Top 10 ‘Dark’ K-Dramas that Deal with Real-Life Issues: ‘Sky Castle,’ ‘The Glory,’ MORE

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BY Rovelyn Barba Jan 30, 2024 12:00 PM EST

From intense thrillers to emotional dramas, discover the Top 10 'Dark' Korean Dramas that tackle the complexities of human experience. (Photo : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extracurricular_(TV_series))

Embark on a riveting journey through the shadows of Korean drama as we unveil the Top 10 'Dark' Korean Dramas that courageously confront real-life issues.

From heart-pounding thrillers to soul-stirring emotional sagas, this curated list showcases the depth and complexity of human experience within the realm of Korean entertainment.

10 KDramas That Deal With Real-Life Issues

D.P. (2021)

"D.P." is a gripping drama that delves into the harsh realities faced by soldiers within the Korean military, shining a spotlight on the brutality that occurs within their ranks. The series, available on Netflix, offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of life in the military, including the mistreatment of junior soldiers by their seniors. It meticulously depicts how military police carry out special duties while also highlighting the cycle of violence and human cruelty prevalent in this environment.

Moreover, "D.P." has sparked discussions about South Korea's mandatory military service, shedding light on issues of physical and verbal abuse, power abuse, and the psychological toll it takes on soldiers. The series has become a focal point for debates on military conscription and the need for reform within the system.

SKY Castle (2018)

"SKY Castle" is a satirical drama that offers a scathing commentary on the relentless pursuit of academic excellence and social status among elite families. Set against the backdrop of luxurious mansions in an exclusive neighborhood, the series follows the lives of wealthy parents who will stop at nothing to ensure their children secure coveted spots at Seoul National University (SNU).

The storyline revolves around the extreme pressures faced by students and their families in the cutthroat world of education in South Korea. "SKY" in the title refers to the three most prestigious universities in the country: Seoul National University, Korea University, and Yonsei University. Attending one of these institutions is considered a ticket to success in Korean society.

The show sheds light on the toxic culture of private tutoring, intense competition, and the lengths to which parents are willing to go, including manipulating exam scores and social connections, to secure their child's admission to SNU. It also explores the psychological toll this race for academic excellence takes on the students.

Extracurricular (2020)

"Extracurricular" is a drama series that unfolds a gripping narrative centered around a seemingly exemplary student who harbors a clandestine and morally complex secret to finance his college education. The show delves into the life of Oh Jisoo, a high-achieving student who operates a hidden side business involving illicit activities.

Jisoo's double life as a model student and a participant in criminal enterprises creates a tense and suspenseful storyline. He becomes entangled in a world of crime, including activities like prostitution and violence, all while attempting to keep his dark secret hidden from his classmates, teachers, and family.

The series explores themes of desperation, the consequences of one's choices, and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their goals. It raises questions about the pressures faced by young people in pursuit of higher education and financial stability.

"Extracurricular" has received acclaim for its compelling characters and thought-provoking narrative, shedding light on the moral dilemmas faced by its protagonist and the complex web of relationships that develop as the story unfolds. It serves as a commentary on the challenges and sacrifices that young people may confront in their quest for education and financial independence.

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Taxi Driver (2020)

"Taxi Driver" presents a unique and captivating premise. The Rainbow Taxi Company, which operates as a regular taxi service by day, transforms into a covert organization that delivers vigilante justice by night.

The show revolves around the character Kim Do-gi, a former special forces operative who becomes a driver for the Rainbow Taxi Company. Under the cover of their taxi service, Do-gi and his colleagues carry out missions to exact revenge on behalf of clients who have been wronged and failed to find justice through legal means.

"Taxi Driver" explores themes of social justice, retribution, and the limits of the legal system. It highlights the frustrations of individuals who have been victims of powerful and corrupt individuals or organizations and are left without recourse.

The series has garnered attention for its intriguing and morally complex storyline, as well as its well-drawn characters. It delves into the psychology of revenge and the consequences it can have on both the avengers and their targets.

"Taxi Driver" offers a thought-provoking exploration of the blurred lines between law and justice, and the lengths to which individuals are willing to go to seek redress for wrongdoing. It stands as a compelling drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while raising important ethical questions.

Save Me (2017)

"Save Me" delves into the dark and suspenseful world of religious cults and the impact they can have on individuals and communities. The show explores the story of a group of friends who become entangled with a secretive and charismatic religious leader, leading to a harrowing and psychological journey.

The series begins with the friends encountering a young woman who claims to be in danger and needs their help to escape from a religious cult. As they delve deeper into the cult's activities, they discover a web of manipulation, coercion, and abuse. The show highlights the power dynamics and the psychological hold that such cults can exert on their members.

