Category: K-DRAMA

4 Reasons to Watch the Fantastic “Nevertheless” on Netflix

2021 has offered a variety of unforgettable K-dramas, especially Nevertheless. Together, let’s check out four reasons to watch Nevertheless on Netflix!

But as a disclaimer, there might be some spoilers!

“Nevertheless” a 2021 K-Drama

Image Source

This highly-anticipated Korean drama aired on JTBC and began streaming on Netflix on June 19, 2021. Nevertheless shares the perspective of Yoo Nabi (Han So Hee), an art student in her final year of university. She doesn’t believe in love anymore, especially after being completely heartbroken from her first love. However, meeting Park Jae Eon (Song Kang) sparks something new inside her heart. The two become closer and life becomes quite interesting… Until Yoo Nabi’s childhood friend, Yang Do Hyeok (Chae Jong Hyeop) enters the picture—the guy who’s loved her since the beginning! So now, let’s dive right into the four reasons to watch Nevertheless on Netflix.

Amazing On and Off-Screen Chemistry

On screen, Yoo Nabi and Park Jae Eon share amazing chemistry, even from the moment they first meet. Their cute and flirtatious banter creates an inviting and swoon-worthy experience for fans as they cheer for this couple. Of course, the alluring on-screen chemistry doesn’t stop there! Off-screen, Han So Hee and Song Kang exhibit the cutest chemistry, especially behind the scenes in between shoots.

Watch this adorable behind-the-scenes video:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2EHHdlaCgU[/embedyt]

You’ll be wondering if it’s all entirely acting, from the natural flirting to the cute laughs they share! Off-screen, you can tell that Han So Hee and Song Kang are pretty comfortable with each other. Not to mention they’re the same exact age! If this isn’t a great reason to watch Nevertheless on Netflix already, then I don’t know what is!

The Inevitable Love Triangle

As Yoo Nabi’s past and present lives collide, she finds herself in an inevitable love triangle. When Park Jae Eon and Yang Do Hyeok finally cross paths, it makes it more challenging for Yoo Nabi to decide who she likes more. Flirty and smooth Park Jae Eon? Or kind-hearted and sweet Yang Do Hyeok? Honestly if I were her, I wouldn’t know who to choose, either! What are your thoughts?

The Young Cast

Follow the cast on Instagram @xeesoxee @songkang_b @chaejh_ @hazzisss @holly608 @yoonseoah_

Another amazing reason to watch Nevertheless is because of the young cast. This drama introduces many new actors and actresses that are either new to the industry, or have recently started out. Since many of them are around the same age, it also builds a comfortable environment on set. Song Kang even admits it’s been a while since he could act with people his age during the script reading. However, that’s what makes this particular K-drama that much more special! They’re able to build a bond that’s amazing on screen and off. When the camera is rolling, their jobs are a lot easier when they can act more naturally and enjoy themselves within the scene.

Watch the video from the script reading session below (with English subtitles)!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7Rl6rhoJ_M[/embedyt]

Breakthrough Roles

Courtesy of @holly608 on Instagram

Through this remarkable drama, most of the cast members have found their breakthrough roles. We begin watching for Han So Hee and Song Kang, but we leave enjoying the performances from the others! Yang Hye Ji became well known for her role as Oh Bitna, Yoo Nabi’s best friend. Fans quickly fell in love with her charm, sassiness, and her carefree personality. Lee Ho Jung, who plays Yoon Sol, also gained a lot of popularity. She not only portrayed a complicated character, but she also carefully studied her role to perform it in the best way possible.

Even Han So Hee and Song Kang have been rising to fame, especially throughout 2020 and 2021!

The Original Soundtrack

The artists featured on the original soundtrack for Nevertheless—similarly to the young cast—are new, yet super talented! From Sam Kim to RIO, this OST will give you all of the feels. Many of the songs on this original soundtrack are quite versatile: some are upbeat, while some are slower. And what’s interesting is that all of these songs illustrate the feelings and emotions Yoo Nabi experiences throughout the drama! This OST also has a range of songs in English, Korean, and a mixture of both.

Even if it’s sung in a language you may not understand, the singer’s voice holds so much emotion—you won’t regret listening! This is also an incredible reason to watch Nevertheless. It makes you feel like you’re living in Yoo Nabi’s world along with her!

You can find the playlist below to listen to this beautiful OST!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/embed?listType=playlist&list=PLX3cI5NYkjAgHIPPUJk09pQhR40Q1NTiB[/embedyt]

Directed by a Woman

Courtesy of JTBC

One of my favorite reasons to watch Nevertheless is because it’s directed by a woman! Many Korean dramas in this industry are mostly directed by men. Although their dramas are also amazing, it’s refreshing to see more female directors creating their own pieces of art! The director for Nevertheless is Kim Ga Ram, who takes on a new perspective while filming her drama. The way she introduces her characters in this drama is realistic.

If you’re a huge fan of K-dramas, you’ve probably seen the many tropes that are quite unrealistic. Things that’ll make you say, “that doesn’t happen in real life!” However, Director Kim makes sure to work closely with the actors and actresses to perform accurate portrayals. Especially when it comes to romance and university life!

*Spoilers ahead*

Kim Ga Ram also touches upon topics that are not often talked about or exhibited in Korean dramas as much. This includes having two female characters falling in love with each other, which is an incredible way of representing the LGBT community.

