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Exclusive: Neon is gearing up to begin production in May on Bad Lieutenant: Tokyo, with Takashi Miike set to direct. The thriller will star Shun Oguri, Lily James, and WWE star Liv Morgan (Gionna Daddio).

The film will be a U.S.-Japan co-production, produced by Jeremy Thomas for Recorded Picture Company, Sam Pressman for Pressman Film, Naoaki Kitajima for Nippon TV and Misako Saka for Olm. Executive producers include Tom Quinn, Yuzo Kuwahara, Tetsu Fujimura, Paula Paizes, Alainée Kent, Peter Watson, Ivan Kelava, Max Loeb and Mike Apgar. The deal was negotiated by Neon’s Sarah Colvin, VP of Acquisitions, and Paula Paizes from Pressman Film and Recorded Picture Company’s Ivan Kelava on behalf of the filmmakers.

Neon will release the film theatrically in North America and represent the international sales rights in Cannes this month.

A classic Korean fairy tale involves a mermaid who falls in love with a fisherman, with this premise adapted and modernized in the 2016 K-drama "The Legend of the Blue Sea." Currently available to stream on Hulu, the series is divided into two narratives, one set in Korea's medieval Joseon era, and the other in the present-day. Reuniting the core couple at the center of these two time periods is reincarnation, with their star-crossed romance reborn through time and tragedy. This dual-narrative approach lets "The Legend of the Blue Sea" weave in a number of classic K-drama themes and tropes while presenting a thoroughly entertaining and unique story.

During the Joseon Dynasty, young nobleman Kim Dam-ryeong (Lee Min-ho) falls in love with mermaid Se-hwa (Jun Ji-hyun). Centuries later, Dam-ryeong has been reincarnated into a con artist named Heo Joon-jae, while a reincarnated Se-hwa takes on the name Shim Cheong after being smitten with the handsome human.

So many shows live and die by the quality of the love story at their core and this is especially true of K-dramas, as Korean television steadily gains popularity worldwide. The K-drama term is a blanket one applied to scripted South Korean television of any genre and, more often than not regardless of genre, these shows find time for romance. With flawlessly beautiful main characters and soap operatic stakes, often in the best way, it's easy to see the appeal of a good romantic K-drama. With Netflix's library of fantastic K-dramas growing rapidly, there are plenty of Korean love stories to choose from on the streaming service.

True to the malleability of the K-drama term, the series on this list range from the usual romantic comedies to period piece fare and outright melodrama. With such a wide variety in shows and genres to choose from, there is a love...

K-drama My Dearest Nemesis tells the story of Su-Jeong, a young girl who works at one of the biggest corporations in South Korea and lives with her dad and younger brother. When Su-Jeong is in high school, she gets into video games and meets a sweet boy who goes by the username Black Dragon in the game. The boy claims he’s 22, and Su-Jeong essentially falls in love with him while they’re playing games. But, when they finally meet in person, she realizes the real game was being played with her heart. Su-Jeong publicly humiliates the boy, Ju-Yeon, who is in middle school, and leaves him high and dry. But, many years later, this same boy becomes her boss, and neither recognizes the other. All they know is that they don’t ever want to meet their first loves again. However, Ju-Yeon happens to be the heir to the company Su-Jeong works at,...

With series like "Severance" and "Slow Horses," Apple TV+ has a great library of original programming that continues to grow. However, between making your way through episodes of "Ted Lasso" or "Shrinking," you may have overlooked the streamer's period drama "Pachinko." Adapted from the best-selling 2017 novel of the same name by Min Jin Lee, the story's East Asian setting, including Korea, and heartbreaking emotional beats make it perfect for any K-drama fan. Keeping that in mind, it's also important to point out that, despite its cast and setting, "Pachinko" is not quite technically a K-drama itself.

"Pachinko" has its narrative split across two time periods centered on matriarch Kim Sunja and her family. In the past, a younger Sunja (Kim Min-ha) endures the brutal Japanese occupation of Korea and being forced to relocate to Japan while pregnant with the illegitimate son of the Japan-based Korean mobster Koh Hansu (Lee Min-ho). As World War II begins,...

Lee Si Young Announces Divorce With Restaurateur Jo(Photo Credit –Instagram)

Lee Si Young, best known for her role in Netflix hit Sweet Home, is embarking on a new stage of her life. After 8 years of marriage, she has announced her divorce with restaurateur Jo. As per the latest report, the two are currently in the process of getting a divorce. They also share a son together, whose custody arrangement is being discussed now.

On March 17, Korean media outlet Ytn exclusively reported that Lee Si Young and her husband are currently in the process of getting divorce. As per the report, earlier this year, the couple submitted the necessary documents to the Seoul Family Court. Now they have already reached a mutual agreement, as per the latest update. The actress and restaurateur Jo are currently discussing on custody arrangements and asset division.

Lee Si Young’s agency, Ace Factory, also confirmed the reports,...