"Save Me" raises thought-provoking questions about faith, manipulation, and the vulnerability of individuals in search of meaning and belonging. It also explores the consequences of blind devotion and the lengths to which people will go to protect their beliefs.

Strangers From Hell (2019)

"Strangers From Hell" is a psychological thriller and horror drama series that immerses viewers into a nightmarish world of paranoia, fear, and the unsettling darkness lurking within ordinary people. The show is based on a popular webtoon and follows the story of a young man named Yoon Jong-woo, who moves to Seoul and finds himself living in an eerie, rundown apartment complex.

As Jong-woo settles into his new life, he becomes increasingly disturbed by the strange and sinister behavior of his neighbors. The series explores themes of isolation, mistrust, and the gradual descent into madness as Jong-woo tries to uncover the secrets of the building and its residents.

"Strangers From Hell" masterfully creates a sense of dread and tension, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they witness the disturbing events unfold. It delves into the psychological horror genre, offering a chilling exploration of the human psyche and the darkness that can lurk within seemingly ordinary individuals.

My Name (2021)

"My Name" combines elements of revenge, family drama, and undercover operations. It follows the journey of Yoon Ji-woo, a young woman who seeks to avenge her father's death by infiltrating a powerful drug cartel responsible for his murder.

The series offers a gripping narrative that explores themes of justice, morality, and the cost of pursuing revenge. Ji-woo, who initially goes undercover using a false identity, becomes entangled in a dangerous world of crime and deception as she seeks to bring those responsible for her father's death to justice.

"My Name" has been praised for its intense action sequences, well-developed characters, and its portrayal of the complex emotions that drive Ji-woo's quest for vengeance. It also delves into the dynamics of organized crime and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in combating powerful criminal organizations.

The Glory (2022).

"The Glory" is a South Korean revenge thriller on Netflix, written by Kim Eun-sook and directed by Ahn Gil-ho. Starring Song Hye-kyo, Lee Do-hyun, Lim Ji-yeon, Yeom Hye-ran, Park Sung-hoon, and Jung Sung-il, the series, released in two parts on December 30, 2022, and March 10, 2023, follows Moon Dong-Eun's quest for revenge against her school bullies.

Bullied between 2004 and 2006, Dong-Eun, now a homeroom teacher, plans vengeance on the bullies, led by Park Yeon-Jin, whose extreme violence in 2006 mirrors a real incident in Cheongju, South Korea. Dong-Eun's determination unfolds as she becomes the primary teacher for Yeon-Jin's daughter, showcasing her years of studying and saving for this moment.

The Worst of Evil (2023)

"The Worst of Evil" is a South Korean crime thriller series on Disney+, created by Jang Min Seok and helmed by directors Park Geun Beom and Han Dong Wook. Starring Ji Chang Wook as Park Joon Mo, Wi Ha Joon as Jung Ki Chul, and Im Se Mi as Yoo Eui Jung, the series unfolds in 1990s Seoul.

Centered on a former DJ turned drug dealer pushing the potent "Gangnam Crystal" in city clubs undera gangster syndicate's influence, the narrative takes a twist when rural police officer Park Jun Mu infiltrates the organization.

To his surprise, his wife, Detective Yoo Eui Jung, has volunteered for the same perilous mission, revealing a murky past with the underground drug kingpin. As Park Jun Mu battles the drug cartel, his dedication extends beyond the mission, fiercely safeguarding his wife's well-being.

Mouse (2021)

"Mouse" is a South Korean drama series that premiered in 2021 and delves into the intriguing and complex themes of psychopathy and the age-old debate of nature versus nurture. The show combines elements of crime, suspense, and psychological thriller to explore the origins of psychopathic behavior.

The series follows the story of Jung Ba-reum, a diligent and compassionate young police officer who becomes entangled in a series of gruesome crimes committed by a psychopathic killer. As Ba-reum investigates these heinous acts, he discovers shocking secrets about his own past and genetic predisposition toward psychopathy.

"Mouse" challenges the viewers to contemplate whether psychopathy is an inherited trait or a product of one's environment and experiences. It delves into the complexities of human behavior and the moral dilemmas surrounding the idea of nature versus nurture.

The show has garnered attention for its suspenseful storytelling, compelling character development, and its thought-provoking exploration of psychopathy and the factors that contribute to its development. "Mouse" stands as a riveting drama that prompts viewers to question the origins of criminal behavior and the influence of genetics and upbringing on an individual's actions.