K-Drama is life? K-Drama is life!
The year 2016 is considered to be a remarkable year for K-Dramas. We were introduced to several critically acclaimed and internationally successful series that set the bar so high, both in the local and global entertainment scene. Some of the most iconic stars fans have grown to love and keep looking for also came from these dramas. The great chemistries between the lead actors combined with the unique storylines greatly contributed to the global Hallyu, Korean Wave, phenomenon.
Here is a trip down memory lane for five of the most memorable K-Dramas we had.
Legend of the Blue Sea
This fantasy romance drama is known for its blend of historical and modern periods. It follows the story of Heo Joon Jae played by Lee Min Ho and Shim Cheong played by Jun Ji Hyun. A skilled con artist and charming swindler Heo Joon Jae crosses paths with Shim Cheong in the present time. As the series goes on, a heartwarming, often comical, romance unfolds while exploring their past connection.
Guardians: The Lonely and Great God
More popularly called by many fans and viewers as “Goblin,” this series is yet another fantasy romance offering. It stars Gong Yoo as Kim Shin who is a “Goblin,” Kim Go Eun as Ji Eun Tak, Lee Dong Wook as Was Yeo who is a “Grim Reaper,” and Yoon In Na as Kim Sun. Kim Eun Tak holds a unique connection to Kim Shin and is destined to be his bride who can remove the sword embedded in his chest and then release him from immortality. The highly acclaimed drama received widespread recognition for its storytelling, cinematography, and the performances of the cast.
W: Two Worlds
Perhaps you can say, fantasy romance was a popular genre during 2016 as here is another one. This rather unique fantasy romance drama blends the real world and a webtoon universe. It revolves around the characters of Lee Jong Suk’s character Kang Cheol, who is the main character of the popular webtoon, “W,” and Han Hyo Joo’s Oh Yeon Joo, a surgical resident. Oh Yeon Joo finds herself transported into the world of her father’s webtoon where she meets Kang Chul. The show’s twists and turns just keep viewers watching it over and over again.
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo
Although no longer a fantasy romance drama, this coming-of-age sports drama show still proves to be one of the best. It follows the life and struggles of the talented weightlifter Kim Bok Joo played by Lee Sung Kyung whose life becomes intertwined with equally talented swimmer Jung Joon Hyung played by Nam Joo Hyuk. This series is celebrated for its refreshing and lighthearted storytelling highlighting typical issues of young people as they discover themselves, navigate relationships, and go through the pursuit of reaching their dreams. Not to mention that it also broke stereotypes, thanks to the character of Kim Bok Joo, who embraces athleticism and physical strength associated with being a woman.
Descendants of the Sun
This romance and military-themed drama is among the highly popular dramas of this generation. It centers on the story of Song Joong Ki’s Captain Yoo Si Jin of the South Korean military and Song Hye Kyo’s character, Dr. Kang Mo Yeon. More than the whirlwind romance, the show also delves into the challenges of soldiers and the difficulties medical professionals go through, especially in saving lives in a conflict zone. From the storyline, characters, and even the original soundtrack, everything about this show is worthy of praise and your time to watch.
How about you, what other 2016 K-Drama should we also watch?
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