The South Korean web series Where Your Eyes Linger (너의시선이머무는곳에) is seen as a sort of test run for possible future, full-length productions. And it is a solid, positive start.
The 2018-2019 Olive drama series Dear My Room (Eunjoo’s Room/은주의 방) is a bright, hopeful slice-of-life series that tells the story of young, everyday people working to find themselves and their path in life.
The 2019 MBC drama series Extraordinary You (어쩌다 발견한 하루) is a fun, romantic slice of life adventure with a twist. Poking fun at some Korean romcom tropes, the series gives new flavor to familiar themes with the help of an irresistible cast and the perfect amount of magic and fantasy.
The 2019 OCN drama Watcher (왓쳐) is an excellent character-driven crime thriller. The series takes what would otherwise be a tried and true premise toward a fascinating and refreshing new direction powered by tight writing and an excellent cast.
Many times, the year’s best drama series isn’t the most shocking, most controversial, most polarizing, most groundbreaking show to air. Daesang (Grand Prize) recipient and multi-awarded KBS drama When the Camellia Blooms (동백꽃 필 무렵) is proof that the best drama can be simply one where every single aspect comes together for one complete package that reaches and touches viewers hearts and minds.
tvN’s 2019 drama series Psychopath Diary (싸이코패스 다이어리) is a hilarious, darkly comic thriller that utilizes the strengths of its cast to support a wild, exciting and fast-paced ride.
If you’re looking for a good mystery that tugs at the heartstrings, keeps you on your toes, provokes thought and throws in some futuristic sci-fi action as well, tvN’s 2017 drama Circle: Two Worlds Connected (써클 : 이어진 두 세계) is just the series for you.
The Naver web series A Teen (에이틴) is an easy to digest coming-of-age story of youth in the final year of their teenage lives. Essentially presented in quick vignettes, the series doesn’t necessarily cover any new ground. But a charming cast help make it a breezy viewing experience.
It is only a coincidence that I watched the KBS miniseries How to Buy a Friend (계약우정) after just finishing Extracurricular and At Eighteen. Three series in a row addressing the unfortunate reality of school violence and the lack of resources and care for mental health, especially for youth.
The 2019 JTBC drama series At Eighteen (열여덟의 순간 /Moment at 18) is one of the sincerest depictions of teenage life in Korea I’ve ever had the pleasure of watching.