Live-action South Korean television programming, commonly known as K-dramas regardless of what genre they're in, has been taking the world by storm for years. Whether it's gritty crime shows or modern Cinderella stories, there is something for everyone from the ever-growing library of Korean television. Of course, with so many great Korean series to choose from, it can be daunting for newcomers to decide which show to start with. Fortunately, we're here with a whole list of K-dramas that are perfectly accessible to those unfamiliar with South Korean pop culture.

The shows listed here range from older classics that are just now finding international audiences to part of Netflix's expanding library of original K-dramas. Each reflects different aspects of South Korean culture, but still welcoming to those who aren't well-versed in its nuances. And more than just being binge-friendly, these shows serve as a gateway into the wide world of K-dramas,...

K-Dramas have come a long way since its emergence. From its OGs like Boys Over Flowers and Secret Garden to the 2010s contemporaries like The Heirs and Descendants of the Sun, this generation of K-Dramas continues to break the barriers of genre. From a Friends meets Grey’s Anatomy type of medical comedy-drama, to a surreal, vivid portrayal of between life and death, K-Dramas are both comfort watches with their familiar tropes, but remain refreshing with unique themes and storylines.

Korean Child Stars Tragic Fate (Photo Credit – Instagram)

It’s been a tragic time for the South Korean entertainment industry after Kim Sae-Ron passed away. Read on to learn more about the sad fate of the deaths of the Korean stars who began their career as child artists.

Kim Sae-Ron’s death stirred up the South Korean entertainment industry as it led people to notice how the young artist had been walking on the path of suicidal thoughts. In the last few years, South Korea has witnessed many young celebrities die by suicide, including Moonbin, Sulli, and others. These are just a few names among the rest who have faced the pressure of fame. These suicides are not just isolated incidents, but what people and critics realize is that they are a part of systemic issues within the industry.

The real question that should be asked is, even after having fame and wealth,...

Since Valentine’s season is upon us, we’ve got a smorgasbord of romance movies from all across the world thanks to Netflix and other Ott platforms. So, I got a chance to watch the Indonesian romance movie The Most Beautiful Girl In The World. The movie tells the story of a typical rich playboy and his quest for love after his father passes away unexpectedly and leaves his inheritance to his son, only if he marries “The Most Beautiful Girl In The World.” Now, I know the title of the film makes you think that this is some sort of terrible movie that pits girls against each other, but it’s not. In fact, it’s a movie that is very self-aware and definitely hopes to appease a proud female crowd. It’s a movie about a strong, independent woman with a hunger for achieving her dream. But in...

Barbie Hsu, a Taiwanese actor and singer best known for starring in the hit 2001 series “Meteor Garden,” has died. She was 48.

The BBC reported news of Hsu’s death on Monday, citing local media. Her sister, Dee Hsu, told Taiwan’s Tvbs News that she had fallen ill while on vacation in Japan.

“During the Lunar New Year, our family came to Japan for vacation. My dearest sister Barbie has unfortunately left us after getting pneumonia, triggered by influenza,” Dee Hsu said, according to the BBC. Hsu had health struggles in the past and had previously been hospitalized due to epilepsy.

Barbie and Dee began their careers together as a singing duo, releasing the hit song “Ten-Minute Love” in 1994 under the name S.O.S. After a contractual dispute with their agency, the sisters shifted focus to hosting, which included the variety show “Guess” and entertainment news program “100% Entertainment.”

In 2001, Hsu rose...

Can't get enough of Koh Hansu in Apple TV's sweeping epic series Pachinko? The charismatic Hallyu star, Lee Min-ho, is finally making a comeback to the K-drama scene after five years with his latest project When the Stars Gossip (also known as Ask the Stars in Korean). Starring the "queen of romantic comedies" Gong Hyo-jin, Netflix's newest Korean drama tells the story of an unlikely romance that blossoms in the most dazzling setting of all — outer space! When the Star Gossip brings back Lee Min-ho's iconic comedic talents as seen in Boys Over Flowers and Personal Taste. The Pachinko star plays Gong Ryong, an intelligent obstetrician-gynecologist who suddenly embarks on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to a space station with a secret mission at stake. There, he meets Eve Kim (Gong), a perfectionist and an elite astronaut commander who has dedicated her life to the cosmos. The original series just launched on January 4th,...

Netflix's romantic comedy, When the Stars Gossip features a large ensemble of actors who give great performances. Directed by It's Okay to Not Be Okay's Park Shin-woo, the romantic K-drama follows the love story between a space tourist and an astronaut. When the Stars Gossip is also the first Korean Earth-to-space romance and includes stunning visuals, complex characters, and an engaging plot.

The Netflix K-drama premiered on the streaming platform on January 4, 2025, with two new episodes planned to release on Saturday and Sunday every week. When the Stars Gossip has 16 episodes, which will delve further into the space romance with the finale set for the end of February. K-dramas are famous for having incredible characters, and When the Stars Gossip is no exception.

