The impact and appeal of K-dramas as a form of “Escapism”.

Korean drama or kdrama has indeed gained immense popularity worldwide during the past recent years, with more and more popularity gained during the pandemic in 2020; based on a noticeable amount of comments from fans and viewers and delving into their perspectives, one can easily gain a deeper understanding of the impact and appeal of K-dramas being it as a form of “escapism”.

To start with, “Escapism” here refers to the psychological tendency to seek distraction or relief from the pressures of reality, or a state which provides individuals with a temporary break from their own lives giving them some time  to immerse themselves in a different world. 

That has been said, it is absolutely true specially for international viewers K-dramas, who knows little or nothing about SK , it is a true expedition to transport them from their own pace, true life happenings and events, own culture and tradition to the captivating places , appealing storylines, vivid characters and exotic settings providing them an ideal avenue for escapism. 

One reason viewers are drawn to K-dramas as a form of escapism is the engaging storylines they offer, since it often revolve around themes of romance, fantasy, and melodrama, which can transport viewers to a world far removed from their own, creating an emotional bond or let’s say connection that viewers develop with the characters which allows them to experience a range of emotions, providing a cathartic release and a break from their own reality.

One more reason, it often showcase the vibrant culture and traditions of South Korea, introducing viewers to unfamiliar customs and lifestyles. Being it in the “Sageuk” genre (historical films and tv series) with its exotic settings in historical palaces, or modern ones showing bustling cityscapes and “Chaebol” life (rich business families) somehow different than how it works in other countries around the world, it provide a visually captivating escape for viewers allowing them to momentarily step into a different culture to experience a sense of adventure and exploration.

Another aspect that attracts viewers to Kdramas is the portrayal of idealized characters and relationships, where the protagonists often possess qualities that viewers may admire or aspire to have themselves while it’s a rare to find in real life. Moreover; The romantic relationships depicted in K-dramas are often portrayed as passionate, intense, and filled with grand and gallantry gestures, offering an idealized version of love and romance that may be, if not for sure lacking in real lives nowadays. 

I pretty much believe that Kdramas provide a temporary escape from the stresses and challenges of everyday life. And as a loyal fan among a big tranche of viewers, immersing ourselves in the world of K-dramas I should admit it really offers me a respite from work, everyday challenges and societal pressures, even though it is a temporary relief still it contributes to a certain level to a bit of improved emotional well-being, living some moments of solace and comfort in the fictional world of K-dramas.

Lots and lots of admiration and appreciation to the role of Kdramas in providing its fans and viewers with a much-needed dose of entertainment, emotional release and Escapism.