Is K-Drama Obsession Real? Let’s Discuss 2021’s Drama So Far.

K-drama:

• reflects South Korean culture and language;
• depicts a heartwarming tale;
• describes day to day life;
• have catchy OST;
• has amazing plots and sub-plots;
• bundles life lessons in amusing ways;
• we can’t forget the second lead syndrome;
• last but not the least, we can’t overlook the supernatural & fantasy based dramas.

 Are you obsessed with K-drama? So am I! I got exposed to k-drama back in 2012 scrolling through the Facebook feed (good old days), and the rest is history. We are obsessed because, first of all, the series/drama consist of 16 episodes approx.  in which each episode is 1hr long. This way the story is short with amazing twists and turns; and can easily grab the attention of the viewers. Secondly, it is a great way to escape from realities. The viewers build an instant connection with the characters and get engrossed in those personalities, eager to learn more about them. Thirdly, the drama showcases everyday life with ordinary people, the plots are light-hearted, inspire the viewers with life lessons, the k-drama fashion, and obviously the OST. Lastly, all dramas aren’t just fantasy-based, various genres like social injustice, poverty, corruption, wartime conflicts, psychological trauma, the difficulty of moving away from childhood, homophobia, etc. are also enjoyed by the viewers.

Through the years we have seen the development in the genres of the K- drama. Korean dramas have become a popular subculture among young adults. The Hallyu (Korean wave), which includes other cultural exports such as K-pop, K-beauty, and Korean cuisine; led to the expansion and popularizing the content among Gen Z and millennials. Not only this, it is also because of the broad availability of these dramas via streaming sites that frequently include subtitles in many languages that led to connect audiences from all around the world.

Again, various social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram led the viewers to know more about the Korean actors and actresses. Lee Minho, Kim Soo Hyun, Jun Ji Hyun, Hyun Bin, Lee Young Ae, Jo In Sung, Yoo Ah In, Lee Jong Suk, Song Joong Ki, Ha Ji Won, Choi Ji Woo, Song Hye Kyo, Ji Chang Wook, Kim Tae Hee, Gong Hyo Jin, Shin Min Ah, Park Bo Young, Park Shin Hye, Moon Chae Won are some of the popular celebrity.

Here are some of my recommendations:

1.VINCENZO (2021): I become aware that the popularity of an actor can influence the creation or viewing of the drama. There are well-established characters and appealing plots, and the director and writer did an excellent job. Despite the fact that the mafia plot is confusing and implausible, the actors did a wonderful job in their part. I like the dark humor and the references they used from other dramas. The female lead performed admirably, although she was also annoying at times. Unlike most female characters, she stood for herself and did what was right.

2. DOOM AT YOUR SERVICE (2021): Drama has a fantastic cast, Park Bo Young and Seo In Guk have great chemistry together. The second lead’s storyline was more captivating for me than the main lead's. The plot goes in a circle and in one point it becomes boring. The story becomes really predictable at the end. Nonetheless, if you are into love or supernatural stories, go give it a watch.

3. HOSPITAL PLAYLIST 2 (2021): I have been following this drama since season 1. It is a very well-written and well-phased drama. I liked the fact that every character has their own back story and everything is balanced according to their story. The bonding and relationship among the leads are worth noticing and pleasing to watch. This is one of the dramas that I am enjoying watching.

4. Taxi driver (2021): This is one of the best dramas of the year 2021. This drama depicts labor, workplace abuse, pornography, mental health, and organ trafficking. The drama exposes the criminal justice system that somehow protects criminals. If you are into a crime drama, a Taxi driver is the must-watch.

5. THE DEVIL JUDGE (2021): This is an ongoing series with an intense storyline. The story is set in dystopian Korea where injustice and innocent being punished are common. The selection of characters is on point and the script is well written. I highly recommend this drama.