Everyone either loves or hates this specific genre, and it’s the world of makjang K-dramas! For those unfamiliar, “makjang” refers to a genre known for its exaggerated elements. The term literally means “vein” or “blood vessel,” and in the context of dramas, it symbolizes the heightened emotions and intense plot developments that often border on the melodramatic.
Makjang dramas are known for their plot twists, shocking revelations, outrageous conflicts, and larger-than-life characters, creating an atmosphere of heightened tension and excitement, and as viewers, I know we can’t get enough of it! So here are some top makjang dramas that you definitely shouldn’t miss.
“The Penthouse“
“The Penthouse” always tops my makjang must-watch list with its ruthless power struggles, shocking betrayals, and scandalous secrets. Set in the ultra-elite residential complex called “Hera Palace,” it follows the lives of ambitious parents and their children, all entangled in a web of greed, revenge, and even murder. Every moment is filled with illicit affairs, hidden identities, manipulative schemes, and cutthroat competition that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Plus, it consistently maintains high ratings across all three seasons!
“The World Of The Married”
This makjang masterpiece revolves around marriage betrayal. It depicts the unraveling of a successful doctor’s perfect life when she discovers her husband’s infidelity. The drama takes you on a rollercoaster ride of ruthless power struggles, explosive confrontations, shocking revelations, and emotional turmoil. You’ll be so engrossed in the story that you wouldn’t notice the time watching!
“VIP“
Delving into the dark side of the corporate world, “VIP” is a makjang that exposes secrets, lies, and betrayal. It focuses on a team of employees at a department store’s VIP customer service center, revealing hidden affairs, office politics, and intricate power dynamics. With its suspenseful web of deceit, shocking revelations, and moral dilemmas, the drama showcases the addictive nature of makjang dramas. It’s also fun to guess who the other woman might be while watching!
“Sky Castle”
This drama stands out not only as an excellent makjang but also as a gripping portrayal of the competitive education world. “Sky Castle” follows the lives of wealthy families who go to extreme lengths to ensure their children’s success and admission to prestigious universities. As parents become entangled in deceit, manipulation, and fierce rivalry, the drama explores themes of obsession, ambition, and the high cost of societal expectations. Brace yourself for shocking plot twists and emotional rollercoasters in every episode!
“The Last Empress“
Unlike the other makjangs on this list, “The Last Empress” is a period drama full of palace intrigue, political conspiracies, and forbidden romance. Set in an alternate reality with a constitutional monarchy, the series follows a musical actress entangled in power struggles within the royal palace. Prepare for backstabbing, hidden agendas, and larger-than-life characters as the drama serves up a captivating blend of suspense, romance, and melodrama. It was so popular that it even got extended for four more episodes!
“The Second Husband“
This makjang gem takes viewers on a wild ride of revenge, twisted relationships, and unexpected alliances. It revolves around a woman who discovers her husband’s affair and seeks revenge by marrying a wealthy man. However, she finds herself entangled in a web of deceit, secrets, and tragic circumstances. “The Second Husband” keeps you hooked with its dramatic plot twists, complex love triangles, and heightened emotions. Prepare to feel frustrated for the characters!
“Cruel Temptation“
Considered a classic makjang masterpiece, “Cruel Temptation” tells the story of a woman enduring unspeakable mistreatment from her husband and in-laws. Faking her death, she returns with a new identity to seek revenge. This drama takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster, filled with betrayal, power dynamics, sacrifice, and the consequences of deception!
“A Man in a Veil“
“A Man in a Veil” elevates the makjang genre with its tale of revenge, family secrets, and hidden identities. It follows a young woman who discovers she was switched at birth and embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind her family’s dark past. This drama offers a captivating mix of suspense, romance, and intense emotions as the main character delves deeper into the secrets of her birth, becoming entangled in a dangerous web of deceit, power struggles, and forbidden love.
So which in this list is your favorite? Prepare to love and hate the characters in these makjang K-dramas all available on KOCOWA+!