When The Stars Gossip's Characters & Actors

Actor

Character

Lee Min-ho

Gyong Ryong

Gong Hyo-jin

Eve Kim

Han Ji-eun

Choi Go-eun

Oh Jung-se

Kang Kang-su

Heo...

One of Netflix's best attributes is its ability to popularize international films that most audiences wouldn't otherwise have access to. The streaming service has particularly contributed to the growing global interest in Korean films. One of Netflix's most popular and best-reviewed films was 2022's 20th Century Girl. The romantic drama presented a complex love story about first love, friendship, heartbreak, and nostalgia. Things begin in 2019 as a woman named Na Bo-ra receives a mysterious package delivered to her childhood home.

It then flashes back to 1999 when Bo-ra is in high school and becomes entangled in a peculiar "love quadrangle." Bo-ra's best friend, Yeon-du, is leaving the country for heart surgery and asks Bo-ra to keep an eye on her crush, Baek Hyun-jin. Bo-ra agrees but unexpectedly falls for Hyun-jin's best friend, Poong Woon-ho—only to discover later that Woon-ho is actually the boy Yeon-du had a crush on. It...

Top 10 Anime Recommendations for K-Drama Fans - Main Image

K-dramas have taken the world by storm, captivating audiences with their romantic narratives, humor, and emotional depth. But did you know anime also offers a treasure trove of similar stories waiting to be discovered?

From the misunderstood Ryuuji and the fiery Taiga Aisaka in Toradora! to the heartwarming relationship between the tall Risa Koizumi and the short Atsushi Ootani in Lovely Complex, anime delivers compelling storylines that deeply resonate with viewers.

Whether you're drawn to slow-burn romances, quirky characters, or explorations of personal growth, here are the top 10 anime recommendations for K-drama fans.

1. Ouran High School Host Club

Ouran High School Host Club may have debuted in 2006, but it was truly ahead of its time. Based on Bisco Hatori's manga, the series follows Haruhi Fujioka, a scholarship student at the prestigious Ouran Academy.

Haruhi accidentally stumbles upon the Host Club,...

K-dramas often possess the extraordinary talent of turning otherwise average moments into unforgettable masterpieces, captivating audiences worldwide. Through stunning visuals, heartfelt performances, and intricate storytelling, the best Korean dramas create scenes that linger in the minds and hearts of viewers long after the credits roll. From controversial yet beautiful scenes set in a wintery North Korea to shimmering beach scenes alive with emotion, each moment in a great Korean drama is a carefully crafted blend of action and reaction.

Similar to a delicate painting where every detail serves a purpose, TV shows like Boys Over Flowers do a stellar job of taking the viewer on a long, winding journey, often chock-full of the bumps and turns of life. Moments are peppered with various feelings, extenuating the complexity of human connection. This list celebrates ten standout scenes that exemplify the artistry of masterpiece K-dramas, transcending their narratives to deliver universal and deeply personal emotions.

Classic shojo anime are near and dear to many fans' hearts. Many modern anime fans grew up with these classics, giving them a sense of nostalgia for the old anime adaptations of classic manga. These classics were meant to be enjoyed, with all their flaws and filler, and that was how anime fans appreciated them, even with many of their favorite stories ending on cliffhangers, because the manga had yet to conclude.

However, when the Fruits Basket remake was released, a new world of possibilities opened up for the world of shojo anime. Like Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood that came before it, the Fruits Basket remake made fans consider the possibilities of their favorite childhood anime being remade. This feeling was only furthered when Tokyo Mew Mew received an anime remake. Now, anime fans are eager to see which of their favorite classic anime gets a proper remake. These ten...

Boys Over Flowers featured several actors whose careers were only going to get bigger after the 2009 K-drama. Adapted from Yoko Kamios Japanese manga of the same name, Boys Over Flowers sees Geum Jan-di, a working-class girl who falls for Gu Jun-pyo, the richest boy at Shinhwa High. Boys Over Flowers is not only one of the best romantic K-dramas of all time, but it also played a huge role in the Korean Wave.

While the actors in Boys Over Flowers worked on other TV shows before and after starring in the beloved series, they are mostly recognized for their roles in the high school K-drama. Since Boys Over Flowers is a romance, there might be an expectation that the actors in its cast have mostly starred in similar TV shows. While that is true in some cases, actors like Koo Hye-sun and Kim Hyun-joo have gone on to work in several other genres,...

The K-drama genre is a wide-reaching one, filled with stories covering romance to horror, but some of these stories, while good in their own ways, can often make viewers cringe. This is not the case for some of the best K-dramas of all time, but in many cases, some of the best dramas can be difficult to watch. This is either because they are too gory or frightening for casual viewing, or they have too many emotional stakes.

However, there are many K-dramas that are both fun and easy to watch, while lacking many other similar shows cringe-inducing to watch. They are often wholesome, with warm plotlines that go a step further in bringing the viewer into the story. Shows like Twenty-Five Twenty-One and Boys Over Flowers are short, sweet, and to the point, making many of these the perfect k-dramas to binge in a day.

