Literature
Unlikely Villains in Korean Dramas: From Strong Girl Bongsoon to The Escape of the Seven
Unlikely Villains in Korean Dramas: From 'Strong Girl Bongsoon' to 'The Escape of the Seven'
When discussing the complexities of relationships in Korean dramas, one often encounters shared storylines that involve memorable characters and plots. Yet, in the realm of these narratives, there are stands out - where secondary leads are also the villains, adding depth and intrigue to the storyline.
Key Takeaways
Discover surprising villainous portrayals within well-known Korean dramas. Explore the nuances and motivations behind these secondary lead villains. Understand why audiences resonate with these complicated characters.My Darling: The Love Between the Good and the Dark
There is a unique appeal in how rash sacrifices and ambitious acts of seeming villainy make traitors fall in love with their characters. A hero might sacrifice a loved one for the greater good, but a villain, on the other hand, might sacrifice the world to save someone they cherish. This dynamic is wonderfully illustrated in several Korean dramas where the secondary lead also serves as the antagonist.
Unloading Our Hearts: Strong Girl Bongsoon
Ryu Shi-o in Strong Girl Bongsoon is a complex villain. Although his initial choice of colors is not blue (photo conditional), he is undeniably a memorable and controversial figure. Bluerose's mind, a well-known enthusiast, describes him as such: 'This is the first time a male lead is not color blind, but I still hate her choice!!!!'
The character's sacrifice for love makes us question whether villains are bad by nature or are shaped by their life experiences. In many ways, Ryu Shi-o embodies the notion that real villains are not born but made through choices and circumstances beyond their control.
He Was Good, But He Was Made Evil: A Game Towards Zero
In A Game Towards Zero played by Gu Do-kyung, the narrative erodes the moral boundary of heroes versus villains. Bluerose's mind comments, 'He was genuinely a good human being! A true definition of villains aren’t born they are made! I loved him so much.' His portrayal is a study of a great human potential to develop into a villain through circumstances and misunderstanding.
Love and Misunderstanding: Doctor Stranger
Doctor Han Jae-jun in Doctor Stranger and his complex love interest Heo Min-suk showcase the intricate nature of love that transcends logic. Bluerose’s mind couldn’t help but comment on the disparity between the character's feelings and their actions, and how the green flag was improperly placed on Heo Min-suk. Han Jae-jun’s character represents the heartache of loving someone too deep for himself, and likely for someone who didn’t deserve him fully.
Understanding and Redemption: Queen of Tears
Yoon Eun-seong in Queen of Tears is a misunderstood character who captures the hearts of many. Bluerose’s mind sums it up beautifully: 'He’s just a misunderstood guy. People hated him so much FOR WHAT!!!! His mother is clearly the reason he’s like this!!!!! Eun-seong is evil but I still hope he realized his crimes and try to amend them!’
Complicated Alliances: The Escape of the Seven
In The Escape of the Seven, the two overlays Han Mo-ne and ANGEL (he is not a male lead but a vile underestimated one) highlight the complexity of alliances and relationships. While Han Mo-ne is the female lead, she is also a villain who doesn't end up with her main love interest. This layered narrative adds an additional layer of intrigue to an already captivating storyline.
Secondary Leads as Villains: Other Notable Examples
Strong Girl Nam Soon: Byun Woo Seok as rival suitor and villain. The Girl Who Sees Smells: Namkoong Min as rival suitor and villain. Mr. Sunshine: Yoo Yeon-seok as rival suitor and villain. KI2 (Killing In The Name of 2): Choi Yoo Jin as main lead and villain. My Dearest: Lee Chung-ah as Princess Gak-hwa, acting as the main lead and villain. The Impossible Heir: A suitor as villain. A Good Day to Be a Dog: A suitor as villain. Marry My Husband: A suitor as villain.Conclusion
The complexities of the human condition are beautifully portrayed in Korean dramas, especially when the secondary leads act as the villains. These narratives challenge our perception of good and evil, illustrating that what begins as a villainous path might not necessarily lead to condemnation but rather to a compassionate understanding of the reasons behind one's actions.
Why These Villains Resonate
The reasons behind the success of such dramatisations are manifold. Firstly, it challenges the conventional hero-villain binary, forcing audiences to think more critically about character development and motivation. Secondly, it offers deeper connection to the characters as they navigate their moral and emotional struggles. And finally, it provides a rich storytelling experience that keeps viewers engaged and invested in the outcome.