I compiled a list of must-have actions to make a great K-drama. Feel free to add to it if you wish.
- There must be a Love Triangle between the lead characters.
- Every episode, except the finale episode, must end with a cliffhanger.
- The main character must live at the top of the tallest hill.
- The series must have a group of three friends (male or female), including one of the lead characters.
- Someone must live in a rooftop apartment.
- Soju must be an additional character.
- There must be a gaggle of older men or women.
- Either hangover or seaweed soup must be served in at least one episode.
- Ramen must be in one or more of the episodes.
- Characters must have a ‘Chicken and Beer’ meal.
- Must have product placement (Maxim Coffee, Kopiko, etc.).
- The lead couple must kiss in the rain or snow or during cherry blossom season.
- There must be a piggyback ride.
- An image of a clenched fist must be shown when somebody is mad.
- Someone must use the ‘fighting’ with a ‘clenched fist’ expression.
- Someone must order an Iced Americano.
- The lead actor must have a rescue scene with the lead actress or vice versa.
- They must have a team outing for dinner or karaoke where everyone gets drunk.
- One meal is always grilled pork belly or Korean beef.
- There must be gurgling stomach sounds, or someone must be using the bathroom right now!
- The lead couple must have an accidental fall where they end up being face-to-face.
- A lead actor treats another lead actor’s wounds with ointment and a Band-Aid.
- The lead character must type out a text message, change their mind, and delete the text.
- Someone always has to say the English word ‘Okay.’
- When driving, the lead characters must be in the center lane and drive slower than the traffic flow.
- Sound effects and visual add-ons must be included.
- Somebody must have a nosebleed.
- Somebody must wear a facial mask.
- A kiss between the lead characters must be interrupted by another character.
- Someone must stay at a sauna.
- The main leads must stare longingly into the other’s eyes, afraid to say what they feel.
- The ML must arm grab the FL.
- When waking up, you must always drink water.