What's Wrong With Secretary...

Boys Over Flowers is often recognized as one of the most popular K-dramas to date, but if audiences are yearning for more after the series is complete, there are a number of dramas that are similar and just as great. Released in 2009, Boys Over Flowers is a fantastic Korean drama that follows a young woman named Geum Jan-di who begins attending an elite private school and finds herself getting caught up with a group of wealthy boys who call themselves F4. Jan-di stands up to the boys, making them reflect on their behavior and on Jan-di herself.

There are many aspects of Boys Over Flowers that are particularly enjoyable for K-drama audiences. For one thing, it is amazing to see Jan-di knock F4 down a peg, especially when the rest of their peers are happy to let them rule the school. In general, Jan-di's headstrong nature is exciting to watch...

“Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital,” an adaptation of the South Korean box office hit “Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum” is headed for a world premiere in December at the Metro Manila Film Festival.

The 2018 Korean original was a found footage type supernatural horror film directed by Jung Bum-shik. Based on an actual psychiatric hospital located in Gwangju-si, it starred actors Wi Ha-joon (“Squid Game”), Park Ji-hyun (“The Divine Fury”), Oh Ah-yeon (“Mr. Sunshine”), Moon Ye-won (“Legal High”), Park Sung-hoon, Yoo Je-yoon (“Extreme Job”) and Lee Seung-wook (“Joseon Fist”) in the leading roles.

The new version is directed by Kerwin Go and produced by acclaimed director Erik Matti and veteran producer Dondon Monteverde in partnership with actor Enrique Gil. Production is through Reality Mm Studios.

Following the format of the Korean original, the group of Filipino amateur ghosthunters will explore the notorious Xinglin Hospital, an abandoned building located in Taiwan’s West Central District.

The 30th anniversary should be a grand celebration for any series. Although, the same can’t be said about Rurouni Kenshin, given its creator’s controversial track record. A few years back, Nobuhiro Watsuki landed himself in some serious controversies. His actions were severe enough to have charges placed against him.

Rurouni Kenshin (2023) | Credits: Liden Films

With a recent development, many renowned mangaka including Eiichiro Oda and Masashi Kishimoto are at the brunt of severe backlash for associating with Watsuki. Their association could be labeled as a mere obligatory gesture, but that doesn’t seem to be the case entirely.

The Rurouni Kenshin Creator Controversy A still from Rurouni Kenshin anime | Credits: Studio Liden Films

Nobuhiro Watsuki was convicted of the possession of child pornography in 2018. The repercussions he faced included a fine of $ 1500 approximately and a brief hiatus on the serialization of the Hokkaido Arc of Rurouni Kenshin. Most...

As the 30th anniversary of Rurouni Kenshin approaches on Oct 4, 2024, 38 prominent manga creators, including Eiichiro Oda (One Piece), Yoshihiro Togashi (Hunter x Hunter), Gege Akutami (Jujutsu Kaisen), and Masashi Kishimoto (Naruto), will contribute color illustrations to mark the occasion.

The list of manga creators that are contributing to Rurouni Kenshin‘s 30th anniversary celebrations are as follows:

Eiichiro Oda (One Piece) Hirohiko Araki (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure) Gege Akutami (Jujutsu Kaisen) Takehiko Inoue (Slam Dunk) Masashi Kishimoto (Naruto) Yoshihiro Togashi (Hunter x Hunter) Kohei Horikoshi (My Hero Academia) Yusuke Murata (One Punch Man – as illustrator) Yoichi Takahashi (Captain Tsubasa) Yūki Tabata (Black Clover) Hideaki Sorachi (Gintama) Takeshi Obata (Death Note) Naoya Matsumoto (Kaiju No. 8) Takeshi Konomi (The Prince of Tennis) Sui Ishida (Tokyo Ghoul) Daisuke Ashihara (World Trigger) Yūsei Matsui (Assassination Classroom) Tenya Yabuno (Inazuma Eleven) Hiroyuki Takei (Shaman King) Kaiu Shirai & Posuka Demizu (The Promised Neverland) Tsukasa Hojo (City Hunter...

The parallels between the 1980s and 1920s in Pachinko are already quite striking to begin with, but when you compare some of it to today, it still seems like not much has changed. This is something I really appreciate about the show and how it has a somewhat universal experience feeling to it despite being a historical drama. In episode 3, we’re already in June of 1945. It feels like at any moment something terrible is going to happen, though we know that Sunja and her family survived all those years. In this episode we get to see Noa and Mozasu interacting with Hansu, a stranger to them but also a savior. On the other hand, in the 80s, it seems things are finally taking a positive turn for Solomon, but there might be something interesting brewing for Sunja too. Before I dive head first into everything that happened in this episode of Pachinko,...

