7 Shocking K-Dramas That Expose Dark Reality Of South Korean Entertainment Industry
These stories prove that fame doesn't necessarily bring happiness.
In every region and on every meridian, people seek the limelight. But fame is fickle, and in reality, being a celebrity often means dealing with struggles and dangers that average people don't face in their everyday lives.
The South Korean entertainment industry, with its idols, big movie stars, and huge fandoms, is the perfect place to explore the dark side of stardom. Here are seven K-dramas to prove it.
Doona! (2023)
IMDb rating: 7.2/10
Where to stream: Netflix
Lee Won-jun is an ordinary college student and probably the only person in the dorm who doesn't know who the new girl Lee Doo-na is. Until recently, Doo-na was part of an extremely popular girl band, but abruptly quit, leaving fans in shock.
Imitation (2021)
IMDb rating: 7.3/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Viki, iQIYI
Lee Ma-ha is a rookie idol who will do anything to get her chance to shine. Her career is put in jeopardy when she breaks the rules and starts secretly dating Kwon Ryok, the hottest star in the industry. The show explores themes of online hate, abuse and suicide.
Mask Girl (2023)
IMDb rating: 7.3/10
Where to stream: Netflix
Kim Mo-mi has dreamed of being a celebrity since childhood. But she always thought she was too 'ugly' for the spotlight. Eventually she finds a solution. She wears a mask in front of the camera and that makes her a streaming star. However, the new status sends Mo-mi's life and psyche into a downward spiral.
The Producers (2015)
IMDb rating: 7.3/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Viki, WeTV
This K-drama about three TV producers and a K-pop star offers a realistic look at South Korean television production. It's not too heavy, but it shows how hard the road to the top can be and proves that fame can't solve all your problems.
Celebrity (2023)
IMDb rating: 7.4/10
Where to stream: Netflix
Seo Ah-ri is a promising new star on the social media influencer scene. As she dives deeper into the world of glamour and celebrity, fraud, scandal, betrayal, harassment, drugs and even serious crime become part of her life.
Dream High 1&2 (2011-2012)
IMDb rating: 7.6/10
Where to stream: Netflix, Viki, Kocowa
The ensemble cast of this K-drama consists of six high school students who aspire to become the country's top K-pop idols. They dream big and work tirelessly, which serves as a great inspiration for the majority of viewers. But we also get a taste of the dark side of fame in some of the arcs.
Castaway Diva (2023)
IMDb rating: 7.9/10
Where to stream: Netflix, TVING
Seo Mok-ha has always been a gifted singer. On her way to an audition, the girl had a terrible accident and spent 15 years alone on a deserted island. The dream of fame was what kept her alive all these years. Now Mok-ha has been rescued and is ready to continue on her path to success. But will society accept her?