K-dramas have taken the world by storm, mesmerizing us with their captivating fusion of fantasy, drama, and romance. These shows have a knack for tugging at our heartstrings and sparking deep belly laughs in equal measure. So what is the secret ingredient behind many hit K-dramas? Webtoons!
Webtoons laid the foundation for addictive shows that keep us glued to our screens. These adaptations are not just about pretty faces and swoon-worthy romances; they often bring forward narratives filled with social commentary and deep, meaningful themes.
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10. Imitation (2021)
Starting off our list, ‘Imitation‘ offers a behind-the-scenes look into the K-pop industry. Created by Park Kyung-ran, this webtoon-based drama follows the lives of idols grappling with the harsh realities of fame, scandal, and personal sacrifice. While it may not have bagged a Baeksang Arts Award, it certainly hits home with fans of the genre. Stream it on Viki and immerse yourself in this glitzy, dramatic world.
9. Sweet Home (2020)
‘Sweet Home‘, brought to life by webtoon creators Kim Carnby and Hwang Young-chan, delivers an intense survival saga. In this Netflix original, a ragtag group of apartment dwellers must fend off grotesque monsters—and each other—when a strange disease starts turning humans into beasts. It’s a heart-pounding ride with special effects that will make your skin crawl.
8. Love Alarm (2019-2021)
Enter ‘Love Alarm‘, where an app alerts users if someone within ten meters harbors romantic feelings for them. Based on the webtoon by Chon Kye-young, this drama dives into the chaos. Watch it on Netflix, and remember—swiping right has never been so risky.
7. True Beauty (2020-2021)
High school drama gets a makeover in ‘True Beauty,’ a Viki series adapted from Yaongyi’s hit webtoon. When a girl uses makeup to gain confidence and social status, hilarity and hijinks ensue. But beneath the eyeliner and blush, the series tackles deep issues of self-esteem and societal beauty standards.
6. Mystic Pop-Up Bar (2020)
‘Mystic Pop-up Bar,’ inspired by Bae Hye-soo’s ‘Twin Tops Bar,‘ offers a unique setting where grievances are resolved over a pint. This Netflix series combines fantasy, comedy, and heartwarming drama as a bar owner and her team help troubled souls find peace.
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5. Itaewon Class (2020)
When an ex-convict decides to challenge a corporate titan by opening a bar restaurant, you know it’s going to be a bumpy ride. ‘Itaewon Class,’ adapted from a webtoon by Jo Gwang-jin. Streamed on Netflix, it serves a heady mix of revenge, ambition, and equality.
4. What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim? (2018)
‘What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim,’ a rom-com delight from the webtoon by Jung Kyung-yoon. It explores the tangled relationship between a self-absorbed boss and his ever-patient secretary. Available on Viki, this series proves that sometimes, love really does mean having to say you’re sorry.
3. Navillera (2021)
Adapted from a webtoon by HUN and Ji-min, ‘Navillera’ tells the inspiring story of a 70-year-old who decides to take up ballet, much to the surprise of his skeptical family. This Netflix series is a graceful dance of dreams, friendship, and determination that will have you cheering in your living room.
2. All Of Us Are Dead (2022)
Zombie apocalypse meets high school drama in ‘All of Us Are Dead,’ based on Joo Dong-geun’s webtoon ‘Now at Our School.’ When students find themselves trapped in a school overrun by zombies, it’s every teen for themselves. Stream it on Netflix for a rollercoaster of emotions and adrenaline-pumping action.
1. Strangers from Hell (2019)
The top spot goes to ‘Strangers from Hell,‘ a psychological thriller that will haunt your dreams. Adapted from Kim Yong-ki’s webtoon, the series follows a young man who moves into a creepy apartment complex with unsettlingly odd neighbors. This Netflix show is a masterclass in suspense, with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.
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