Dramacool, often known as Koreanovela or K-drama, is a type of television series produced in South Korea (Korean: 한국 드라마; RR: Han-guk deurama). Korean dramas began in the early 1960s, but until the 1990s, when the Korean Wave appeared, they remained mostly regionalized. Since then, they have attracted millions of audiences worldwide and have experienced an immense increase in popularity.
The Progress of Korean Drama
The 1970s saw the beginning of South Korea’s popular television ownership, especially in homes, which set the foundation for the development of the television business. Dramacool, which were first produced on small budgets, became popular in the country, particularly in the 1980s with the introduction of color television. But it wasn’t until the early 1990s that Korean dramas began to become well-known abroad, especially in close-by nations like China and Japan. This time period experienced the beginning of the Korean Wave, a movement in culture that saw South Korean music, movies, and television dramas quickly spread over the world.
Worldwide Growth and Passion
Dramas from Korea acquired appeal across a wide range of locations, including Latin America, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe. Typical examples are the phenomenal popularity of Korean dramas such as “Jumong” in Iran, which attracted an unprecedented 85% of viewers in 2008, and “Hur Jun,” which attracted over 90% of viewers in Iraqi Kurdistan in 2012. The spread of internet streaming services increased the internationalization of Korean dramas, and Netflix has become a major force in the marketing and distribution of Korean entertainment. The enormous success of “Squid Game” in 2021—which was viewed in its first four weeks by over 142 million homes globally—emphasized the popularity and impact of Korean dramas around the world.
Financial Impact
In addition to raising South Korea’s cultural profile internationally, the popularity of Korean dramas has had a significant positive economic impact. The amount of Korean television material sent to the US in 2022 alone was US$561.3 million, a considerable rise over prior years. The sector now employs tens of thousands of people and is a significant employer. Reform requests have been sparked by worries expressed about the industry’s difficult working conditions.
Design and Themes
One director and one screenwriter are usually responsible for the unique directorial and dialogue styles found in each Korean drama series. In contrast to American television shows, which can have several directors and writers, Korean dramas uphold a more unified visual. The evening hours, specifically between 19:00 and 21:00, are set aside for daily dramas, which are identified by their telenovela structure and elevated viewership figures. These dramas explore a variety of themes, including friendship, family values, love, and societal challenges that are prominent in Korean society. They span a wide range of genres, including action, historical, school, medical, legal, and horror comedies.
Sageuk: Dramas From Background
Sageuk, which means “historical drama” in Korean, refers to movies and television shows that are based on historical occasions, people, or places. Even though the main subject matter of sageuk dramas is Korean history, they have become quite popular both in Korea and abroad.
Global Achievement
Outside of South Korea, sageuk dramas have received a great deal of praise since the mid-2000s, attracting viewers in the Asia-Pacific, Central Asia, Greater Middle East, Central and Eastern Europe, and Latin America. Prominent sageuk productions like as “Jumong,” “Yi San,” and “Dae Jang Geum” (Jewel in the Palace) enjoyed a huge audience in nations such as Vietnam, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Fiji, and Iran. “Jumong” is a standout example, attracting an extraordinary 85% of viewers when it started on Iran’s IRIB in 2008.
Romance in Modern Environments
Modern-day Korean dramas frequently feature romance storylines interwoven with themes of relationships and family ties. Male protagonists are frequently shown as idealized characters that are attractive, wise, wealthy, and searching for true love. The popularity of Korean dramas has been greatly boosted by this idealized version of characters, especially with female audiences.
Korean Television Drama From its Early Years
The Age of Radio Broadcasting (1927–1956)
During the Japanese administration, radio broadcasting, including radio dramas, began in Korea in 1927. About thirty percent of the programming was in Korean, but the remainder was in Japanese. Radio operas such as “Cheongsilhongsil” (1954) captured the emotions of the country after the Korean War.
Television’s Introduction (1956–1960s)
Korea started broadcasting television in 1956 when HLKZ-TV, an experimental station, was launched. A fire later forced the station to close. The initial television film “The Gate of Heaven” was shown on HLKZ-TV in 1962 after the first national channel, Korean Broadcasting System (KBS), made its debut in 1961.
Progress From the 1980s to the 2010s
With the introduction of color TV, Korean television had a revolutionary phase in the 1980s.
The portrayal of rural life in modern dramas, exemplified by “Love and Ambition” (1987), evoked nostalgia, capturing 78% of viewers. The Korean Wave commenced with the global recognition of historical series like “500 Years of Joseon” (1983–1992) and “Dae Jang Geum” (2003–2004). Commercial stations such as Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS) began to appear in the 1990s, increasing viewer competition. “Eyes of Dawn” (1991) and “Sandglass” (1995) revolutionized Korean dramas, igniting the Korean Wave.
