I have heard from quite a few of my non-drama watching friends post Squid Game that K-dramas are the new thing. To which I respond – THEY WERE ALWAYS A THING! I know Squid Game took over and made K-dramas more mainstream – and while the show was pretty good, I have watched quite a few K-dramas that I would argue were at least as good or better! In my last post dedicated to K-dramas, I summarized some of the “starter” dramas for those wondering where to begin. And now I am highlighting more of my favorites for the newcomers to the genre post-Squid Games.
Start Up – 6/10
The characters in this show dream big and never give up! I loved the tenacity of the main characters and their determination to keep going – even when things get tough! But there are also some identity twists and turns in this show that make everything extra complicated – and all while people are trying to start businesses! There was some lag time in the middle of this show where I wasn’t sure exactly how things were going to go, and I wish the ending had more of a “wrap” up, but all considered, this is a pretty good, feel good show.
Uncanny Counter – 8/10
This is one for those that loved Squid Game! A bit more in the sci-fi realm , this story follows a team of evil spirit fighters. They are on the hunt for an extremely bad evil spirit and there are a lot of fights, possessions and team work along the way. It was super entertaining all the way along – but ended a bit strangely. For those of you that watch, let me know what you think about the ending!
Hello Me! – 8/10
This could be described as a bit like the K-drama version of Outlander – just less blood and gore, in present times, and a more upbeat feel good story! Really the only similarity is the time travelling teenager that comes to rescue herself as a mid-30 something. A lot of complicated situations ensue, but MOST things work out in this feel good show.
Mystic Pop Up Bar – 9/10
I know this show has mixed reviews, and may be hard for some to get into, but I loved it! It’s the story of a mysterious outdoor bar run by a woman who needs to settle the grudges of 100,000 souls before she can move on to her next life (or alternative fates). The bar is also home to a part-time employee (who has some special abilities) and a former afterlife detective. The trio visit people in their dreams and as the series goes along, past lives and current lives start to collide. This series has less episodes than your typical K-drama and I was SO sad when it was over!
Move to Heaven 10/10
This show has more of a serious theme than others on this list, focusing on a young man with Aspergers and his gaurdian who are trauma cleaners – cleaning up the belonging of the recently deceased. Almost every episode has a new story as they do trauma cleaning for a new family. On top of that, there is the dynamic of the main characters and their back stories. The ending leaves you wanting more – and hoping for a second season. And I really really hope there is a second season – there are so many more questions to answer and I want to know what happens next!
The Chatty Enthusiast 