20 Hidden Gem International Crime Dramas on Netflix You Need to Discover Now

Netflix’s catalog is packed with gripping crime dramas from around the world, offering fresh perspectives and unique storytelling. From snowy Scandinavian mysteries to gritty urban thrillers, these shows deliver suspense and drama that deserve more attention.

I’ve put together a list of 20 international crime dramas on Netflix that fly under the radar but are well worth your time. These hidden gems, spanning countries and cultures, bring intense narratives and unforgettable characters to your screen.

20. My Name (2021)

This South Korean series follows Yoon Ji-woo, played by Han So-hee, a young woman seeking revenge for her father’s murder. She joins a crime syndicate and goes undercover as a police officer, leading to a tense, twist-filled journey.

The show’s fast-paced action and emotional depth make it a standout. Ji-woo’s struggle with loyalty and identity kept me hooked, though some plot twists feel a bit forced. It’s a thrilling ride for fans of double-agent stories.

19. Paranoid (2016)

A British-German collaboration, ‘Paranoid’ is set in the fictional UK town of Woodmere, where a doctor’s murder sparks a complex investigation. Indira Varma and Robert Glenister lead as detectives unraveling a conspiracy.

The mix of personal drama and crime-solving is engaging, but the pacing can drag in parts. I enjoyed the international flavor and character-driven story, making it a solid pick for a quick binge.

18. Aranyak (2021)

In this Indian series, Raveena Tandon stars as Kasturi Dogra, a cop in a Himalayan town investigating a tourist’s disappearance. The atmospheric setting and layered characters set it apart from typical crime dramas.

The show balances mystery with local politics, though some subplots feel rushed. I found the cultural nuances and Tandon’s performance compelling, perfect for viewers craving something different.

17. Beyond Evil (2021)

South Korea’s ‘Beyond Evil’ follows detectives Lee Dong-sik (Shin Ha-kyun) and Han Joo-won (Yeo Jin-goo) as they hunt a serial killer in a small town. The psychological depth and moral ambiguity echo classic thrillers.

The slow-burn pacing builds tension, but it demands patience. I was gripped by the complex characters and unexpected twists, making this a must for fans of dark, thoughtful crime stories.

16. Scoop (2023)

This Indian drama stars Karishma Tanna as Jagruti Pathak, a crime reporter accused of murdering a rival journalist. Based on Jigna Vora’s real-life story, it explores ambition and betrayal in Mumbai’s media world.

The series shines with its intense courtroom scenes, though some pacing issues arise. I loved Tanna’s nuanced performance, making it a gripping watch for true-crime fans.

15. The Break (2016-2018)

Belgium’s ‘The Break’ follows detective Yoann Peeters (Yoann Blanc) as he investigates a murder in a rural town. The moody Nordic noir style and psychological depth create a chilling atmosphere.

Some side plots feel underdeveloped, but the lead’s brooding performance kept me invested. It’s a great pick for fans of gritty, character-driven mysteries.

14. The Åre Murders (2023)

This Swedish series, based on Viveca Sten’s novels, centers on Hanna Ahlander investigating a woman’s disappearance in a snowy mountain town. The stunning landscapes and tight pacing make it binge-worthy.

The show occasionally leans on familiar tropes, but the setting and strong cast elevate it. I was drawn in by the eerie vibe and Hanna’s determination.

13. The Valhalla Murders (2019-2020)

Iceland’s ‘The Valhalla Murders’ follows detective Kata (Nína Dögg Filippusdóttir) investigating a series of brutal killings linked to a past crime. The cold, stark setting amplifies the suspense.

Some character arcs feel thin, but the central mystery is gripping. I found the slow unraveling of secrets perfect for a winter night’s binge.

12. The Chestnut Man (2021)

This Danish thriller tracks detectives Naia Thulin (Danica Curcic) and Mark Hess (Mikkel Boe Følsgaard) chasing a killer leaving chestnut figurines at crime scenes. It’s creepy and tightly plotted.

The show’s dark tone can feel heavy, but the twists kept me glued. I loved the unsettling atmosphere and strong performances, ideal for Nordic noir fans.

