Besides offering a twisted story that keeps you on the edge, K-Drama Squid Game also presents a thought-provoking commentary on class difference, struggle of the lower sects, social inequality and survival of the human. It was these themes that resonated with people across the globe and made the show such a big hit. Now, as the audience awaits the second season, whose teaser was released by Netflix on September 20, let’s look at more Korean shows with similar themes. If you liked Squid Game, you are sure to love these five dramas as well.
All of Us Are Dead (2022)
Zombie virus outbreak in a high school creates chaos, with every student trying to fight for life – that’s the story of All Of Us Are Dead. However, the makers have interestingly infused elements of social injustice, discrimination among students based on their backgrounds and more, to make the show more engaging. Very much like Squid Game, this apocalyptic series shows human nature in times of crisis and social hierarchy.
The Call (2020)
The Call merges themes like psychology, thrill and science fiction to tell a story of two women, whose lives get intertwined because of a mysterious phone call. The popular K Drama takes a satirical dig at social inequality and shows how rich exploits the poor in our social setup. The problems of underprivileged section are also presented in a beautiful manner.
Itaewon Class (2020)
Itaewon Class revolves around the character of Park Sae-ro-yi, a poor entrepreneur who stars a bar in Seoul’s trendy Itaewon district. The Kdrama shows him navigating through the class-based discrimination existing in society. How he fights off the wealthy restaurateur of the locality and builds an empire through his determination and resilience forms the plot of the show.
Vagabond (2019)
An action-thriller that critiques corruption and class differences in South Korea, Vagabond won appreciation for being relatable. The show is based on the life of a stuntman named Cha Dal-geon, who begins his fight for justice after his nephew dies in a plane crash. As the story unveils, people see him struggling to expose the corrupt government officials. The show brings forth the problems of a common man fighting against the powerful people.
Boys Over Flowers (2009)
The popular Kdrama Boys Over Flowers highlights multiple social evils through the story of Geum Jan-di, a poor girl who catches the attention of a wealthy boy Goo Jun-pyo. The drama takes us deep into the issue of economic disparities, social hierarchy and bullying faced by lower strata.