Courtesy of The Swoon

The love triangle between Yoo Nabi, Park Jae Eon, and Yang Do Hyeok is an important element to Nevertheless. Many fans also fell in love with the story between Yoon Sol (Lee Ho Jung) and Seo Jiwan (Yoon Seo Ah). The more you get to learn about their reciprocated love for each other, the more you’ll cheer them on!

4 Reasons to Watch Nevertheless

So there you have it: four reasons to watch Nevertheless on Netflix! From the electrifying chemistry, the talented young cast, beautifully sung OST, to Director Kim Ga Ram, Nevertheless is such an admirable K-drama!

Have you enjoyed reading about Nevertheless on Netflix? Let us know!

Read next: “The 7 Top Rated Viki Original Series to Binge-Watch” for more K-drama suggestions!

October 18, 2021
Mr. Queen K-drama – 4 Reasons To Watch This Amazing Drama

Mr. Queen is a K-drama that aired from December 12, 2020 to February 14, 2021 on tvN (Total Variety Network) every Saturday and Sunday. This drama is also available on Rakuten Viki with 20 episodes and with extra 2 episodes. It was directed by Yoon Sung-sik, it stars Shin Hye-sun as the Queen and Kim Jung-Hyun as the King of the Joseon era. This series takes you back to the Joseon period, it’s a funny historical drama that has to be in your watchlist and will surely not make you bore. So now we will give you 4 reasons to watch Mr. Queen K-drama:

1. Well written unique plot – Mr. Queen

Image Source: soompi.com

The story begins with a modern age chef Jang Bong-Hwan (Choi Jin Hyuk) who works in the Blue House (South Korean Presidential residence). He meets with an accident and his soul time travels in the past in a historical period during Joseon era and then gets trapped in the body of Queen Cheorin (Shin Hye-sun). But how he manages in the palace and lives according to the traditions but with bad royal etiquettes during that time is so fun to watch.

Actors’ performances in Mr. Queen

Image Source: soompi.com

The cast and their performances are one of the main highlights of Mr. Queen. Their performances makes the drama more interesting.

Though Choi Jin Hyuk had little screen presence but his character as the chef and how his soul time travels is the main highlight of the story, as through his character we get to know about the story and politics in Mr. Queen K-drama.

Shin Hye-sun as Queen Cheorin is literally amazing to watch. She is the main hero of this drama. Her funny behavior and antics will make you laugh a lot. How her behavior changes when Bong-Hwan soul comes inside her and how she performs and behaves the way he does is surely remarkable.

Kim Jung-Hwan as King Cheoljong is pleasant to watch. His characterization from beginning to the end is one of the main highlights. This is the first time where the actor has played a historical character. The way he has portrayed emotions and aggression on the screen will make you like him so much.

Along with them, the supporting actors performances cannot and should not be forgotten. They may be supporting, but their characters have huge impact. Bae Jong-ok as Grand Queen Dowager and Kim Tae-woo as Kim Jwa-Geun, Grand Queen Dowager’s younger brother will make you love and hate them at the same time. Same goes with Na In-woo as Kim Byeong-in, the adopted son of Kim Jwa-Geun and adopted cousin of the Queen Cheorin has many layered characters, you will love, hate and sympathize with him a lot.

Drama with amazing twists

This drama is historical, thrilling, mysterious and funny at the same time. In one scene you will be on the edge of your seat and in another you will be laughing uncontrollably.

Mr. Queen K-drama is not a regular historical drama, it has many unexpected twists that will leave you in splits. It’s a historical drama with family politics. Power and egos are always the main features of any historical dramas. How some characters later on change and play their games, you would have never thought.

2. Historical drama with great humor

Image Source: soompi.com

Despite being a historical drama, it has ‘n’ number of funny scenes. Who would have thought a historical drama will have humorous scenes and characters. There are many characters who are supporting ones but without their funny antics and roles is not possible to watch the drama. As form of duos and trios these characters have made viewers tickled their bone. Not to forget to mention the main Queen being part of it.

Main Actress’ funny antics in Mr. Queen

From beginning to the end, this drama had many hilarious scenes, though it had some serious scenes obviously it’s a K-drama you need to have everything in it.

Image Source: Pinterest

Court Lady Choi (Cha Chung Hwa) and Hong Yeon (Chae Seo Eun) both were loyal people who served and helped the Queen in all the situations. But Court Lady Choi’s, her way of nagging the Queen and Queen’s funny conversations with both Hong Yeon and Lady Choi are one of the main attractions of the drama. Shin Hye-Sun is the most funny thing you will see in Mr. Queen. Her dialogues, the way of talking to the other characters, especially with the King, her behavior and her funny expressions will make you laugh and also will make you fall in love with her.

One of the main funny scenes of Shin Hye-Sun with Court Lady Choi and Hong Yeon is her twerking. Check this funny video to see:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQyC1wZmFes[/embedyt]

3. Amazing bond between the actors – Mr. Queen

Chemistry between male and female lead

Image Source: soompi

Well you will surely fall in love with Kim Jung-Hyun and Shin Hye-Sun’s chemistry. Not only their romantic chemistry but their funny scenes together are just amazing to watch. The way their characters shared emotions and love with each other will make you move.

Kim Jung-Hyun and Shin Hye-Sun’s chemistry is not only amazing to watch on-screen but off-screen as well. The way they bonded on the sets, their funny moments with each other behind the scenes are so cute to watch.

