t if a K-Drama will hit billion-dollar franchise status—it’s when. And with shows like Squid Game and Kingdom already laying the foundation, it seems Korea’s entertainment industry is closer than ever to producing the next global entertainment empire.
FAQ: The Potential Billion-Dollar K-Drama Franchises
Q1: Which K-Dramas are closest to becoming billion-dollar franchises?
A: Shows like Squid Game, Kingdom, and All of Us Are Dead are leading contenders. Their massive global audiences, merchandise potential, and confirmed sequels or spin-offs put them on track to franchise-level success.
Q2: How do K-Dramas make money beyond streaming?
A: Revenue comes not just from streaming platforms like Netflix or Disney+, but also from international licensing, merchandise, webtoon adaptations, OST sales, themed cafes, mobile games, and spin-off content. These additional income streams turn hit dramas into potential billion-dollar brands.
Q3: Can a single K-Drama really compete with Hollywood franchises?
A: Yes. With the global reach of streaming platforms, a single drama like Squid Game can reach over 100 million viewers. When combined with spin-offs, gaming adaptations, and merchandising, K-Dramas can rival Hollywood in both cultural influence and financial returns.
Q4: What makes a K-Drama suitable for franchise development?
A: The strongest contenders feature global themes (love, survival, revenge), iconic characters, and imagery that can be merchandised. They also have flexible storylines that can expand into sequels, spin-offs, or remakes without losing impact.
Q5: Are there any K-Dramas already confirmed for sequels or expansions?
A: Yes. Squid Game has multiple seasons and a reality spin-off, Kingdom has produced a spin-off film (Ashin of the North), and All of Us Are Dead has a confirmed Season 2. These expansions increase the likelihood of long-term franchise growth.
Q6: Do K-Drama actors benefit financially from franchise growth?
A: Absolutely. Actors not only earn from acting fees but often secure brand endorsements, global recognition, and increased bargaining power for future projects. Some may also share in profits if tied to production deals.
Q7: What role do global streaming platforms play in K-Drama franchises?
A: Platforms like Netflix and Disney+ provide global distribution, higher budgets, and massive marketing reach, which help K-Dramas evolve from regional hits into worldwide cultural phenomena. Without streaming, billion-dollar franchise potential would be much harder to achieve.
