synopsis: follows a hard-working girl in college who is struggling financially and lives in a patriarchal household. on top of that, she keeps having these weird interactions with the school’s “mr. perfect” who is handsome, rich, and smart, but has a bit of a scary side that the protagonist learns more about as their relationship grows.
there’s something about the depth and complexity of the characters, the amazing cast, andthe realistic yet impactful dialogue that makes me always go back to watch it again. the style of the drama is incredibly addicting and unique and the humor is very tongue-in-cheek, just the way i like it.
2) pinocchio
synopsis: about a couple who grew up together and are trying to become reporters. the female protag has “pinocchio syndrome” which means that she can’t lie without hiccuping, and the male protag has a dark past that unravels itself more and more the closer he becomes to being a reporter.
the one thing i love about this drama is that the plot always has me at the edge of my seat. this drama constantly oscillates between tragedy and romance, but somehow manages to keep a perfect balance and pace between the two.
3) heartstrings
synopsis: takes place in a performing arts university. the male protag is an applied music major (plays the guitar) and has a cold persona, and the female protag is a traditional music major (plays the gayageum) and comes from a very traditional household. they’re basically polar opposites at face value, which makes the plot so interesting.
this was my first ever drama. it’s cheesy, cliché, and everything you’d expect from a teenage drama, yet it stays forever fond in my memories due to the undeniable chemistry between the main couple. the soundtrack for this drama is probably my favorite, and the dynamic between all the characters is so much fun to watch.
4) fight for my way
synopsis: follows a group of friends that all have big dreams, and are caught between whether they should chase their dreams or if they should relinquish their lives to reality and do what society expects of them.
the best thing this drama has going for it is its amazingly likable main cast; i rooted for every major character in this drama harder than i ever have before. this drama has moments that will make you completely melt as well as moments that will have you dying of laughter. the main couple does the childhood-best-friends trope right, and is honestly just super cute to watch.
5) school 2017
synopsis: a high school drama with an element of mystery. when the protagonist gets framed as “X”, a student who has been anonymously pranking the school, she has to catch “X” in order to prove herself innocent and escape expulsion.
like pinocchio, one of the main reasons that i enjoy this drama so much is the superlative balance between romance and plot. the writer’s attack on the corrupt education system is admirable and interesting to learn about. the lovable and youthful characters make this drama truly enjoyable, and the acting is incredible (especially considering that many of the main cast are rookie actors).
