These television series have shattered the age-old 'damsel in distress' trope we often witness in K-Dramas. Today, we see more stories with female leads whose stories celebrate their strengths and achievements
If you love K-Dramas, you have probably noticed how in most storylines, there is always a lady in need of her leading man's rescue and support. Audiences have witnessed this pattern in series like Winter Sonata (2002), Playful Kiss (2010), Boys Over Flowers (2009), and even in the very recent The King: Eternal Monarch (2020).
While these shows produce swoon-worthy television moments, people can't help but notice how in the end, the female leading ladies' other interesting qualities are reduced to make way for the show's masculine superhero.
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Luckily, there are now K-Dramas that normalise giving leading ladies the upper hand. We have listed some of them below:
1. Start-Up
In the fictional world of Start-Up, there is a Silicon Valley-esque place that fosters startup companies to help South Korea's economy bloom. Seo Dal-mi (portrayed by Bae Suzy), is a bright and ambitious female entrepreneur who dreams of becoming the country's Steve Jobs.
Unlike her more successful twin, this leading lady does not have a very fancy background, but she uses her wit and passion to make a living out of her budding business. She has a warm and vibrant energy which her teammates look up to.
See also: Kim Seon-ho, K Drama Star From 'Start Up', Is Globe's Newest Ambassador