K-drama: Korean Films gaining huge popularity in Kenya

There has been a surge in the consumption of Asian content in Kenya; from Japanese Anime and Manga to Chinese dramas, and even Korean dramas, otherwise known as K-dramas.

Korean films have gained massive recognition all around the world. Films like Parasite have gone on to be nominated and win several Oscars at the 92^nd Academy Awards in 2020.

In the recent past, there has been a huge buzz, especially with the release of Squid Game, and The Glory which have gone on to have their successes respectively.

K-dramas range from period pieces to romantic comedies, fantasy, and tragic series. Recently, there have been several revenge stories that have attracted quite an audience.

I originally began with romantic movies and fantasy TV series before exploring tragic movies, thrillers, and revenge stories.

It would be difficult to pinpoint just one movie as my favorite. Films like The Glory, Unlocked, My Name, Kill Bok Soon, Mask Girl, and Marry My Husband are just some of my favorites.

K-dramas make me feel a type of emotion that I used to feel when watching telenovelas when I was young. The kind of fantasy that exists in fairy tales.

With Korean films, I find myself deeply engrossed in the films, unable to focus on anything else for fear of missing out on the smallest detail.

While in traditional movies the protagonist is the main focus, K-drama's portrayal of the antagonist is so remarkable that I find myself relating to them more.

I have several favorite actors and actresses. I often switch from one to another, nevertheless, a few stand out like Lee Dong-wook, Choi Woo-shik, Shin Hye-sun, and Song Hye-kyo.

It is not uncommon to see K-pop idols who take up acting roles in various films like Kim Taehyung from BTS, Rowoon, IU, and Black Pink’s Jisoo among others.

I don't mind watching their TV series and movies with subtitles. I see it as a way to learn their language, however slowly. I have picked up a few words that are quite common such as ‘Appa’ for dad and ‘Eomma’ for mom.

These films showcase Korea's culture which offers a delightful combination of tradition and modernity. The most notable aspect that is displayed in all films is the respect for age and status. It portrays the people as reserved and well-mannered, which is a reflection of Koreans as a whole.

The popularity of Korean films has also had an impact on Korean music. Many Korean artists sing the soundtracks for these films, which allows viewers to discover their music. Despite the language barrier, I have come to enjoy their music.

It also displays the Korean food scene. From exquisite restaurants to street carts selling all kinds of treats. The breathtaking landscapes and wonderful sceneries that are the setting for these dramas attract lots of tourists to Korea. These aspects offer a visual feast to viewers.

It is important to note that these films also touch on sensitive topics such as body image and stereotypes with Korean beauty standards often promoting a slim figure over plus-size body types leading to self-image issues.