Let’s take a nostalgic journey back to 2014, a year that brought us some of the most beloved and iconic K-dramas. These shows not only maintain their quality but also continue to have a lasting impact that many still remember today. Now, let’s revisit some of the best K-dramas that premiered during this year.
“It’s Okay, That’s Love“
One of the best K-dramas to exist is Zo In Sung and Kong Hyo Jin’s “It’s Okay, That’s Love” which premiered in 2014! This slice-of-life drama is loved for its honest and sensitive portrayal of mental health, a topic not often addressed at the time. Centered around the complex love story between a mystery novelist and a psychiatrist, it offers a refreshing take on romance intertwined with themes of mental health, healing, and acceptance. The series sparked discussions about mental health awareness and the importance of seeking help. Also, the undeniable chemistry between the leads and a beautiful soundtrack made this a memorable romance story.
“My Love From The Star“
One of the best fantasy K-drama to exist is Jun Ji Hyun and Kim Soo Hyun’s “My Love From The Star.” It tells the story of an alien who landed on Earth 400 years ago during the Joseon Dynasty and meets and falls in love with a top Hallyu actress when he’s about to go back to his planet. This is such an iconic K-drama where the main character is still known today due to Cheon Song Yi being a fashion icon and character. It popularized numerous trends, including fashion styles, and catchphrases, and known for Jun Ji Hyun and Kim Soo Hyun’s intense chemistry.
“Pinocchio“
Lee Jong Suk and Park Shin Hye’s “Pinnochio” is probably one of the most unique K-drama that premiered this year that combines fantasy, romance, and social commentary. The drama follows two childhood friends who pursue careers as reporters, with one of them suffering from ‘Pinocchio Syndrome’—a condition causing her to hiccup whenever she lies. “Pinocchio” delves into the responsibilities and ethical dilemmas faced by journalists while addressing broader social issues. It serves as an eye-opener, shedding light on both personal and professional challenges within the field of news reporting.
“Doctor Stranger“
One of the best medical dramas of the year is Lee Jong Suk and Jin Se Yeon’s “Doctor Stranger” about a genius cardiothoracic surgeon who was kidnapped to North Korea with his father as a child and escaped to South Korea years after. Known for its intense storyline blending medical drama with political elements, “Doctor Stranger” hooks viewers from the first episode to the last. For new K-drama fans, it sheds light on the stark differences between North and South Korea, portraying the struggles faced by those caught between the two nations.
“Healer“
Still one of the best action crime thrillers to exist is Ji Chang Wook and Park Min Young’s “Healer!” The series follows an elite “night courier” known by the codename Healer, who takes on various missions for a price and a reporter, unraveling conspiracies about their intertwined past. “Healer” is remembered for its action-packed sequences, thrilling and well-written plot, and strong character development.
“Birth of the Beauty“
If we’re talking about 2014’s best romantic comedy it would be “Birth of the Beauty” starring Joo Sang Wook and Han Ye Seul. This drama is beloved for its revenge storyline, where an overweight, kind-hearted woman undergoes a dramatic transformation after a near-fatal accident, returning as a stunningly beautiful woman. Known for its dramatic and entertaining plot, “Birth of the Beauty” tackles societal pressures surrounding beauty standards. It emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and delivers a message that true beauty originates from within oneself.
“Cunning Single Lady“
An exciting 2014 drama is Lee Min Jung and Joo Sang Wook’s “Cunning Single Lady” which is about a woman who divorced her husband due to financial struggles and later on starts working at his company when he became a wealthy CEO to get back at him. Offering a refreshing take on the second chance trope, this drama blends lighthearted comedy with heartwarming themes of personal growth. It delves into the complexities of modern relationships, navigating the balance between love and ambition.
“Hotel King“
Set in the hotel industry, Lee Dong Wook and Lee Da Hae’s “Hotel King” is one of the most iconic dramas of 2024, about a cold and calculating general manager of a prestigious hotel and a heiress determined to reveal the truth behind her father’s mysterious death and save the hotel from ruin. This drama perfectly combines its intense and melodramatic plot with the hotel storyline featuring the people working behind it.
“My Lovely Girl“
The music drama of this year is Rain and Krystal’s “My Lovely Girl,” which revolves around a successful music producer and a talented but struggling songwriter who happens to be his late girlfriend’s younger sister. Together, they embark on a journey of healing from past traumas through music. Touching on themes of grief and recovery, “My Lovely Girl” portrays a heartwarming story of second chances and the supportive role of those around us in overcoming life’s challenges.
“Jang Bori is Here“
The family and one of the highest dramas of the year is Oh Yeon Seo and Kim Ji Hoon’s “Jang Bori is Here!” It follows the story of a young woman who, after being adopted and raised in a different family, discovers her true identity and talent in traditional Korean dressmaking. “Jang Bori is Here” is known for its dramatic and engaging storyline that you can’t help but feel attached to the characters and is excited to know what happens next to the story. It portrays the protagonist’s transformation from humble beginnings to becoming a skilled hanbok designer, making her as a beloved K-drama character.
“Discovery of Love”
One of the most loved romance dramas of the year is Eric Mun and Jung Yu Mi’s “Discovery of Love.” The series delves into the complexities of relationships and personal growth, centering around a furniture designer who finds herself caught between her current boyfriend and her ex-boyfriend. “Discovery of Love” is praised for its realistic portrayal of relationships, exploring the emotional ups and downs, and relatable storytelling. It captivates viewers with its witty dialogue and themes about love and second chances.
How about you, what’s your favorite 2014 K-drama? Let’s watch all of it by binge-watching these shows all available on KOCOWA+ with professional subtitles!
