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GETTING tired of the traditional Christmas movies like Home Alone and Elf? Are you looking for something new to spruce up your Holly Jolly Christmas? Have you been yearning to dabble into more Korean movies? Or even switch up your Christmas playlist?
Here are some Korean dramas to turn your Christmas into a Khristmas (get it?). What are you waiting for? Grab your drinks and snacks of choice and hit play!
Space Sweepers (2021)
A little bit dystopian, a little action and a sprinkle of Marvel; if Space Sweepers is still in your to-watch list on Netflix, this is the perfect time to get to it.
It may not have your typical winter setting nor a Christmas theme but its deeply rooted family values makes this a fun and exciting movie to watch, especially with the older children at home.
Its international reach also makes this a great movie to check out if you are just starting your journey into Korean cinema, as it not only incorporates Western influences into its action scenes, but it also includes a cast of characters from all over the world speaking in their own languages – so you’ll hear quite a bit of English and Mandarin spoken throughout. All of which is done without forgoing the melodrama found in most Korean productions.
Staring Descendants of the Sun (2016) lead, Song Joong-ki, Kim Tae-ri, Jin Seon-kyu from The Outlaws (2017) and veteran actor Yoo Hae-jin, Space Sweepers also features English actor Richard Armitage and Squid Game’s rising star Anupam Tripathi.
Space Sweepers marks the beginning of a new generation of Korean movies that integrates a multitude of cultures from across the world. What better way to end the year than with the prospect of a new beginning.
Inseparable Bros (2019)
Following the lives of two handicapped individuals who found brotherhood at the orphanage they grew up in, Inseparable Bros is another family values based movie that will just warm your heart on a ‘winters’ day (or maybe just turn down the air con for a few minutes).
This quirky yet heartfelt movie definitely hits on some serious notes about inclusivity and acceptance when it comes to physically and mentally disabled adults, without dumbing down its comedy.
The unlikely pair, acted by veteran actor Shin Ha-Kyun, and Running Man star, Lee Kwang-Soo, supported by rising actress Esom, portrays the beauty of selflessness and sticking by the family that you choose; redefining the definition of family.
Although this movie is not available on Netflix, brighten up your Christmas with this easy-going movie from Dramacool or MyAsiatv that will definitely leave a smile on your face with its happy ending.
On Your Wedding Day (2018)
A little less family friendly, On Your Wedding Day is the romantic comedy for you if you are looking for a dash of romance this Christmas.
Starring Park Bo-young as Hwan Seung-hee and Kim Young-kwang as Hwang Woo-yeon, the couple’s story starts in high school when Seung-hee first transfers into the school.
Following the very typical high school romance trope, Woo-yeon falls head over heels for Seung-hee on first sight; but alas their fates were never meant to be, as Father Time was just never on their side for their love to blossom.
While this is a great show to dive into if you are not a fan of the damsel-in-distress element in Korean movies, as Seung-hee is a very head-strong and independent woman, the movie is loaded with sexual innuendos that isn’t exactly family-friendly.
However, a little disclaimer that if you wish for a movie with a sweet ending, this will definitely disappoint you with its more realistic conclusion.
Always (2011)
A love story between a blind woman, Ha Jung-hwa (Han Hyo-joo), and former boxing champion, Jang Marcelino (So Ji-sub), Always has all the traditional elements of a romance movie, including a happy ending.
The movie definitely has all the tell-tale signs of Korean romance films from a previous generation, with its typical damsel in distress falling in love with the man carrying a dark past, tacky plot holes and not to mention the highly mismatched foundation shade, especially on Jang Marcelino.
Yet, its simple plot with segments of action and tension makes this a compelling romance movie to watch this Christmas with your significant other.
If you are looking for a movie to cuddle up to, that is both romantic and also action-filled with a hint of spice, this is the movie for you – keeping in mind to look past the flaws of the movie.
My Name (2021)
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Although not a movie, this short eight-episode long series is THE ONE to have a marathon with on Christmas along friends and family – not including young children and preteens.
My Name revolves around the narrative of Yoon Ji-woo (Han So-hee), as she joins her father’s former gang to train and hunt down the man who murdered him.
With some trigger warnings for rape and violence, this short series will consistently keep you at the edge of your seats.
Although the cinematography could definitely have been better during the fight scenes as it does trigger some motion sickness, My Name carries a good chilling feeling of winter, fit for the season.
So buckle up and brace yourself for impact as this addictive series brings you on an a mysterious and action-filled December 25th. – The Vibes, December 18, 2021