Image Source: kepoper

Bonding among the star casts and their characters on-screen and off-screen

On-screen bonding

Court Lady Choi (Cha Chung Hwa) and Hong Yeon (Chae Seo Eun) both were loyal people towards the Queen in all the situations. Despite Queen’s different behavior because of the souls exchange they stayed patient and always stood with her in all the circumstances.

Even after Bong Hwan’s soul gets trapped in Queen’s body, it doesn’t make him to resist his cooking skills. He or the Queen enters the royal kitchen where he meets Royal Chef Man Bok (Kim In-Kwon). Initially the royal chef keeps on taunting her but soon later on he starts liking and respecting the Queen. Their dialogues, their love and hate relationship will make you laugh and love at the same time.

Image Source: kdramapal

King Cheoljong’s bonding with his older brother Prince Yeongpyeong (Yoo Min-kyu) and best friend Hong Byeol-gam (Lee Jae-won) are also one of the main characters who bonded well in the drama. Both of them were support system of King Cheoljong and stood by him in all the situations.

Image Source: soompi

Off-screen bonding

Well, you should not miss their off-screen bonding and funny moments. Their relation with each other is not only visible on-screen, but off-screen as well.

Check here to see the funny and behind the scenes video of the casts:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQm9tvvVQ44[/embedyt]

4. 7th highest rated drama in Korean cable television history

Controversial yet popular

This drama faced lot of controversies as some claimed they made fun of Joseon period dynasty and insulted King and Queen of the era. Some also demanded to ban the series. Despite these issues faced by the makers, the drama went on to become one of the popular Korean dramas. It is the 7th highest rated drama in Korean cable television history and has 8.8 IMDb rating as well.

It still received praises and appreciation from critics and viewers despite some people petitioning against the drama.

Popular in abroad

Mr. Queen has garnered many fans across the globe. People from other countries have praised and loved the drama a lot. Many fans globally have also demanded season 2 of the drama.

Pinkvilla is an Indian online entertainment website, that mostly posts articles and interviews of Indian actors and actresses and also sometimes post Hollywood celebrities articles. But surprisingly they interviewed one of the main actors of Mr. Queen Na In-woo who played the role of Kim Byeong-In, cousin of Queen Cheorin. Here is the video to check out *Spoiler alert* :

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4K027sG6A0I[/embedyt]

Why is Mr. Queen worth watching drama?

So, these are the 4 reasons why Mr. Queen K-drama should be in your watchlist. These reasons will surely convince you to watch this drama. It is entertaining, not at all boring, full of funny scenes, family politics, also interesting antagonists, bonding among the star casts and chemistry between the male and female lead are highlights of Mr. Queen. Therefore, don’t waste your time, go and watch this amazing drama.

You can also check out some amazing couples in K-dramas with great off-screen chemistry, click here 5-couples-in-k-dramas-with-amazing-off-screen-chemistry to see.

Or watch other amazing K-dramas that you should not miss in 2020 here:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjVkgdiReME[/embedyt]

October 1, 2021
4 Reasons “Squid Game” is so Successful

Being the first Korean drama to rank number one on Netflix, the South Korean survival game show, Squid Game, has taken the world by storm. Once Squid Game was released globally on Netflix, it quickly ascended to one of the Top 10 spots on the chart. Now, the record-breaking series has claimed “the most popular Netflix series” throne in over 20 regions. According to The Korea Times, Squid Game is now ranked number one overall on the global Netflix chart.

So, how do we account for the show’s instant popularity and success?

*Spoiler Alert: I’ve restrained myself from not spoiling too much. But if you are the kind of person who prefers not knowing anything before watching something, watch the series first then come back!

About Squid Game…

Image Source

The nine-episode thriller, Squid Game, is written and directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk. It stars Lee Jung-jae (Seong Gi-hun), Park Hae-soo (Cho Sang-woo), Wi Ha-joon (Hwang Jun-ho), and HoYeon Jung (Kang Sae-byeok) as the main characters. All episodes of Squid Game were released at once on September 17, 2021.

Squid Game: Survival V.S Humanity

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqxAJKy0ii4[/embedyt]

Are you willing to risk your life for 45.6 billion dollars?

Taking place in modern-day South Korea, the story begins by introducing us to the gambling addict lead Gi-hun. Out of desperation, he agrees to participate in a mysterious game.

At the beginning, he has no idea what traumatizing torment is waiting ahead for him. After getting kidnapped and waking up in a room with 456 other people, who were also lured into the game, he (and we) soon find out that this supposedly fun “game” is actually a life-or-death competition – like the Hunger Games.

Being in destitute, they are driven into a corner. These people have no choice but to continue being in this brutal game for the money prize of USD $39 million. Winner takes all.

1. Intriguing Premise

Image Source

“45.6 Billion is Child’s Play.”
Tagline of Squid Game

Right off the bat, the tagline of Squid Game already piques our interest. The entire show is based on the premise that a childhood game – something so innocent and representative of a happy memory – is turned into a killing “game” for money and freedom. A large group of society’s outcasts being thrown into a battleground willingly.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqzy_XekzDs[/embedyt]

Kick starting the whole series is a black and white shot of some kids playing the “squid game” in a squid-shaped playground while the adult man’s voice-over is explaining the rules of this kid’s game. After seeing the Squid Game poster of a dead man being dragged across the squid, and now the opening scene, it’s confusing. These two contrasting images being meshed together is very disturbing and distorted, but also weirdly refreshing. The premise and opening alone are enough to draw us in.

