The allure of Korean dramas, known for their captivating storylines, memorable characters, and sometimes, for pushing the boundaries of what’s considered acceptable on mainstream television. For dramas classified as “18+” or “19+”, the focus often shifts towards mature themes, complex relationships, and sometimes, explicit content that reflects the harsh realities of life or the intense passion of romance. Here are 12 Korean dramas that have made headlines for their mature content, revealing secrets and storylines that have captivated audiences worldwide.
“My Name” (2021): This Netflix original series explores themes of revenge, crime, and corruption, with a female lead who infiltrates a drug cartel to avenge her father’s death. The show doesn’t shy away from violence and mature themes, making it a must-watch for fans of gritty dramas.
“Sweet Home” (2020): Based on a popular webtoon, “Sweet Home” is set in an apartment building where residents are faced with a mysterious phenomenon that turns people into monsters. With its blend of horror, action, and the struggle for human survival, this series delves into deep, often dark, themes.
“Record of Youth” (2020): Focusing on the lives of three young people in the entertainment industry, this drama explores themes of fame, friendship, and the challenges of adulthood, including romantic relationships and career aspirations.
“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” (2020): While not traditionally classified as an “18+” drama due to explicit content, it touches on mature themes such as mental health, trauma, and the complexities of human relationships in a deeply emotional and sometimes disturbing manner.
“The World of the Married” (2020): This drama became one of the highest-rated Korean cable television series, focusing on the story of a married couple whose lives fall apart due to infidelity. It explores complex themes of marriage, relationships, and the consequences of one’s actions.
“SKY Castle” (2018): A satirical drama that follows the lives of four women whose husbands are all doctors, exploring the themes of social class, corruption, and the pressure to succeed in elite Korean society.
“My ID is Gangnam Beauty” (2018): Based on a webtoon, this drama tells the story of a college student who undergoes plastic surgery to boost her confidence, only to find herself misunderstood and facing complex relationships and social pressures.
“Cheese in the Trap” (2016): A psychological thriller that explores the story of a manipulative and cunning university student who hides his true nature behind a charming façade, delving into themes of obsession, control, and the darker aspects of human behavior.
“The Heirs” (2013): While not as explicit as some of the other dramas on this list, “The Heirs” explores mature themes of social class, family pressures, and complex relationships among high school students.
“Innocent Man” (2012): Known for its intense and sometimes disturbing storylines, this drama follows a man who seeks revenge against his first love for betraying him, leading to a deep exploration of themes such as deceit, betrayal, and the consequences of one’s actions.
“A Tale of Two Sisters” (2013): Although a film rather than a drama series, it’s worth mentioning for its psychological horror elements and disturbing themes of family, loss, and trauma, which have garnered it a significant following.
“Kill Me, Heal Me” (2015): This drama features a lead character with dissociative identity disorder, exploring themes of mental health, trauma, and the complexities of human relationships in a deeply emotional and sometimes disturbing manner.
Each of these dramas offers a unique perspective on mature themes, blending elements of romance, drama, and sometimes horror or thriller genres to create narratives that are both captivating and thought-provoking. They reveal secrets about human nature, relationships, and society, often pushing the boundaries of what is traditionally acceptable in television programming.
FAQ Section
What makes a Korean drama classified as “18+” or “19+”?
+Korean dramas classified as “18+” or “19+” typically include mature themes such as explicit content, violence, complex relationships, or themes that are considered suitable only for adult audiences.
Are all Korean dramas appropriate for all ages?
+No, not all Korean dramas are suitable for all ages. Some dramas deal with mature themes, language, or content that may not be appropriate for younger viewers, hence the classification into different age groups.
How do I find Korean dramas that fit my interests?
+You can find Korean dramas that fit your interests by reading reviews, checking out drama communities online, or using streaming platforms like Netflix, which often provide recommendations based on your viewing history.