Shueisha -- Japan's largest publishing company and the entity behind the likes of Weekly Shonen Jump -- has launched a new manga portal site specifically for josei and shojo series called Rimacomi+. The new website includes 94 series, including big-name favorites such as Blue Spring Ride and Honey Lemon Soda, from eight different Shueisha-owned magazines.

Per Japanese news outlet PR Times, Rimacomi+ aims to be a "comprehensive distribution site for manga works for girls and women that publishes the series and the latest reading of the eight magazines Ribon, Margaret, Bessatsu Margaret, Deluxe Margaret, Cocohana, Cookie, Kimikoi and Manga Mee." Rimacomi+ is a free platform with both new and ongoing series, including the beloved Blue Spring Ride, Honey Lemon Soda and Pink & Habanero, among many others.

Related New Sailor Moon Video Transforms the Shojo Classic Into a 1950s Film Noir Flick

A new genre-bending Sailor Moon video transports the series' heroines...

Netflix has remained one of the most popular streaming services in the world since its inception, thanks to its diverse collection of movies and TV series. Over the years, the streaming platform has been relatively consistent in producing original TV series, winning both Emmys and Golden Globes. However, it is not without flaws since Netflix faces the need to remove certain outstanding TV shows each month for a variety of reasons.

In May 2024, for example, some well-known TV shows from Netflix, including Medici, Boys Over Flowers, Angelina Ballerina, and Octonauts, have left the platform. With another month approaching, it's only natural that long-time Netflix users would want to know whether any more TV shows are leaving the streamer. With that in mind, here's a list of every TV series leaving Netflix in June 2024.

What If? Leaving Netflix on June 5

Everyone has what-ifs in life, whether they are about a life-altering...

Few genres of television capture the magic of teenage romance quite like K-dramas. Between sweet and innocent crushes, intense love triangles and the emotional drama that comes with balancing high school and a semblance of a social life, many K-dramas expertly mix relatability and nostalgia with the right amount of melodrama and fantasy. That’s probably why teen dramas like Love Alarm, Boys Over Flowers and Inheritors have become undeniable fan favorites over the years.

But lately, Korean storytellers have been crafting a wider variety of romantic dramas that diverge from the typical shows that K-drama aficionados are used to, with steamier rom-coms, unconventional love stories, and workplace and slice-of-life tales, as well as realistic portrayals of modern dating — especially later in life.

Here’s a curated list of popular romantic K-dramas that are specifically geared toward those in their 20s and beyond.

TV Asahi is one of Japan’s best-known television channels, and anime fans will know it as well for its contribution to the anime market, which includes Crayon Shin-chan, Doraemon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Blue Lock, Boys Over Flowers, Slam Dunk, Sailor Moon and numerous Gundam titles. But, recently, TV Asahi has decided to make a slightly different contribution to the world of anime by revealing a list of the 20 best anime songs of all time in a special program, but with a twist.

Namely, these songs were selected and ranked only by foreign, non-Japanese fans from around the world. The list includes songs from different time periods, which is why it is a very diverse list, and that is always a good thing. Sadly, we don’t have the special for you as it is not available for streaming, but we do have the list, so enjoy some of the best anime songs ever!

Best Korean Dramas Dubbed in Hindi: Embark on a captivating journey into the realm of Korean entertainment with our meticulously curated list of the top 10 Korean dramas, expertly dubbed in Hindi for an enriching viewing experience. From timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, these stellar productions transcend linguistic barriers, captivating audiences with their compelling narratives and captivating performances. Join us as we delve into each drama, accompanied by its respective release year, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Korean storytelling.

1. Crash Landing on You (Yeh Mera Deewana Pan Hai) – 2019

Experience the epic romance of “Crash Landing on You” (Yeh Mera Deewana Pan Hai), released in 2019, as it unfolds against the backdrop of political intrigue and cultural divides. Follow the unlikely love story between a South Korean heiress and a North Korean soldier, navigating the complexities of forbidden love amidst geopolitical tensions.

2. Descendants of the Sun (Suraj Ki Kiran) – 2016

Journey...

Before Korean dramas exploded globally and started appealing more to Western audiences, the beginnings of K-dramas were the absolute best. Nothing can compare to the nostalgic feeling of the early 2000s. Between the light-hearted OSTs, wacky, brightly colored clothing, and the body-switching storylines, there was always something to make you belly laugh and feel good. And for most Og fans, many got their start into Korean TV and culture from shows such as Boys Over Flowers, Secret Garden, Winter Sonata, Full House, or the beloved Goong otherwise known as Princess Hours.

K-pop idols like Lee Min-ho and Iu are taking the acting world by storm, showcasing their talent on screens worldwide. From Girls' Generation stars like Yoona and Seohyun to BTS member V, many K-pop artists are proving their acting skills too. Rowoon of SF9 is making a name for himself solely as an actor, showcasing his talent in various K-dramas since leaving the band.

