So this is what most people think- that I don’t have a preference for a specific genre when it comes to movies, books, or TV shows. Instead, what determines a good book, movie, etc., for me is the story. I’ll even like a horror movie as long as it has a good story-line.
(And no, not all Asian dramas are like that).
This makes it hard to describe to others what I like and what I don’t like. I have to watch the whole thing before I can say that I do or don’t like it.
So here’s a list of different things that, at least for me, make Korean dramas more appealing than Western TV shows.
1) The length of the shows
K-dramas are divided into two types: mini-series, and daily. The mini-series, like the few I mentioned last week on my blog post, are generally 15 to 20 episodes long, each one hour. They end as one season and rarely, a season 2 is made. This makes the stories fast-paced, and there’s no room, most of the time, for me to be bored. This is very different from Western shows like Grey’s Anatomy or Pretty Little Liars that have 10 or more seasons with 30 minute long episodes. Especially with shows like Pretty Little Liars, the storyline becomes repetitive: there’s a new A, it turns out to be one of them, etc.
2) Cinematography
I find that with many of the shows I really end up enjoying have really high quality cinematography. This especially seems to be the case with Descendants of the Sun. The choices that the cameramen and director make to put together amazing visuals were just outstanding and each scene is very memorable.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ySqD76Lvnw
At the end of this particular scene, the close up of the two characters’ feet was actually very memorable. It evoked a lot of emotion and it was beautiful visually as well. (I won’t say anymore because I don’t want to spoil it).
3) OSTs
A lot of popular dramas are coupled with amazing OSTs (Original Sound Tracks) that end up being popular as well. Another reason why Descendants of the Sun was popular was because of its mellifluous OSTs. There were 10 in total and all of them were lined up as the top 10 on all of the music charts in Korea. These OSTs are good as stand-alone pieces, but they’re even better when accompanied by the drama itself.
This one is my personal favourite: ‘Always’ by Yoon Mirae.
4) Fashion
Although many people are disturbed by the product placement (PPL), I find that, if done well, it is an inseparable element of the dramas. A lot of outfits worn by characters in these dramas are sponsored by different companies. They become instantly popular once featured. I think it’s a win-win situation. From the trend, more people are looking for products that remind them of the dramas and the fashion industry is getting more consumers.
Korean dramas are not just “shows.” They have impact in many different aspects of life, including fashion, music, etc. Even the site of films become popular tourist attractions. With Korean dramas’ increasing international popularity, I can for sure vouch that they are something that everyone can enjoy if you are open-minded.
