Light Hearted

They say when you watch one Korean drama, you end up falling down the rabbit hole and becoming obsessed with watching more. That’s exactly what happened to me during the pandemic. I don’t even know who all the biggest stars in Korea are, but from my small sample, it seems that the Korean entertainment industry is growing by leaps and bounds.

It all started when I decided to watch the Netflix phenomenon, Squid Game. This thriller about people competing in deadly children’s games hooked me with its shocking violence and originality. The suspense and gripping storyline left me wanting more, and it was then that I realized I had entered the mesmerizing world of Korean dramas, or K-dramas for short.

Seeking something more lighthearted after the intense Squid Game, I found the charming small-town romance, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. Set in a coastal village, it introduced me to Korean culture through its depiction of a tight-knit community, delectable dishes like kimchi pancakes, and a slower-paced lifestyle. The picturesque settings and heartwarming storylines made me fall in love with K-dramas even more.

And as I delved deeper into this captivating world, I discovered the global phenomenon known as “Hallyu” or the “Korean Wave.” This term encompasses the worldwide spread of South Korean culture, from K-pop music to Korean cuisine, and most notably, Korean entertainment such as K-dramas and K-movies. It’s akin to the influence of Hollywood on a global scale, but with a distinctly Korean flavor.

Since then, I have watched a wide range of K-dramas spanning various genres:

1. My Name – A gritty action-packed drama about a woman who joins the police force to avenge her father’s murder. It’s dark, thrilling, and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
2. Extraordinary Attorney Woo – A quirky legal drama with a neurodiverse attorney as the lead character. Surprisingly heartwarming, it challenges stereotypes and delivers a unique perspective on the legal world.
3. Business Proposal – A classic K-drama rom-com filled with hijinks and fake relationships turning real. It’s a rollercoaster of fun, guaranteed to make you laugh and swoon.
4. Our Beloved Summer – A slice-of-life romance reuniting ex-lovers who made a viral documentary together years ago. It’s nostalgic, emotional, and will have you reminiscing about your own past loves.
5. Queenmaker – A gripping drama where a female politician schemes and manipulates behind the scenes to get her husband elected. Filled with intrigue and power struggles, it showcases the complexities of politics and human relationships.
6. Vincenzo – An Italian mafia lawyer returns to Korea and unleashes justice on villains with over-the-top antics and action. This drama blends humor, suspense, and intense action seamlessly.

What I love about K-dramas is the sheer range of genres they offer, from heart-pounding action to heartwarming rom-coms. The production values always feel fresh and creative, making every show a visual treat. One thing that stands out is the prevalence of strong, fierce female leads, which adds a refreshing dimension to the storytelling.

Having exhausted all the shows with English subtitles, I’m eager to find more to enjoy. If you have any K-drama recommendations, please let me know! I’d love to keep exploring everything Hallyu has to offer. And, if you’re ever looking for something new beyond your go-to American/British shows, join me down the addictive K-drama rabbit hole! There are so many creative stories waiting to be discovered, and the Korean entertainment industry is a treasure trove of captivating content.