Where there are plenty of great K-dramas to watch with actors who started out in the industry, it's not the only way to break into the business, with many brilliant K-pop idols having made the jump into acting. In recent years, Korean K-drama series have gained huge popularity worldwide, especially through streaming services like Netflix. Considering how South Korean entertainment has expanded into so many avenues, it's not surprising to see its pop stars make a go as actors.

The path from K-pop idol to K-drama...

Warning: This article contains minor spoilers for The Bequeathed episode 1

"The Bequeathed" is a new K-drama on Netflix about legacy and secrets, featuring mysterious and engaging characters. The story follows Yun Seo-ha, who learns about the death of an unknown uncle and inherits his property. The show explores Seo-ha's complicated personal life, the investigation led by a skilled detective, and the secrets surrounding her extended family.

The Bequeathed’s cast brings mysterious and engaging characters to life in this new K-drama about legacy and secrets. One of the first major K-dramas releasing in 2024 on Netflix, The Bequeathed was created by Yeon Sang-ho, who directed Train to Busan. Between a family drama and a dark, sinister mystery that comes following a murderer, The Bequeathed quickly sets up the tone of the show, most of which is told from the perspective of Yun Seo-ha.

The new Netflix Korean show sees Yun Seo-ha...

K-dramas often sell an idealized version of love, but some couples are brought together for the sake of a romantic narrative, even if their relationship dynamics are unrealistic or toxic. Some K-drama couples, such as Geum Jan-di and Goo Jun-pyo in Boys Over Flowers, feel rushed and unearned, with little character development or compatibility. While K-dramas like It's Okay to Not Be Okay tackle complicated relationships, some couples, like Moon Gang-tae and Ko Moon-Young, have dynamics that aren't sustainable in the long run and lack the necessary support for their individual needs.

The majority of K-drama couples end up getting together, but some of them shouldn't have been with each other in the first place. Overall, K-dramas have evolved its storytelling by tackling a wide array of genres. Some are period shows, which tackle Korean history all the way back to the dynasties. Others are fantastical, with elements that deal with magic and other superpowers.

Netflix has released its engagement report for the first half of 2023, revealing the hours viewed for all available programs, including anime. Demon Slayer, One Piece, and Vinland Saga season 2 were among the most-watched anime on Netflix during this period. The popularity of these anime, despite limited worldwide availability, shows the growing mainstream appeal of anime worldwide.

2023 is coming to a close, and with that, Netflix has unveiled its engagement report for the year's first half. While Netflix has normally been secretive about how their content performs, this year, they have decided to, for the first time, disclose the hours viewed for all of their available programs, and a similar report for the second half of 2023 can be expected sometime in June 2024.

Netflix’s engagement report covers everything available on the platform, and that, of course, includes their anime. While not at the top of the list, many anime still managed...

Platonic relationships in K-dramas can be just as heartwarming as romantic ones, like in Missing: The Other Side with the bond between the Three Musketeers. Stranger showcases the growth of friendship between Hwang Shi-mok and Han Yeo-jin, with their differences complementing each other both personally and professionally. Suspicious Partner highlights the importance of friendship through the connection between Eun Bong-hee and Ji Eun-hyuk, providing support and honesty during difficult times.

Some of the best relationships in K-dramas are purely platonic. While romances like Strong Woman Do Bong Soon and Boys Over Flowers showcase the beauty of a romantic relationship, there are many Korean dramas that emphasize friendship. These platonic relationships give the audience just as much to feel warm and fuzzy about as the sweetest K-drama romance.

Although slice-of-life K-dramas are often pointed to for their stellar friendships, these relationships can be found across a variety of K-dramas sub-genres. Even horror K-dramas,...

Rakuten Viki is hosting International K-Drama Day on November 29th to celebrate the Hallyu wave and make content more accessible to new viewers. The platform is offering a one-day-only 29% discount on subscriptions, as well as giveaways with exciting prizes like a free trip to Korea and K-drama-inspired snack boxes. Rakuten Viki will also make previously paywalled K-dramas available for free and add exclusive content from its partners, such as Duolingo and Webtoon.

As the popularity of K-dramas skyrockets worldwide, so too does the number of streaming services jumping into the fray. While Netflix may have popularized Korean shows with the success of Squid Game, however, it is Rakuten Viki that has been the leading platform for pan-Asian content for well over a decade. In celebration of the growing Hallyu wave, Viki is hosting the first-ever International K-Drama Day on November 29th, with the aim of honoring the already-existing fandom and...

East Asian cinema and television have been garnering global interest and critical acclaim in the past few decades, especially now that streaming services and platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Viki have been producing or acquiring the rights to many successful South Korean, Japanese, and Chinese dramas. While some fans may have a predilection for K-drama, K-pop music, and Korean lifestyle and cuisine in particular, others prefer Japanese productions because they’re more raw and fast-paced, or fantasy C-dramas for their epic action and artistic aesthetics.

