2023 feels different. Not because I’m still clawing my way out of a slump (let’s be real, those battle scars are here to stay), but this year’s challenge wasn’t sifting through the K-content deluge; it was surviving the onslaught. Even though the pandemic slowed down my drama binge, it brings me joy to finally revive my writer cell and compile a list of all the dramas that made this year more bearable. So, with a grateful heart and a slightly furrowed brow, let me present to you my 7th Frown Crown.
Moving
This drama is a thrilling mix of magic, love, family drama, action, and revenge, guaranteeing something for everyone. Each week, you’ll find yourself eagerly awaiting the next episode, captivated by the interesting characters and their intertwined stories. From gifted parents turned secret agents to their children thrust into the same world, each character faces intense challenges that affect their entire lives. Even with great power, their “normal” lives are constantly under threat. Enter a unique plot device: a hitman whose story introduces each character and unfolds a deeper narrative. This expertly crafted drama shines thanks to its powerful cast, especially Han Hyo-joo and Ryu Seung-ryong, who fiercely protect their children from the government’s shadow. While the good vs. evil theme might be familiar, the heartfelt writing elevates this story into a standout of the year.
Twinkling Watermelon
This drama I stumbled upon purely by hype became my year’s favorite. This 90s time-travel journey follows Ha Eun-gyeol (Ryeoun), burdened by responsibility despite his youth. As his family’s only hearing member, he finds solace in music. But a twist throws him back in time, face-to-face with his father’s teen self. Witnessing a different side, he befriends young Ha Yi-chan (Choi Hyun-wook) and builds bonds with his father’s past. Eun-gyeol even tries to change his mother’s fate! Twinkling Watermelon is a drama where music mends, family ties twist through time, and love blossoms under a 90s sky. You’ll laugh and cry like a willow in the rain, and walk away with lessons tucked in your heart like secret notes. This gem shines brighter than its title.
Call It Love
Call It Love tackled unresolved grief and childhood trauma with heartbreaking beauty. I almost forgot the dark story as I got lost in the lush visuals, melancholic sounds, and heartfelt words, but then the raw characters reminded me of its weight. Shim Won-joo (Lee Sung-kyung), the resilient middle child, bears the scars of family deception and forced responsibility. When their home is stolen, revenge against the son of her father’s mistress ignites a fire within her. Yet, Han Dong-jin (Lee Young-kwang), the object of her vengeance, proves to be one of the purest souls, his unwavering kindness masking the profound betrayal that cripples him. As their paths collide, their story unexpectedly pivots from revenge to one of the year’s most sincere romances. Even though it hurt, taking a break was good for them. They needed some time apart to heal and grow, so they could love even more deeply and let go of past hurts. This made their love even stronger.
The Glory
The Glory Part 2 delivers cathartic closure as Moon Dong-eun (Song Hye-kyo) meticulously exacts revenge on her childhood tormentors. Yet, beneath the thrilling takedown lies a nuanced exploration of motherhood’s lasting influence. We see its scars in Dong-eun and Park Yeon-jin (Lim Ji-yeon), both haunted by neglect, and its strength in Kang Hyeon-nam’s (Yeom Hye-ran) unwavering fight for justice. Dong-eun’s journey, embodied by Hye-kyo’s powerful performance, transcends mere vengeance. Each meticulously orchestrated act reflects the trauma she carries, a burden tragically shared by her allies. Though consumed by a past etched in pain, Dong-eun finds an unexpected haven in Dr. Joo Yeo-jeong’s (Lee Do-hyun) understanding. Part 2 delves into this blossoming connection and healing. Revenge may have shaped Dong-eun, but in the quiet moments, we witness the flicker of a smile, a newfound appreciation for the small joys that life offers. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest depths, hope can bloom once more.
Agency
One drama this year that I resonated with the most just because I’m working in the same cutthroat industry as the characters. Lee Bo-young, as always, carried the show as the girl boss who worked her way up the corporate ladder full of male snakes. In the year of Taylor Swift, Barbie, and Beyonce, K-dramas are also proudly producing empowered women in workplaces. I’m happy this was a well-made story – just the mix of melancholy, angst, and fun. Speaking of fun, Son Na-eun brought sunshine to the gloomy wonderland of these agency creatives. She’s the typical brat, rebellious, entitled chaebol we all memorized, but Na-eun’s portrayal was refreshing because she used her privilege to fight for her rightful place in her family’s conglomerate. She chose wisely, acted with the correct calculations, and teamed up with the right people.
- 2022 Favorites: The Frown Crown
- 2021 Favorites: The Frown Crown
- 2020 Favorites: The Frown Crown
- 2019 Favorites: The Frown Crown
- 2018 Favorites: The Frown Crown
- 2017 Favorites: The Frown Crown
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