When life gets you down, sometimes all you need is a warm hug – from your (new) favourite TV show. My go-to comforting embrace lies within the dramas of an entirely different language, and rightfully so! Korean dramas (commonly known as K-dramas) have blossomed internationally over the past decade or so and have found an industrial niche. As such, K-drama lovers like me eat up their wonderful stories of wit, romance, drama and mystery, all combined in a wonderful formula that brings me to tears every time I finish a show. If you wish to join me in my emotional wreckage (and no, I’m not talking about Squid Game, don’t worry), here are five ways to accomplish just that.
- Hello, my twenties!
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As the first K-drama I ever watched, I felt it was necessary to add Hello, My Twenties! to my list of recommendations! The show begins with such a lighthearted, coming-of-age plot that its traumatic twists are jarringly intriguing. And yet, the overarching romantic atmosphere is reminiscent of spring: fresh, hopeful and youthful, as one’s twenties often are.
- it’s okay to not be okay
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As clumsy as the English title may be, this show makes up for any awkwardness with witty dialogue, a magical plot and a swoony romance between narcissistic Go Moon Young and her love interest, nonchalant Moon Gang-tae. Drama and complicated emotions unfold as their paths continue to collide in the style of a dark fairy tale. The drawn-out tension (both sexual and otherwise) adds to the show’s perfection and makes it a must-watch!
- Mystic pop-up bar
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This bar certainly isn’t a regular one! Run by an ill-tempered immortal named Weol-ju, the bar serves as a sort of quirky therapist’s office where characters stop by to have their life’s problems solved by her magical techniques and endeavors. Accompanied by a charming young man with newfound powers as well as an ex-detective, the three main characters team up and endlessly amuse the viewer with their playful (and occasionally emotional) pursuits.
- nevertheless
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Every round-up of K-drama suggestions needs a classic, sappy tale of a good girl pining over a bad boy. Although the simplicity (and sometimes irritating nature) of the show’s plot isn’t my favourite, the chemistry between the leads does make my heart flutter. To top it off, the soundtrack is stunning and adds an extra element of romance. If you’re looking for pure comfort, this show is it in a nutshell.
- Hotel del luna
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Once again, I suppose I’ve chosen a fantastical drama with a plucky, grouchy leading lady who also happens to be immortal (what can I say, it’s a great trope!). This time, our main character is the CEO of Hotel del Luna, a luxury residence for ghosts on their way to the afterlife. Her cynical attitude shifts with the arrival of amiable human Man-wol, who begins working as the hotel’s manager. While there are some chilling moments, Hotel del Luna’s beautiful character dynamics and scenery make any scariness worth it.
I can’t guarantee you’ll walk away with a perfectly intact heart after finishing this list of shows, but what I can guarantee is that you’ll feel your human emotions more than you ever thought possible! As I said, the emotional trauma, not to mention the time commitment and the plots’ slow burn, are all worth it, I promise – your soul will be nourished. So, what are you waiting for?