2. Alluring Aesthetics

Image Source: Netflix

The next step in creating a successful show is to keep us hooked. The outlook of a film or a show is the first thing we notice and the first thing that attracts us. I got to say, Dong-hyuk and the crews in charge of the visual/aural aspects of Squid Game deserve a standing ovation. The overall aesthetic of this series is very out there. Everything is bright and childlike – out of place with the dark storyline. They have also done a brilliant job in putting all of the visual and aural elements together.

Gory and Graphic Scenes

Image Source

Visual violence, aka some gore, goes hand-in-hand with the chilling storyline. Fair warning: this series is violent and, for some scenes, blood and guts are shown. The players are eliminated in an almost animated way. Some movies and shows would intentionally (but unnecessarily) overdo the goriness of their work to attract more viewers. But the violence added eventually loses its meaning and purpose.

Image Source

However, Squid Game achieves the perfect balance. The balance of presenting gory scenes that effectively create an even scarier visceral experience. But not on a make-us-throw-up level. For example, having blood sprayed across a bright and colorful room designed for kids, as the masked staff mercilessly shoot the failed players, is almost poetic rather than disgusting.

Also, they sprinkle the perfect amount of close-ups of the victims throughout the show. Most of the time, the elimination process happens super quickly. Or we only hear the gunshot sound or even just the events leading up to the gruesome death. In that case, we could imagine their death, and I think that’s even more appalling.

A good thriller and horror film never needs over-the-top grisly scenes to send chills down their audience’s spine and leave an impression.

Out of place Music

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9NQYKv2rTg[/embedyt]

Weird song but I don’t why I loved it. It is one of the OSTs in Squid Game. If you’ve watched the series already, the background music probably stood out. There’s something about horror movies and shows with calming or quirky music.It intensifies the whole scary vibes.

The background music played at the beginning (when the kids are playing the squid game), is similar to the music used when the adults are playing the games – but just a bit deadlier. It is like a psychopath is torturing their victim while listening to Butter by BTS but on a larger extent (just as a side note, feel free to check out our blog about Butter!) Therefore, I would say another reason for Squid Game‘s success is the genius combination of the top-notch graphics with contradicting music.

Together, we get a terrifying viewing experience.

3. Mind-Blowing Plot

Only having a fantastic aesthetic is not enough for a show to reach the top. You also need an outstanding and bold story to make an impression. There are too many good thrillers out there, so you really need something special for yours to stand out. Squid Game obviously has done something right.

Tense and Twisted Storyline

Image Source

I’m not lying when I say watching the games had me on the edge of my bed the whole time (I was even late to class once because I was so incredibly invested in the show). Who would have thought a childhood game could actually cost you your life? And who would have thought such a simple game could turn into a sadistic, tortuous nightmare? You don’t get a second “life” (chance) in this game. The minute you fail, you are eliminated, no negotiation and no exception. Each game is more messed up than the previous one, forcing the players to make cut-throat decisions in limited time.

Pulls on Your Heartstrings

Image Source

The writer sure knows which button to push to make our hearts ache. The sickest part of the show does not lie in the games themselves, but in the players’ behaviors. What would you do to survive? Apparently, these participants would do literally everything to get through the games and bring home the cash.

Sometimes, the bloody scenes are not as painful to watch than the heartbreaking ones. We see the nicest and kindest people become monsters. So, the game creator is essentially putting over 450 starving beasts in a cage, and the fittest might just be the last man standing.

However, we also can’t help but sympathize or empathize with these characters as we get to know their stories. Since every player is a marginalized member of society, they are at the bottom-tier of the hierarchy. They seem to be stuck at perpetual suffering just because they have no money. We get to see how their own lives push them over the edge. Because joining the squid game is honestly no different than committing suicide.

We also see relationships and connections being forged during the contest. Yet, also, quickly ruined and destroyed in the process.

4. A Grim but Dead-on Social Satire

Image Source

The last and most significant component in making a masterpiece is the impact it has on us, the audience. In other words, did the show make us think? Did the show make us reflect on our lives? Did it open up a new perspective on the society we live in? Squid Game is hands down the bleakest show I’ve ever seen. It gives a dead-on take of our society and unveils human nature, almost like the award-winning Korean movie Parasite (2019) – feel free to check out our blog about Parasite’s director, Bong Joon-Ho!

“Out there, I don’t stand a chance. But I do in here.”
Squid Game Season 1 Episode 2

Unlike the other survival movies and series, the players are all thrown into the arena voluntarily in Squid Game – that’s the saddest part. They chose to be there, risking their own lives along with the others’. Because, believe it or not, being in the diabolical hunger games is not as bad as being out in the dog-eat-dog capitalist society where dreams are crushed.

Image Source: Netflix

“Equality. Everyone is equal while they play this game. Here, the players get to play a fair game under the same conditions. Those people suffered from inequality and discrimination out in the world, and we’re giving them the last chance to fight fair and win.”
Squid Game Season 1 Episode 5

Quoted from the “Front Man,” who seems to be the person in charge of the game, as he shot the staff that “breaks the rules.” Society is full of injustice and inequality. But the game creator makes sure this game is played fairly so all the players can have an equal shot at winning. Ironically, this suicide game is better than the real world.

Humanity is seen at its fullest on Squid Game. It’s disturbing to see what human beings are capable of doing in times of crisis. As the cash prize increases when more people get eliminated, we get to witness how ugly things could get.

