Do K-dramas and Korean TV shows have an alcohol problem?
- Some viewers and experts are worried K-dramas and other Korean shows may contain too many drinking scenes
- One study of 219 of the most-watched dramas and 438 popular reality shows aired in 2021 found each episode contained an average of 2.3 scenes involving alcohol
By Kwak Yeon-soo
With alcohol consumption increasingly common on Korean television, some concerned viewers and experts are asking whether there might be too many drinking scenes on the screen.
The increasing displays of drinking on television may reflect the medium’s increased respect for realism.
“I would have been hesitant to appear in the show if it aired on one of three major broadcasters. But since it’s an over-the-top [OTT, or streaming service] platform, I felt I could be more true to myself,” Han said.
The OTT and cable television revolution have changed the way alcohol is portrayed. Tving’s Work Later, Drink Now, renewed for a second season this year, centres on three drinking buddies who hang out in a bar every day.
“Heavy drinking inflicts damage on the body, but you might want to loosen up a bit while drinking, at least once in your life. No one has a perfect life,” the drama’s screenwriter, Wi So-young, says.
Alcohol acts as the central theme in several shows currently on air.
