May 28, 2025
Some K-dramas series boldly showcased provocative themes such as class inequality, gender roles, LGBTQ+ rights, mental health and political censorship. Here are the K-dramas that did not follow tried-and-tested formulas.
Source: Series stills
One of the most-watched K-dramas exposed the hyper-competitive nature of Korea’s education system and the extreme pressure placed on students, academic corruption, igniting public discussion on mental health.
Source: Series stills
This global hit on follows Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), a desperate man who joins a deadly survival competition. The show showcased South Korea’s wealth gap, exposing the harsh realities of debt, desperation, and capitalism’s unforgiving grip.
Source: Series stills
Song Hye-kyo performs as Moon Dong-eun, a woman whose life was shattered by school bullying. The series portrays school violence and it sparked intense debate over South Korea’s deep-rooted social hierarchies.
Source: Series stills
The drama showcased Korea’s nightlife industry and its complex female characters.
Source: Series stills
This drama boldly depicts LGBTQ+ relationships and challenges South Korea’s conservative views on sexuality and youth culture. It also portrayed loneliness, casual romance and the fleeting nature of city life.
Source: Series stills
The series introduced Korea’s first transgender K-drama character, Ma Hyun-yi (Lee Joo-young), and addressing racism through Toni Kim (Chris Lyon), a Black Korean character.
Source: Series stills
This highly talked-about K-drama unapologetically talks about the institution of marriage, portraying raw, vicious revenge between spouses. The series' sexual content and aggressive portrayal of betrayal too stirred controversy.
Source: Series stills
The series is about trading romance and rebellion for crime and consequences.
Source: Series stills
Intense action sequences and brutal portrayal of women in crime in the series challenged gender norms.
Source: Series stills
Did Deepika clap back at Sandeep Reddy after Spirit controversy?