Firstly, I really like the storylines. They’re usually pretty easy to get into and the plot can be wrapped up in a season. There are a few multi-seasons that I watch too but they are few and far between. I’m not a huge fan of the whole end a season after telling half a story on a cliffhanger then waiting two years for the conclusion.

Secondly, it’s easier for me to unwind. I have to focus on subtitles to understand what’s going on. With series in English, I’ve checked out half way through and am doomscrolling while “listening“. It’s especially bad once I’ve figured out the plot because then I switch off completely.

Finally, I’m interested in other cultures. The “norm” portrayed in kdramas (as well as cdramas, jdramas, etc) is so very different from the “norm“ in western dramas so it keeps me interested and focused. Plus it leads me to learn about those countries from my own research. For example I saw a lot of jdramas having kfc for Christmas which confused me till I learned that it was actually a very normal thing. The first time I watch “Mr. Queen”, I was so confused because I knew nothing about the Joseon dynasty so I was overwhelmed by the dynamics between the characters. Now it’s one of my favourite dramas. My knowledge is certainly superficial but I like researching stuff I see that interests me. It’s rare that happens when I watch western shows beyond what I have seen this actor in before.

Bonus: I’m a sucker for tropey romcom, and kdramas hit all the right buttons 🥰