Squid Game, the show that had everyone talking, is one of the most watched shows on Netflix. The show exploded with popularity after it went viral on social media for its unique concept and interesting storyline. This was a rare occurrence because foreign shows rarely get international attention, especially the kind that Squid Game obtained.
Korean dramas, known as k-dramas, tend to have interesting plots with great productions that make each episode look like a movie. There are at average 16-20 episodes in a k-drama that are at least an hour long. They also usually contain only one season, unlike Western shows that drag on, simply because the story wraps up by the end of the season. This pattern makes it easy to finish one show and move on to the next.
Perhaps, this is what drew the Squid Game audience into the show. Each episode felt like a movie and the plot added something new and fresh to the table. It seemed like for once, people were able to move past the fact that the show was in another language and became intrigued with what Korean media had to offer.
After the first season of Squid Game ended, many were still running on the high of the intensity of the show and wanted to watch another show similar to it. There are many amazing Korean dramas that are within the same genre and have amazing plotlines.
If you liked Squid Game and are looking to watch similar shows while waiting for Season 2, this is the list for you!
“Once you overcome the one-inch-tall barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films”
Bong Joon Ho
- MY Name
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Where to Watch: Netflix
Summary: A teenager lives a life alone in her home, known as the daughter of a drug addict on the run. After witnessing the murder of her father with her own eyes, she seeks revenge by turning to the powerful gang her father was a part of for help.
Review: The female lead, Han So-hee, definitely delivered. The raw emotion and great acting were all the show needed to distinguish themselves from other action Korean dramas. This is an action-packed show that contains a lot of violence and bloody scenes. Every fight felt intense as if you were witnessing it in person and I certainly enjoyed this. This is an emotional rollercoaster in which the viewer follows the teen on her long journey to getting vengeance.
- Sweet Home
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Where to Watch: Netflix
Summary: Based on the popular webtoon of the same name, a teenager and other civilians fight to survive against monsters of unknown origin. Only to find out, that the real monsters are among themselves.
Review: This was one of my first horror k-dramas that I’ve watched, and I was not disappointed. Not even once. The show had me hooked from the very first scene because it was a serious action that the teenager was about to commit until he realized that the world has drastically turned upside down. This show will have you at the edge of your seat with the amazing graphics and intense scenes. I literally binged this show in an entire day. However, do so at your own risk because it’ll be a while until the release of Season 2. If you like horror movies, you’ll enjoy this show.
- Vincenzo
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Where to Watch: Netflix
Summary: A Korean-Italian mafia lawyer returns to Korea to collect his share of gold inherited through the death of his adoptive father. However, he encounters corruption that he vows to seek justice for, using some old tricks from the mafia book.
Review: This is hands down one of the best shows I’ve ever seen. To give this show such a short summary seems like an injustice but I had to or else, I’d spoil the plot. This show has the perfect amount of action with a touch of romance. By a touch, I mean quite literally. Nowadays, shows try to shove in romance when it’s not needed but this show does a great job on focusing on the plot without trying to force a couple. The main character, Vincenzo, had me on the edge of my seat every time because you never know what to expect. Therefore, I strongly recommend this to everyone regardless of which genre you prefer.
- Extracurricular
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Where to Watch: Netflix
Summary: A model high school student lives alone in an apartment but to pay for his university tuition, he runs an illegal business. He soon learns that his classmates are also involved in the business, risking his life and identity.
Review: This show had me so anxious the entire time, to say the least. The business that the student runs is illegal in South Korea. You can be sentenced to prison for being involved in this work despite the circumstances so to know that all the people involved in this business are minors, is troubling. Throughout the show, you never know what to expect or what could happen. Which is why I absolutely love this drama. I 100% recommend this to those who love mysteries and dramas.
- Strangers from hell
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Where to Watch: Netflix
Summary: A man moves into an apartment where he has to share a restroom and kitchen with shady neighbors. He is soon in for a rude awakening when he questions his suspicious neighbors.
Review: I can’t give a review to this one because I haven’t watched it. However, this is at the top of my list because of how amazing the plot sounds. Also, the trailer is extremely creepy, and I’ve heard nothing but good reviews about this show.