The first recorded instance of Korean drama is from the Goryeo period. It is believed that during this time, the first form of Korean drama was created. This early form of Korean drama was known as madang’ak. Madang’ak consisted of singing and dancing performances that were held in order to celebrate special occasions such as weddings or festivals.
During the Joseon Dynasty, a new form of Korean drama began to take shape. This new form of drama was called changgeuk. Changgeuk was a more formal type of drama than madang’ak and often included elements of tragedy and comedy. Changgeuk became very popular during the Joseon Dynasty and continued to be popular even after the dynasty ended.
Korean drama has continued to evolve over the years and today there are many different types of Korean dramas. Some of the most popular genres of Korean dramas include romantic comedies, melodramas, historical dramas, and thrillers. Whatever your personal preferences may be, there is sure to be a Korean drama that you will enjoy watching.
Top 5 Famous Korean Dramas
Let’s now take a look at some of the most famous Korean dramas of all time.
1. Dae Jang Geum (2003)
Dae Jang Geum is a historical drama that tells the story of a young woman who becomes the first female royal physician during the Joseon Dynasty. The drama was extremely popular when it aired and still has a large fanbase today. It is considered to be one of the most influential Korean dramas of all time.
2. Winter Sonata (2002)
Winter Sonata is a romantic drama that tells the story of two college students who fall in love but are forced to part ways due to a tragic accident. The drama was very popular when it aired and helped to launch the career of its lead actor, Bae Yong Joon. Winter Sonata is often credited with helping to start the Korean Wave.
3. Jewel in the Palace (2003)
Jewel in the Palace is another historical drama that tells the story of a young woman who becomes a royal physician during the Joseon Dynasty. The drama was very popular when it aired and is still considered to be one of the best Korean dramas of all time.
4. Boys Over Flowers (2009)
Boys Over Flowers is a romantic comedy that tells the story of a poor girl who attends an elite high school and ends up falling for one of the richest boys in school. The drama was extremely popular when it aired and helped to launch the career of its lead actress, Ku Hye Sun.
5. Descendants of the Sun (2016)
Descendants of the Sun is a romantic drama that tells the story of a soldier and a doctor who fall in love while working together in a foreign country. The drama was very popular when it aired and helped to solidify Song Joong Ki’s status as a top Hallyu star.
Korean Dramas That Featured Kpop Stars
Over the years, there have been a number of Korean dramas that featured Kpop stars in lead roles. Some of the most notable examples include:
1. Dream High (2011)
Dream High featured a number of Kpop stars in lead roles, including Suzy, Kim Soo Hyun, Taecyeon, IU, and Wooyoung. The drama was very popular when it aired and helped to launch the careers of its stars.
2. Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)
Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth featured a number of Kpop stars in lead roles, including Park Seo Joon, Go Ara, Park Hyung Sik, and Minho. The drama was very popular when it aired and helped to launch the careers of its stars. Members of BTS were warmly greeted by fans when they appeared on the show.
3. Goblin (2016)
Goblin featured a number of Kpop stars in lead roles, including Gong Yoo, Kim Go Eun, Lee Dong Wook, and Yoo In Na. The drama was very popular when it aired and helped to launch the careers of its stars.
4. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo (2016)
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo featured a number of Kpop stars in lead roles, including Lee Sung Kyung, Nam Joo Hyuk, Kyung Soo Jin, and Lee Jae Yoon. The drama was very popular when it aired and helped to launch the careers of its stars.
What Makes Kdrama Different from Other Dramas?
There are a number of factors that make Kdrama different from other dramas. For one, Kdramas tend to be more focused on romance and melodrama than other types of dramas. Kdramas also often feature a strong focus on family relationships.
Additionally, Kdramas tend to have shorter seasons than other types of dramas. Kdramas also often make use of a stylized filming approach that makes them visually unique.
Finally, Kdramas often feature soundtracks that are released as standalone albums. These albums often include songs that become hits in their own right.
Kdrama FAQs
What is the most popular Kdrama?
The most popular Kdrama of all time is Winter Sonata. The drama was extremely popular when it aired in 2002 and helped to launch the career of its lead actor, Bae Yong Joon.
What is the best Kdrama?
This is a matter of opinion, but some of the most highly-rated Kdramas of all time include Jewel in the Palace, Boys Over Flowers, and Descendants of the Sun.
What is the longest running Kdrama?
The longest running Kdrama is My Love from the Star, which aired for 21 episodes.
Do Kdramas have English subtitles?
Yes, most Kdramas do have English subtitles. You can usually find these subtitles on sites like Viki or DramaFever.
What is the difference between a Kdrama and a jDrama?
Kdramas are Korean dramas, while jDramas are Japanese dramas. Kdramas tend to be more focused on romance and melodrama, while jDramas tend to be more focused on slice-of-life stories.
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