Cover Decoding the mass appeal of Korean office K-drama storytelling (Photo: Netflix)
Decoding the mass appeal of Korean office K-drama storytelling (Photo: Netflix)
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Here’s why global audiences connect with office K-drama narratives, from fun boss-employee storylines to workplace romances
Workplace K-dramas have captured global audiences with their compelling narratives about professional life, career growth and office dynamics. Shows like Misaeng (2014) and Start-Up (2020) have resonated with viewers worldwide, offering insights into both Korean corporate culture and universal workplace experiences.
Read more: The impact of K-dramas that gained international acclaim
These K-dramas stand out for their meticulous attention to detail in portraying office life. Misaeng (which translates to “incomplete life”), revolutionised the genre by depicting the genuine struggles of entry-level employees. The show’s protagonist, Jang Geu-rae (played by Squid Game: Season 2 actor and ZE:A member Im Si-wan), represents countless young professionals navigating their first corporate role without prestigious educational backgrounds or connections.
The success of these K-dramas stems from several key elements and cultural aspects that consistently appear across different productions, adding to their widespread appeal:
Above Im Si-wan in 2014’s ‘Misaeng’ (Photo: tvN)
Im Si-wan in 2014’s ‘Misaeng’ (Photo: tvN)
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Realistic portrayal of office politics
Unlike many Western workplace shows that often rely on exaggerated scenarios, K-dramas like Chief Kim (2017) and Diary of a Prosecutor (2019) present office politics with nuanced authenticity. They explore complex relationships between colleagues, the challenges of workplace hierarchy and the subtle power dynamics that influence daily operations.
See also: Class wars: 10 K-dramas that depict class division and revenge in schools
Character development through professional growth
Start-Up exemplifies how Korean dramas effectively weave personal development with professional advancement. The show follows the bright and ambitious Seo Dal-mi’s (played by Bae Suzy) journey from a part-time employee to a successful entrepreneur, highlighting the parallel between career progression and personal maturity. It also delved into the world of start-ups, balancing the often-glamorised image with a realistic portrayal of the grit and determination needed to thrive in the tech industry.
Above Bae Suzy and Nam Joo-hyuk in 2020’s ‘Start-Up’ (Photo: Netflix)
Bae Suzy and Nam Joo-hyuk in 2020’s ‘Start-Up’ (Photo: Netflix)
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Focus on team dynamics
Hot Stove League (2019) demonstrates the importance of teamwork in Korean workplace narratives. The series, centred around a struggling baseball team Dreams’ front office, showcases how different personalities and working styles must align for organisational success. The K-drama received critical acclaim and several awards, including Best Drama at the 56th Baeksang Arts Awards in 2020.
Don’t miss: The K-drama renaissance: 6 ways Korean television has evolved and broken new ground
Work-life integration
Korean workplace dramas often explore how professional lives intersect with personal relationships. What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim (2018) examines workplace romance (between the narcissistic CEO Lee Young-joon, played by Park Seo-joon, and his highly skilled secretary Kim Mi-so, played by Park Min-young) while maintaining professional boundaries, reflecting modern attitudes toward office relationships.
Above Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young in the wildly popular 2018 K-drama, ‘What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim’ (Photo: Netflix)
Park Seo-joon and Park Min-young in the wildly popular 2018 K-drama, ‘What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim’ (Photo: Netflix)
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Hierarchical respect
In South Korean workplaces, “hierarchical respect”, which is deeply ingrained in Korean culture, emphasises the importance of acknowledging seniority and authority. Older and more experienced employees typically hold significant decision-making power, while younger or less senior colleagues are expected to show deference. Shows like Misaeng and Into the Ring (2020) accurately portray the nuanced relationships between juniors and seniors in Korean workplaces, which resonates with viewers from cultures with similar hierarchical structures.
Read more: Cross-cultural success: Korean variety shows adapted by other Asian countries
Detailed office settings
Productions invest significantly in creating realistic office environments. Misaeng filmed in actual office buildings and consulted with corporate employees to ensure authenticity in everything from desk arrangements to document handling. Meanwhile, Start-Up worked with actual tech industry professionals to accurately represent start-up culture and terminology, making the show credible to viewers familiar with the sector.
Above (From left) Kim Seon-ho, Bae Suzy, Nam Joo-hyuk and Kang Han-na in 2020’s ‘Start-Up’ (Photo: tvN)
(From left) Kim Seon-ho, Bae Suzy, Nam Joo-hyuk and Kang Han-na in 2020’s ‘Start-Up’ (Photo: tvN)
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