This branched enthusiasm translates well into numbers: the Netflix survival series Squid Game was streamed by more than 142 million households in its first month; the revenge drama The Glory received 8 nominations at the Baeksang Awards and won three; the fantasy and adventure series Secret of the Three Kingdoms secured 14 billion views in 50 days and won Best Television Series at the Tencent Video Star Awards; and...

The King: Eternal Monarch, starring Lee Min Ho, who rose to prominence with the romance drama Boys Over Flowers, and Kim Go Eun, who made her acting debut with a webtoon-based drama, Cheese in the Trap, is one of the most adored and popular dramas overseas. The reason we specifically emphasized the word "overseas" is due to the fact that the drama has not been well-received in South Korea.

Despite holding the No.1 spot on the weekly Wavve drama chart for eight consecutive weeks and becoming the most popular Korean series in India, Malaysia, Philippines, and Singapore in 2020, the drama was met with controversy in South Korea. This unforeseen controversy resulted in the ban of the drama, making it a hot topic among viewers of Korean dramas. So, why was The King: Eternal Monarch drama banned in South Korea?

The King: Eternal Monarch: What Is the Drama About?

The King: Eternal Monarch...

Spoiler Alert: This post contains spoilers for “Xo, Kitty,” now streaming on Netflix.

Jenny Han’s 2014 novel “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” first introduces readers to Kitty Song Covey as the mischievous younger sister of main protagonist Lara Jean. Kitty, a precocious pre-teen, harbors a penchant for instigating drama — an affinity that sets off the chain of events leading to the fake-but-eventually-real relationship between her sister and love interest Peter Kavinsky. Memorialized by Anna Cathcart in the 2018 film version of the book — which spawned two sequels and launched the careers of Lana Condor and Noah Centineo, who played the leads — Kitty often serves as the comic relief, offsetting Lara Jean’s careful romantic idealism. But in spinoff series “Xo, Kitty,” which premiered on the streaming service on Thursday, the little sister becomes the star, and Cathcart steps into the spotlight.

Cathcart tells Variety that conversations about a possible...

Netflix has spent billions of dollars trying to capture the attention of subscribers worldwide during the recent Peak TV battles. They’ve thrown obscenely high budgets towards beloved auteurs and greased the wheels of awards campaigns in the hopes of becoming the go-to stop for all of your content needs. Yet, for all of their investments and ambitions, what they eventually struck gold with was an ebullient teen rom-com that captured the hearts of millions.

“To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” became a surprise smash for Netflix, earning strong reviews as well as a devoted fanbase. Two sequels followed, further adapting the best-selling novels by YA queen Jenny Han. With Lara Jean earning her happy ending, where else could they take the story? Now, the attention falls onto Kitty, Lara Jean’s younger sister, and her own search for love, identity and a classic happy-ever-after.

With Han at the helm as showrunner,...

Moonbin, a member of the Korean K-pop band Astro and one-half of the musical duo Moonbin & Sanha, has died. He was 25.

Police in South Korea said the singer’s body was discovered at his home in Seoul’s Gangnam-gu district by the band’s manager Wednesday evening, The Korea Times reported. Police said they are still investigating the cause of death, but believe Moonbin died by suicide.

Astro’s record label Fantagio Music confirmed Moonbin’s death in a statement posted to social media. “Astro’s Moonbin has suddenly left us to become a star in the sky,” Fantagio said in the statement. “All of the other Astro members, his colleague artists and employees at Fantagio are deeply mourning him with great grief and shock.”

Moonbin was born Moon Bin in 1998 in the provincial city of Cheongju, South Korea. He entered the entertainment industry at an early age, first as...

Moonbin, a member of the K-pop group Astro, has died at the age of 25.

As reported by Yonhap News, Moonbin was found dead by his manager at his home in Gangnam-gu, Seoul on the evening of Wednesday, April 19th. Police are still investigating the case, and an official cause of death is currently unknown.

Astro’s label Fantagio shared a statement saying Moonbin has “left us and became a star in the sky,” while adding that the company is “deeply mourning” the loss alongside his family, members of Astro, fellow artists, and fans. There will be a private funeral in accordance with the family’s wishes.

Moonbin joined Astro in 2016 alongside Mj, Jinjin, Rocky, Cha Eun-woo, and Yoon San-ha. Aside from a brief hiatus in 2019 for health-related reasons, he was an active member of the group until his death. In January 2023, he officially renewed his Fantagio contract with all the...

Moon Bin, a member of the popular K-pop group Astro, died Wednesday, April 19. He was 25.

Astro’s label/management company, Fantagio, confirmed his death in a statement following reports that Moon Bin had been found dead in his Seoul apartment by a manager. A cause of death was not given

“First, we apologize for having to convey this sorrowful and heartbreaking news. On April 19, Astro member Moonbin suddenly left us and has now become a star in the sky,” Fantagio’s statement reads, translated via Soompi.

It continues: “Although it...

Moonbin, a member of the South Korean boy band Astro, died by suicide today at his residence in the Gangnam district of Seoul. He was 25.

