ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the themes across the various genres and tropes found in K-dramas. Once again, the anthropological stance plays an important part in the discussion. There are also important differences between K-pop and K-dramas that are worth attending to and these are discussed in the latter half of the chapter. One difference is this: while K-pop music videos can give some insights into wider aspects of Korean culture and society, this is constrained by the relatively short length of the music video genre. K-dramas, on the other hand, are much longer in length and they allow for much more complex presentations and, indeed, in-depth explorations of various societal and cultural issues. Because of this, the chapter argues that K-dramas are actually even more effective than K-pop in fostering the anthropological stance. This can be seen in how Korean culture is portrayed in ways that serve to increase interest or evoke intrigue in viewers, as opposed to alienating them. The discussion also covers K-dramas that are Korean versions of series originating from the West, such as Suits (which is based on the American series of the same name) and The World of the Married (which is based on the British series Doctor Foster). Conversely, it also gives attention to how K-dramas have been adapted for Japanese, Chinese, Thai, and Indonesian audiences. Such a discussion is especially illuminating as it exemplifies how a series originating outside of Korea can be adapted to further the cause of Hallyu and Korean soft power, and vice versa.
