What makes these dramas so captivating? When I think about
it, I can draw a few parallels:
- Korean
culture, at least as portrayed in these dramas, reminds me a lot of Indian
culture from the ‘80s. I say this specifically because,
post-liberalization and the brain drain, we seem to have embraced Western
influences more than our own traditions.
- There’s
a certain warmth in their visuals—nothing jarring or loud. Everything is
so easy on the eye, creating a soothing effect.
- The
sound design is subtle. No unnecessary high-pitched screeches. Even when a
scene demands it, it’s kept brief.
- The
storylines—some of them are so beautifully crafted. It’s heartwarming to
see topics like autism, marital depression, mental health, euthanasia, and
rare genetic disorders like CIPA handled with grace and dignity.
- And
the biggest one for me—the sheer respect the characters show each other,
even towards antagonists. There’s an underlying sense of dignity in the
way actors carry themselves on screen, regardless of their roles.
Contrast this with Indian TV serials, where family members
seem to be on a never-ending cycle of plotting against each other. If people
are constantly fed such negativity, what impact does it have on their
subconscious minds? I strongly believe this has contributed to the growing
discontent in many families today.
From the K-dramas I’ve watched (guess I’ve been lucky to pick the right ones), I’ve learned a few simple
but powerful lessons—how to let go, how to forgive, how to walk away from
negativity with grace, and how to use inner strength to uplift others. Maybe
that’s what keeps me coming back. Perhaps, in a world where goodness feels
harder to find, these dramas offer a comforting glimpse of it.
It’s not that we lack good Samaritans in our society. But
why doesn’t our mass media highlight them? Why does every “hit” show revolve
around family revenge? Where are the stories of forgiveness, acceptance, and
resilience?
As a teacher, I see firsthand how children mirror the negativity around them. It’s worrying when a child refuses to participate in a march past just because she can’t stand first in line. It’s even more alarming when a boy gives a fatal push to his friend off a bus seat in a moment of rage!
When I ask children to list good qualities, most struggle to
go beyond “being kind” and “helping others.” Even then, their idea of kindness
is limited to giving alms to beggars or offering water to a sick person. How
can we expect children to grow up with strong values if they aren’t exposed to
real-life examples of empathy, cooperation, and moral reasoning?
Moral science textbooks remain just that—textbooks. PE
periods, which could teach teamwork and cooperation, are sacrificed for extra
science lessons. Parents are hyper-focused on making their kids competitive and
“leaders,” but qualities like compassion and humility are dismissed as
weaknesses.
My husband once mentioned a study that suggested Korean
employees are overly submissive. I don’t know about that. But from what I’ve
seen in these dramas, submission isn’t the message. If anything, they showcase
resilience, integrity, and quiet strength—qualities we could do well to
reinforce in our own children.
Maybe it’s time we take a leaf out of their book—or should I
say, their script?
Well, until my next tirade... Annyeong (bye)!
“Character is doing the right thing when nobody's looking.” – J.C. Watts.
Comments
You hv very rightly pointed out the ill effects of our serials on our homes. I hv bn observing that in a few homes ( family friends) , women folk hv lost their good nature & become narrow minded, jealous and crooked minded.
Men too tend to become hostile, evil minded & aggressive.
I hope the producers & Directors change their mindset for betterment & well being of the psyche of our viewers.
Keep it up Sree. Kudos.