The body of the singer-actor was found by his manager at approximately 8:10 p.m. Kst on April 19. The manager immediately called the police, according to the Seoul Gangnam Police Station. “It appears that Moonbin took his own life,” police told South Korean news media. “We are currently discussing the possibility of an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death.”

Fantagio, the South Korean management agency that reps the group Astro, confirmed Moonbin’s death, saying in a statement that the singer “has now become a star in the sky.”

Moonbin and Sanha of Astro, ‘Show Champion’ 2022 (Credit: Getty Images)

“Although it cannot compare to the grief of the bereaved family that had to part with their beloved son and brother, his fellow artists...

(Welcome to The Daily Stream, an ongoing series in which the /Film team shares what they've been watching, why it's worth checking out, and where you can stream it.)

The Series: "The World Between Us"

Where You Can Stream It: HBO Max

The Pitch: Two years after an infamous movie theater shooting, ordinary people grapple with the aftermath of the violence. Li Hsiao-wen, the sister of the shooter Li Hsiao-ming, changed her name to Li Ta-chih to avoid public abuse. Her overworked boss, Sung Chiao-an, is tormented by the death of her son in the shooting. She turns to drink and lashes out at her husband and daughter. Meanwhile, Hsiao-ming's defense lawyer Wang She fights to uncover the truth of his client's actions so as to rectify the systemic problems that create shootings in the first place. His willingness to defend society's outcasts confuses his wife, who is still...

Updated: Netflix was the big winner on Night Two of the Asian Academy Creative Awards on Thursday in Singapore, which were held concurrently with the Asia Television Forum and Market.

Netflix scored five wins including best feature film for Japan’s “Akakusa Kid” and best actor in a leading role for Korea’s Jung Hae-in for his role in “D.P.” India’s Basil Joseph won best direction for Netflix’s “Minnal Murali” while his compatriot Shreya Dube won the cinematography award for Netflix’s “Thar.” Taiwan won both best actor and actress in a supporting role for Wu Kang Ren in Netflix’s “Light The Night” and a posthumous victory for Liou Yiin-Shang for “Still Me,” respectively.

Jodi Chrissie Sta. Maria won best actress in a leading role for “The Broken Marriage Vow.” Korea won the best drama series for a third consecutive year for Cj Enm’s “Twenty Five Twenty One.

Screambox has revealed the new films that will be joining the horror streaming service this December, including exclusive titles History of the Occult and The Anchor, and cult favorites like Tobe Hooper’s Night Terrors, American Mary, and the shocker Housebound.

Letterboxd’s highest-rated horror movie of 2021, History of the Occult, streams exclusively on Screambox on December 6. From Argentinian writer-director Cristian Ponce, the Lovecraftian faux documentary pulls viewers deep into a world of conspiracy and witchcraft. This is easily one of the best films of the year.

Bring the year to a close with South Korean mystery-thriller The Anchor beginning December 27. Writer-director Jung Ji-yeon‘s feature debut stars Chun Woo-hee (The Wailing), Shin Ha-kyun (Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance), and Lee Hye-young (Boys Over Flowers).

From The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Poltergeist director Tobe Hooper, Night Terrors is streaming on Screambox today. The 1993 horror film stars A Nightmare on Elm Street...

The rising worldwide popularity of K-pop and the dawn of the global streaming era has become a business duet that is expanding the boundaries of both sectors.

The exploding interest in South Korean pop culture is fueling the growth of niche streaming services that deliver Korean and pan-Asian movies, TV shows and music to far-flung markets including Brazil, Colombia, Turkey and the U.S. Platforms such as Rakuten Viki, Cinedigm’s AsianCrush and the Kocowa venture among major Korean broadcasters are generating viewership and creating a big secondary market for scripted series known as K-dramas — a movement that will only accelerate South Korea’s maturation into a major player in media and entertainment. For evidence, look no further than the 14 groundbreaking Emmy nominations racked up last month by Netflix’s “Squid Game.”

“We’ve seen this growth in interest of Asian entertainment over the last 10 years and really picking up...

Squid Game took the world by storm earlier this year. It relied on the well-known Battle Royale tropes and was a series full of suspense and tension for both characters and viewers alike. Much like Train to Busan and Parasite before it, the series fed into the growing interest in South Korean popular culture products. Chief amongst these products, other than K-pop, are K-dramas.

K-dramas have been around for a long time, long before the current interest. They are the telenovela or soap opera equivalent, but in recent years, more money has been poured into them and more independent studios have been allowed to take greater risks with their story-telling. For those interested, more than going from Squid Game to classics like Boys Over Flowers, the following titles would be a better, more modern entry-point.

K Dramas have been popular for quite some time amongst Indian audiences owing to their different storylines, musical score, and cinematography. Having delighted audiences with shows such as Extraordinary You, Boys over Flowers, Descendants of the Sun, & I am not a Robot, Zing is all set to bring another popular K Drama for its […]...