I absolutely adore the prospect of cosy movie nights during the holiday season. There’s nothing like kicking back after a day filled with festive activities and delving into movies that keep me laughing into the late hours—I wouldn’t trade that for anything. Typically, I’m all about the Hallmark Christmas classics or a timeless Grinch or Nutcracker tale, but this holiday, I’m venturing into uncharted territory with my newfound love: K-dramas.
My journey into the world of Korean Dramas, or K-dramas as the enthusiasts call them, has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. Like any cinematic creation from around the globe, K-dramas offer a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Korean culture, primarily that of South Korea. Given my limited travels, I relish the opportunity to live vicariously through films, immersing myself in different places, soaking in the culture, and picking up on the nuances of how people behave. When in Rome, right?
K-dramas have found their way into my life this year, and every single series I’ve watched has had me in a chokehold. From the romantic slow burn to the inevitable giddy feeling I get when the love interests finally get together, K dramas have that irreplicable sauce that is so hard to find in regular movies and series. It is a guilty pleasure.
So, if you’re on the lookout for series recommendations that go beyond the ordinary, with mind-bending plot twists to keep you on the edge of your seat this holiday season, here’s the scoop on the K-dramas that are becoming our go-to snuggle companions.
King The Land
I’m a sucker for the enemies-to-lovers romance trope, and “King The Land” nails it perfectly. This series delves deep into Korean culture, exploring the extravagant chaebol world and the gritty working-class life. Across 13 episodes, you’ll witness inheritance wars, workplace drama, forbidden romance, and the juicy scandal of dating someone way out of your class. It’s a rollercoaster ride through the social strata of South Korea.
Celebrity
Have you ever wondered about the influencer life? ‘Celebrity’ spills the tea on the Asian influencer/content creator grind, exposing the dark side of fame—creepy fans, opposition, and fake friendships. It’s a 12-part series that’ll make you question everything. If you’re into conspiracy theories and plot twists, it’s a must-watch.
Crash Course in Romance
Have you ever been stuck in extra math classes? Imagine South Korea’s study hustle. High schoolers grind day and night for the CSAT, juggling regular school, academies, and splurging on star teacher classes. “Crash Course in Romance” dives into family drama, supermoms, and the struggles of being a celeb with survivor’s guilt. It’s a 16-part culture shock—definitely worth a watch if you’re into relatable chaos.
Bloodhounds
As cinema adapts to the COVID-19 era, “Bloodhounds” throws us into the financial struggles of Koreans during this time. In this 8-part series it’s all about the shady world of loan sharks and the story of two people taking on the fight against evil. This crime thriller adds a touch of humour, capturing what it’s like to navigate life’s challenges with a friend while tackling a bigger battle. If you’re in the mood for a break from the lovey-dovey vibes of other K-dramas or just craving some thrilling action, “Bloodhounds” is the go-to pick.
A Time Called You
Picture losing your significant other in a plane crash. Just as you’re grappling with the loss, signs start surfacing that maybe, just maybe, they’re not gone. “A Time Called You” weaves a tale that’s part murder mystery, part romance. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of cliffhangers in this 12-part series. If you’re into the mind-bending world of time travel and all its possibilities, this one’s a must-watch.
One thing you should know about K-dramas.
Jumping into K-dramas is like committing to a marathon—they’re not short, with episodes ranging from 40 minutes to a full hour. These shows usually start a bit slow, laying the groundwork for the story. But hang in there because the payoff is totally worth it.
Thinking of giving K dramas a shot this holiday season? Drop a comment and let us know if you’re starting with our recommendations. Happy holidays and happy binge-watching!