Is Squid Game Worth Watching?

Yes. With zero hesitation. It’s such a thought-provoking show with a lot of hidden meanings. There is only one winner in this game. But are they truly a winner? Having all that money after indirectly murdering and witnessing the tragic death of 455 other people, is it worth it? All that wealth symbolizes the countless deaths and will forever act as an excruciating reminder.

The question for you now is: if you were crowned the winner of this squid game, would you be able to enjoy the blood money you’ve won? It seems to be a great opportunity for these marginalized people to fight in a fair game, but I think their lives are already over the minute they stepped into the arena.

Watch it now on Netflix!

Watch Squid Game Right Now!

It’s approaching Halloween, if you want a horror-themed movie marathon after finishing Squid Game, definitely go check out the other blog post we have – Top 6 Korean Horror Movies that Guarantee You Nightmares!. But if you are interested in knowing more about Korean movies and dramas in general, feel free to head to our drama or movie blog page !

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRTahgD5HX4[/embedyt]

September 30, 2021
The 7 Top Rated Viki Original Series to Binge-Watch

As Korean dramas continue to grow exponentially in popularity—especially internationally—different streaming platforms have begun creating their own. Much like how Netflix has its own “original series,” many Asian-content streaming services have done the same. Viki, one of the most popular places to watch all things Asian media—including Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and Taiwanese films and dramas—began releasing their own original content not that long ago. Known as Viki Original series, these dramas vary in content of all kinds.

From your typical cheesy romance to heart-gripping action dramas, Viki produces original series that will keep you captivated the entire time. Rather than flipping through page after page of Viki’s list of Viki Originals, here are the top seven, highest-rated Viki Original series that you seriously need to watch.

Viki Original Series: the Process Used to Make this List

Just so we’re all on the same page, I’ll explain a bit how this list came about. Firstly, Viki has a curated list of “all” their Viki Originals. I say “all” with quotation marks because they haven’t updated the list for a little while, so I had to find many of them from the comments!

Image Source

While scouring through the list, you’ll see that each drama has a rating (up to ten) and the number of ratings given. I wrote down all fifty-two Korean Viki Original Series that I found, their ratings, and the number of ratings given.

From here, I started crossing out the dramas with the lowest ratings (there were a few in the eights and even one with a 7.9 rating). After that, I removed dramas that had less than 10,000 ratings—as this would skew the rating itself because of the lower number. For example, there was a drama with a 9.6 rating but only 789 ratings given. Compared to other dramas, some of which had over 30,000 ratings, this 9.6 felt a little biased still.

Lastly, I started from the highest ranking and went done. And bam! I had all seven dramas chosen.

The Top 7 Highest-Rated Viki Original Series

K-Dramas Rated 9.6/10

To start off this list, we’ll begin with those rated 9.6! This was the highest rating throughout the Viki Original series. And there were only a small number of them, so you know these are beyond good!

1. Thirty But Seventeen (2018)

Image Source

This 2018 Korean drama explores the way sudden changes in life can bring difficulties. Woo Seo-ri, a seventeen-year-old violin prodigy, is left in a coma after a serious car accident. Gong Woo-jin, who caused the accident, is guilt-ridden and traumatized from the event. He closes himself off and tries to keep to himself as best he can.

When Seo-ri wakes up again thirteen years later, she’s in limbo of thinking like a seventeen-year-old but living in a thirty-year-old body. Woo-jin tries to help her learn to adjust in this new life.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYA81HKz-SI[/embedyt]

This drama has a total of thirty-two episodes. And it is marked as a Romantic Comedy and Crime/Mystery drama. So there’s far more beneath the surface of this one! You’ll need to be prepared for anything it throws your way.

On Viki, this Original Series earned its 9.6 with a total of 73,000+ ratings thus far. This is one of the highest numbers of ratings for these original series, so you know this drama has gotten its 9.6 fair and square. You can watch this drama on Viki here.

2. Where Your Eyes Linger (2020)

Image Source

In recent years, Viki has started creating Korean dramas in the boy-love (or BL) category. While Asian BL dramas aren’t that uncommon—Thailand is especially known for producing plenty of high-quality BL dramas—Korea itself hasn’t dived into that category quite as much. In fact, there were hardly any you could find a few years ago.

Where Your Eyes Linger is one of the first Korean BL Viki Original Series to come out in 2020. It brought a massive influx of viewers and gained over 34,000 ratings. This amount of viewership brought the drama to its 9.6 rating with ease.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PhyNUejoXM[/embedyt]

This nine-episode drama follows the life of Han Tae-joo, who’s under 24/7 surveillance per his parents’ order. His closest friend, Gang-gook, is there to keep him company through it all. Of course, it wouldn’t be a typical Korean drama if there wasn’t a love triangle somewhere. So the boys’ feelings really seem to bubble up when a girl from their school tries to date one of them.

You can watch this drama on Viki here!

3. To My Star (2021)

Image Source

The last 9.6 on this list is the 2021 BL To My Star. With 22,000+ ratings, this Korean drama became one of the highest-rated Viki Original Series.

Like the last BL, this drama has significantly fewer and significantly shorter episodes. There are only ten episodes for this drama—each around the fifteen-minute mark—so you can spend an entire day just binging this show!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFemW_eUSfI[/embedyt]

The drama follows Kang Seo-joon, an actor whose career is on a downfall after being one of the most popular actors in South Korea. When he meets the young chef Han Ji-woo, he believes his luck has changed. The two fall in love, but must fight through their differences to make it work.

