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2015 was a prolific year for Korean drama, not just in sheer number of dramas produced, but also in the diversity of themes and genres. Creative and offbeat concepts ranging from multiple personalities, to supernatural powers, to vampires, drew a lot of interest long before the dramas even aired. As we welcome 2016, it’s time to have a look back at some of the not-to-be-missed dramas of 2015 in their respective genre.

But before we get started, let us explain the criteria of our selection. First, a top drama for us is usually comprised of an intricate story, memorable characters with depth, a talented cast, and air-tight execution. Unusual premises, savvy dialogues, and beautiful cinematography add brownie points; lapses of logic, overused tropes, and extended downtimes majorly detract from the experience. Secondly, dramas that began in 2014 and finished in 2015 are considered while dramas that aired in 2015 but won’t wrap up until 2016 are not. With these expectations set, let’s jump in.

Healer — Best in Action Adventure

Healer is a thrilling spy adventure drama where a night courier, a famous reporter, and a tabloid journalist join hands to uncover the buried secrets among a group of friends from over a decade ago. There are many things that Healer does right: scripting, acting, and character building. But what truly separates Healer from the rest is how those elements are stitched together to tell a flawlessly paced, action-packed story that makes you feel like there’s never a dull moment.

Kill Me Heal Me — Best in Psychological

Kill Me Heal Me tells the story of how a psychiatrist helps a multiple personality disorder chaebol reconnect with the dark secrets of his past that made him the way he is. While it may seem like just another rom-com with overly exaggerated medical conditions on the surface, Kill Me Heal Me is surprisingly heart-wrenching and deep — certainly one of the most touching dramas of this year. Thanks to Ji Sung’s exceptional acting in portraying the emotional complexities of the various archetypes, the drama’s colorful personalities are now iconic characters loved by many.

Oh My Ghost — Best in Rom-Com

A refreshing take on the taboo topics of ghost and seduction, Oh My Ghost hilariously demonstrates how a virgin ghost possesses a clumsy kitchen assistant to seduce the handsome chef. Oh My Ghost quickly emerged as one of the best romantic comedies of the year with its diverse themes involving food, identity, murder, and of course, ghost. In particular, the sparkling chemistry between Park Bo Young and Jo Jung Suk is so endearing that it’ll make you cry deeply, laugh hysterically, and fall in love with their adorable characters.

Pinocchio — Best in Melodrama

Pinocchio takes us along a thrilling journey in separating fact from fiction through the eyes of four rookie reporters. It’s got all the right ingredients for a promising melodrama: a novel disorder of not being able to lie, a cast of eye-candy actors who can actually act, a sweet romance, and a chilling revenge theme. The success of Pinocchio rests in the meticulously thought-through plot sequences in exposing the web of lies, and the realistic depictions of the reporter profession that make the drama believable.

Punch — Best in Legal Drama

Punch explores how modern day prosecutors cope with the constant clash between ideals versus reality, and scrutinizes the paths they choose in response to temptations and survival. In this labyrinth of power struggle, each character has a distinctive yet essential purpose; the good guys, the bad guys, and the morally ambiguous ones wrestle between justice and personal gain. Punch’s intricate, suspenseful game of chess keeps you guessing till the very end who’s going to come on top.

The Girl Who Sees Smells — Best in Fantasy

The Girl Who Sees Smells may have struck gold by weaving the outlandish premise of a girl who can visualize smells into a serial crime drama. It unexpectedly and masterfully interlaces murder mystery with bizarre comedy as our heroes track down their joint enemy, the barcode killer. However, the most memorable character in The Girl Who Sees Smells is the exceptionally haunting villain who brings chills down your back with his every appearance.

Who Are You: School 2015 — Best in Teen Drama

For a teen drama, Who Are You: School 2015 surprised me with an exceptional blend of gripping mystery surrounding a set of twin sisters, and adorable high school romance. The young actors, especially Kim So Hyun, convincingly channel their characters’ divergent personas, making them that much more unforgettable. But the biggest delight of the drama is its ability in building suspense, tension, and curiosity with impeccable timing.

Now that you’ve read our top-picks, what’s your favorite drama of 2015? Let us know in the comments section.











29.1K Shares

29.1K Shares











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