One remarkable thing about K-dramas is their consistent portrayal of diverse, independent, and inspiring female leads that we all can relate to. These characters embody strength, resilience, and a sense of purpose that resonates with us, becoming beacons of empowerment.
Whether overcoming personal challenges, navigating complex relationships, or challenging societal expectations, these female leads are relatable figures showcasing the depth and complexity of women in various roles. They are individuals we can meet and trust, knowing they will do everything in their power to help others and achieve their goals. It’s this manifestation of girl power that we truly love!
Lee Ha Nee as Jo Yeo Hwa of “Knight Flower“
2024 has just started but Lee Ha Nee as Jo Yeo Hwa is already owning the strong independent historical female lead of the year! Despite living in an era when women are expected to do little, Yeo Hwa transforms into a masked woman at night, fighting for justice. As a widow from a wealthy Joseon family, she proves that she doesn’t need a male lead to save her – she is her own heroine and a champion for those in need!
E Ji Ah As Kim Sa Ra of “Queen of Divorce“
Returning with a powerful and comedic portrayal, E Ji Ah takes on the role of Kim Sa Ra, a former lawyer turned team leader of a divorce resolution company. Sa Ra, coming from a tragic family where her husband cheated on her and her mother-in-law failed to recognize her as part of the family, transforms into the “Queen of Divorce.” Drawing from her firsthand experience with divorce, Sa Ra has become Korea’s best divorce solver, helping wronged spouses end problematic marriages.
Nana as Goo Se Ra of “Into the Ring“
Nana, portraying Goo Se Ra, is the inspirational district representative in “Into the Ring.” Hailing from a humble background and dedicated to her community, Se Ra navigates the world of dirty politics to serve her people. Despite facing prejudice and discrimination for being a female in a male-dominated arena, Se Ra remains undeterred. She prioritizes the needs of the people over her own, embodying a cheerful personality and unwavering principles. Se Ra stands tall as a female lead who always stands up for what is right.
Choi Kang Hee as Baek Chan Mi of “Good Casting“
Choi Kang Hee as Baek Chan Mi is the literal K-drama hero as she is a legendary agent for the National Intelligence Service. Following an unfortunate incident, Chan Mi and a group of female agents find themselves reassigned to an undercover mission involving corruption and leaked trade secrets at the country’s largest conglomerate. Starring different kinds of women, this drama does its job well showing women’s empowerment and badass female leads.
Kim Hee Sun as Jo Kang Ja of “Angry Mom“
Kim Hee Sun as Jo Kang Ja is the human embodiment of a mother’s unconditional love. Jo Kang Ja, driven by her maternal instincts, enrolls as an undercover student to identify the bullies responsible for worsening her daughter’s condition. In the process of being a devoted mother, Kang Ja unexpectedly becomes a hero, exposing deeper issues within the educational system. Her mission is to put an end to school violence and corruption within the institution.
Jang Na Ra as Hong Ji Ah of “Sell Your Haunted House“
Jang Na Ra as Hong Ji Ah is the owner of Daebak Real Estate which offers the service of cleaning out buildings in which ghosts frequent and people have died. A strong and selfless female lead with exorcism abilities, Ji Ah fearlessly confronts ghosts and takes care of the male lead. She becomes a reliable figure for ghosts, helping them complete their final missions before finding peace in the afterlife.
Lee Se Young as Kim Yu Ri of “The Law Cafe“
Talking about female leads who are here to save the day, Kim Yu Ri stands out as the owner of a law cafe catering specifically to those less fortunate, charging only the price of coffee. Going the extra mile, she travels to provinces, listens to people’s stories, and utilizes the law to help them overcome challenges. Yu Ri emerges as a beacon of support for those in need, using her legal expertise to their advantage.
Aside from these powerful female leads, there are many more you can watch on KOCOWA+! If you’re going to ask me who my favorite is, then I highly recommend Lee Ha Nee’s “Knight Flower” and Lee Ji Ah’s “Queen of Divorce,” both streaming with English subtitles on KOCOWA+!