You can watch this drama on Viki here.

K-Dramas Rated 9.5/10

With only a 0.1 difference in ratings, these next three Korean dramas hold onto their spot in the top seven Viki Original series!

4. Devilish Joy (2018)

Image Source

To kick off the 9.5s, we’ve got a drama that has over 34,500 ratings (the highest amount for those in the 9.5 section).

This Romantic Comedy follows Doctor Gong Ma-sung. In the drama, he suffers from memory loss where his memories disappear once it passes midnight every night. To combat this, he takes notes throughout the day so he has some way to remember. He meets a once-popular star name Joo Gi-bbeum. With Ma-sung’s memory loss, they have to figure out how to make their relationship work.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGDIbszRZ1s[/embedyt]

You can watch this sixteen-episode on Viki here!

5. You Make Me Dance (2021)

Image Source

Another Korean BL drama has made it into the top seven Viki Original series! This one has eight episodes but has over 31,000 ratings to garner itself a 9.5 overall.

Following the intertwining lives of Song Shi-on and Jin Hong-seok, this drama depicts the hard fight one makes to pursue their dreams. Shi-on had gotten thrown out of his house because of his family’s disapproval of chasing his dancing dreams. And Hong-seok was sucked into working in an unfulfilling job. The two meet because of their circumstances, but they’re able to get through a lot of things because they’re together.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UskwfDFnd88[/embedyt]

You can watch this drama on Viki here!

6. Imitation (2021)

Image Source

The last Viki Original drama in the 9.5 section is actually one of my favorites. (Partially because of the idols acting in it, but mostly because it was that good.) It has just over 21,000 ratings.

Imitation is a twelve-episode drama that rips open the toxicity of K-Pop fandoms and shows the loopholes many idols go through to make things work. Following the two leads—Lee Ma-ha and Kwon Ryok—it shows just how messy things can get when feelings, fans, and past events can make the present.

Ma-ha had been a trainee for a long time, nearly debuting at one point but ultimately failing. Eventually, she gets to debut with her two friends in the group Tea Party. Though they’re a little unconventional in terms of K-Pop groups, they make a big impact in the K-Pop scene. On the other hand, Kwon Ryok is part of the most popular boy group (Shax). The two cross paths multiple times, and through their misunderstandings they find feelings.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Tluc8fDHwE[/embedyt]

You can watch this drama on Viki here!

K-Dramas Ranked 9.4/10

Since we’re stopping at seven dramas, there could only be one from the 9.4 rating. But you’re in luck… because this one’s a good one!

7. So I Married the Anti-Fan (2021)

Image Source

Since its release in April of 2021, this Viki Original has been quite the talk throughout the Korean drama world. This drama has accumulated over 44,000 ratings so far and I can only assume that that number will continue to grow with time.

This sixteen-episode Romantic Comedy has just about everything you need: funny moments that are borderline ridiculous, intertwining consequences, and the push of having two people live together. Hoo Joon is one of the biggest stars in the entertainment industry, and Lee Geun-young is a reporter. The two meet at an event and things start off on a really bad note. So bad, in fact, that Gen-young is fired from her job and ends up living with the very same person she thought was the reason for it. Of course… as the two spend more time together, they learn that they get along better than they originally thought.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uErgHozCCXU[/embedyt]

You can watch this drama on Viki here!

A Few Viki Original Series Worth Mentioning

Like I mentioned earlier, we only talked about the top seven dramas out of fifty-two. There’s plenty of other Viki Original Series to watch! Here are a few that barely missed the cut:

At a Distance, Spring is Green is another drama ranked 9.4. However, this one only has about 20,700 reviews, making it more than half of the chosen 9.4. You can check this drama out on Viki here.

Image Source

Another 9.4 to check out is Love Revolution! Since its release in 2020, this drama has accumulated quite the viewing. You can find out more about this drama on Viki here.

Image Source

The last honorable mention on this list is I’ll Go to You When the Weather is Nice. As our only 9.3 throughout this post, this drama held on tightly to be included. With over 43,000 ratings, it’s one of the highest amounts of ratings throughout the entire list. You can read more into this drama on Viki here.

Image Source

Which Viki Original will you add to your list?

Out of these ten Viki Original series, did one catch your eye? The good thing about this list, since each drama is ranked so high (with a high number of people who rated it), it’s nearly guaranteed that they’re all really good.

If you’d like to find even more Korean dramas to binge-watch, feel free to scroll through our Korean Drama Category! We’ve written about plenty of dramas you’ll want to check out. Including Webtoon Adaptation Dramas and dramas that have actors/actresses with amazing chemistry on and off the screen. So be sure to give our Korea Drama Category a look!

September 15, 2021
5 Well-Loved Korean Dishes Featured in K-Dramas

Do you often see K-drama characters eating well-loved Korean dishes and wonder what exactly they’re eating? Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Introduction to Korean Food in K-dramas

A spicy red broth bubbles in a hot stone pot, with hearty vegetables and cubes of soft tofu. In almost every K-drama, food is shown at least once. Even if you aren’t well versed in Korean foods, seeing these well-loved Korean dishes are still just as mouth-watering. From the intricately made noodle dishes, to the delicious rice dishes, Korean food is truly the comfort food you didn’t know you needed. In many dramas, foods such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), bibimbap, and jjajang myun (black bean noodles) are really popular. However, there are many other well-loved Korean dishes you might not have heard of. So, let’s check out five well-loved Korean dishes that are featured in K-dramas!

