March is here, marking the beginning of a month dedicated to celebrating women’s achievements and resilience—International Women’s Day! This global observance highlights women’s ongoing fight for gender equality, acknowledging both the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead.
In today’s world, watching shows has become a commonplace activity, making the presence of empowering female characters in Korean dramas all the more significant. In recent years, we’ve witnessed the portrayal of strong, empowered women on screen. These characters not only entertain but also serve as sources of inspiration, challenging traditional gender norms and societal expectations. We wholeheartedly embrace women’s power!
Women Centric K-Dramas on KOCOWA+
What better way to honor International Women’s Month than by watching our favorite female leads who inspire us to live our lives to the fullest?
“Be Melodramatic“
Female-centric dramas are somewhat rare, which is why “Be Melodramatic” stands out with its portrayal of three female leads who embody strength, vulnerability, and the power of female friendship. Starring Chun Woo Hee, Jeon Yeo Been, and Han Ji Eun, this series follows the lives of three best friends in their 30s, all working in the film industry. This empowering show features three distinct female leads, each inspiring in her own way. Chun Woo Hee’s character struggles to balance career aspirations as she ventures into writing her own series. Jeon Yeo Been portrays a successful documentary filmmaker grappling with the loss of her fiancé, while Han Ji Eun’s character epitomizes resilience as a marketing team leader determined to succeed in a male-dominated field while raising her child as a single mother.
“Into The Ring“
“Into The Ring” presents a refreshing take on the political scene, with its female lead, Goo Se Ra. Working in a male-dominated workplace such as politics has made Goo Se Ra an icon of hope who truly cares and is committed to serving her people. Despite the lack of financial gain, constant discrimination from her male colleagues, and numerous failures, this didn’t stop her from being an excellent public servant. She embodies righteousness and kindness, earning the admiration of her constituents.
“Queen of Divorce“
“Queen of Divorce” boldly tackles the taboo subject of divorce, shedding light on the challenges faced by women trapped in toxic marriages. Lee Ji Ah’s portrayal of the titular character challenges societal norms as she assists clients in navigating their problematic marriages. The series emphasizes that there is no shame in choosing to end a marriage, advocating for empowerment and autonomy.
“Mrs. Cop“
“Mrs. Cop” stands out in thriller investigative K-dramas with its strong female protagonist, challenging the genre where male detectives often take the spotlight. Starring Kim Hee Ae as Choi Young Jin, a seasoned detective leading a male-dominated police department. The series follows her relentless pursuit of justice while navigating the complexities of her personal life. Aside from being a detective, she’s also a single mother who embodies resilience, and determination and confronts societal expectations.
“Princess Prosecutor“
Kim So Yeon shines as the “Princess Prosecutor” in this captivating drama. The series follows Ma Hye Ri, a young prosecutor renowned for her fashion sense and intellect. As she navigates the complexities of the legal system, Ma Hye Ri challenges stereotypes, proving that femininity and strength are not mutually exclusive. Through her unwavering pursuit of justice, while solving high-profile cases, she breaks barriers and inspires women to excel in any field.
“Live Your Own Life“
There is nothing more empowering than choosing to live for yourself. “Live Your Own Life” delves into the empowering journey of Uee’s character, Lee Hyo Sim who breaks free from her family after devoting her life to them. While many women dedicate themselves to their families and careers, Hyo Sim’s story highlights the importance of prioritizing personal fulfillment. Breaking away from the expectations placed upon her, she bravely decides to live life on her own terms and learn more about herself.
Happy International Women’s Day to all the incredible women out there! Let’s celebrate by watching these inspiring shows, all available with professional English subtitles on KOCOWA+!
