Banned Korean Dramas
Initially, when I started to watch Korean dramas on February 10th, 2019 I used to think that there will rarely be any dramas which are banned in S. Korea because of the soft nature of Korean culture I got to see in them. But later on, when I found out that these dramas are banned it was highly shocking for me because adult scenes and sexual violence are quite normal to be seen in Western cultural series and movies. No doubt I can’t say anything about historical dramas as I don’t have knowledge about their historical cultures.
THE KING: ETERNAL MONARCH
This series was released in 2020. Lee Gon, Emperor of the Kingdom of Corea, attempts to cross the barrier into a parallel universe where the Republic of Korea exists instead of the Kingdom. He comes across Detective Jung Tae-eul, whom he recognizes from an identity card he obtained during childhood when his father was assassinated. Lee Gon’s half-uncle, Lee Lim, who killed his father, Lee Ho (Lee Gon’s father), is in hiding and assembling armies by traveling back and forth between the two parallel worlds with the help of Manpasikjeok.
This series is banned because there is an episode where the war between two nations is shown which is highly criticized due to its misinterpretation between the nations.
No. of Episodes: 16
Starring: Lee Min-ho, Kim Go-eun
NEVERTHELESS
This series was released in August 2021. Yoo Na-bi is a heartbroken girl who now no more believes in love as she was betrayed by her first love. Park Go-eon is a flirty person who thinks that dating is a waste of time. He loves to flirt and never approaches others first rather other people approach him first. In university, he is given a Playboy title He never crossed the lines but when he met Na-bi he crossed his lines and fell in love with each other unexpectedly.
Due to its adult scenes, this series was banned. Later on, only 1st two episodes were banned.
No. of Episodes: 10
Starring: Han So-hee, Song Kang
SNOWDROP
This series is released in December 2021. The series is set in November and December 1987. Lim Soo-ho is a graduate student who is found covered in blood by Eun Yeong-ro, a female university student in her university dorm, who hides him from the government in her room. Later on, it is revealed that Soo-ho is not a South Korean graduate but a North Korean guy who is here to complete his mission against the backdrop of politics.
They fell in love with each other at first sight. He lies to her that he is doing strike with other companions which makes her more relatable to him as she was also in the army and died later on. When she got to know about his real identity she couldn’t believe it and raised questions about her disappointment. Till the end, he decided to keep her safe which leads to his brutal death in the end.
Due to a controversy that is said to be political or maybe because of the South Korean and North Korean relations. But after clearing all the misunderstandings, now it can be broadcasted in Korea.
No. of Episodes: 16
Starring: Jung Hae-in, Jisoo
PACHINKO (2022)
This series was released in March 2022. Kim Sun-Ja was born and raised in Busan, Korea in the early 20th century when Korea was under Japanese rule. She falls in love with a man named Koh Han-Su. She knows that he is a powerful person and belongs to a different social class from her. A church priest named Baek Isak stays at the lodge run by Kim Sun-Ja’s mother. He gave her advice when he learns about Kim Sun-Ja’s situation.
When he experiences her unwavering conviction, he offers her to marry him. She moves to Japan and faces difficulties as a Korean immigrant living in an unfamiliar land. Season 2 is also going to be released but no proper announcement has been made yet.
This series is banned because of the sexual violence and the war between the two countries shown in the series.
No. of Episodes: 8
Starring: Lee Min-ho, Kim Min-ha
THE EVE
This series was released in June 2022. The story revolves around Lee La-el, who was bullied during high school by a group of bullies led by Han So-ra. Later on, she decides to live her life like Han So-ra. Han So-ra wants to be a good mom and wants to live a comfortable life. Her husband Kang Yoon-gyeom is more or less like a worker who works for Han So-ra’s father. She was not satisfied with her husband by physical means so she decided to cheat on him secretly with his friend and his secretary who was told to keep an eye on him.
Also Read: Top 15 Best Romantic Korean Dramas On Netflix To Watch
Lee La-el is known for her tango dance which she performed during the opening of her daughter’s school who also studied in the same school as Han So-ra’s daughter. The dance was noticed by Han So-ra’s husband who is very much interested in the tango and its music. Her husband was tempted by Lee La-el. Lee La-el seduced her husband deliberately for revenge, but they deeply fell in love with each other once she learned about his condition. She decided to divorce her husband to stay with him and decide it as her ultimate revenge.
Kang Yoon-gyeom daughter was not his daughter but was the daughter of Han So-ra’s affair with his friend. He found that later on when he got to know that she is color-blind which a hereditary disease that is which only occurs in children one of the parents is color-blind. After that, he decided to leave Han So-ra through divorce rather than knowing the consequences of her father-in-law’s actions.
Due to its sexual side and adult scenes, it is banned but later on, only its 1st three episodes were banned.
No. of Episodes: 16
Starring: Seo Yea-ji, Park Byung-eun, Yoo Sun, Lee Sang-yeob
OTHER BANNED KOREAN DRAMAS
EMPRESS KI (2013) banned because the series was disrespectful towards historical identities.
