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Writer's pictureThu Trang

K-Drama realism: 3 critically acclaimed K-Movies based on true events!

Korean drama, or K-drama, has always had a unique way of drawing inspiration from real-life events and weaving them into compelling narratives. These dramas often provide viewers with a glimpse into the past or the intricacies of true stories. In this post, we'll explore three remarkable K-dramas that are based on true events, allowing you to both be entertained and informed! Let's get into it!


1. Samjin Company English Class


Esom (left), Ko Ah Sung (middle), and Park Hye Soo star in "Samjin Company English Class" (Lotte Cultureworks)
Esom (left), Ko Ah Sung (middle), and Park Hye Soo star in "Samjin Company English Class" (Lotte Cultureworks)

Background: Based on the Doosan Group scandal, Samjin Company English Class takes us back to the early 1990s, highlighting a significant moment in Korean corporate history. This scandal involved allegations of fraud and corporate espionage within the Doosan Group, one of South Korea's major conglomerates. Take a look at our interview with one of the cast members!



Plot: The drama follows the lives of three women who work at Samjin Company and decide to take an English class. As they become involved in a corporate scandal, they discover a hidden truth. Their journey reflects the challenges faced by women in the workforce during this era, making Samjin Company English Class a compelling exploration of gender dynamics in corporate Korea.


2. Traces of Love


Yoo Ji Tae (left) and Kim Ji Soo star as a young married couple in "Traces of Love" (Lotte Entertainment)
Yoo Ji Tae (left) and Kim Ji Soo star as a young married couple in "Traces of Love" (Lotte Entertainment)

Background: Traces of Love is a heartwarming drama inspired by a true story about a young couple who faced the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.



Plot: The drama follows the love story of a young couple, portraying the husband's dedication and unwavering support as his wife battles Alzheimer's. Based on a touching real-life account, Traces of Love beautifully illustrates the emotional struggles and resilience of those dealing with the impact of Alzheimer's.


3. The Spy Gone North


Background: The Spy Gone North is not a conventional K-drama but rather a riveting film based on the true story of a South Korean spy who infiltrated North Korea during the late 1990s.


Hwang Jung Min stars as a South Korean spy in "The Spy Gone North" (CJ Entertainment)
Hwang Jung Min stars as a South Korean spy in "The Spy Gone North" (CJ Entertainment)

Plot: This gripping espionage thriller follows the journey of a South Korean spy who posed as a businessman to infiltrate North Korea and gather critical information about their nuclear program. This true story of espionage and intrigue is a testament to the real-world risks faced by those in the intelligence community.



K-dramas that draw inspiration from real events offer a unique blend of entertainment and education. Samjin Company English Class, Traces of Love, and The Spy Gone North are perfect examples of how the world of K-drama can transport viewers into historical events and poignant real-life stories. These dramas not only entertain but also shed light on the complexities of the past and the remarkable stories of those who lived through them. Whether you're a fan of corporate dramas, heartfelt love stories, or espionage thrillers, these K-dramas have something for everyone! Let us know if you've seen any of these dramas! Comment below!


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