An important Korean celebration is coming up in a few weeks and can you guess what it is? YES, it’s the Seollal (설날) or more commonly known as Lunar New Year! As one of the most significant celebrations of Korean culture, it is widely recognized as a public holiday in South Korea. This special holiday commemorates the first day of the Korean Lunar Calendar and takes place over the span of several days.
During the week leading up to the Lunar New Year, we will be releasing an article series on Korean actors, personalities, and idols who were born in the Year of the Rabbit, as well as Korean dramas and shows that center around this topic. We’ll be categorizing these series as either “K-Dramas,” “K-Variety,” or “K-Pop.” Are you excited now?
Shows with Rabbit Born Cast
“The Law Cafe“
One of the best 2022 dramas is led by my favorite actor who was born in the year of the rabbit! Starring Lee Seung Gi and Lee Se Young, “The Law Cafe,” tells the story of two former best friends who met again as landlord and cafe owner who’s offering legal advice on the price of a cup of coffee.
“The Heirs“
As well as starring the Hallyu star who was born in the year of the rabbit, this drama is credited with continuing the Hallyu Wave. Lee Min Ho and Park Shin Hye are the main characters of this high school romance about chaebols as they navigate the challenges of taking over their families’ business empires while falling in love.
“Extra-ordinary You“
Among the stars of this high school fantasy series are several actors who are quickly becoming household names in Korean dramas. “Extra-ordinary You” is about a high school girl who finds out by chance that she lives in a fantasy world of manhwa (comics). One of the cast members of this show is Lee Na Eun, a former idol-turned-actress.
“The Emperor: Owner of the Mask“
Kim So Hyun, born in the Year of the Rabbit, is a fantastic actress and one of the most talented of her generation. She’s been in a lot of great Korean dramas, but “The Emperor: Owner of the Mask” stands out as a personal favorite. This drama is a different kind of historical romance about a crown prince who has to live with a mask and has his life exchanged with a commoner!
Shows featuring Rabbit themes
Did you know that the characteristics of the animal that symbolizes the upcoming Lunar New year, can serve as a useful guide to what the year has in store? The Rabbit is seen as calm, gentle, quick, and alert and this animal sign has become a symbol of peace, prosperity, and longevity in Chinese culture. Thus, 2023 is predicted to be a year of hope!
Shows featuring Hope
“Fight For My Way“
The “Fight For My Way” drama, starring Park Seo Joon and Kim Ji Won, is a great example of a coming-of-age story because it teaches us that life is exciting and that it’s best to spend it with the people who matter the most to us. This drama is about underdogs with big dreams struggling to survive and striving for success in a career they’re underqualified for.
“Dream High“
If you’re looking for a high school drama that is the embodiment of hope, Suzy and Kim Soo Hyun’s “Dream High” is perfect for you! The story follows a group of young students who dream of making it big as K-Pop stars. We get to see their journey from hardworking trainees doing their best to develop their singing, songwriting, and dancing skills while undergoing personal growth!
“Doctors“
A medical drama centered on second chances, “Doctors” stars Kim Rae Won and Park Shin Hye. The story is of a troubled teenager who finds a mentor who helps her get her life back on track and ultimately becomes a charismatic doctor. It’s also an excellent neurosurgeon-centered medical drama.
Shows featuring Prosperity
“Young Lady and Gentleman“
There is nothing more prosperous than Ji Hyun Woo’s character, Chairman Lee Young Guk of “Young Lady and Gentleman“! This is a family drama about a widowed husband with three kids and a bright live-in tutor who opened his eyes and heart that there is more to life and happiness than he had previously thought.
“Gold Mask“
Featuring Cha Ye Ryun, Na Young Hee, and Lee Hyi Hyang in a lavish makjang focused on women. This is the story of how three ladies find the meaning of life in the midst of a vicious conflict after a catastrophe brought on by their own selfish ambitions.
Shows featuring Peace
“Little Forest“
If you’re seeking a peaceful and therapeutic film that incorporates cooking, Kim Tae Ri’s “Little Forest” is the right movie to watch! “Little Forest” is about a young woman who went back to her hometown after leaving for the big city in search of what turned out to be an unreachable ambition.
Once again, happy Lunar New Year, and let’s all celebrate it by watching our favorite shows on KOCOWA!