Jjamppong

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020) is a 16 episode romantic drama that aired on tvN and streams on Netflix. Throughout this drama, one of the characters often mentions how jjamppong is his favorite dish. So, what is this “jjamppong,” you might ask?

Main Ingredients

Image Source

Jjamppong (짬뽕) is a well-loved Korean dish, which comprises of a spicy seafood broth with noodles, and a variety of vegetables and shellfish. A key ingredient is soft and chewy egg or wheat noodles, which can also be substituted with ramen or udon noodles. Some of the main vegetables include cabbage, carrots, onions, and baby bok choy. As for shellfish, jjamppong commonly has mussels, clams, prawns or shrimp, and squid rings. This noodle soup doesn’t have variations, as other soup dishes might. However, you can always swap out the types of vegetables and shellfish for others—it’s really about how you like it! On the side, jjamppong usually comes with a yellow pickled radish, which is used as a palate cleanser. So, would you try this well-loved Korean dish?

When is Jjamppong Eaten?

Jjamppong is a classic favorite, whether it’s for lunch or dinner. This hot noodle dish is perfect for a rainy day, or even on a cold winter day—it’s certainly a comfort food. But, true jjamppong fans will even eat it during the warm summer months. If you enjoy spicy food and noodles, then this well-loved Korean dish is a perfect one to try. I’ll have to warn you, though, it can get pretty spicy, especially at the bottom of the bowl!

If you’d like to try making it yourself at home, you can find a recipe for it here from My Korean Kitchen.

Jjamppong in It’s Okay to Not Be Okay

Watch the trio enjoying their delicious jjamppong in the video below:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFHbnWUpeBA[/embedyt]

In this heart-warming scene, Moon Gang Tae (Kim Soo Hyun) takes Moon Sang Tae (Oh Jung Se) and Ko Moon Young (Seo Yea Ji) to eat jjamppong. These noodles play a nostalgic role in the brothers’ past, and the scene emphasizes just how comforting this meal is. However, on the table, the side dishes display yellow pickled radish, which is used to quench mouth fires! When I say the broth is spicy, it’s truly spicy, so be sure to try the side dishes, too.

And be sure to check out It’s Okay to Not Be Okay on Netflix!

Fried Chicken and Beer

Image Source

Crash Landing on You (2019-20) is a romantic comedy drama that aired on tvN and streams on Netflix. A variety of foods are displayed throughout this drama; however, fried chicken and beer is quite a significant meal. This well-loved Korean dish is common in other countries, but in Korea, it’s a very trendy item to order!

Chicken and Beer’s Popularity in Korea

Chicken and Beer (치맥 or Chi Maek) is a well-loved item on the menu in Korea. Not only is fried chicken a versatile food, but it’s also paired very well with a refreshing glass of beer. Part of Korean culture is to gather in a restaurant booth and eat fried chicken with some friends or family. However, because this well-loved Korean dish is such a well-known meal, many of these restaurants pop up, especially in Seoul. One of the more popular restaurants is called bb.q Chicken, which is often featured in many Korean dramas. So, next time you watch your favorite K-drama, you might see this restaurant appear!

When is Fried Chicken and Beer Eaten?

Because fried chicken and beer is inexpensive and simple, this well-loved Korean dish is often eaten in a casual setting. This meal is the perfect one to have after a long day, whether it’s with friends, classmates, or co-workers! It’s also a meal that many people eat when they’re celebrating something. A lot of times, people tend to go for fried chicken while watching a sports game on TV. The excitement from the game, along with friends and some chicken and beer, is surely a satisfying feeling!

Fried Chicken and Beer in Crash Landing on You

Image Source

Similarly to many other K-dramas, Crash Landing on You features a plethora of well-loved Korean dishes. However, one of the most common foods displayed throughout the drama is fried chicken and beer (we love product placements). Of course, the bb.q Chicken restaurant makes its appearance on several occasions, with its savory and crispy chicken. Watching anyone eat this will definitely make your mouth water, but your favorite characters from CLOY eating it is even better! I promise you, the tenderness and crispiness from the chicken along with a cold glass of beer is worth it.

Watch the video below from FEATR to learn how to make this well-loved Korean dish from your own kitchen! And of course, don’t forget to check out Crash Landing on You on Netflix!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGkg9xA74PQ[/embedyt]

Mul Naeng Myun

Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo (2016-17) is a romantic comedy that aired on MBC and streams on Viki with a subscription to Viki Plus. This well-loved Korean dish is truly a favorite in this drama, not to mention how appetizing Kim Bok Joo makes this dish appear!

Main Ingredients

Courtesy of MBC

Mul naeng myun (물냉면) is something quite unique when it comes to Korean cuisine. Instead of a hot bowl of noodles, mul naeng myun has a cold and refreshing broth. Some of the main ingredients include buckwheat noodles, cucumbers, Korean pears, radishes, boiled beef, and a hard boiled egg. These flavors blend sweet and savory together, which is a great combination with noodles!

