7.5 / 10 (based on 3308 reviews)
A former troublemaker applies for a job at a convenience store owned by the same man who ran errands for her a few years ago.
Genre: Action, Comedy, Romance
Main Cast: Kim Yoo-jeong, Ji Chang-Wook, Sun Hwa Han, Eum Moon Suk
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 60-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Backstreet Rookie (2020)
Nal Nokyeojuo (2019)
6.8 / 10 (based on 1655 reviews)
This Is a sci-fi romantic comedy. The story tells about a man and a woman who participated in a 24-hour human freezing experiment. Due to a mysterious scheme the pair wake up 20 years later.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Romance
Main Cast: Ji Chang-Wook, Jin-ah Won, Yun Se-ah, Kim Won-Hae
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Soosanghan Pateuneo (2017)
7.8 / 10 (based on 5685 reviews)
Eun Bong Hee is a prosecutor trainee who unfortunately becomes a murder suspect. Noh Ji Wook who is a prosecutor tries to help Eun Bong Hee but loses his job in the process. After the prosecution, Eun Bong Hee who is free from the crime falls in love with Noh Ji Wook. But Noh does not accept her love towards him but offers to help her in finding the real suspect. In the mean time the real murderer plots a plan to avoid being caught.
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Romance
Main Cast: Ji Chang-Wook, Nam Ji-Hyun, Choi Tae-Joon, Nara
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 40 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
The K2 (2016)
7.8 / 10 (based on 7426 reviews)
Kim Je Ha is a former soldier for hire. He is also called K2. He is hired as a bodyguard by Choi Yoo Jin. Choi Yoo Jin is the wife of Jang Se Joon, who is running for president. Meanwhile, Go Anna is the reclusive illegitimate daughter of Jang Se Joon whom Je Ha has to guard.
Genre: Drama, Romance, Thriller
Main Cast: Ji Chang-Wook, Song Yun-ah, Im Yoon-ah, Jo Sung-ha
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Hilleo (2014)
8.5 / 10 (based on 9204 reviews)
An old murder incident involving a group who ran an illegal broadcasting station brings together different people – a mysterious errand guy “Healer” who possesses disguise and fighting skills, a reporter from a second-rate tabloid, and a famous journalist. They will have to deal with the cruel conflict of truth versus faith.
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime, Drama, Romance, Thriller
Main Cast: Ji Chang-Wook, Park Min-Young, Tae-Mi, Yoo Ji-Tae
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 20 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Ildan Ddeugeobge Chungsohara (2017)
7 / 10 (based on 1826 reviews)
Gil Oh Sol, an employee at a cleaning company, meets Jang Sun Gyeol, the boss of the company. The two are diametric opposite when it comes to cleanliness. With the help of Oh Sol, Sun Gyeol faces his mysophobia and finds love.
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Main Cast: Yoon Kyun-Sang, Kim Yoo-jeong, Jae-rim Song, Seon Yu
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Ssam, Maiwei (2017)
8.1 / 10 (based on 7152 reviews)
Ko Dong Man, a high school Taekwondo champion who is now pursuing a career in the UFC, and Choi Ae Ra, a dynamic girl whose desire is to become a famous announcer, have been best friends since childhood. Now, they have to confront the change in their feelings towards each other as well as overcome difficulties to make their dreams come true.
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Main Cast: Seo Jun Park, Kim Ji-Won, Jae-hong Ahn, Song Ha-Yoon
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 70.0-minute runtime
Kimbiseoga wae geureolkka (2018)
8.1 / 10 (based on 13935 reviews)
A romance between perfect but narcissistic second generation heir and his capable assistant.
Genre: Comedy, Mystery, Romance
Main Cast: Park Min-Young, Seo Jun Park, Lee Tae-Hwan, Kim Byeong-Ok
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Him-ssen yeo-ja Do Bong-soon (2017)
8.2 / 10 (based on 13850 reviews)
Do Bong-soon is a woman born with superhuman strength that comes from the long line of women possessing it. when Ahn Min Hyuk, the CEO of ainsoft, a gaming company witnesses her strength he hires her as his personal bodyguard.
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Park Bo-Young, Park Hyung-Sik, Ji Soo, Jun Suk-ho
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 17 episodes, 67.0-minute runtime
W – Du gaeui segye (2016)
8 / 10 (based on 11638 reviews)
A love story between a couple in their early thirties. They belong to the same era but alternate realities.
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Thriller
Main Cast: Lee Jong-Suk, Han Hyo-joo, Eui-sung Kim, Jeong Eu-Gene
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 17 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Whirlwind Girl 2 (2016)
7.1 / 10 (based on 212 reviews)
Can a young woman regain her passion for martial arts? Qi Bai Cao (An Yue Xi) was adopted and raised by a taekwondo master after a childhood fire killed her parents.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Sport
Main Cast: Yuexi An, Ji Chang-Wook, Sean Chen, Changxu Chi
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 35 episodes, 55.0-minute runtime
Yeokdoyojeong Gim Bokju (2016)
8.3 / 10 (based on 10381 reviews)
A coming-of-age story about a group of college athletes who are fighting for their dreams, experiencing and finding love in the process, and growing every step of the way.
