From BTS to Blackpink, Korean pop has experienced a renaissance, gaining global recognition and awareness through support from the Korean government and programs promoting Korean culture and arts. It’s astounding to see how Korea, a country once devastated by war and dictatorships, is now dominating the entertainment industry. K-dramas have also played a significant role in introducing fans worldwide to Korean history, culture, and customs.
While romance dramas often top favorites lists, many Korean dramas have explored the concept of Korean pop idols in their stories. Whether it’s a character dreaming of becoming an idol, working with beloved singers, or falling in love with a more famous individual, these dramas have effectively incorporated this theme into their narratives, offering unique perspectives and distinguishing themselves from one another.
Here are 10 Korean dramas that beautifully explore the world of Korean pop idols:
10. Imitation (2021): Starring actual Korean pop idols Lee Jun-young, Jung Ji-so, Park Ji-yeon, and Jeong Yun-ho, “Imitation” follows Lee Man-ha, a former idol trainee who impersonates another popular singer for a living. When she and her former group members get a chance to debut again as a group called Tea Party, they must navigate the complexities of idol life and face the potential consequences of a forbidden relationship.
9. Top Management (2018): Cha Eun-woo, now a well-known idol and actor, stars in this series alongside Seo Eun-soo and Ahn Hyo-seop. The story revolves around Eun-sung, a former trainee with the ability to see the future. When she becomes the manager of a struggling boy group, her unique talent proves useful in navigating scandals and ensuring the group’s success.
8. So I Married the Anti-Fan (2021): Choi Soo-young portrays Lee Geun-young, a reporter whose life is accidentally ruined by a beloved star named Hoo Joon. Determined to become one of his anti-fans, Geun-young ends up living with Hoo Joon as part of a show they’re both invited to. As they spend time together, their relationship takes unexpected turns.
7. Idol: The Coup: This series offers a different perspective by focusing on a girl group, Cotton Candy, that struggles to find success amidst an industry that favors a more popular boy group. Determined to save their careers, the girls make a pact to score a trophy or top spot at a music show before disbanding.
6. Dream High (2011): Set in a high school where students aspire to become Korean pop idols, “Dream High” follows the dreams and challenges of these individuals. With star-studded cast members like Lee Ji-eun (IU), Ok Taec-yeon, Jang Woo-young, and Bae Suzy, the show became incredibly popular and even received a sequel, “Dream High 2.”
5. One Fine Week: Although this series may not have garnered mainstream attention, it centers around Da Eun, who creates an alter ego as a singer gaining prominence in the local music scene. As she experiences the downsides of the industry, she realizes the complexities of pursuing a career in entertainment.
4. Fly Again: This short web drama stars Hyungwon from the idol group Monsta X as Han Yo Han, a talented dancer longing to become a celebrity. After an accident shatters his dreams, he finds solace in a dance club at his school and develops a connection with a top student who could have been an idol herself.
3. Her Bucket List (2021): Based on a webtoon, this series follows Cha Ra Ri, who, after the loss of her boyfriend, decides to fulfill the bucket list they created together. Along the way, she meets an idol trainee with stage fright, and together they navigate obstacles and discover their potential in the entertainment industry.
2. Let Me Be Your Knight (2021-2022): Starring Jung In-sun, this series revolves around a Korean pop idol who sleepwalks when trying to sleep. In Yoon-ju, played by Jung’s character, becomes involved in helping him overcome his sleep issues and develops a unique relationship with the idol.
These Korean dramas showcase the fascinating world of Korean pop idols while offering diverse storylines and character development.