Image Source

Not only is there mul naeng myun, but there’s another version called bibim naeng myun (비빔냉면). Bibim naeng myun—similarly to mul naeng myun—is served and eaten cold. The difference is, bibim naeng myun is spicy. Main ingredients include brisket beef, radishes, Korean pears, cucumbers, and a hard boiled egg. But of course, we can’t forget about the spicy sauce! This bibim sauce’s main ingredients include beef broth, Korean chilli flakes, and Korean chilli paste. So, if you want a refreshing noodle dish, but also enjoy spicy food, then this is the dish to try!

When is Mul Naeng Myun Eaten?

Many times, this well-loved Korean dish is eaten during the hot summer weather. Because there are ice cubes in the broth, these noodles are one of the best dishes to enjoy in summer. This dish is also eaten after a nice Korean BBQ, since these noodles act as a palate cleanser. As I mentioned earlier, this exquisite blend of sweet and savory flavors is definitely one you won’t want to miss!

You can find the recipe here for Mul Naeng Myun and here for Bibim Naeng Myun.

Mul Naeng Myun in Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo

Check out Kim Bok Joo and her friends eating mul naeng myun in the video below!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNqMj7PBffc[/embedyt]

The coach encourages Kim Bok Joo and her friends to eat well, since they’re members of the weightlifting team. In this mouth-watering scene, Kim Bok Joo explains the correct order one should eat in, ending with mul naeng myun. You’ll definitely want to try some while the weather is still warm, especially after watching them eat it!

To see more delicious meals in Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo, watch it on Viki!

Kimbap

Courtesy of The Swoon

Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol (2020) is a romantic Korean drama which aired on KBS and streams on Netflix. Since the main female lead, Goo Ra Ra, absolutely loves eating and trying new foods, there’s always an appetizing Korean dish on screen.

Main Ingredients

Image Source

Kimbap (김밥) is truly a versatile food within Korean cuisine. If you’ve never seen this well-loved Korean dish, then the best way to describe kimbap is Korean sushi. A sheet of seaweed and plenty of rice is the main foundation for this quick meal. Most of the time, kimbap is made with a variety of vegetables and sometimes includes meat. Main vegetables include spinach, yellow pickled radish, burdock root, and carrots. Meats, on the other hand, can either be beef bulgogi, spam (pork), or Korean Ham. Some additional ingredients can be egg, kimchi, or even imitation crab. So, if you want a quick meal on the go, kimbap is the one to try!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTr2juINsGI[/embedyt]

When is Kimbap Eaten?

Ever have those days when you’re rushing around and need a quick bite before running late? Well, kimbap is one of those quick on-the-go foods that you’ll end up loving. This well-loved Korean dish is known to be an everyday type of food, but it’s mostly eaten for lunch. It’s also eaten at room temperature—unlike sushi—so all of the delicious fillings will be warm and the rice will be soft! Because of its mix of vegetables, protein, and carbs, it’s a perfect balance to get you through your busy day.

Want to try making kimbap at home? Try this recipe from My Korean Kitchen here.

Kimbap in Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol

Kimbap is depicted in a very appetizing way in Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol, especially since there are four versions. Its savory flavors along with its crunchy texture will surely make you crave it! Not to mention how delicious Goo Ra Ra makes kimbap look at the end~

To watch more well-loved Korean dishes in Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol, check it out on Netflix!

Japchae

Courtesty ofViki

True Beauty (2020-21) is a romantic comedy drama that aired on tvN and streams on Viki with a standard subscription. This drama features many well-loved Korean dishes, but one that is shared between the two leads is Japchae.

Main Ingredients

Image Source

Japchae (잡채) is one of the most common dishes in Korean cuisine, and is also eaten during holidays. It not only has savory flavors, but it’s also blended with a hint of sweetness. One of the key ingredients in japchae are glass noodles, which are made of potato starch. It also has an assortment of vegetables, like spinach, scallions, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and onions. There’s also a meat option, which is often beef; however, it tastes just as good vegetarian! This well-balanced meal is definitely one you must try!

When is Japchae Eaten?

This well-loved Korean dish is often eaten during special occasions and holidays, such as birthdays, weddings, and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving). Japchae even dates all the way back to the Joseon Dynasty, so it’s been a well-loved dish for centuries! Today, japchae is more commonly eaten as an everyday meal, either for lunch or dinner. Something quite unique about Japchae is that it’s eaten with rice—interesting, right? The reason behind this is because japchae can also be considered as a side dish, or banchan. But, it can also be eaten alone as a noodle dish—one that you’ll quickly grow fond of!

Try making this very well-loved Korean dish at home using this recipe from My Korean Kitchen.

Japchae in True Beauty

During their lunch picnic at school, Im Ju Kyung and Lee Su Ho enjoy a variety of foods. With a range of side dishes, japchae is one of them. These glass noodles are topped with carrots and scallions, which look extremely appetizing as Im Ju Kyung offers some to Lee Su Ho!

To see other amazing Korean dishes featured in True Beauty, watch it now on Viki!

Which Well-Loved Korean Dish Do You Want to Try?

After reading about five well-loved Korean dishes featured in K-dramas, which one would you want to try first? Of course, a Korean restaurant with all of these dishes may not be conveniently in your area. But, you can always try making them at home!

If you enjoyed reading about food, check out “How to Make Traditional Korean Foods” and if you’d like to read more about K-dramas, check out my blog on “5 Couples in K-Dramas with Amazing Off-Screen Chemistry.”

To learn more about Korean noodles, check out the video below!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=io5Lmg182SQ[/embedyt]

September 10, 2021