Dramas that appealed to a worldwide audience, such as “Autumn in My Heart,” “Full House,” and “Winter Sonata,” became popular in the 2000s. Historical series were given new life with the development of the “fusion sageuk” genre, which saw the creation of ground-breaking shows like “Hur Jun,” “Damo,” and “Dae Jang Geum”.
K-Dramas’ Rise in the 2020s
Due to platforms like Netflix expanding their content offerings, there was a boom in interest in K-dramas from throughout the world in the late 2010s and early 2020s. “Korean dramas, like ‘Squid Game’ in 2021, draw massive global audiences, hitting 111 million viewers in just 17 days.” As evidenced by shows like “The Penthouse: War in Life,” production companies have embraced the season system in response to shifting viewer tastes, meeting audience needs while upholding the highest levels of narrative and production value.
The Development of Production Techniques
Modifying Production Models
Over time, the production techniques used for Korean dramas have changed. Originally, internal production was handled by television networks themselves. But there has been a noticeable change in the 2000s toward outsourcing production to independent businesses. Since independent companies generated over 75% of all K-dramas in 2012, the industry is highly competitive.
Analyzing the Budget
The cost of making Korean dramas has increased recently; some shows are asking for budgets as high as ₩700 million for each episode. Particularly historical dramas demand a significant financial commitment; “The Red Sleeve” is one example, with costs reaching up to ₩950 million for each episode. Budget allocation decisions are influenced by things like bettering working conditions and obtaining contracts with domestic and foreign streaming services like Netflix.
Financial Problems
Production firms often experience budget overruns while having big budgets, which makes it harder for them to achieve their financial obligations. It is not unusual for actors and crew workers to receive their salaries late. Actors protesting unpaid salaries staged a demonstration outside KBS offices in 2012. Actors and crew have gone unpaid due to the failure of certain smaller production businesses, while broadcasting channels have denied any involvement.
Star Salary ranges
Prominent performers are in high demand and may make up to ₹200 million every episode. Starring parts in Korean dramas are highly profitable; Kim Soo-hyun, for example, reportedly earned ₩500 million each episode for his role in “One Ordinary Day” in 2021.
The Making of a Film
Quick Production Rate
Korean drama production is known for its fast-paced style, with production firms attempting to shoot episodes in a condensed amount of time. Korean dramas adapt scripts based on live audience feedback, unlike industries with pre-finalized scripts. While flexible storytelling is dynamic, it strains crew and actors with long, sleepless shifts.
Real-Time Shooting Model
Korean dramas usually use a live-shoot approach, in which the first few episodes are pre-produced and the rest are filmed in parallel with their broadcast. Production teams can use this method to take audience comments into account and modify stories as necessary. But it also puts more strain on the actors and crew, who have to adjust to last-minute changes in the script and rigorous shooting schedules.
Technological Problems
Technology presents certain obstacles in the production process. Even with the advancements in digital filmmaking, some production teams continue to use manual scheduling and planning techniques. Furthermore, due to constrained filming schedules, episodes are frequently sent to television stations in pieces, requiring editing and assembly to be completed in real time.
Specific Sites for Shooting
Large television networks keep special locations with advanced sets and equipment for filming historical dramas. For example, KBS uses Mungyeongsaejae Studio in North Gyeongsang Province, while MBC uses Yongin Daejanggeum Park in Gyeonggi Province. These specially designed spaces simplify the production process and enhance the visual realism of historical plays.
Coming Opportunities
Improved Investment
With major financial contributions from streaming titans like Netflix, the future of Korean drama production seems bright. Netflix’s announcement in April 2023 of a $2.5 billion investment in K-dramas highlighted the rising demand for premium entertainment around the world.
Development of Talent
The importance of talent development in the industry is shown by the rise in popularity of K-pop idols and child actors. Although at first viewed with suspicion, K-pop idols have become a regular feature in dramas, with a number of them securing noteworthy success in leading parts. In addition, the range and creativity of Korean drama material is increased by initiatives to support up-and-coming filmmakers and screenwriters.
Integration of Music
Korean dramas still heavily include music, with original soundtracks (OSTs) playing a crucial role in the narrative. In addition to increasing emotional resonance, original sound tracks (OSTs) also create new revenue sources via album sales and digital downloads. The popularity of OSTs is evidence of the beneficial integration of music and visual storytelling in Korean dramas.