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Main Cast: Lee Song-Kyoung, Nam Joo-Hyuk, Jae-yoon Lee, Hye-Jung Cho
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 16 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Backstreet Rookie, a South Korean television drama that aired in 2020, has been a topic of both interest and controversy. The show, based on the webtoon “Convenience Store Saet-byul” by Hwalhwasan and illustrated by Geumsagong, presents a unique blend of comedy, romance, and a bit of drama, all set in the mundane yet charming setting of a convenience store. This article aims to dissect the show’s elements, from its plot and character dynamics to its controversial aspects and cultural impact.
The Plot Unveiled
At its core, Backstreet Rookie tells the story of Choi Dae-Hyun (played by Ji Chang-Wook), a former convenience store manager turned owner, and Jung Saet-Byul (played by Kim Yoo-Jung), a spirited and somewhat unconventional part-time employee. Their relationship, which starts with a chance encounter involving cigarettes, evolves into a complex web of love, friendship, and personal growth.
The narrative weaves through the challenges Dae-Hyun faces in managing his store, dealing with family expectations, and navigating his feelings for Saet-Byul. Meanwhile, Saet-Byul, with her bright personality and mysterious past, brings a new energy to the convenience store, affecting not just Dae-Hyun but also the colorful array of customers and other employees.
Characters and Dynamics
Choi Dae-Hyun
Dae-Hyun is the everyman, relatable to anyone who’s ever found themselves stuck in a job they’re overqualified for or struggling to meet others’ expectations. His journey from a disenchanted store manager to a passionate store owner, rediscovering his ambitions and capabilities, forms the backbone of the series.
Jung Saet-Byul
Saet-Byul is not your typical K-drama female lead. She’s bold, fiercely independent, and unapologetically herself, which is refreshing. Her backstory, involving family issues and a bit of a troubled past, adds layers to her character, making her more than just a love interest.
The Supporting Cast
The show shines in its portrayal of secondary characters, from the other store employees to Dae-Hyun’s family and Saet-Byul’s friends. Each brings a unique flavor to the story, contributing to both its comedic and emotional moments.
Controversy and Criticism
Backstreet Rookie was not without its controversies. From the get-go, the show faced criticism for its portrayal of certain characters and situations deemed inappropriate by some viewers. The age gap between the leads, coupled with their initial meeting (Saet-Byul was still in high school), sparked debates about the appropriateness of their relationship. Additionally, some scenes were criticized for their sexual innuendo, leading to a broader discussion about censorship and content rating in South Korea.
Despite these issues, the show maintained a strong viewership, perhaps due to its cast’s performance and the light-hearted moments that peppered its episodes. It’s a reminder that television, as a reflection of society, often walks a fine line between representation and exploitation.
Cultural Impact and Reception
In South Korea, Backstreet Rookie enjoyed moderate success, with ratings that fluctuated but generally indicated a solid fan base. Internationally, the show found a wider audience, thanks in part to its availability on streaming platforms. It introduced viewers to the unique setting of the Korean convenience store, a microcosm of society where various characters and stories intersect.
The show’s mix of humor, romance, and a bit of action (thanks to Saet-Byul’s surprising martial arts skills) appealed to a broad audience. However, its reception was polarized, with some praising its refreshing take on the romantic comedy genre and others criticizing its handling of certain themes.
Lessons and Takeaways
The Importance of Character Development
Backstreet Rookie demonstrates the power of well-developed characters. Both Dae-Hyun and Saet-Byul undergo significant growth throughout the series, making their journey satisfying to watch. Their development, along with that of the supporting cast, underscores the importance of character arcs in storytelling.
Balancing Comedy and Drama
The show does an admirable job of balancing its comedic elements with moments of drama and introspection. This balance keeps the narrative engaging and prevents it from veering too far into either slapstick or melodrama.
Addressing Social Issues
While not overtly political or social in its messaging, Backstreet Rookie touches on issues like family dynamics, societal expectations, and the challenges faced by young people in a competitive society. It shows that even light-hearted entertainment can provide commentary on real-world issues.
Conclusion
Backstreet Rookie, despite its flaws and controversies, remains a notable entry in the world of K-dramas. Its unique setting, memorable characters, and blend of humor and heart make it a show worth watching. While it may not have broken new ground in terms of narrative or thematic depth, it offered viewers a delightful escape and a glimpse into the lives of its charming characters.
In the end, Backstreet Rookie serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most compelling stories are found in the most ordinary places. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, character-driven narratives, or just looking for something a bit different, Backstreet Rookie has something to offer. And who knows? You might just find yourself seeing your local convenience store in a whole new light.