Have you ever found yourself deeply frustrated after spending your precious time on scrutinizing Netflix's genre categories, only to ultimately fail in the endeavor and find nothing? Your go-to solution is probably re-watching your favorite series for the umpteenth time, but let me introduce a new answer: Kdramas.
Korean dramas are different than American soap operas and telenovelas, in comparison to their influence on consumerism and aesthetics. In conjunction to the Korean pop music industry, Korean dramas have a phenomenal grasp on fashion trends, food products, and new hobbies, as devoted viewers would do anything to feel like their favorite characters.
With multi-million dollar budgets, designer wardrobes, and episodes that can last as long as two hours, Korean dramas are cinematically beautiful and can be addicting to watch.
So head over to South Korea if you're Netflix queue is completely empty and you're willing to watch something new.
1. "You Who Came From The Stars" (2014)
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A cynical alien who has lived on Earth for 400 years falls in love with an erratic actress. This KDrama series became an international phenomenon, with thousands of devoted fans buying the same clothing, makeup, and food products that were seen in each episode.
2. "Producer" (2015)
This mockumentary-inspired drama follows a group of exhausted television producers and their respective conflicts with celebrities. The series pokes fun at South Korea's entertainment industry and the dominating business executives that control it.
3. "Age of Youth" (2016)
This is about a group of college students who are faced with personal turmoil and paralyzing trauma while living together. This heartwarming series is different from the average K-drama as it is two seasons long and is available on Netflix.
4. "Hotel King" (2014)
In this drama, a hotel manager and an heiress team up to solve the mystery behind her father's murder. Romance blossoms as the hotel manager is forced to protect the heiress from gang members and criminals.
5. "Dream High" (2011)
"Dream High" follows the lives of aspiring actresses and musicians, illustrating the relentless efforts of those who want to make it to the top. This drama is a combination of "Glee" and "Gossip Girl" with a soundtrack of classic pop tunes; perfect for any music lover.
6. "The Legend of the Blue Sea" (2016)
"The Legend of the Blue Sea" is a retelling of a classic Joseon legend about a fisherman who captures and releases a mystical mermaid. The drama takes place in the modern city of Seoul.
7. "Descendants of the Sun" (2016)
A gifted surgeon and an officer from the military fall in love in a war-torn country in this series. This drama is highly-acclaimed and won several television awards.
8. "Doctors" (2016)
This drama series depicts the personal story of a teenage gangster who transforms into a compassionate doctor, with the help of a beloved mentor.
9. "Boys Over Flowers" (2009)
In this show, a normal student wins a scholarship to a prestigious school after saving another student's life. The drama follows her social and romantic escapades among wealthy and powerful classmates.
10. "Uncontrollably Fond" (2016)
Two former lovers reconnect several years after a painful breakup in this pick. Both lead very different lifestyles and careers; one is a famous actor while the other works as a documentary filmmaker.
11. "Something in the Rain" (2018)
A busy career woman falls in love with the best friend of her little brother. The drama explores the unconventional nature of age-gap relationships.