11. Young Wallander (2020-2022)

Sweden’s ‘Young Wallander’ reimagines Henning Mankell’s detective as a young cop, played by Adam Pålsson, tackling modern crimes. It blends classic detective work with contemporary issues.

Some fans of the original novels may find it too modernized, but I enjoyed the fresh take and Pålsson’s charisma. It’s a solid entry for procedural lovers.

10. The Serpent (2021)

This UK series dramatizes the real-life crimes of Charles Sobhraj (Tahar Rahim), a conman and murderer targeting tourists in 1970s Southeast Asia. Jenna Coleman co-stars as his accomplice.

The nonlinear storytelling can be confusing, but the period setting and Rahim’s chilling performance are captivating. I was hooked by the cat-and-mouse game with investigators.

9. Giri/Haji (2019)

This UK-Japanese drama follows detective Kenzo Mori (Takehiro Hira) traveling from Tokyo to London to find his brother, a Yakuza member tied to a murder. It blends crime and family drama.

The cultural clash and stylish visuals are highlights, though some subplots feel rushed. I loved the mix of action and emotion, making it a unique watch.

8. The Fall (2013-2016)

Set in Northern Ireland, ‘The Fall’ stars Gillian Anderson as a detective hunting serial killer Paul Spector (Jamie Dornan). The psychological tension between them drives the series.

Its slow pace might not suit everyone, but I found the cat-and-mouse dynamic riveting. Anderson’s steely performance makes this a standout.

7. Hinterland (2013-2016)

This Welsh series follows detective Tom Mathias (Richard Harrington) solving murders in the moody coastal town of Aberystwyth. The bleak setting and introspective lead create a haunting vibe.

Some cases feel formulaic, but the atmosphere and character depth kept me engaged. It’s perfect for fans of slow-burn procedurals.

6. Dicte (2013-2016)

Denmark’s ‘Dicte’ centers on crime reporter Dicte Svendsen (Iben Hjejle), who digs into cases while navigating personal struggles. Her bold personality and investigative drive shine.

The show balances crime and drama well, though some storylines are predictable. I enjoyed Dicte’s tenacity and the Danish setting.

5. Hotel Beau Séjour (2017-2021)

This Belgian series follows Kato (Lynn Van Royen), a teen who wakes up to find herself dead and investigates her own murder. The supernatural twist adds intrigue to the mystery.

Some pacing issues arise, but the unique premise kept me hooked. I loved the eerie tone and Kato’s determination to uncover the truth.

4. The Sniffer (2013-2017)

Ukraine’s ‘The Sniffer’ features Kirill Käro as a detective with an extraordinary sense of smell, solving crimes with his unique ability. It’s quirky yet gripping.

The gimmick could feel silly, but the strong cases and Käro’s performance make it work. I found it refreshingly original for crime fans.

3. Delhi Crime (2019-2022)

This Indian series, inspired by the 2012 Delhi gang rape case, follows Deputy Commissioner Vartika Chaturvedi (Shefali Shah) as she leads a high-stakes investigation. It’s raw and powerful.

The heavy subject matter is tough, but Shah’s commanding performance and the realistic storytelling gripped me. It’s a must-watch for true-crime fans.

2. Ganglands (2021-2022)

France’s ‘Ganglands’ follows heist expert Mehdi (Sami Bouajila) and his crew navigating a brutal crime world. The fast-paced action and gritty Brussels setting deliver thrills.

Some characters lack depth, but the intense shootouts and betrayals kept me on edge. I loved the high-stakes energy for action-crime fans.

1. Informa (2023)

Japan’s ‘Informa’ follows a tabloid reporter (Kenta Kiritani) working with a former Yakuza informant to uncover scandals. The blend of crime and media intrigue is fresh and engaging.

The pacing is tight, and the moral dilemmas add depth. I was drawn in by the unique perspective and sharp storytelling, making it my top pick.

Which of these international crime dramas are you adding to your watchlist, or did I miss a hidden gem you love? Share your picks in the comments!