Popularity of Korean Dramas
Sensitive Information in K-Dramas
Korean television shows, especially K-dramas, have a distinct attraction because they use hidden information, which is hard to impart through traditional channels. These programs successfully appeal mostly to female viewers, exhibiting actors’ sincere tears and emotional complexity and ad-lib performances.
Rejecting Gender Ideas
K-dramas advocate for independence from social restraints and present women in professions that are traditionally held by men, challenging established gender stereotypes. Additionally, male characters are more fluidly portrayed; instead of rigidly conforming to stereotypical ideas of masculinity, they embrace unisex appearances. The focus on beauty procedures, including as cosmetics and cosmetic surgery, adds to the popularity of K-dramas and K-pop around the world.
Confucian Principles and Cultural Transmission
Asian viewers find great resonance in Korean dramas as they convey Confucian values like filial piety, family-orientedness, and reverence for elders. Their global appeal is enhanced by their exquisite costumes, breathtaking settings, and excellent production values.
High Level of Fan Engagement
Because K-dramas are produced in real time, allowing Korean-speaking viewers to influence content through recommendations and complaints, fans are essential to the show’s success. Through social media, fans who do not speak Korean make contributions by raising awareness and impacting the popularity of dramas, which in turn affects future productions.
Global Welcome
East Asia
China
In China, Korean dramas are very popular; some of the series have received billions of views. However, their distribution across the nation has occasionally been impacted by diplomatic concerns.
Japan
In Japan, Korean dramas have gained popularity as a cultural phenomenon that may boost travel and even improve diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Mongolia
The popularity of Korean dramas in Mongolia has resulted in stronger friendships and a rise in interest in the Korean language.
Korea North
Korean dramas are secretly viewed in North Korea despite severe laws, showing their timeless appeal even in harsh settings.
Asia-Pacific
Brunei
Korean culture, especially dramas, has greatly influenced many facets of daily life in Brunei.
Cambodia
Korean dramas have grown in popularity in Cambodia, especially with young people, which helped establish cultural contacts between the two nations.
Indonesia
The popularity of Korean dramas has soared in Indonesia, inspiring popular series to be remade and converted.
Malaysia
In Malaysia, Korean dramas have developed a sizable fan base and have positively impacted attitudes toward Korean culture.
Myanmar
Cultural exchange projects have been developed by the interest that Korean dramas have created in Korean entertainment and food in Myanmar.
Philippines
Korean dramas are highly valued for their cultural insights and engaging storytelling, making them a mainstay on Philippine television.
Singapore
Through a variety of channels, Singapore has welcomed Korean dramas, giving fans quick access to the most recent episodes.
Thailand
The broad acceptance of Korean food and cultural exchange programs in Thailand can be linked to the popularity of Korean dramas.
Vietnam
Korean dramas have gained huge followings in Vietnam, especially among youth, and have inspired haircuts and fashion trends.
South Asia
Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, Korean dramas have become increasingly popular in the past few years. Korean dramas are now being given out for free in the nation thanks to a partnership between broadcasters and the Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE). Many Facebook groups, like BD Korean Drama Fam, Korean Lovers Bangladesh, and BD K-Family, give fans a place to talk about and take part in events based around their favorite shows.
Pakistan
With the airing of Korean dramas on entertainment networks such as My Love from the Star, Empress Ki, and The Heirs, the popularity of these shows skyrocketed in Pakistan. Pakistan was completely overtaken by the Hallyu wave during the outbreak, largely due to the popularity of programs like Squid Game, All of Us Are Dead, and Crash Landing on You. Young people in Pakistan, especially women, are becoming more and more interested in Korean dramas because of their realistic narrative and social topics.
Bhutan
The popularity of Korean entertainment among young people in Bhutan has challenged Bollywood’s reign in the nation’s entertainment industry. The availability of Korean entertainment caused discussions about its impact on Bhutanese culture and traditions, and Korean dramas have affected design trends.
India
In India, Korean dramas began to become more and more popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s, mostly due to piracy. Since then, they have attracted a lot of attention, especially in the northeastern states and some areas of eastern and southern India. Puthuyugam TV and ZEE5 broadcast Korean dramas dubbed into various regional languages. A considerable number of Indian young, particularly female youth, choose to enroll in Korean language programs as a result of the related topics and cultural exchange projects.
Nepal
After Winter Sonata aired, there was a surge in interest in Korean dramas in Nepal, which helped make shows like Boys Over Flowers and Full House famous. Fashion trends and the opening of Korean eateries have been impacted by Korean dramas. Furthermore, the rise of Korean language tutorials on Nepali television is indicative of the younger generation’s rising affinity with Korean culture.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan viewers are open to Korean dramas, as seen by the growing popularity of shows like Full House and Dae Jang Geum. These dramas have English dubbing and are broadcast on Rupavahini and Swarnavahini, among other television networks. The availability of Korean dramas with English and Sinhalese subtitles on streaming services like Iflix has also helped to foster a growing appreciation for Korean culture in the nation.
