The latest statistics show that 60% of Netflix account holders watch Korean content. South Korea accounts for 17% of this, with 85 shows being amongst the top 500 most-viewed shows outside the US.
Korean Dramas are Experiencing a Pivotal Moment
One of the reasons why Korean dramas are flourishing right now isn’t just because they are good; it’s because the accessibility barrier has changed. Streaming platforms have changed the way that people find new content, which is seen in the rise.
A decade ago, those who wanted to watch a Korean television series had to import DVDs or find copies that had been subtitled by fans online. In this day and age, however, people can click on an option on Netflix, Prime Video, or NowTV, and the fact that it’s included in the basic subscription means that there is no financial risk at all in trying something new.
As Korean dramas tend to have more impactful first episodes, rather than being slow-burners like a lot of US shows, the mentality of watching “just one episode” has worked well. The rise of Korean content has also meant that people are coming across more shows in their algorithm. Those who watch thrillers like Phone Booth or Panic Room may find other thrillers, like Squid Game, recommended, which has helped the Korean drama market to appeal to people who might have otherwise not known that shows like this existed.
The same idea applies to music as well. International music has become more accessible, and as time passes, more and more bands are performing in their native language.
German band Rammstein is an example, as they have achieved worldwide success while rarely recording their music in English. Spotify, however, has helped metal fans to discover the band, removing the barrier of accessibility while giving people the chance to explore more worldwide acts.
The casino industry has also benefited quite a lot from digital discovery. Casino games like Dragon Jackpot Roulette are played in the same way as regular roulette, but the title has a Chinese theme with four jackpots that can be won after a qualifying spin. It’s just as easy to explore culturally driven games like this, as they are just as accessible as titles like European Roulette.
Why are Korean Dramas So Popular Right Now?
K-dramas have taken the world by storm, purely because they are so unique and have a deep emotional resonance. Unlike a lot of Western shows that go on for decades, K-dramas like Queen of Tears usually have a limited run, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
They also tend to feature strong, female protagonists and character development that differs from normal story arcs. Studios often invest in cinematography and soundtracks to help the story become more immersive. Genres are also blurred to create unique shows that don’t fit within the confines of what someone would expect.
Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines are leaders in K-drama viewership, and according to the latest statistics, viewing numbers doubled between 2021 and 2023.
The World of the Married currently holds the highest television record, but new releases are threatening its position. As K-dramas continue to soar and as more platforms invest in them, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the production value increase even more, which is great news for fans of the genre.