New Delhi: From enchanting slow-burn romances to spine-chilling thrillers with quite a few plot twists, from heartwarming slice-of-life narratives to uproarious comedies, historic epics, and apocalyptic tales, K-dramas are a treasure trove that retains on giving. The irresistible attract of South Korean content material has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Storylines and narratives are fervently mentioned throughout social media platforms, and the burgeoning fan golf equipment of South Korean stars worldwide bear witness to the worldwide enchantment of this content material. As K-pop and K-dramas ascend to prominence on the worldwide leisure stage, not solely do they dominate viewing charts, however in addition they obtain historic victories.
According to actor Lim Se Mi (identified for Duty After School and True Beauty), the individuality of Korean content material stems from the nation’s socio-political historical past. “Korea is a divided country with a history of enduring pain, solidarity, survival, and endeavour. The passionate, fiery moments from trying to survive and protect what we have are melted into our works, making them special to the world.”
Moving away from melodramatic and formulaic storytelling, K-dramas strike a steadiness between originality and comforting predictability. While exploring acquainted themes like love, household, friendships, and societal struggles, these exhibits fearlessly delve into delicate and essential matters, resonating with a common viewers.
India-based creator Kiran Manral, who began watching K-dramas throughout the 2020 lockdown, expresses her fascination with the nuanced storytelling and its reflection on societal points. “My first K-drama was ‘Something In The Rain’; it was such a fabulous drama. After that, I never stepped out of the K-drama rabbit hole. I love their storytelling, especially how the dramas are written from a female gaze—it’s very gentle viewing.”
For many viewers, particularly girls, the predominance of the feminine gaze in K-dramas strikes a chord. The feminine perspective takes centre stage, with well-developed and nuanced portrayals of feminine characters. Successful feminine screenwriters just like the Hong Sisters, Kim Eun Sun, and Park Hye Run have carved a distinct segment for themselves within the South Korean tv business.
In the United States, Alisa Rivera, a author and communications guide, began the Daebak! podcast with a gaggle of K-drama fans, highlighting the worldwide enchantment of Korean storytelling. “Korean content was the perfect escape from the COVID lockdown reality. The storytelling was unabashedly emotional, and as a woman, it was incredibly gratifying to see gorgeous men as eye candy in a way that never happens in Western shows.”
Korean Pop Culture author Regina Kim says (*3*).
K-dramas turned catalysts for conversations, transcending geographical boundaries and language obstacles, and fostering a robust community of fans. From on-line chats to WhatsApp teams, drama golf equipment, podcasts, and video content material devoted to Korean music, meals, magnificence, and style, the impression of K-dramas on world popular culture is clear.
Italian journalist and creator Marianna Baroli attributes her initiation into the K-drama universe to “Boys Over Flowers.” In Italy, the fandom for K-dramas exploded earlier than the lockdown, providing a refreshing different to repetitive homegrown exhibits. Baroli appreciates the well-made productions, compelling storylines, and the romanticized portrayal of affection and relationships.
From the award-winning “Squid Game” to exhibits specializing in psychological well being like “It’s Okay To Be Not Okay” and societal points just like the hyper-competitive instructional system in “Sky Castle,” K-dramas sort out various themes. The selection, mixed with partaking and dynamic storylines, character growth, and family-friendly content material, contributes to the widespread recognition of K-dramas globally.
In 2023, Netflix’s announcement to take a position $2.5 billion in South Korea underscores the platform’s dedication to Korean content material. Korean-made content material maintains a stronghold on audiences throughout Asia, comprising 50% of subscription-on-demand viewership and 42% of freemium viewership.
India topped the checklist of being one of many largest shoppers and has witnessed practically a 400 per cent rise within the consumption of K content material. As per Facebook analytics, there are over 17 million shoppers of Korean content material in India. Streaming of K Pop, K Dramas, K magnificence and K Food in addition to learning Korean are excessive on the radar of Indians. Korean has additionally been adopted as a second elective language in Indian faculties.
Seung Jung, Kang says “As a Korean residing in India actively engaged in teaching the Korean language through I-Kets, I’ve observed a remarkable surge in interest and affection for various facets of Korean culture, including K-drama, K-pop, cuisine, and more. The burgeoning popularity of Korean content has sparked genuine curiosity among learners, leading to a heightened enthusiasm for mastering the Korean language. The cultural exchange facilitated through language education and interpersonal interactions has evolved into a meaningful bridge, fostering a profound appreciation for Korea’s rich heritage and contemporary contributions within the Indian community.”
When BTS member Jungkook’s impromptu Natu Natu “performance on his live show clocked in 16 million views in real-time. K-pop group Great Guys has put out segments dancing to Shahrukh Khan’s popular hits. Popular Korean stars such as Ji Chang Wook, Park Hyung Sik, Lee You Mi, and Shin Hye Sun have confessed to being fans of Rajkumar Hiran’s Three Idiots, which was an all-time hit in S Korea. Indian Curry which was mentioned in the show “Yumi’s Cells’ ‘ reiterated the popularity of Indian food. Vincenzo actor Jeon Yeo Been says “I like curry with various types of Indian bread. I enjoy drinking chai, too. I would love to visit India when given the chance”. Business Proposal actor Kim Sejeong says “The uniqueness of Bollywood films has always interested me, so if the opportunity arises, I would love to be a part of Bollywood movies as well.”
K-pop singer Woojin not too long ago carried out in India, and Eric Nam is all set to carry out subsequent 12 months in India together with K-Pop group “ The Rose”. South Korea has turn out to be the epitome of soppy energy, with Korean stars and idols commanding consideration past the nation’s borders. The Hallyu Wave continues to achieve momentum, with South Korean entertainers serving as ambassadors for high-end manufacturers, headlining prestigious occasions, and fascinating world audiences via sold-out live shows and fan meets.