Middle East and North Africa
Iran
Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), Iran’s state broadcaster, has been airing Korean dramas during prime time slots in the past few years. Because Korean dramas are in line with Confucian ideals, which are relevant to Islamic culture, they have become increasingly popular. Visits to filming locations and collaboration between broadcasting firms have been part of efforts to strengthen cultural connections between South Korea and Iran.
Iraq
During the Iraq War, South Korean soldiers stationed in northern Iraq were the first to watch Korean dramas. After the military withdrew, efforts were made to expand Iraqi residents’ access to K-dramas. For instance, Hur Jun gained popularity in the Kurdistan region, prompting Iraq’s First Lady to invite the lead actor for a visit.
Egypt
Egypt has become a major fan base for Korean dramas such as Autumn in My Heart, with viewers sending in letters and phone calls expressing their delight. The successful improvement of South Korea’s image in the nation through the screening of Korean dramas has supported positive relations between the two countries.
Europe
Romania
The 2009 broadcast of Dae Jang Geum on TVR contributed to the rise in popularity of Korean dramas in Romania. Korean dramas have maintained their popularity and high viewership in the nation ever since.
North America
United States
In the past, Asian American-focused networks like ImaginAsian and AZN Television broadcasted Korean dramas. In order to appeal to a variety of viewers, streaming services like Netflix and Viki now provide a large range of Korean dramas with foreign subtitles. Local Korean drama networks air timeslots in Hawaii and San Francisco as well.
South America
Chile
With the transmission of shows like Star in My Heart and Stairway to Heaven, Korean dramas became well-known in Chile. Hallyu, the Korean wave, became popular in the nation and attracted a devoted following in addition to earning remarkable viewership levels.
Popularity and Reviews
Nielsen Korea and TNmS are the two main businesses in South Korea that provide viewing ratings.
Korea Nielsen
Initially, only Media Service Korea (MSK) provided TV viewership ratings in Seoul. AC Nielsen acquired MSK in 1999, expanding ratings nationwide. AGB Group and AC Nielsen Korea combined in 2005 to become AGB Nielsen Media Research. AGB Nielsen Media Research and KADD Nielsen Media Research merged in January 2013, forming Nielsen Korea.
Complete National Multimedia Statistics, or TNmS
MSK faced competition from TNS Media Korea, which was founded in 1998 as a partnership with Taylor Nelson Sofres (TNS). By June 1999, TNS Media Korea had expanded its service to five major cities and had formally launched using a more complex audience rate survey approach. In 2010, TNmS (Total National Multimedia Statistics) replaced TNS Media Korea. But as of late 2018, TNmS has stopped making data available to the general public on their websites. Instead, they now sporadically disclose ratings through news organizations like BreakNews.
Notes
- As of 2010, it held the 38th rank. By January 2013, it maintained the 41st position. By May 2015, it hovered around the fortieth spot. In June 2018, it retained the 39th rank.
- Nielsen Korea began disclosing the viewership figures in January 2018.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I watch dramas on Drama Cool?
You can watch dramas on Drama Cool by visiting their website or using their mobile app. Simply search for the drama you want to watch, select the episode, and start streaming.
Are there any subscription fees for Drama Cool?
No, Drama Cool is a free streaming platform. You can watch dramas without any subscription fees. However, you may encounter ads while streaming.
Is Drama Cool legal?
Drama Cool sources content from various sources, including official streaming platforms and other sources. In some cases, individuals may use copyrighted material without permission, even though some content can be legally obtained. Therefore, it’s essential to check the legality of each drama individually.
Do I need to create an account to watch dramas on Drama Cool?
No, you typically don’t need to create an account to watch dramas on Drama Cool. Most content is available for streaming without signing in. However, creating an account may offer additional features or benefits.
Are dramas on Drama Cool subtitled in English?
Yes, most dramas on Drama Cool come with English subtitles. This allows viewers who don’t understand the original language of the drama to enjoy it with subtitles in English. However, the availability and accuracy of subtitles may vary depending on the source of the content.
Conclusion
Since their debut in the 1960s, Korean dramas have had a wonderful transformation that has made them a global cultural phenomenon today. They attract audiences all over the world with their distinctive storytelling, outstanding production standards, and variety of themes. They persist in living and influencing the entertainment industry in spite of challenges such as financial limitations, demonstrating the ability of storytelling to cut across cultural divides.