Monday, July 13, 2026

What would they do without corruption?

Time for another random observation.

I've tried watching a fair few Netflix Korean shows in the last few months - Undercover Miss Hong (first episode only - it seemed fine, but each episode is so long I'm not sure I'm ready for the commitment); Teach You a Lesson (silly webtoon-done-live stuff, with questionable "right violent wrongs in school by more violence" themes, so only watched 2 episodes);  Agent Kim Reactivated (first episode only - again, silly stylised fighting because its webtoon-done-live); and Beef, series 2 (which featured Korean parts and plot points, even if set mainly in - I think - California.)

I've noticed that these shows all shared an extremely common theme in Korean content:   the very rich (and certain politicians) being engaged in corruption and bullying and making life hell for everyone.

It feels almost like a cliche to me now, after seeing these shows, and it would surprise me if others haven't also become a bit bored with this being a key part of each story.   

The most enjoyable Netflix Korean show I have seen, by far, was the historical zombie series Kingdom.  (But not the movie prequel they did in lieu of a third series - it was a dud.)    Sure, it had palace intrigue, but not corruption as such.    

Please, get some new ideas, Korea. 

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