Netflix K-Drama Release Time:
If you're a true K-Drama lover, you know how exciting it is to wait for the next episode of your favorite Korean series. But with different time zones and Netflix’s global release strategy, you might wonder: what time does Netflix release new episodes Korean drama?
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from global release times to time zone differences and helpful tips to stay updated on the latest Korean drama drops.
Netflix’s Standard Release Time Explained
Netflix generally follows a midnight Pacific Time (PT) release schedule for most of its content. This means:
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USA (PT): 12:00 AM
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India (IST): 12:30 PM
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South Korea (KST): 4:00 PM
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UK (BST): 8:00 AM
This standard applies mainly to Netflix Original Series, including Korean dramas produced or licensed exclusively by Netflix. So, if you're watching shows like Sweet Home, The Glory, or Black Knight, expect new episodes to drop based on this schedule.
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Simulcast K-Dramas Have Different Timings
For ongoing K-Dramas that air on South Korean television networks (like tvN, SBS, or JTBC) and are simul-released on Netflix, the schedule varies.
Netflix usually uploads these episodes within a few hours to 24 hours after the Korean broadcast. For example:
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If a drama airs at 10:00 PM KST on tvN, Netflix may release the episode by 2:00 AM to 4:00 AM KST the next day.
Examples of Simulcast K-Dramas:
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King the Land
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Doctor Slump
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Welcome to Samdalri
📝 Pro Tip: Check the drama’s official page on Netflix to see the expected release pattern.
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Why Netflix Follows Pacific Time (PT)
Netflix’s headquarters are in California, USA, which explains the default release at 12:00 AM PT. This timing aligns with their global content release model and keeps it consistent across all regions. However, this can feel confusing for fans in Asia or Europe where the time difference is significant.
That’s why it's helpful to know your local equivalent for when Netflix releases new Korean drama episodes.
Time Zone Conversion Table
Here’s a quick reference table based on the midnight PT drop:
| Region | Local Time Netflix Releases Kdramas |
|---|---|
| USA (PT) | 12:00 AM |
| South Korea | 4:00 PM (same day) |
| India | 12:30 PM (same day) |
| UK | 8:00 AM (same day) |
| Philippines | 3:00 PM (same day) |
| Australia (AEST) | 5:00 PM (same day) |
How to Get Notified When a New K-Drama Episode Drops
Here are a few tips to make sure you never miss a release:
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Turn on “Remind Me” on Netflix when a new episode is due.
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Follow Netflix Korea or the show’s official Instagram for real-time updates.
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Set a Google Calendar alert using your local time for popular K-Dramas.
Exceptions to Netflix’s Release Time Rule
Some dramas may have batch releases (all episodes at once) or weekly drops depending on licensing agreements. For instance:
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A Time Called You – All episodes dropped at once.
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The Good Bad Mother – Released 2 episodes per week.
Always check the drama’s release format on the Netflix listing.
Final Thoughts
So, what time does Netflix release new episodes Korean drama? In most cases, it’s midnight PT, which converts to mid-afternoon or evening in many Asian countries. However, simulcast dramas may vary depending on the Korean broadcaster’s schedule.
To stay on top of your favorite shows, mark your calendar, use Netflix alerts, and follow trusted K-Drama news sources like NewKdrama.com.