If there are two things that can cure the mundanity of staying indoors all the time, it's laughter and enthrallment; and that's exactly what these K-Dramas are composed of.
If you're like me, then you have probably already fallen down the rabbit hole known as the Hallyu Wave. If that is the case, then I'm glad to inform you that we're in this for the long haul, because there is a plethora of Korean dramas, movies, and music to traverse while we lie on the couch with a box of pizza and a large soda.
Based on all the K-Dramas I have tirelessly binged on in the past few months, here are the top five that you should definitely add to your watch list. Happy couch potato-ing!
1. Itaewon Class
Images From JTBC
Starring Park Seo Joon, Kwon Nara, Kim Da Mi, Kim Dong Hee, and Chris Lyon, among other stellar artists, Itaewon Class solidified its status as a beacon of hope and dreams. The plot follows the life of Park Saeroyi, an ex-convict who has been wronged in multiple ways by a prominent family in Seoul. Vowing to make his dreams come true, the protagonist becomes a hero who refuses to give up no matter what. Aside from its main purpose, the storyline tackles sensitive social issues, such as gender identity, corruption, abuse of power, age stereotypes, and education. In a nutshell, Itaewon Class is an astounding representation of what society could look like beyond the prejudices. Remember, kids, never give up on your dreams. You may be a mere ember now, but that means you only need a spark to become the entire flame. If you're in search of a jolt of inspiration to get you moving in the direction of your dreams, this show will ignite it.
2. Hwarang
Image From KBS2TV
Let's throw it back to the Kingdom of Silla, where the brave young Hwarang warriors train to protect and defend. With Park Seo Joon and Park Hyung Sik spearheading the troupe of heroes, Hwarang explores the facets of sheer courage, love, friendship, honor, and ancient political chaos. Also, you will be pleasantly surprised by the exceptional performance rendered by Kim Taehyung (BTS' V) as the youngest Hwarang named Han Sung. His endearing persona and playful demeanor undergo a metamorphosis of fearlessness that will make you love him even more. (Side note: Prepare your eyes for a visual explosion, because literally everyone on this show is beautiful. You won't be able to look away. Seriously. Not kidding.)
3. Crash Landing On You
Image from tvN
Okay, so I have a feeling that the majority of you guys have already seen this TV series. If you haven't, drop whatever it is that you're doing and watch it right now. The modern-day love story of Yoon Seri (Son Ye Jin) and Ri Jeong Hyuk (Hyun Bin) will make you cry buckets of tears and smile from ear to ear. Honestly, you will be crying and laughing in intervals, courtesy of the lovable supporting characters that will pepper you with comedy. This series proves that no border and no distance can stop soulmates from having their happy-ever-after. Moreover, it symbolizes the fact that some storms do not come to wreak havoc, but rather they come to wash away the noise and clear the way for us to walk on.
4. Hit The Top
Image From KBS
This romcom serves viewers with a sweet slice of life. Hit The Top (A.K.A.The Best Hit) follows the story of '90s pop star, Yoo Hyun Jae (Yoon Si Yoon), who is mysteriously transported twenty years into the future. Being caught up in a whirlwind (literally!), our hero is faced with the task of unraveling the secrets that shroud his future. While the clouds clear, Hyun Jae finds that there is an unexpected ray of sunshine behind them (trying my best not to give spoilers, in case you haven't watched it yet!). The best thing about this K-Drama is that it features Yoon Si Yoon's masterful comedic antics as his character smoothly transitions into a more reflective state throughout the run. It takes audiences on a journey of dreams, love, family, and a LOT of retro '90s fashion! Hit The Top will make you feel every emotion known to the human soul, and trust me, you will (P.S. Astro's Cha Eun Woo showcases his charming acting chops as a quirky supporting character!)
5. Psychopath Diary
Image From tvN
This masterpiece of a TV series is a psychological thriller that will bring out your inner detective. With Yoon Si Yoon, Jung In Sun, and Park Sung Hoon at the forefront of the dark mysteries, the story snarls and disentangles in a constant loop. The show radiates everything dark and sinister, yet it provides light airy laughter too. You'll understand it once you watch it, believe me. I found it difficult to turn off the TV when I watched this one!
With unexpected bursts of comedy, Psychopath Diary is an unconventional novelty that will boggle your mind with its abundance of plot twists. Prepare yourself to get hooked!