Joseon Exorcist (2021) because of manipulated real-life characters in fictional story line.
SQUID GAME (2022) because of its suicidal mindset in the games which we can also say you can do anything for money even at the cost of your own life. Its second season is also in talks and is soon to be released. This drama was highly popular internationally and was loved by international fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which are Banned Korean Dramas in Korea?
1. PACHINKO
Due to it’s sexual violance
2. EVE
(Due to it’s sexual side. Eve’s first 3 episodes was banned in korea.)
3. NEVERTHELESS.
(It was decided to banned this drama totally but it’s first 2 episodes were banned because of it’s adult scenes.)
4. SNOWDROP [Banned Korean Dramas]
(Due a controversy Snowdrop was banned from korea. But lated on they allowed this drama to be boarcasted.)
5. SQUID GAME [Banned Korean Dramas]
(Due to it’s sucidial violence and korean aconomy controvercy)
6. THE KING: ETERNAL MONARCH [Banned Korean Dramas]
(Cause it showed a war between China and Korea.)
What is the No 1 Korean drama ever?
“What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim,” is a romantic comedy that has achieved legendary status in just a few short years. The show features Park Seo Joon in the role of Lee Young Joon, a demanding boss whose loyal secretary, Kim Mi So (played by Park Min Young), is considering resigning from her position.
The dynamic between Lee Young Joon and Kim Mi So is at the heart of the show, and audiences have been captivated by their entertaining interactions. Despite his difficult demeanor, Lee Young Joon is secretly in love with Kim Mi So, and their relationship takes many unexpected twists and turns.
The success of this drama can be attributed to its clever writing, talented cast, and engaging storyline. Viewers have praised the show for its humor, romance, and relatable characters. It’s no surprise that it has become a favorite among fans of romantic comedies.
If you haven’t yet seen it yet, it’s definitely worth a watch. You’ll find yourself laughing, crying, and falling in love alongside the characters. Plus, with Park Seo Joon and Park Min Young’s incredible performances, it’s no wonder this show has become such a hit.
What is the biggest Kdrama scandal?
The biggest Kdrama scandals in recent years was the controversy surrounding the KBS drama “Time” in 2018.
The controversy arose when the lead actor, Kim Jung Hyun, was accused of being unprofessional on set and causing disruptions in filming. It was also reported that he had an alleged romantic relationship with his co-star Seo Ye Ji, who was criticized for her behavior and attitude on set as well.
Later on, audio recordings of Kim Jung Hyun’s behavior towards his co-stars and staff were leaked, which further fueled the controversy. As a result, Kim Jung Hyun issued an apology for his actions and behavior, and Seo Ye Ji faced backlash from fans and the public for her alleged involvement in the scandal.
The controversy caused a significant impact on the show’s ratings and the careers of both actors involved. It also shed light on the pressure and stress that Kdrama actors face while working in the industry.
What is the dark side of Kdrama industry?
Like any entertainment industry, the Kdrama industry also has its dark side. Some of the issues include:
- Strict working conditions: Kdrama actors and production crew members are often subjected to long working hours, lack of sleep, and strict deadlines. This can cause physical and mental health issues.
- Pressure and stress: Due to the high competition and expectation for success, Kdrama actors and production teams often face immense pressure and stress, which can lead to burnout, depression, and other mental health issues.
- Limited creative freedom: Many Kdramas follow similar storylines, and there is a lack of diversity in terms of genres and themes. The industry can be reluctant to experiment with new ideas and stories that may not appeal to a wider audience.
- Scandals and controversies: Kdrama actors and production teams are not immune to scandals and controversies, which can damage their reputations and careers. In some cases, these issues are caused by strict contracts and working conditions.
- Underpayment and exploitation: Despite the industry’s success, many Kdrama actors and production staff are underpaid and overworked, and some are even exploited by their agencies or production companies.
The Kdrama industry, like any other entertainment industry, has its own set of challenges and issues. While many Kdramas are beloved by fans worldwide, it is important to be aware of the darker side of the industry and work towards creating a more fair and equitable environment for those involved.
Why did Netflix remove so many Kdramas?
Netflix periodically removes titles from its library due to licensing agreements with the content owners. In the case of Kdramas, the licenses for certain titles may have expired, and Netflix may have decided not to renew them.
Additionally, Kdrama production companies may have exclusive distribution deals with other streaming services or networks, making it impossible for Netflix to continue streaming the titles. In some cases, Netflix may choose to remove certain Kdramas to make room for new content or to adjust its content library based on changing viewer preferences.
It is also worth noting that Kdrama fans have expressed disappointment with Netflix’s decision to remove certain titles, especially when they have become popular and have a significant following. However, it is important to remember that streaming services like Netflix are constantly making decisions about their content library based on various factors, and the removal of certain Kdramas may be part of this process.
