Led by excellent performances by Kim Hee Seon and Kim Hae Sook, tvN’s 2018 series Room No. 9 (나인룸) is an emotional thriller with a deep mystery that unfolds in a familiar, but nonetheless engaging way. And with a little bit of supernatural spice to add some extra flavor.
My ID is Gangnam Beauty ended up being a sincere and thoughtful discussion on body image, self-esteem, confidence, harassment and mental health. It also presents a fascinating and empathetic view of plastic surgery, smashing many preconceptions one might have about the practice. And all in a delightful and easy to watch rom-com/light drama package.
I am only now getting the chance to finally watch Kikaider Reboot almost six years after it was first released. The film that aimed to, as the title indicates, reboot the Kikaider franchise is slick, gritty and certainly with some flaws. But ultimately, a great look at the potential for what could have been a revitalized franchise.
Web series Have a Nice Dessert (#좋맛탱: 좋은 맛에 취하다 /Drunk in Good Taste) is a fun and breezy romcom that you can enjoy in small portions or in one delicious splurge.
Are monsters born or created? A simple question at face value, but an incredibly difficult question beneath the surface. The 2015 KBS drama series Hello Monster (너를 기억해/I Remember You) aims to provoke thoughts on that discussion in an accessible, but meaningful package.
The tvN drama Encounter (남자친구/Boyfriend) begins with what looks to be the start of an epic love story. Yet it somehow loses its magical luster about halfway through. Thankfully, we have Park Bo Gum and Song Hye Kyo getting us to fall in love with them enough to stick with it.
The 2016 animated film The Red Turtle (La Tortue Rouge/レッドタートル ある島の物語) is a stunning and thought-provoking work that leaves you mesmerized by its deceptively simple plot and minimalist approach to its visuals.
The tvN series Melting Me Softly (날 녹여주오) is a lighthearted, but heartfelt romcom with a small sci-fi twist that makes it a refreshing and enjoyable watch.
With a deep, meaningful story and beautiful animation, Mamoru Hosoda shows once again what a creative and talented mind he has with the 2018 award winning film Mirai (未来のミライ).
The 2018 SBS drama Your Honor (친애하는 판사님께) is a pitch perfect series that blends together family drama, romantic drama and procedural legal drama all into one fast-paced and fully engaging package.