Fans would agree that they turn to K-dramas for the shows' light-hearted scenes na tamang pampakilig lang, which is why it's not as appealing for people who aren't exactly into romantic themes. Not to mention that there seems to be a misconception that K-dramas are for girls only. (2020 na, fam. You do you!) If you'd had your fair share of binge-watch sessions though, you'd know that these K-dramas offer more than just heartwarming storylines; they've got substance and life lessons, too.
Based on a poll by Candymag.com, here are the best series to recommend to guys in your life who are just trying to get into K-dramas:
1. Itaewon Class
Starring: Park Seo Joon, Kim Da Mi, Kim Dong Hee, Kwon Nara
Watch it on: Netflix
The recently concluded drama starring everyone's favorite oppa Park Seo Joon is a good starting point for K-drama newbies. It's based on a webtoon and is about the not-so-easy journey to success of Park Saeroyi who opens a restaurant in Itaewon called Dan Bam and competes with top restaurant group Jangga Company. Instagram user @heyitsgeloy says it's "not too rom-com, but has a lot of lessons in life." User @lxxreen also says, "It's not your typical K-drama. [There's] a lot of inspiring lessons especially if you're into business."
2. Strong Woman Do Bong Soon
Starring: Park Hyung Sik, Park Bo Young, Ji Soo
Do Bong Soon is a strong and independent woman—literally—because she was born with incredible strength. She gets hired by Min Hyuk, a video game company CEO, as his bodyguard after receiving anonymous threats. Coincidentally, various kidnappings have been popping up in Bong Soon's neighborhood which are being investigated by her friend-slash-crush, and she and Min Hyuk end up helping out in solving the cases. It's a good show to suggest to guy friends who believe that women can be equally as powerful as men in every aspect. User @amberapola shares, "I watched this with my younger brother (a K-drama newbie at that time) and he really enjoyed it."
3. Crash Landing On You
Starring: Hyun Bin, Son Ye Jin, Seo Ji Hye, Kim Jung Hyun
Watch it on: Netflix
Plenty of people answered the 2020 hit Crash Landing On You in the poll. Everyone has been hyping up CLOY on social media that it's hard not to get curious! The drama revolves around a South Korean CEO who ends up in North Korea after a paragliding accident. There, she meets a North Korean soldier who helps her get back home. There are a lot more interesting plot twists and characters along the way, and the characters and cast members are equally lovable.
4. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo
Starring: Lee Sung Kyung, Nam Joo Hyuk, Kyung Soo Jin
Watch it on: Netflix or Viu
If the person you want to recommend dramas to is into sports, this 2016 coming-of-age drama about student athletes would totally be relatable. It's also where the famous line, "Do you like Messi?" came from, ICYDK. User @prestasche says, "'Di pa gano'n ka-complicated ang plot," while @yukuokirigaya says it has the "cutest couple and plot."
5. Reply 1988
Starring: Park Bo Gum, Lee Hyeri, Ryu Jun Yeol, Go Kyung Pyo
Watch it on: Netflix or Viu
Set in the '80s to '90s, Reply 1988 mainly revolves around themes of family and friendship, and will extort all sorts of emotions out of you. If you're not so much a fan of cutesy rom-coms, Reply 1988 would be a good place to start. User @jeremiah_victoriaa suggests this K-drama, too, saying that it's a good watch if you're about improving family ties.
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